I am petrified of needles! What do i do?

First of all, a lot of people have the same fear as you do. This means that the people who draw your blood deal with this type of situation frequently and should be able to help put you at ease. I would start by telling whoever is drawing your blood that you are scared and afraid of needles. They should explain to you what is going to happen in a way that won't make it seem so terrifying. Ask to lie down or sit in a reclining chair while they draw your blood so that you can relax and not worry about fainting. Yes, it does hurt a little--feels like a sharp little pinch. I won't lie about that, but this is what I tell my patients: if you hold still, don't move at all, chances are that it will only happen once. It will be quick and then you will be done. Don't watch when they do it, I think that makes it worse. Remember to keep breathing. And if you do pass out, don't worry, you wouldn't be the first person to do it. Go get your blood drawn, I think that you might discover worrying about it is actually making you feel worse than the actual test. Good luck!

Booster shots are not just for your benefit. Its about keeping everyone safe. And trust me, disfigurement from polio isnt a good time. If you have medicine for your panic attacks, you should take it about 10 minutes before taking the needle, even 5 minutes is fine if you put it under your tongue. My best tip and trick is to look away, and close your eyes while getting the needle. If you are worried you are going to faint, get your needle sitting in a chair and warn the staff.

One more note, if you refuse the vaccination you may be required to not attend school until your vaccinations are up to date.

so to sum up, be honest with the staff, take your medicine and keep breathing, look away and it will be done in under 15 seconds.

Good Luck!

LJ

WOW! u sound like me..lol well I am 14 I just turned 14 I got my Meningitis, Guardasill, and hepatitis shots it hurt so bad my brother is only 11 and I was crying and he was fine what I do is close your eyes and breath in through your noise and out through your mouth slowly.

Just try closing your eyes, looking the other way, and counting to ten. You could also try relaxation and visualization techniques. Or, if the problem is really bad, you could ask for a mild sedative to relax you.

I am 13 also and hate needles completely ... I panicked when I had to get blood taken for allergy testing, just look away ... once it is in it doesn't hurt, just don't look at it or move.

Just like I tell my 7 year old daughter -- wiggle your toes as you get the shot. Concentrate very hard on wiggling each toe and you will relax and not feel a thing.

just count to three and its over .. i sware i am still scared out of mind of needles but i just count

Try to avoid a profession as a seamstress