I'm getting my blood drawn and I need a little help?

Question

The last time I went was a few years ago and I got super lightheaded/dizzy and almost collapsed. Is there any way to prevent this dizziness? Plus I have a huge needle-phobia! I hate getting shots and IVs and things like that (and I have a low needle-pain tolerance). Its like mini-torture for me to get bloodwork done. I know I sound kind of whiny, but please help out.

Answer 1

Either before or after you have your blood drawm, depending on whether this is a fasting test or not, eat something that contains a lot of iron (beans, turkey, enriched noodles, etc) or take an iron supplement. This will help even out the nutrients in your blood and not make you feel so dizzy.

The needles that are used for drawing blood are often so thin you barely feel a prick. Just don't watch as the phlebotomist inserts the needle, possibly not even as it's bring drawn. Focus on a poster on the wall or just shut your eyes and think of what you have to do later that day or anything to keep your mind off of the fact that you are having blood drawn.

If you can, try not to have anything extensive to do for the rest of the day. Take the day off of work or school if you can. Possibly, have someone else drive you if you're afraid of being too lightheaded to drive. It's better to be safe. That way, you can see how your body feels throughout the day and know what you need to do for next time.  

Answer 2

I have a HUGE phobia of needles also....

and i had my blood drawn so i closed my eyes and looked the other way and took deep breaths and thought the most happy thought ever!

it helped me!

Answer 3

Drink lots of water and that will keep your veins dilated for easier insertion of the needle and ask them to use the smallest needle they have which will also help. Don't get yourself in a frenzy worrying about it and maybe you won't get dizzy. You are probably getting yourself into a hyperventilation state. Be brave young lady, you can do it with no worries.  

Answer 4

its not whiney I'm just like you, just look the other way and take a deep breath.

Answer 5

before they even do anything at all tell them u are nervous and that u don't like getting shots in that area then chuckle and mention u get really dizzy fast.

Then u forget about it and just breathe non stop in and out !  Thats wat i do and I ask God to help me, it helps a great deal and i don't look at wat they r doing either only if they just write stuff down  or are  about to put the band aid on and it calms me. U just NEED to breathe and think of  the positive of getting blood drawn tested for things is.

also just repeat in your head this to shall pass...this is only a few minutes of my day its not like i'm gonna be here all day and night..this to shall pass. If u keep thinking about it mainly negatively, u will only freak urself out !