Is anyone else deathly afraid of blood work being done at the doctors??
All my life I have had such a problem with this. Every time I go for blood tests, I pass out. I hate it! I have a doctors appointment tomorrow and I am soooooooo dreading it!
I cannot even describe to you how much I hate any doctor but when they have to do blood work..OMG..I FREAK!
Any tips to get me through..my mom used to say look away and count to 10 but it doesnt work..I am already stomach sick over it..I cant wait till Wednesday!
ChristineC68
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Re: OMG I AM NERVOUS!
I can't give you advice but here's some hugs to help get you through the day
Can I feel your pain...I just got blood taken today...YUCK!!
I passed out once, b/c they told me to fast for 12 hours...but i have learned a few tricks...
1. your mom is right - do not look...even if you say its ok...there is a Vegas nerve (not really sure what happenes with it) and it can cause you to pass out...
2. counting does help...knowing that it is only 10 seconds will ease the tension
3. eat something before you go...and if you have to fast take some cookies with you
4. if you feel faint after it is done...stay seated...and put your head btween your legs...if you are still having issues...ask to lie down they will elevate your legs.
5. ask the person taking blood to talk to you while its happening...tell them you are nervous...ASK FOR A SMALLER NEEDLE
Today I was trying not to bounce my legs while the poor woman was trying to stick me...just trust the phlobotomist (sp?) they know what they are doing...
good luck
NovemberSue
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Re: OMG I AM NERVOUS!
I don't know what to say. You can try not looking while they give you the needle and make sure you eat something before you go (but nothing fried or greasy.)
Sunny
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Re: OMG I AM NERVOUS!
I always pass out too. This works- if you feel like you are going to faint, clench and unclench your toes. I know it sounds stupid, but it works!
Wendy
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Re: OMG I AM NERVOUS!
I have no problem having blood taken. This is fortunate because in the last year I have had blood taken well over 100 times!! . When I first got sick they were taking blood sometimes 6-8 times per day!! I have virtually no veins left for them to stick!
My best recommendation is to let them know that you are nervous. Ask them to use the smallest needle possible (a good phlebotomist can sometimes use a pediatric needle on an adult). Do not look. That is a must for those who faint when blood is taken. Talk to the person taking your blood or bring a book in. Do something to take your mind off it. Get your hubby to go with you to hold your hand!
Good luck.
What-Now
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Re: OMG I AM NERVOUS!
Ask them to use a 'butterfly'. It's a little easier on you than a regular needle!
Betty
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Re: OMG I AM NERVOUS!
I'm terrible with it too!!! I think about it and think about it and think about it. I have passed out a few times too and I freak everytime!! When they tell me to fast I don't, I eat a little something and bring chocolate and pop it in your mouth right after (that's what I do)
I'm so worried to get pregnant b/c I'm so afraid of blood tests and needles......If I have to go for an amnio I'll DIE!!
I have no problem having blood taken. This is fortunate because in the last year I have had blood taken well over 100 times!! . When I first got sick they were taking blood sometimes 6-8 times per day!! I have virtually no veins left for them to stick!
Wendy...my dad had phlebitis (sp?) too...so I know what you are going through...He always comes home with a different count...
noreen if its any help you do get used to it...my dad passed out at his navy physical and now has no problems with his numerous tests...
