Hi, you will need ear plugs which they provide. An mri sound is VERY loud. The type they give me is an ear bud that lowers the sound of the machine, no music but I can hear the voice of the person tell me length of each scan. I need to know the time constantly to prevent anxiety. An hour can seem forever but knowing the amount of time for each scan helps me tremendously. The IV for me gets put in before entering machine because part of the test is done without contrast. It’s very similar to having blood drawn but needle stays in, very comfortable.
I only use open mri machines and I don’t know if you got that as an option. It’s much more open.
The contrast is easily tolerated and safe. I’m allergic to CT dye. I think you’ll do well. I tell myself other than the loud sound I could be having a much tougher test to get through. Best of luck. You’ll be a pro after one.
Joanne

@mothermary1 Such good advice, Joanne! The techs talk me through the exam also.

Hi Becky, how about an update, lol. I’m doing well a lot of work. I’m enjoying visceral massage which I never knew about but it’s just fantastic. It has so many health benefits. I’m getting colonic hydrotherapy now every 14 days. I actually move my bowels every day. No, it’s not normal stool but I’ve taken the word normal out of my vocabulary. It’s soft small pieces but it’s every day. I’m down to two Mag07 every night. I’m still on Tirosint thyroid med and VSL#3 medical food prescription strength probiotic. I took Nystatin 3 times a day for all of December. I eat no sugar or dairy except eggs. I feel like a new person. My pancreatic cysts are just a watch situation which is wonderful. I see the natural doctor monthly. I bought the products on Amazon as if I was going to do coffee enemas but I use warm distilled water only and a thin straw shape tubing that is very comfortable to use and I put water into my colon daily. That’s it. Nothing makes me sick, vomit or shake. It’s so nice to be using products that don’t make me so I’ll. So, I’m running with this as long as it works. Life is good.
Blessings…Joanne

How long is mri with contrast

Depends on the part of the body. The head is 45-50 minutes. I’ve had lower back surgery and mri was about 45 minutes. I’ve had neck surgery and it was 45 minutes. I’ve had an mri of my stomach and colon took 40-45 minutes and just recent my pancreas which was 40-45. All with and without contrast. That only means they take pictures first before injecting the contrast.
I suffer severe drug allergies and thank god I’ve never had a problem with contrast, it’s not iodine or at all similar to CT Scan contrast. They put a wonderful styrofoam cushion under your knees to keep pressure off lower spine. I always ask for xtra blankets. Honestly it’s always been rather easy. I’ve had so many tests and procedures and this by far is one of the easiest. I only dislike because it’s loud. You’ll do great. The first of anything is always scary. It’s like that for me.
Hang in, Joanne

You certainly had enough mri on different posts of your body. Hope your doing well. Thank you

Good luck today, Cookie. Rest well after the MRI. When you’re ready, I think I can speak for everyone here, we want to hear how it went.

Well today l went and had my mri and l did just fine. After losing a night's sleep and being very anxious it went well. Technician was very kind and keeping me calm. It took 30 mintues total. Thanks to everyone that made me feel better with all your advise.

@cookiepic Such wonderful news!! I thought about you all day, but told myself to wait to hear from you first. It’s a red letter day!
Now, if someone else posts their fear of a procedure, will you come back and give them some positive vibes?

Cookie, I'm so pleased it went well with your MRI today and that you came back to tell us. I moved your update to the original discussion you started so that everyone who shared their tips and support can get your news, like @michael3319 @hopeful33250 @dserro @becsbuddy @fourof5zs @jetsetter @contentandwell and @mothermary1.

I also expanded the title of the discussion so that new members (like Becky said) who join in the future will also benefit from the tips from other members and your story.

Cookie, I bet you'll sleep well tonight. When you're well rested, I'd like to hear your tips for the next person who comes to Mayo Clinic Connect worried about getting an MRI. What would you tell them?

Thank you for thinking of me. And l would diffently try to settle someone's fears if needed.
As far as sleep l probably will sleep better tonight. I never nap but today l think after taking xanax as well as coming down from high anxiety l did nap today. Once again thank you a million times for you kind words.

@cookiepic
I knew you could do it.

ZeeGee