NBTS Headquarters Blog
MRIs are an important part of a brain tumor survivor’s follow-up care and treatment monitoring. They can give insight into whether a particular treatment is working or to see how the tumor is behaving while off active treatment, sometimes called “active surveillance”. Either way, they aren’t typically the highlight of one’s day or week. In fact, we hear from the community all the time that MRIs can make anxiety and stress levels rise. The term PMS, “Pre-MRI Syndrome” has been coined in this community to help describe this exact feeling.
What has helped you get through your MRI, whether your 1st or you 40th? What advice can you share with others?
Jill de Bartok
Program Manager, Patient Services
Image: brainimaging.waisman.wisc.edu
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Posted by: steven5 on March 28, 2011 5:59PM UEDT
The new MRI machines where you can watch a movie clip or video while getting an MRI makes the down time easier. You have to remember: watching out for a brain tumor is different from having one. a tumor tends to get caught a lot faster and the needed treatment usually less invasive. If you get it down to a routine in your mind, it eases the anxiety.
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Posted by: steven5 on March 28, 2011 6:15PM UEDT
PS: I prefer the term PMA (Pre MRI Anxiety) for obvious reasons.
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Posted by: Jackie2 on March 28, 2011 6:26PM UEDT
I like the new MRI 'mirror' which allows patients to see what's going on in the room. It greatly reduces the 'cloustrophobic' feeling.
I do still have to consciously taking deep breaths to curb the tendency of 'gasping for air'. Denifitely gonna ask about the movie clip next time...:) |
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Posted by: Jill at NBTS on March 29, 2011 2:08PM UEDT
@Steven5: Wow, I didn't know that they can show movie clips! I am sure that helps ease your thoughts. I like PMA, a more universal term. :)
@Jackie2: Yes, we have heard that taking deep breaths, thinking of a relaxing place, or singing a song in your head can help. Thanks for sharing all! |
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Posted by: steven5 on March 29, 2011 5:58PM UEDT
Rhode Island Hospital just got the new machine, and I am not sure how common the new MRI is in other parts of the country. It's good to know someone is coming up with creative ideas. I am told it is the second most powerful MRI in the state--only the VA has better one.
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Posted by: Patient Services Team on April 18, 2011 12:58PM UEDT
@steven5 thanks for sharing about the Rhode Island Hospital MRI machine!
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