I think that the MRI that I had approx 2 years ago is one of the worst experiences that I have had in my life. The operators (radiographers?) must have their own special rare breed of rudeness and arrogance.

I arrived on time for my appointment, waited an hour and was told the machine had broken down and wouldn't be much longer. At this time I was trying to work 5 hours per day. I knew work would be piling up in my office.

Eventually I was called in - 2and half hours after appt time, I was not told how loud the noises would be other than the fact that I would hear some noise and was asked if I was claustrophobic and I said yes. I was told not to worry as they could see me and if I looked in the little mirror a little way along the tube I would be able to see them and they would stop if I looked like I wasn't coping with it. Plus they would be able to hear me.

I was told that I could have a sedative (in a back handed unwilling way) and I asked if they thought I would need one and at that time said that I didn't really want to have the MRI. Was told that most people don't need one.

Well as soon as I went in I was horrified. It was tiny and I knew that if I wanted to get out on my own I couldn't. The noise was like a toture like my brain was being drilled off and on. 45 minutes of it - with the odd pause in between.

When I was brought out I was told to go and get dressed. I didn't realise at the time that I had tears dripping off my chin and was incredibly pale and wanted to vomit, (until I saw myself in the changing room mirror) needless to say nobody asked me if I was ok, how was I getting home NOTHING.

Fortunately I had my mobile phone with me and rang my husband to come and get me - there was no way I could go back to work, let along drive home. As the insurer was who wanted me to have my MRI (not my GP) my husband told them a few facts etc but no response. After all the insurer is hoping I have "some other illness/disease" than TBI.

If this happens again I will definitely ask to be sedated. This was a private facility too - not part of the public health system.

Seems that non matter what part of the world we are in somethings just don't change.

Lynlee