cross-posted from: https://lemmy.world/post/1779005
Apparently this was done because air captures less X-rays than CSF and thus creates more contrast with brain tissue compared to the cerebrospinal fluid.
Unfortunately this was pretty painful and uncomfortable.
That sounds super peaceful actually, but I’m very much the opposite of claustrophobic. I bury myself in blankets and pillows, and try to find the smallest area I can comfortably fit myself into to relax. I love forts and small spaces and sensory deprivation, so like you said, not the average Joe.
That’s the thing, it’s not peaceful. It’s unbelievably loud, like standing next to a car alarm or construction site. And every time you’ve finally get used to the rhythm of the banging and clanging, it changes pitch and tempo (? Idk the correct words) and any semi sleep-like state you’ve willed yourself into is disrupted. Plus it’s cold, the bed thing is hard and narrow and you’re not allowed to move at all - no wiggling to get comfy, no scratching your nose. You have to lie perfect flat and still in a cold, incredibly loud, uncomfortable and and sterile environment for 45 minutes.
I’ve always slept with a blanket on my head - even as toddler. Even when it’s boiling hot I need a sheet or pillow case or something over my head. I love small cosy places. I love that feeling of hiding from the world. You do not get that while having an MRI scan on your brain, I promise you.
Everyone’s experience is different. When I got an MRI scan I really did almost fall asleep. Yes it was loud but its rythmic tapping almost sounded like a song, and add the warm blanket on my legs I was sometimes almost nodding off (it was for a cognitive study so I had to stay awake)