Needle anxiety. Have been putting of having a blood test for ages. But now have to get it done, Sooo scared?

Question

Hate needle. I know i need this test. But am soo nervous of needles. I really hate them, and they make me feel faint and squeamish. What should i do. Please tell me. Very apprehensive about it.

How can i stay calm whilst it is being done?
please help me. thankyou

Answer 1

Ok,
I used to draw blood for the Red Cross.
First of all, several days before the blood test, drink more than your usual amount of water. This will help plump up your veins so they won't wiss.
Second of all, let them know you're afraid.
Thirdly, bring a friend to distract you will the bloodwork is drawn. Have them talk to you & keep you focused on them so you're not paying attention to the needle.

Answer 2

I am terrified of needles.

About two months ago I had to start getting shots for my allergies once a week. I let the nurse know that I am deathly afraid of needles and she put the needle down and told me to breathe in deep and wiggle your toes on the opposite side of where you are getting the shot. I don't know why, but I swear it works. She says it is because you are concentrating on wiggling and not on the needle. I also NEVER look at the needle.

Try going out and doing something relaxing before the test. It will calm your nerves. I get my allergy shots on my lunch break and it is more difficult when I am stressed out.

It is much easier to get a shot when you are not stressed out about it. I don't recommend taking any medication before hand without consulting with the doctor first because it could throw the results off.

Ask them to use the smallest needle possible. I hope it goes well for you.

Answer 3

A lot of people are squeamish about needles and some even faint, like my husband. He asks to be able to lie down on a table while they take his blood. Just take deep breaths, close your eyes, think of what good the test is doing for you, think of something pleasant you look forward to doing as a reward for your courage. Hope this helps.

Answer 4

A lot of people get anxious when it comes to needles and it's o.k. I do this for a living myself. There are several things you can do.1. If you think you might get queasy-lie down with your head propt slightly. 2. Ask the nurse if she can use a butterfly needle, it's smaller and less intimidating. 3.Some places have a numbing solution they can spray on the injection site prior to the stick.Ask.4. If it's not a test you have to FAST for, eat a little something prior to the test.5. Talk to your nurse. It can take your mind off of the procedure and help you relax.We are people just like you and we are here to help.Good Luck!

Answer 5

I have many friends who are afraid of the needles. Some have it done lying down on table. (so they can't fall)

The best thing you can do is talk to the nurse and share your concerns. Most of them are very understanding and be extra gentle for you. By all means, make sure you are not in a position where it can hurt you if you faint.

Answer 6

If you need the test, you need the test and you just have to do it.
A lot of people are terrified of needles (me included).
To stay calm while its being done - well, you could try meditation before it starts to get your mind off it.
Deep breathing to keep the anxiety chemicals from building up in your blood and making things worse.
And believe it or not, once its done and over you won't have the same anxiety about it all.

Answer 7

Let the nurse know; they are usually very supportive. When they approach with the needle, look away; it makes me less squeamish.

Answer 8

Just had one today--look the other way. If you have I pod or cassette listen to music. There is nothing to it so your imagination is getting carried way. Slap it down .