How I make myself more comfortable while getting an MRI
I have MRIs twice a year to monitor my pituitary tumor
Nobody likes getting MRIs. You’re shoved into a giant clanging machine where you’re supposed to remain completely still. I go through this nightmare every six months to check on my pituitary tumor.
After I was diagnosed with Cushing’s disease, I had surgery in 2020 to remove my first tumor. After that, I had annual MRIs to make sure everything was OK. But when I had a recurrence of the disease in early 2022, we decided I’d need to have them more frequently.
Lessons I’ve learned
While we might hate MRIs, there are a few things we can do to make them a little more manageable. The first is taking off all jewelry before going to the appointment. I used to take off my jewelry when I arrived, but I fear I’ll lose it. I have 11 piercings, so my best bet is to remove them in the car and replace them on the way home.
Next, wearing comfortable clothes without any metal elements is helpful. The process takes a while, so it’s important to be comfortable. I don’t wear a bra. I know it can feel awkward to show up without one, but lots of bras have metal in them.
Your body might not like contrast agents. Mine hates them, so I pack water to drink and alcohol wipes to smell. A technician taught me that it helps with nausea, and I haven’t gone without these items since. I always get MRIs with and without a contrast agent, so when they add it (I ask them to do so slowly), I have alcohol wipes to smell.
After the MRI, I always get a special treat. It might seem silly, but it gives me something to look forward to. Last time, my husband found a place that sells customized popsicles. I got a strawberry one covered in dark chocolate and rainbow sprinkles. It honestly made me feel much better.
Your doctor will discuss the results with you, so don’t worry too much about what the technician’s report says. My reports from technicians are often wrong, so it used to drive me crazy when I’d pay too much attention to them.
Lastly, if you’re not comfortable at a certain place, don’t go back. I switched my MRI center recently, and I love the new one. They were much more receptive to my needs.
Do you have tips for making MRIs easier? Please share in the comments below. You can also follow my journey on TikTok and YouTube.
Note: Cushing’s Disease News is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Cushing’s Disease News or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to Cushing’s.
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