If you claustrophobic and can't do a brain mri what other test are as accurate that your doctor can rely on. alternative to mri with similar results. ?

No alternative: The best test to look at the brain is an mri. Other tests might miss important information (and a ct requires radiation exposure). I have patients with similar problems who have been able to get the test with some small amount of medication (ask you physician about it).

Good opportunity...: ... 2 work on freeing urself from claustrophobia (& possibly other phobias/anxiety difficulties)! there are effective strategies 4learning 2manage, even overcome phobias (see http://bit.Ly/xwlhyf ). But in short-term, ur physician can prescribe an agent 2help calm u (e.g., valium). Tell doc about ur phobia &/or talk 2people @local MRI centers. See if any have "open mri" designed 4ppl w/claustrophia.

Simple solutions: Agree that you can overcome the problem, by appropriate treatment. Can also avail yourself of an open or stand-up device, and in some cases, use of valium helps immensely. Your doctor should be readily available to guide a successful approach.