i hate shots and needles....help?

Question

i am getting another shot tomorrow...last time it didnt hurt so bad but every time i go in for another shot i have really bad anxiety and i get freaked out...it seems to make the shot hurt so much more..

any advice on 1) how not to be scared of shots and 2) to relax right before they do it?

thanks. =)

Answer 1

This is normal for many people. Here are some tips:
1) Never look at the needle. Close you eyes or concentrate on the floor.
2) Take 3 deep breaths.
3) Think about a funny or happy memory.
4) Ask the doctor not to tell you when he/she is going to give you the shot.
5) Before the appointment, take your mind off the shot.
6) Tell yourself pain is nothing and doesn't exist.
Good luck!

Answer 2

Your anxiety may have stemmed from the experience of pain associated with the injection. Perhaps if you decrease the injection pain this time round, it may be less anxiety provoking the next time. One way to do this is to request for a topical local anesthetic called EMLA (Eutectic Mixture of Local Anesthetic). It comes in the form of a white cream that can be applied like lotion. Usually, it is applied 60 minutes before an injection. The local anesthetic will numb the skin up to about 5-10mm below your skin. This will effectively take away the 'sharp' sensation from initial insertion of the hypodermic needle. However, as the needle penetrates your muscle, it will evoke a 'dull, aching' sensation. Some people find this less distressing than the 'sharp' pain. However, some people find this just as distressing. Nevertheless by requesting for EMLA, you're taking control of hte situation and this will trick your brain into thinking that you're in charge. And this may put you more at ease during the injection.

Good luck!

Answer 3

It goes by so quickly, there's really nothing to be afraid of. Most doctors have stress relieving mesh balls that you can squeeze on to take your mind off the shot. Also, just think about something that makes you happy - something really funny, like a joke, or whatever. Just keep a happy thought on your mind just before you get the shot and it'll be over before you know it - no big deal.

Answer 4

I used to be the same way, but after a while I was fine about the whole situation. Just concentrate on something else, and look away from the doctor. Close your eyes, and think about something you like. Just try not to look at the doctor, or the needle. After a while you won't be so afraid.

Answer 5

I hate finger pricks too!! For some reason they are way worse than any shot!! I haven't any undertaking getting photos on the wellness care professional's place of work or having blood drawn. the only time I freak out (or want to, lol) is on the dentist. I hate getting Novocaine!

Answer 6

I am as well. I feel hot all over, sweat and feel like I will faint. My college Psy. professor told me this, first look away, never watch, wear headphone with your favorite music, and the best believe it or not transfer pain. This is how it works. Pinch yourself, like an ear or something. I dig my fingernails in my palm, it transfer your thoughts to that and I don't even know when I get the shot. Its odd but works.

Answer 7

well, I am too. It is not painful for me but I am always scared. It is a good idea not to watch a needle and for me it is important to have a good doctor. all in all, most of them became doctors because it is very greatly, they are nice people.

Answer 8

eh..i hate shots, they suck. take some deep breaths and talk to the person giving you the shots or anyone else who's in the room to help keep your mind off it. good luck =)

Answer 9

i am the same way!! it makes me sick to my stomach and weak in the knees when those 2 words are even mentioned. just try to close your eyes as soon as you sit down and breath slowly and deeply. try to imagine something your love in your mind, and hopefully it'll be okay. good luck i feel your pain!!!!