Afraid of enclosed spaces? You can still do your MRI.
Many patients feel anxious before an MRI — the machine is noisy and feels enclosed. The good news: with the right preparation and the right team, most anxious patients complete their MRI comfortably.
First, Breathe
The most helpful thing you can do: tell us in advance
If you know you feel uncomfortable in enclosed spaces, mention it when you book. MRI isn't painful — but it does require lying still inside the machine for a while. Preparation makes a real difference, and our team is genuinely good at this.
Most helpful first step: mention your claustrophobia when booking so the team can guide you properly and avoid unnecessary stress on scan day.
Why It Feels Hard
Why MRI can feel difficult — and why that's normal
Enclosed space
The machine can feel enclosed depending on the body part being scanned. Knowing this in advance halves the surprise.
Lying still
You may need to lie still longer than with CT. Counting down the sequences helps many patients.
The noise
The machine makes loud tapping and knocking sounds — normal, harmless, and we provide ear protection.
The unknown
Uncertainty feeds anxiety. That's why we walk every patient through the process before they enter the room.
Practical Tips
Eight things that genuinely help
Tell the centre before the appointment
Knowing in advance lets us explain the process, guide your timing and prepare you properly.
Understand your exact scan
Not all MRI studies feel the same. For some body parts, your head is less enclosed than you'd expect. Knowing the scan type reduces fear of the unknown.
Arrive early, unhurried
Rushing increases anxiety. Arrive a little early so you can settle, ask questions and feel mentally ready.
Ask how long it will take
Patients feel better knowing the expected duration and whether it's a single region or multiple sequences.
Use calm breathing before the scan
Slow, steady breathing lowers the body's alarm response. The simpler your breathing, the easier it is to stay settled.
Close your eyes early
Many patients do better closing their eyes before the scan starts and focusing on breathing instead of surroundings.
Ask about the communication system
You can hear instructions and alert the team at any time. Knowing this gives real reassurance mid-scan.
Discuss extra support if anxiety is severe
If you've never been able to complete an MRI, speak with your doctor beforehand. In selected cases, additional planning may be needed.
On The Day
What to expect when you arrive
You'll be screened for metal items and safety history. The MRI team will explain how to lie down, which body part is being scanned, and what to do during the study. The machine makes repetitive sounds — that's normal.
If you're anxious, ask the team to explain the process before you enter the room. A few minutes of calm explanation helps more than patients expect.
Small Choices, Big Difference
Little things you control that make it easier
Wear comfortable clothes
Comfortable, metal-free clothing saves a change and feels familiar.
Skip the heavy caffeine
Avoid strong coffee or tea right before the appointment if it makes you jittery.
Don't arrive exhausted
Come rested and hydrated — a tired, stressed body tolerates stillness worse.
Bring an attendant
If it makes you feel supported, bring someone along. They can wait close by.
FAQs
Claustrophobia questions, answered
Can I take medicine to relax for the MRI?
In selected cases, your treating doctor may prescribe a mild sedative — but this must be discussed with your doctor, not arranged on the spot. Tell us your history when booking.
Which MRI scans are easiest for claustrophobic patients?
Scans of limbs — like knee or ankle MRI — often position you with your head outside the machine, which feels much less enclosed. We'll tell you what your study involves.
What if I panic inside the machine?
You can alert the team at any time and the scan can be paused or stopped. You're never trapped — the staff can bring you out in seconds.
Is there an alternative to MRI for me?
Sometimes a CT or ultrasound may answer the clinical question, depending on what your doctor is looking for. Discuss this with your doctor — and ask us, we'll give you an honest opinion.
We'll get you through it — together.
Tell us about your claustrophobia when you book. We'll explain everything, keep you comfortable, and make the scan as easy as it can be.