Being admitted into hospital tomorrow

Peter, I am amazed that this blood clot wasn't more of a concern. Did the doctors tell you that this is common because it doesn't seem so. I would think they would want to get rid of it somehow because could it be that it is the clot causing the bad headaches?

I don't mean to seem so pushy on the subject but I am your typical hypochondriac and need to know every little detail and why it's there and how it got there and so on and so on....

tinalouise wrote:Peter, I am amazed that this blood clot wasn't more of a concern. Did the doctors tell you that this is common because it doesn't seem so. I would think they would want to get rid of it somehow because could it be that it is the clot causing the bad headaches?

I don't mean to seem so pushy on the subject but I am your typical hypochondriac and need to know every little detail and why it's there and how it got there and so on and so on....

Hi,

I have a bad M tonight, I knew it was coming, so am not up to posting all the details, but when I am feeling better tinalouise I will post the full details if you are interested,

Peter

Peter - can they offer you an "open MRI" to reduce the claustrophobic effect? These open MRIs have two gigantic disks, one above you and one you slide in and rest on. No tunnel. The top disk is pretty close to your face, though. Some people find these more comfortable.

Definitely ask for a prescription for a small dose of a short acting anti-anxiety drug like lorazepam (Ativan) and take it 20 minutes before the scan. I bet it will make the experience much more pleasant. And it makes it easier to hold still for the long scan. The negative is you might need someone to drive you home after wards.

-Peter 2

Peter,

At least here in the US, when you get an MRI with contrast medium this means they have to put an IV in your arm. I have invariably been offered an IV drip of valium along with the contrast medium to help with my claustrophobia issues. You might want to inquire if that is an option. Ironically, valium and other anti-anxiety drugs do wonders to help with my migraine pain so you might see a win:win situation come out of it. I think they quiet down my nervous system enough so that it stops overacting.

I just wanted to update how my scan went today,and thank you to everyone, and your kind words of encouragement, it mean a lot.

The scan was a little delayed as there was an emergency patient from A&E that needed a scan, the staff bothered to come out to tell us and we spent the extra half hour in the hospital garden soaking up the sun.

We explained how claustrophobic I was and they did all they could to help me. I was able to bring a friend into the scan with me to hold my hand, this made all the difference, with out it I am not sure I would have coped.

It was not the best experience, but as people here suggested I kept my eyes shut ALL the way from getting on the couch to get back on, I saw nothing.

I knew it would be noisy which it was but didn't want ear plugs as they make me even more claustrophobic, they did say they had to make me ware them due to health and safety, then the technician said, to hell with it if it makes you feel better forget them.

The test was made up with, first setting the scanner up, this took, about 4-5 mins then several scans, each lasting between 2-7 mins. I was told if I wanted a rest at any time I was just to push the buzzer, and if possible try to leave it for when there is no noise this way the scan will not have to be repeated. The whole scan lasted about 35 mins, I was at the clinic about 2 hours total.

I did the scan without having to hit the panic button, yes I was terrified, my mouth was dry and I found it hard to swallow, all the panic symptoms, and this afternoon I feel I have run the London Marathon twice!, all my muscles ache, and I feel exhausted, but the feeling of achievement far out weighs all that.

I did not opt to have the valium although my GP had given me a couple, my advice for anyone going for one of these scans is, keep your eyes closed from the moment you get on the couch to the moment you finish, but take a friend or loved one with you into the scan, it makes all the difference. Be upfront with the staff and tell them before you go that you are very anxious, they have seen it all before and will normally do all they can to help.

I was so impressed that we brought them a box of Roses chocolates for all there help, I think they do a wonderful job, even though our local hospital may not rate in the highest in the Governments League Tables I can not fault there caring and helpful attitude.

My next hurdle is waiting for the results, I am dreading that big time, but one thing at a time. You guys have helped me loads with your encouraging words and good wishes.
Peter

Glad it is over for you. My experience with MRI's is similar to your's. I opt for the valium. As I get older, anything that can be done pain free, I hop on it. I hope your results are good. Regardless, you are on the right track to move forward. Be sure to update us.

Peter, good luck with the result, I hope you don't have to wait too long.

And very well done for being so composed, you have my utmost admiration. I too get very claustrophobic (perhaps it's something common to all migraineurs?) and just reading your post made me anxious. Good to hear about caring NHS people - and that that part is over for you.

Liz

Hi, update on my brain MRI done a couple of weeks ago. I was too chicken to phone for the results so I asked someone else to, I was so convinced it would be bad news, I know I shouldn't be such a coward. Anyway the Doctor reported the scan was normal, clear, so great news. I still have no idea what they found last year on the first MRI, but not on the next CT or this MRI. So it looks like the original diagnosis of complicated migraines remains, at least now I can look for treatments that may help.

Thanks again for your well wishes and support,

Peter

One question if you don't mind, I have stomach issues and pain meds can make it far worse, have others found abortive pain meds that are kind on the stomach?

I use DHE nasal spray for an abortive which does not bother my stomach. This isn't a pain medication. It is an abortive. Works very well for me. I use hydrocodone for a pain medication if needed. It is easy on my stomach so far.