I wonder if this is because when you count you are using a different part of the brain (left) and thereby turns off or tones down the right side (imagery). But then again, counting would get you to focus on something. Now I'm wondering . . . .Ok done with that. LOL

Dej - Still keeping you in my prayers.

I used to absolutely hate it, then I had a blinding revelation - the MRI machine is tiny and yes indeed, claustrophic, but it's in a big wide open room. There's space all around you.

Oh, and valium helps.

Ok, here is what I have done. It is usually warm in there and if it's not, I get a blanket so that I'm all comfy. I close my eyes never to open them until it's over. Then, I picture myself laying on a chaise lounge at the beach listening to the waves. All the clanging is the hunky bare chested construction workers building my beach house! Talk about imagery!

I tell them in advance to TALK to me! Tell me, this is a 2 minute set, and this is a 5 minute set. As I sit on the table, I ask them NOT to show me the cage that goes over my head. Please wait till I put my mask on. I have had some very kind technichians.

I am already freaked out, and its a couple of weeks away!

wow, I am spoiled.

Realized I was due for my 9month post HiCy MRI (I go every 3 months), so I called the doctor on Wednesday to say, "hey, it's that time again"...

...MRI place called on Thursday to say they received the referral and insurance approval....

I went for MRI today (Friday).

And the place is only a 5 minute drive from my house. Doc will have results by Tuesday I think. I see neuro on Wednesday, so it's perfect.

But the best thing of it all - was when the tech asked what my symptoms were - and I said NONE!!!

Dej - I hope you feel better soon. I did read this entire thread earlier - but now can't remember - are you going to have the steroids? Personally, although I think they stink - I much prefer the 3-5 days of discomfort and then peace from the flare than staying in the flare longer. But maybe that's just me.

Feel better!


~Keri

They are saying that if the MRI shows advancement of disease, increase in lesions, or the like, I will be offered steroids. I am not sure. Since it involves my optic nerve, I would be much more tempted than if it was just a leg or a finger.

Thanks for all the pep talking. I could have gotten an MRI locally here the next day, but the big MS hospital wants to have me use their machine. That way when they compare slide 17 to slide 17 its an exact match. If they use the CD or views from another machine slide 17 may only match up to slide 19, and may be on a different plane, angle or rotation. So, they said they would rather have me wait 2 weeks, and get apples to apples comparision, vs a scan tomorrow and a mismatch reading.

I will just have to suffer through it. since I have no appointment following it, i can get stoned if I want. Wheeee!

Hi Dejibo, I'm sorry to hear you are still in the flare. I say go with the steroids because it involves the eyes. I've only done steroids for eye problems and it reduces my anxiety to do something I know will help. And boy did it work!
Ativan is the ticket!!! Just make sure you take it at least 20 mins before you go in the tube so you are already relaxed. If you have to take a little extra, don't beat yourself up about it. Ask for extra blankets to keep you warm and cozy. Concentrate on deep breathing. Reward yourself when it's over like your favorite food. You deserve it!
Good luck!