Fear

[woodelf]

I am terrified of the needle, an injection and I literally shake with fear at the prospect of having an injection. So, is there any kind of numbing/freezing cream/spray that can be put onto the "area" to be injected? Ta Muchly.

[PankySmooch]

Just close your eyes, it's only a scratch

[sandyRoe]

There is. My dentist sprays some sort of anaesthetic on my gum before injections for fillings or taking a tooth out. I don't feel anything.

[jomifl]

I don't think a numbing spray would be much use as your fear seems to be based on anticipation rather than the usually painless reality. I have had quite a few injections and blood samples taken recently and I can honestly say that the worst pain was a slight sting whilst most of them were absolutely painless.

[woodelf]

It may be only a scratch to you Panky, but it's absolute hell for me - Ta for yours Sandy.

[Buenchico]

You've not said where the injection will be, Woodelf.

It's into your gum then, as Sandy says, it's quite common these days for dentists to use a pre-injection anaesthetic.

If it's elsewhere in your body, this link explains the options available. (It's from the website of the Great Ormond Street Children's hospital but, obviously, the same treatments must be available for adults):
http://www.gosh.nhs.uk/medical-information/procedures-and-treatments/topical-anaesthetics

[tamborine]

Pinch yourself as hard as possible during the injection and you wont feel the needle.

[woodelf]

Absolute common sense Jomifl and I believe you, but I still can't help it. I suppose Chris, I'm talking about the "inner elbow" point - and it's no use me pinching myself Tambo as no-one is gonna say Now!...eh?

[Barmaid]

You might want to try some hypnotherapy.

I hate bloody needles- I once passed out when I went to give blood, all she did was prick my finger. Best thing I could suggest is look the other way and think of other things. I can just about manage it then. Good idea if you tell them in advance you are terrified, they are quite good at distration techniques.

[scorpiojo]

Can you take someone with you? Distract yourself by talking to them?

[Quizproquo]

Health professionals are very good at dealing with fear these days.
Tell them about it and if you have time, go to your doctor beforehand and explain the situation. They may give you a mild anti anxiety drug to take before you go. They may just calm your fears.
Honestly, if you tell them your worries when you get there they will do everything they can to make it easier for you. Don't be embarrassed or ashamed, they hear it every day.

[PankySmooch]

Some good advice there, at the end of the day you'll only feel a little prick

[Barmaid]

Pankysmooch for best (albeit most predictable) answer......

[woodelf]

Okay folks, all taken on board - and Ta for the obvious Panky!

[Old_Geezer]

Look the other way and concentrate on some different pleasant subject. It doesn't take enough time for you to react if you do that with intent.

[Sqad]

\\\ is there any kind of numbing/freezing cream/spray that can be put onto the "area" to be injected? \\\

Yes.......EMLA Cream............Google it.

[Sqad]

Just noticed Buenchico's link.........try that one.

[ummmm]

I can't watch injections....even on TV.

They don't hurt though. I just turn away or close my eyes.

[jennyjoan]

I always laugh at this - when I have to give blood samples - practically nearly all the time the nurses will always say "do you hate needles" - please, who the hell LIKES needles. That sentence puts me crazy LOL

[jennyjoan]

Woody - inside elbow is just a sharp scratch - painful when you have to give blood samples from the back of the hand - that can be pretty uncomfortable. But hey ho if this wee needle is going to help you - you have to go through it like a brave soldier.

[andy-hughes]

If you have not had the injection before, remember that it is a soft fleshy area, with not too many nerves, it may smart a little, but no more.

Turn away, close your eyes. breathe deeply and try to relax, you may not feel anything.