CLEVELAND — A new study from the Cleveland Clinic shows the benefits of aromatherapy, especially for people who may feel claustrophobic during an MRI scan.
For those unfamiliar, to be scanned, the patient must lie down inside the machine, and in some cases the scan can take up to an hour.
“A lot of patients don’t realize they’re claustrophobic until they’re in the scanner, where they feel trapped and a little overwhelmed,” says MRI technologist Angel Houston.
Houston led the study, and said the research showed that using aromatherapy reduced patient anxiety and also improved the quality of images by allowing them to lie more quietly.
So, how exactly does that process work?
Houston said she first talks to patients about how they’re feeling and then suggests aromatherapy to help calm them.
From there, you place a tab of essential oil inside the MRI machine.
She points out that while the strength of the scent varies based on personal preference, the results are always good.
“When you’re more relaxed, your heart rate is more stable, your breath holding is more accurate, and you’re better able to follow commands, so everyone benefits,” Houston explained.
Previous studies have shown that aromatherapy can have a calming effect on people, but there has been little research into its use in medical settings, she said.
