Fear is a natural human reaction, but when fear becomes a phobia, it can severely impact a person’s life. One such phobia is the fear of getting a shot or having your blood drawn. If you suffer from such a fear, know that you can learn how to conquer trypanophobia, the fear of needles. Use the following strategies to help you address and grow beyond this common fear.
What Causes Trypanophobia?
Trypanophobia is an extreme fear of medical procedures involving injections or hypodermic needles. It is believed to affect about 10 percent of the population. This phobia often stems from traumatic experiences in childhood, such as painful injections.
Are There Other Mental Health Issues Related to Trypanophobia?
Hypoalgesia is a condition that causes extreme sensitivity to pain. It can cause a sufferer to have a reasonable fear of needles, as they experience the pain of an injection far more intensely than those without this condition. Injections can also trigger the fear of being restrained, known as merinthophobia. People with anxiety disorders or obsessive-compulsive disorders are more prone to trypanophobia as well.
What Happens When Someone With Trypanophobia Sees a Needle?
A person with trypanophobia may experience intense anxiety, panic attacks, or fainting spells at the sight of a needle. Other symptoms include nausea and vomiting, heart palpitations, spikes in blood pressure, or dizziness.
Why Is It Important To Overcome a Fear of Needles?
Avoiding needles can prevent a person from getting necessary medical treatments or vaccinations. Avoidance can lead to untreated health problems and increased susceptibility to diseases. Avoiding needles also puts helpful therapies such as home IV hydration and nutrition therapy out of reach for homebound seniors and others who might benefit from it.
What Are Some Strategies for Getting Over a Fear of Needles?
When a person makes the decision to work to overcome a fear of needles, there are several avenues they can pursue.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can be highly effective in overcoming trypanophobia. CBT involves working with a therapist to change your thought patterns and reactions to needles, gradually reducing your fear.
Asking for a Topical Anesthetic
If the fear stems from the pain associated with needles, asking for a topical anesthetic can help. This anesthetic numbs the skin and reduces the sensation of the needle.
Focusing on Your Breathing
Focusing on your breathing can help you manage the panic and anxiety associated with needles. Deep, controlled breaths can help to calm the body’s reaction.
Bringing a Support Person
Having a trusted person with you during your medical procedure can provide emotional support and distraction, helping to reduce anxiety.
Using Distraction
Other distraction techniques can also be helpful. Try listening to music or playing a game on your phone. By focusing your attention elsewhere, you can reduce your awareness of the needle.
It’s possible to learn how to conquer trypanophobia. With the right strategies and support, you can overcome the fear of needles and improve both your physical and mental health.