Delaying imaging can cause a health concern to go undiagnosed and for necessary treatment to be delayed.
Fortunately, you could take steps to manage your fears and get the medical tests and procedures you need.
Medications, therapy, and relaxation techniques can help manage your claustrophobia.
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What Is Claustrophobia?
Identifying your specific triggers can help you find appropriate resources and support.
For some individuals with claustrophobia, this can incite high levels of fear,anxiety, andpanic.
This can only add to one’s feeling of being “trapped.”
But those are not the only factors at play.
Studies indicate that CT scans and PET scans may feel triggering for those with claustrophobia as well.
High levels of anxiety can also be present post-procedure as patients wait for their test results.
During this time, patients may also be grappling with mortality-related thoughts.
It’s important to take your time finding the besttreatment for your unique needsso your symptoms can be managed.
Medication
Medications may be prescribed to help you manage symptoms associated with claustrophobia.
Often times, medications are prescribed alongside psychotherapy treatment.
Medicationsthat may be used to treat symptoms of claustrophobia include:
SSRIs may be used for long-term treatment.
Psychotherapy
There are manypsychotherapy treatmentoptions available for claustrophobia.
A mental health professional may help you better understand why your claustrophobia developed and how to manage your symptoms.
They may also offer you appropriateresourcesand referrals.
Others have open upright MRIs, which eliminate the closed chamber and allow the patient to sit or stand.
When that is not possible, ask about entering the machine feet first.
(This may be permitted depending on what part of the body is being scanned.)
You may even be permitted to lie on the table or watch a technician turn on the equipment.
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5th ed, text revision.
Washington, D.C.; 2022.
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