Im terribly afraid of needles! I have to have some blood work taken, any sugg. about not being so affraid?
2007-03-10 10:59:53 · 6 answers · asked by Girl with money 2 in Health ➔ Women's Health
try thinking about something else. here's a list though, because i have the same fear:
1. Ask exactly what the doctor will be doing. Knowledge is power, after all
2. When the time comes for the needle, have music ready
3. As they rub on iodine, which they probably will, start your music
4. Ask somebody to stand on your opposite side and distract you (ie play with your hair, tap on your opposite arm, hold your hand, something slightly annoying)
5. Be sure you're seated comfortably, with somewhere to rest your head and a good armrest
6. Turn up the volume, turn your head away from the needle, and close your eyes. Squeeze the armrest or a person's hand when they stick the needle in. Really focus on the music, something that requires your attention
7. When the needle is in, you can open your eyes, but the best bet is to look away from the arm that it's in. Keep listening, or talk to somebody while they take your sample.
8. When they're done, just let them slip the needle out, clench a fist or tap your toes, just keep your mind occupied elsewhere
9. Allow them to wrap it up
10. When you leave, bring a piece of sugary candy with you, and eat it as you leave. Even if not a lot of blood is taken, the sweetness just reminds you that it's all over, and that you can relax. Sort of a reward for being good.
Hope this helps. I had to have a needle in my arm when I got some teeth out, and somebody was playing with my hair and holding my hand the whole time, and I didn't even notice them doing anything.
2007-03-10 11:09:26 · answer #1 · answered by E Sig 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I don't like needles either so when I must give up my blood I turn my head completely away so I can not see anything and it seems to help me
2007-03-10 11:08:29 · answer #2 · answered by LSCULLY1 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I have a hard time understanding this problem. My suggestion to not be so afraid? Grow up and realize that it is just a little poke, if you even feel it at all. Not a big deal.
2007-03-10 11:05:29 · answer #3 · answered by RadTech - BAS RT(R)(ARRT) 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Close your eyes, take a deep breath and count down from 100. It will be over before you know it.
2007-03-10 11:04:16 · answer #4 · answered by 3Fruit0Cake9 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
ask to have someone in the room with you when they take it (friend/relative) and have them talk to you about irrelevant things for distraction purposes while they take blood
2007-03-10 19:38:53 · answer #5 · answered by carrol_87 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
keep your eyes open. It only hurts for a second and by keeping them open you realize how stupid it is to be scared. you'll feel much better
2007-03-10 17:38:03 · answer #6 · answered by sexybeam 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋