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Fear of shots?
I have to get 4 injections tomorrow and I have a very strong fear of needles. I'm trying to be brave about it but I've always had difficulty with getting them. I know if I see the needles at all I'll be out of there. It's the pain/thought of the needle in my arm that scares me. It's a new doctor so they don't know about my fear. Since it's a new doctor would I need a blood test too? Any advice about that one?
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I understand your fear and there are things the doctors can do to lessen the pain of the injection thus hopefully lessen the fear. I was injured in a auto Accident a number of years ago and now suffer from chronic pain. To deal with the pain I undergo regular injections into my spine and knees. Comparatively speaking a shot in the arm is a walk in the park compared to the needles that go into my back.
To lessen the pain my doctors use topical anesthetics. My orthopedic doctor uses a spray that he sprays while he is giving me the injection. The spinal injections are more complicated and they use different types of pain relievers as they maneuver the needle into where it has to go. I know yuck.
Ask the doctor about using a spray anesthetic while giving you your shots. You can ask him to use thinner needles as well but I must warn you the thinner the needle the longer it takes to push the medication. Meaning the needle will be in you longer. The same with drawing blood.
When drawing blood they usually try to size the needle to the vein the find. They can use a pediatric needle if you ask but they are very small and it will take longer for the blood to fill the tube.
You know that guy Newton once said, for every action there is an equal and opposite reaction. I just say there is always a trade of to be had. when asking for something of this nature.
I see no reason though why the doctor would not comply with a request to use a topical spray anesthetic. You don't say how old you are or when you are. IF you are under 18 have mom call the doctors office and ask them to have this spray available when you visit.
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I have the exact same fear, and conquered getting a needle into my neck a couple weeks ago. First off even if your doctor knows about your fear, I always find it helpful and relieving to express how nervous I am to the doctor. You should definitely let your new doc know because they are a lot more precautionary and will take other supporting and caring measures, some psychological such as talking to distract you!
Also, a trick I use if you need your blood taken.. Ask for a pediatric (aka butterfly) needle. They are a lot smaller and give you greater ease and comfort.
Something that always helps me is wearing a charm bracelet or ring or some other type of jewelry that you can twist and look at to help you keep calm and not think about or look at the needle. If you're allowed to drink before your injections, chamomile tea really helps settle nerves with a little honey.
Also, I always forget to do this but make sure you breathe!!! That sounds silly but it's easy to get uptight and forget. You can help yourself remember to breathe by relaxing your muscles before the injections.
My last tip is if you're like me, you know you shouldn't look at the needle but can't help it. So watch until the last second that they pull the needle out of the wrapping. You won't be in anxious anticipation for too long that way, and you can physically cover your eyes with your hand after because you'll be ready for it.
Overall, it seems awful and it will never get easier for people like us who have an extreme fear, but if you really think about it, the initial insertion is the scariest. Once it's in, or you've done it first and realize it's not absolutely horrible, you will feel much better. Besides after 4 injections you shouldn't have to worry about another for a while!!
Good luck, from one extreme needle fear to another stay strong!
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All clinics and hospitals have past records of a person so even a new dr. will bring up the computer and look up your medical history before even proceeding with the reason you are there for.
I still think it would be best to tell the new Dr. of your great fear of needles in case its not listed on your medical history. We didn't know my middle daughter would react to the allergist taking a blood sample to check for certain allergies. She was 15, or so, sitting on my lap and he started the procedure and since i couldn't see her face, I was wondering why she was leaning towards one side. Next thing I knew her body fell forward and if I hadn't been holding her, she would have fallen on the floor. From what the Dr. said, its the most common thing that happens with a person who has fears of needles. Letting your Dr. know will help them to position you so that you have no chance of falling if you pass out.
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