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(NC)—Varying fears – from simple butterflies to needle nightmares to flat out needle phobia – persist everywhere in all parts of the world. Adults and children alike wrestle with the knowledge that periodically, we just must do it.
“Overcoming the fear of needles is so important for good health maintenance,” says Stephanie Bell at LifeLabs, a leading diagnostic centre. “In the course of life, a blood test is often required to accurately diagnose a health condition. If such tests are avoided due to the needle, a treatable condition might develop into something more serious.”
Bell points out that LifeLabs conducts more than 50 million, physician-requested diagnostic tests every year. “And it's evident that getting a needle is never as bad as people build up in their heads,” she says. “If you're still queasy, start by thinking of your skin as being very porous. The ultra fine needle is not going to pierce it but will just slip through one of a billion tiny pores.”
Take a look at these additional tips from LifeLabs to manage your fear:
• Share it. Tell the person giving the needle that you have an anxiety so he or she can help you feel more comfortable.
• Don't look. Turn your head away from the needle during the whole procedure. From preparation to injection, it usually takes about a minute.
• Distract yourself. Talk during the process, read a magazine, or think about something wonderful you've done, or will do.
• Relax. Muscles tense up when we're nervous or afraid which will make it worse. Think about something enjoyable and visualize it in your head.
• Breathe deeply. This will help minimize the slight pinch of the injection.
• Don't move. It will all be over in just a few seconds – and you'll likely realize it wasn't so bad after all.
For extreme fear:
• Numb the spot. Topical anaesthetics are available at your local drug store.
For parents:
• Set an example by rolling up your sleeve enthusiastically and demonstrating how painless the process can be.
