VALIUM! just 10 mg 10 minutes or so before and you will be fine. All you have to do is tell your Nero that you are Claustrophobic, and they will have it waiting for you. If not ASK for it.

Ask for an eye mask and ear plugs. Try to focus on your breathing, and take your thoughts to a beautiful island. Enjoy the trip!!!

Hi. I've had issues with getting MRI's done as well. I can't stay still long enough because I have issues swallowing. So, I was giving xanax to help relax me.

Harrysmom, I had an MRI tech who war nasty, rude, pushy, uncooperative...and add whatever word you want. When I was in the MRI "thing" I asked how much time was left; he answered "5 minutes less than the last time you asked". And his tone of voice wasn't 'friendly'. I got so angry that I clenched my fists and gritted my teeth--and I didn't say anything until I was done. Then I asked the tech if he had ever had an MRI...he said "no". I really think some of these techs (and some neurologists) should be required to go through the same experience we have -- I'm referring to the ones who don't seem to realize that MRI's aren't a walk in the park.

I had an open MRI the 1st time and 2 after that, then an enclosed one, I took one look at the opening, and I remarked to the tech, "I don't think I'll fit", he was a large Polynesian fellow, he said "if I fit, you'll fit".
I just closed my eyes and relaxed.
The noise can be annoying, but I look for pattern and try to make tune out of it (thump thump, thump thump, chitty chitty bang bang) to while away the time. Close your eyes, breathe deep, unclench your hands, fall asleep if you can, anything to get through it.
Do you have to take your own music? I've never been offered it, I guess my health plan doesn't cover that luxury.
Anyway, do the best you can to relax, like Nancyb said. keep your arms at your side, then you're not straining to hold your arms across your chest, it's more relaxing.