How to manage fear of needles (trypanophobia)

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You’ve probably never heard anyone say they look forward to getting a shot. But sometimes, the fear of needles can be so overwhelming that it causes you to avoid getting necessary medical care.

At Aurora Health Care, our providers help you and your child manage a fear of needles so you can get the care you need. Whether you come to us for a routine vaccination or other procedure, we deliver compassionate, effective treatments. With multiple locations throughout Wisconsin, we aim to make it easy for you to get care, when and where you need it, even if you have a phobia of needles.

What is trypanophobia?

Trypanophobia is an intense fear of needles in medical settings. It’s similar to a general fear of needles. But people with trypanophobia experience anxiety specifically related to needles used during a vaccination or other medical procedure.

Trypanophobia can affect your health because it can stop you from attending medical appointments or getting necessary vaccines. If you deal with a fear of needles, speak with your health care provider. They can help you work on ways to manage the fear so you get the care you need.

What causes a fear of needles?

Experts don’t know of one root cause of trypanophobia. But you may be more likely to fear needles if you have:

  • Another anxiety disorder, such as generalized anxiety or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
  • Family history of phobias
  • Other phobias related to germs or medical diagnoses, such as germaphobia or hypochondria (intense worry about having undiagnosed medical conditions)
  • Traumatic memories associated with needles

What are the symptoms of trypanophobia?

The primary symptom of trypanophobia is fear and anxiety around needles, particularly in medical settings. You may feel intense anxiety when you even think about getting a shot. Your symptoms may intensify so much that you have a panic attack.

You may also experience physical symptoms of anxiety, such as:

How common is the fear of needles?

It’s very common to fear needles. Research shows that about two-thirds of children and one-quarter of adults experience a phobia of needles.

How to overcome trypanophobia

Some people deal with trypanophobia long-term. But you may find certain strategies to help your phobia of needles and reduce your symptoms so you can get the medical care you need.

  • Change the location: You may find that getting vaccinations in a crowded space triggers your symptoms more quickly. Ask your health care provider where they give vaccines. You may request a more private setting if needed. In some cases, drive-thru vaccines that allow you to stay in your vehicle may be a better option.
  • Find out more about the procedure: Talk with your provider about what will happen before, during and after a vaccine or procedure. Knowing what to expect may help alleviate your anxiety. You can also role-play the appointment with a trusted loved one to practice managing your symptoms and remaining calm.
  • Manage pain: Some people experience anxiety because they fear how much a shot will hurt. Tell your health care provider if you’re concerned about the pain. You may be able to get a numbing cream, spray or ointment to lessen your discomfort. Breathing and visualization exercises may also reduce pain.
  • Use different language: Specific words such as “shot” may heighten your anxiety. Ask your care team to use words like “poke” if it helps lessen your symptoms.
  • Work with a therapist: Behavioral health treatment may help you manage needle phobia so you can get the medical care you need. A mental health provider offers multiple strategies to help your phobia of needes, including exposure therapy. During exposure therapy, you gradually face your fears in a safe, supportive environment.

More strategies for overcoming trypanophobia

If you need a little extra help, you can access calming meditations and breathing exercises in the LiveWell app. These and other strategies can help you stay calm throughout your visit.

 

How to help children overcome trypanophobia

Children are more likely than adults to be afraid and develop a phobia of needles. If your child has anxiety about getting a shot, you can help them.

  • Be honest: Be clear with your child about what to expect. It’s important to let your child know that shots can hurt, but reassure them the pain disappears quickly. Use a calming tone and do your best to remain relaxed during their appointment.
  • Give them a favorite toy: Ask your child’s provider if you can bring your child’s favorite blanket, book or toy to the visit. Having a favorite item in the room can help your child feel calmer and more relaxed.
  • Provide distractions: Sing a song, tell a story or make silly faces to keep your child’s mind off their fear. Even a short distraction can make the pain less noticeable.
  • Request pain relievers: Ask whether your child’s provider can give a numbing ointment or spray. Minimizing the pain of a shot can help reduce anxiety.

How much does a needle hurt for a vaccination?

Getting a vaccination with a needle can hurt. Most vaccines feel like a sharp prick or pinch that disappears quickly. You may have some arm soreness afterward, but sharp, stinging pain goes away immediately after the shot is over.

How do providers help needle-phobic patients?

Be honest with your provider if you deal with a fear of needles. Your provider can support you by:

  • Explaining what to expect during a shot or procedure
  • Offering solutions to avoid shots, such as a nasal spray flu vaccine
  • Providing pain management
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