Claustrophobia during Scans

Claustrophobia is a common condition that many people suffer from without a diagnosis. The National Institutes of Health estimates that 12.5% of the population has claustrophobia. People with claustrophobia tend to feel trapped with intense fear of confined spaces. They may also exhibit intense fears of suffocation. With that in mind, it’s also somewhat common for people to experience claustrophobia episodes during certain scans.

Symptoms of claustrophobia are similar to symptoms of anxiety, such as:

·       Sweating or chills

·       Increased heart rate and high blood pressure

·       Dizziness, light-headedness or headache

·       Dry mouth or nausea

·       Chest tightness, chest pain or difficulty breathing

·       Confusion

If you have claustrophobia, you may:

·       feel scared or anxious about being in small or enclosed spaces

·       have a fear of being suffocated

·       experience fear or anxiety that is much greater than any real danger

Having claustrophobia is a very individual experience. Some people only feel mildly anxious when they are in a confined or crowded space. Other people feel extremely anxious and can experience a panic attack.

Claustrophobia during scans presents a particular challenge. Here are some tips to manage your fears:

Know what to expect

Knowing what you should expect before your appointment will help you prepare emotionally and mentally for the scan.  Ask your doctor to explain the details of the scan and have them clarify any questions you have. Researching the procedure beforehand can be a big help, and asking questions when you are there can help you stay calm. The technologist is there to help you have your scan as comfortably as possible. Feel free to ask them how long the scan will take and if they will give you updates throughout the procedure. Voicing any questions or concerns will help them keep you calm and comfortable.

Wear an eye mask

With closed or covered eyes, you may feel you can relax more easily. You may even be able to fall asleep. Take an eye mask with you or simply place a towel or washcloth over your eyes. With closed eyes, you may be able to stimulate feelings of being in a more familiar area and reduce any feelings of being trapped. Concentrate on visualising places and situations that make you feel happy and relaxed. Imagining yourself on a pristine tropical beach, in a cosy mountain lodge, or even curled up in your favourite chair at home can help you cope with a stressful situation.

Listen to soothing music

For some scans, you may be able to use headphones to play music, which can help you relax. The music can distract you from the reminder that you’re in a semi-enclosed space.

Wear earplugs

If you prefer silence to music when trying to relax, you can wear earplugs to block out any noise from the machine.

Use a blanket

If the scan allows, you may be able to use a blanket. Having a blanket wrapped around you during the scan may increase feelings of security and peacefulness.

Focus on your breathing

Research shows deep, slow and controlled breathing can significantly reduce anxiety. Whether you practice simple breathing exercises, meditation or prayer, such practices can help you stay calm during the scan. Meditative breathing, also known as mindful breathing, involves centring your attention on a specific physical sensation. Breathe deeply in and out, focusing on the feeling of your lungs expanding and relaxing in your chest.

Take someone you trust

A room full of medical strangers may increase your tendency to experience anxiety and distress. Consider bringing a friend or family member along for moral support. Knowing that someone whom you love and trust is nearby can go a long way to easing your fear and stress with the scan. Their presence can help you maintain a sense of calm and help you feel safe during your procedure. Afterwards, just seeing them can trigger your brain to release hormones that calm the fight or flight response. Making plans for lunch, coffee or another treat after your scan can also give you something to focus on during your procedure.

Ask your doctor for a sedative

In some situations, medication may be the only thing that relaxes you enough to endure the scan. Medication is often necessary if you’re worried that claustrophobia could induce a panic attack. If you know you’ll need extra assistance with relaxation during the scan, you can ask your doctor to prescribe a sedative. If you and your doctor decide sedation is appropriate, you’ll also need to arrange for someone to drive you home afterwards.