Breast MRI - severe breastbone pain

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marb
marb Member Posts: 2
edited June 2014 in IDC (Invasive Ductal Carcinoma)

I recently had a breast MRI and the pain to my breastbone area was so extreme I didn't make it 10 minutes through it before I squeezed the button and begged the guy to stop.  My forehead and chin were supported (no pain) but my breast bone was on a very hard plastic/rubber piece that I thought was going to go thru my chest, the pain was unbearable  and I could not breath or speak.  The man came in and helped me out and I left because I was so embarrassed.  I really think he thought I was just scared or having a panic attack but that was not the case.  I  wish I could have stayed till I could speak and see if I could have been repositioned in some way without pain. I really wanted this test to help with my decision on a lumpectomy or mastectomy but of course I couldn't stay in long enough.

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  • farmerlucy
    farmerlucy Member Posts: 3,985
    edited January 2014

    Marb - I'm sorry about the MRI. At my clinic they put towels down to cushion my body. Also I have a bad shoulder so once I'm in the machine they use another towel to stabilize it . Of course I take the Valium because otherwise I get a little claustrophobic. Hugs.

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  • Swissmiss
    Swissmiss Member Posts: 111
    edited February 2014

    My breast MRI (done a couple of weeks ago) was one of the most difficult things I've ever done.  I don't blame you for leaving, and please don't be embarrassed.  Before I had mine, the gal getting me situated was very reassuring and I felt comfortable enough to tell her I had something poking me in the breastbone (sounds like a similar thing as you), and she cushioned it with a towel.  Even so, I was extremely uncomfortable, and was on the edge of squeezing the call button several times during the long 45 minute process.  I was not able to breathe, as I think I was having an anxiety attack.  Having never had any type of MRI before, I wasn't sure what to expect, and I assumed I wasn't going to feel claustrophobic.  Next time (praying there won't be a next time!), I'm taking the sedative.  If you decide I want to go in and complete the MRI, talk to you doctor and ask for the sedative so you can relax.  I'm sorry you couldn't get through it...it is not an easy procedure.  

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