Originally Posted by ring

I have been in an MRI machine many times,
and I am claustrophobic.

If you don't care to be sedated,
I found a trick that worked for me.

I simply put a small towel over my face, so I couldn't see just how
close a space I was in. The technicians will also ask you to wear earplugs
because the machine is fairly loud.

If you do freak out during the test,
they will pull you out any time you request it,
so please don't feel like you are trapped in there.

Many hospitals in larger cities, now have what they call 'open MRI machines'
Ask your doctor if one is available.

Best of luck with everything,
so sorry to hear you have to go through all this.