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janinaj's avatar
janinaj
Member
12 years ago

CT Scans with claustrophobia

I have my CT scans tomorrow. Between my fear of finding out the cancer has spread and my fear of small spaces I don't know if I'm going to get through it ok. Any advice on how to remain calm through the scan is greatly appreciated... B Jx

8 Replies

  • Oh I remember thinking they would find it everywhere, but they didn't, I am clostraphobic which I told them and they gave me headphones with music it did help, my MRI though was me face down which wasn't so bad. And yes go to the happy place if you can. Good luck regards adeanx
  • It is quite quick and not nearly as claustrophobic as the bone scan. Find your happy place and stay there until it is over. Good luck!
  • It is quite quick and not nearly as claustrophobic as the bone scan. Find your happy place and stay there until it is over. Good luck!
  • Closing your eyes really helps I think.Concentrate on slow breathing,or silently hum your favourite songs!This is what helped me.xoxoxRobyn
  • Closing your eyes really helps I think.Concentrate on slow breathing,or silently hum your favourite songs!This is what helped me.xoxoxRobyn
  • Tell the staff of your concerns. They can explain exactly what will happen so you know what to expect. The staff where I had my scans were lovely and explained everything in detail. They totally understood that I was anxious about the cancer aspect and were very kind. (that made me nervous as I thought they must have seen something in the scan, but it was fine). It is not like an MRI where your whole body is in an enclosed space, it is more like a doughnut that you pass in and out of with only a part of your body enclosed at any one time. I think it helps to close your eyes. If you are really worried it might be worth getting some medication to help. I really hope it goes well for you. Sending lots of good wishes your way. Let us know how you go. Xxxxoooo Deanne
  • Tell the staff of your concerns. They can explain exactly what will happen so you know what to expect. The staff where I had my scans were lovely and explained everything in detail. They totally understood that I was anxious about the cancer aspect and were very kind. (that made me nervous as I thought they must have seen something in the scan, but it was fine). It is not like an MRI where your whole body is in an enclosed space, it is more like a doughnut that you pass in and out of with only a part of your body enclosed at any one time. I think it helps to close your eyes. If you are really worried it might be worth getting some medication to help. I really hope it goes well for you. Sending lots of good wishes your way. Let us know how you go. Xxxxoooo Deanne
  • Hi Janina, whenever I have a test like that, I always close my eyes and take myself off to a happy place. Any place that you have happy memories of. I pictured myself sitting under the shade of a big old tree breathing in the fresh air and surrounded by family enjoying christmas. It helped me and I hope it will help you. All the best for your results and your test,

    Hazel xx