‘It's like a coffin:’ Why MRI terrifies MP Nambooze

MP Betty Nambooze expresses fear of MRI scans due to claustrophobia
MRI is a crucial medical imaging technique that uses magnets and radio waves to create detailed images of the body's internal structures
Claustrophobia can trigger intense symptoms during MRI scans, including shortness of breath and a feeling of being trapped

Mukono Municipality MP Betty Nambooze recently took to social media to share her profound fear of undergoing MRI scans due to claustrophobia.

MP Nambooze, who has endured multiple backbone surgeries in India following a severe injury during the 2017 parliamentary scuffle over the presidential age limit amendment, revealed the psychological and physical challenges she faces during these essential medical procedures.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a medical imaging technique used to visualize detailed internal structures of the body.

It employs powerful magnets and radio waves to create high-resolution images of organs and tissues, without the use of ionizing radiation, as seen in X-rays or CT scans.

The patient lies inside a large tube-like machine while the MRI captures cross-sectional images from different angles, providing crucial information for diagnosing and monitoring various medical conditions.

Nambooze recounted to her followers the emotional and physical turmoil she experiences during MRI scans, noting that lying in the machine gives her a feeling of being in a coffin.

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MP Nambooze spoke out about her struggle with claustrophobia pulse uganda

“However much I try, it has become common for me to experience claustrophobia episodes during an MRI scan,” she said.

“Yet MRI is a necessary evil that must precede my treatment. Lying flat on my back, the feeling I get is so discomforting, in that at times I even lose breath and experience heightened pressure levels as the scan feels like one being inserted into a coffin! Today, I have faced this hard situation... omuntu alabye!”

Claustrophobia is an anxiety disorder characterized by an irrational fear of confined spaces. This condition can trigger intense symptoms such as shortness of breath, sweating, trembling, and a feeling of being trapped. For individuals like MP Nambooze, the enclosed nature of the MRI machine can exacerbate these symptoms, making the procedure extremely distressing.

Managing claustrophobia during MRI scans involves several strategies.

Patients can benefit from open MRI machines, which are less confining than traditional closed ones. Additionally, sedatives or anti-anxiety medications may be prescribed to help calm the patient's nerves before the scan.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is another effective approach, where patients learn coping mechanisms and relaxation techniques to manage their anxiety.

Simple measures such as listening to music through headphones, having a friend or family member present, and using a blindfold to block out the enclosed environment can also alleviate the fear associated with MRI scans.

This content is written with the help of an AI model and verified by the writer