Getting blood drawn

JamieMichelleWed213327 · December 2014

I've always had an issue getting blood drawn. It used to by crying, passing out, hyperventilating, throwing up etc but as I've gotten older I've managed to tone down my behavior (even though I'm still doing all of these things internally) I can now get through it without all the theatrics. But I can't seem to get past the puking part and passing out. This morning they took NINE vials of blood and I threw up and passed out for a second.

Is it just the shock of having blood taken out of my body or is there something I can eat or do to help this? It's embarrassing and seeing as they're going to be drawing blood quite a bit I need would like to get it under control.

TIA

LadyAnnibal · December 2014

I got nauseous, hyperventilated, and forced myself not to cry though my eyes did water.

All I can say is, don't look at the tube that your blood goes through and bring special band-aids. You'll feel at least a little better after.

jenwalker1978 · December 2014

I try to look away and think of something completely different. But it sounds like you are much worse than that. I'd say talk to your doctor and see if they have suggestions.

JamieMichelleWed213327 · December 2014

I ate a donut this morning hoping it would boost my sugar. Apparently I should have had 5. Lol

usermovedon · December 2014

They took nine from me, too! I was a little shocked. I also suggest talking to your doctor and seeing if they can help you. This isn't uncommon, a friend of mine has a lot of trouble with needles and pregnancy was especially difficult for her. If you do find something that works for you, make sure you stick to it and you're upfront with whoever takes your labs on what you need. Good luck.

GHStarfish · December 2014

I was the same way. They took 7 vials from me the other day. I used to pass out all the time mostly because my veins move. I found that drinking a lot of water before the appointment helps me. The ladies that work in the lab are also awesome and funny. They talk to me the whole time.

ChristyM87 · December 2014

No advice to help with your coping skills but please tell the phlebotomist that you have reacted this way in the past. I am a nurse and it is always good to be prepared. Oh, and if you don't pass out please at least stay seated for a moment. I had a lady do ok with a blood draw then stand up and pass out

jlucal · December 2014

I recently went for my 1st u/s and they also took about 9 viles of blood so that doesn't seem strange to me.

I would say you are getting yourself so worked up with nerves that you are literally making yourself sick.

I would ask that they use a butterfly needle (this is what I do as I have small veins). The prick is far less and it is honestly barely noticeable but it does take a little longer for the blood to be drawn. I also always keep my head turned and my eyes away from what they are doing. Ask if you can lie down while they do it, that may help. And maybe try and distract yourself with music (headphones) or something...

Good luck!

Lau112384 · December 2014

Only 9 viles? I am Jewish so they had to run a bunch of other tests also. They took 12 the first time. I then found out they didn't take enough and messed up some test so when I went back they took 23 viles. Some were small though. Glad I don't have issues with needles.

squeakyfrog15 · December 2014

I apparently have an unrealized fear of needles? I get dizzy and have blacked out in the past! Something has helped in the past was an ice pack or cold water towel on my chest! I don't like getting shots where I can't see them! I can't watch them but I need to be able to see it after its in the skin, so I freak for any shots in my butt! I hope the ice helps!

ifwisheswerefishes · December 2014

Nine over here with a follow up of two more. So that's eleven total in one visit. Holy shit, I almost passed out.

I recommend keeping Jolly Ranchers or something in your purse, don't look at the needle/stare off into space or at the wall, think about something else, and be sure to tell the nurse/blood draw-er person whose true title I cannot spell so that they can be prepared in case you DO faint.

JMTorok · December 2014

I have a terrible phobia of needles. My first blood draw was quite the episode, but I'm hoping this pregnancy will help me overcome this fear. I drank a ton of water beforehand, because I read that will allow them to find your veins easily. I requested to lay down in case I passed out. I turned away so I wouldn't see anything. I didn't even want to know how many vials they were drawing (the Dr. Said it was a lot afterward). It really helped to talk with the phlebotomist. I asked her a million questions about herself, but it helped take my mind off of what was happening. I also let her know beforehand about my intense fear of needles. I found this helped, because she was very understanding.

mvhove · December 2014

I have not had this problem when getting blood drawn, but I did have a vasovagal response after I had an iv put into my hand a few months ago (before my d&c). It was terrible so I feel for you! I didn't vomit but I did almost pass out, got really hot and prickly all over, thankfully they just reclined me and my bp finally increased. I also recommend what others have suggested- drinking water, look away, etc. good luck!

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