How to Overcome Your Fear of Needles

Children are not the only ones who can be afraid of needles. Adults, even elderly adults, frequently suffer from needle phobia. But for some, fearing the needle stick can have serious health consequences, especially for those who need arthritis drugs, insulin or vitamin injections, dental work or other treatments and procedures involving a needle.

Instructions

1. Lie with your legs elevated and your head lowered when you get the injection. This helps those who faint at the sight of a needle. Do not get up too quickly afterward. Instead remain lying or sitting for a few minutes. When you do stand again, stand up slowly.

2. Breathe deeply. Taking slow, deliberate breaths can have a calming effect. Try not to tense your muscles. If you allow yourself to relax, you will experience less pain.

3. Don't look at the needle or syringe. Ask for an experienced health care worker who knows how to insert the needle quickly. Many caring professionals will attempt distraction techniques like talking to you, or perhaps asking you to cough at the moment when the needle punctures the skin.

4. Ask your doctor to prescribe an anti-anxiety medication such as Valium beforehand. If fainting is a problem, a beta-blocker like Inderal might help. These medications are safe, and if used only occasionally, typically cause no side effects. Sedation can help to make you feel less anxious as well.

5. Apply a topical anesthetic ointment or cream before receiving the injection so that you cannot feel the needle. Unfortunately, this method usually is ineffective. Since some people say that they are more sensitive to the pain associated with the needle prick, doctors often recommend injecting a local anesthetic such as Lidocaine before a procedure. But the injection is painful and usually only intensifies a person's fear of needles.

6. Seek behavioral therapy. Behavioral therapy works for some people but not for everyone. The degree of success depends upon the cause of the phobia, extent of the fear and the commitment to overcoming that fear.

7. Make certain that the health care professionals treating you are aware that you are afraid of needles. Finding a sensitive and caring physician who understands your fear is necessary for you to receive the proper care.

Tips & Warnings

• Reports estimate that at least 10 percent of the American population suffers from a fear of needles.

• Fear of needles can cause increased anxiety, rapid heartbeat, fainting, elevated blood pressure or a significant drop in blood pressure, difficulty breathing, or even convulsions in some individuals.