anxiety MRI what to expect
Informed by recognized medical guidance
Overview
An MRI scan is a safe, painless imaging test that uses a strong magnet and radio waves to create detailed pictures of the inside of your body. This article explains what happens during an MRI, why you might feel anxious, and how to make the experience more comfortable.
Key facts
- MRI stands for magnetic resonance imaging.
- The scanner is shaped like a tube, but there are open scanners for people who need more space.
- You cannot feel the magnetic field, but the machine makes loud tapping and knocking sounds.
Feeling anxious about an MRI is very common, especially if you feel nervous about small spaces or are worried about the results. Many people feel this way.
Anyone can feel anxious before or during an MRI. It is more likely if you have had a bad experience with medical scans before, if you feel anxious in closed spaces (claustrophobia), or if you feel worried about pain or needles (if contrast dye is used).
Symptoms
- Sudden chest pain, severe breathlessness, or fainting during the MRI — these are not normal anxiety symptoms and may signal a medical emergency. If you experience any of these, call your local emergency number immediately.
- ⚠Feeling so anxious that you cannot breathe or that you are losing control — tell the radiographer or a healthcare provider immediately.
- ⚠Severe allergic reaction to the contrast dye, such as swelling of the face, lips, or throat, or difficulty swallowing.
Common symptoms
- racing heart or palpitations
- rapid breathing or feeling short of breath
- sweating or trembling
- feeling dizzy or lightheaded
- strong urge to move or leave the scanner
- feeling panicked, restless, or tearful
Symptoms in children
- clinging to a parent or carer
- crying or asking to stop the scan
- fidgeting or refusing to lie still
- stomach pain or headaches from worry
Symptoms in older adults
- confusion or disorientation because of the unfamiliar environment
- fear of falling or being alone in the scanner
- physical symptoms like chest pain or shaking due to anxiety
- difficulty hearing instructions because of the loud noise
Causes
Main causes
- Fear of small, enclosed spaces (claustrophobia)
- Fear of the loud noises the MRI machine makes
- Fear of needles or contrast dye
- Fear of what the scan might show
- Sensory overload from the bright lights, narrow space, and cold room
Risk factors
- Previous bad experience with MRI or another scan
- Anxiety disorder or panic disorder
- Being asked to lie still for a long time
- Chronic pain that makes lying still uncomfortable
When to see a doctor
See a doctor urgently if:
- If you feel so anxious that you cannot breathe or are in danger of hurting yourself, get medical help right away.
Book a routine appointment if:
- Tell your doctor or the radiology team beforehand that you feel anxious about the MRI. They can plan extra support, such as allowing you to practice with a mock scanner, giving you earplugs or headphones, or using an open scanner.
Diagnosis
An MRI is a diagnostic imaging test. It is not used to diagnose anxiety. It is used to look at the structure of organs, tissues, and bones in the body, such as the brain, spine, joints, or heart.
Tests that may be done
- MRI scan with or without contrast dye (the dye helps show certain details clearly)
- Sometimes blood tests or other scans are done first, depending on what the doctor is looking for
What to expect at your appointment
You will be asked to lie on a table that slides into the scanner. The scan itself takes between 15 and 90 minutes, depending on what part of your body is being scanned. The machine makes loud tapping, thumping, and whirring noises. You will be given earplugs or headphones. You can talk to the radiographer through an intercom and they can see you at all times. If you feel anxious, you can request to be taken out and start again. Many departments offer a practice session or sedation if needed, but this should be discussed before the scan.
Treatment
For anxiety about the MRI itself, treatment means preparing your mind and body to make the scan as comfortable as possible. There is no medication to cure this type of situational anxiety, but there are simple techniques you can learn. If you have an anxiety disorder, your doctor can suggest treatments like talking therapies.
Self-care at home
- Tell the scan team about your anxiety beforehand
- Practice deep breathing — breathe in for 4 seconds, hold for 4, breathe out for 6
- Keep your eyes closed or look at a fixed point to reduce a sense of movement
- Bring a comfortable item, like a stress ball, to squeeze
- Ask about an open MRI machine or a wider bore if available
- Play music or listen to a podcast if the facility allows it
Medical treatments
Doctors may sometimes suggest a gentle sedative to help you relax during the scan, but this is not the first option and is only used in special circumstances. Talking therapies such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) can help reduce fear of medical procedures. Any medication would be prescribed by a doctor and tailored to you.
When is surgery considered?
Not relevant for an MRI scan.
Living with this condition
If you have an MRI coming up, plan a calm routine for the day before the scan. Sleep well, eat a light meal, and avoid too much caffeine. Arriving early and speaking with the team can also reduce stress.
Lifestyle tips
- Practice relaxation exercises like mindfulness or progressive muscle relaxation
- Try to keep your anxiety in check with physical activity (with your doctor's approval)
- Limit caffeine and sugar on the day of the scan
- Plan a reward for yourself after the scan, like a favourite meal
Diet and exercise
Generally, you can eat, drink, and take your usual medicines before an MRI unless your doctor gives you other instructions. Light exercise and stretching can help you relax, but you should not exercise heavily in the hours before the scan if you feel anxious.
Mental health and emotional wellbeing
It is normal to feel worried about an MRI. But sometimes the fear of a scan can keep people away from important medical tests. If that happens, it is worth telling your doctor so they can help you build confidence and find ways to reduce your anxiety.
Prevention
You cannot prevent the need for an MRI, but you can prevent severe anxiety during the scan by preparing in advance. Talk to the radiology department, practice relaxation techniques, and ask for adjustments like a pillow or a blanket. The team wants you to feel as comfortable as possible.
Complications
If left untreated
- Severe anxiety can cause you to cancel or avoid an MRI, which may delay diagnosis or treatment of the underlying condition.
- You may develop increasing fear of medical procedures, making future scans harder.
Long-term outlook
Most people find that the MRI is not as bad as they expected. With preparation, support from the care team, and simple calming techniques, you can complete the scan with much less distress. Many radiology departments now offer special accommodations for anxious patients, and you can always ask for help.
Find support
International organisations
Local organisations
- Mind (UK) ↗ · UK
- Anxiety UK ↗ · UK
Helplines
External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.
Always verify with your doctor
Health guidelines vary by country and region. The information in this article is based on international clinical guidelines but may not reflect the specific guidelines, medications, or practices in your country. Always discuss your health concerns with your own doctor or healthcare provider, and refer to your local national health guidelines where available.
Important notice This information is for educational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about your specific situation. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency services immediately.
Related conditions
Sources and guidance
This article is educational and is prepared with reference to recognized health information and clinical guidance sources where available. Specific source links may vary by topic.
Last updated: July 31, 2026
Educational note: This information is for education only and is not a diagnosis.
Use it to support, not replace, advice from a licensed clinician.
If symptoms are severe, worsening, or urgent, call your local emergency number or seek emergency care.