Needle phobia

Hi Tink

Yea I'm with you on this. I hate needles. My blood pressure goes sky high and my veins sink, which isn't good when they want to take blood.

The only way I cope is breathe deeply and slowly and ask them to let me know just before the 'scratch' so I can hold my breath while they do it.

My issue is that they only get one opportunity. If they start messing about after the needle goes in I don't react well. 

Hello......I understand your phobia. I don't actually have a phobia but my veins are deep so getting blood is often difficult. Once there are problems, it can mean six or eight attempts which often hurt so then I tense and have a fear. Similar if not the same.

So the solutions for you could be similar and may help.

Firstly insist you have a port if you need chemo. You then won't feel anything and there will be a syringe not a needle ( and you can look the other way.) Don't let them arrange a picc. It won't solve your phobia.

Secondly for blood tests ask them to use a baby needle. It's designed to use on new born babies scalps but will take adult blood. The needle is tiny.....you won't see it especially if you close your eyes....and the prick is so small you won't know the blood is being removed. I see the same nurse each time and as she is confident it will work, I am less tense too. Usually my nurse has to fill 9 vials every six months because chemo left me with neuropathy but am I less afraid...no....the people who tell you that are obviously like my OH( who is actually very understanding) whose blood and veins flow easily. 

I hope your treatment goes well. Just keep telling people that your problem is real and they will gave to solve it with you.

Take care. Karen

Hi, with you completely

I can’t even really read some of the replies here. I’ve definitely had nurses who maybe think it’s some sort of affectation

The only hopefully useful comment I can provide is to have a port installed if it’s offered. It really does make it easier when they’re hooking you up

Best wishes