Getting an injection is a part of a healthy lifestyle.An injection is needed for a variety of medications, blood work, and vaccines.Fear of needles is a source of anxiety for many.Taking certain steps can make an injection less painful.
Step 1: Find out where you're getting the injection.
It depends on where the injection is administered.Many common injections, such as most vaccinations, are administered in the arm, while certain antibiotics may be administered to the back or buttocks.Ask your doctor or nurse where you can expect the injection to be applied.
Step 2: Pressure should be applied near the injection site.
If you know where the injection will be applied, you can apply pressure to the skin.This will prepare your body for the added pressure of a needle in that area, and the shock of the test will be less severe in the doctor's office.It's a good idea to do this before you leave for your appointment or on the way over.You can ask for numbing cream at the doctor's office, hold an ice cube on the injection area for three minutes or more, or use it at home.
Step 3: The waiting room is where you should start preparing.
While in the waiting room, certain tasks can help prepare you for your injection and distract you from the pain.A stress ball can be squeezed.This makes it easier for the muscles to be prepared for an injection.You can listen to things on tape.While the doctor won't allow you to put your headphones in, listening to music before the appointment can distract you and make you feel better.You can read a magazine or book.While waiting for your appointment, a good story or article can be helpful if you're more easily soothed by reading than listening.
Step 4: Don't focus on your attention.
The anticipation and awareness can make the pain worse.While the shot is being administered, focus on something else.Pretend you are somewhere else.Imagine soaking up the sun on a dream vacation or having a cup of coffee with a friend.Before entering, have a variety of feel-good scenarios in mind.Focus on another part of the body.The injection is going in a different place.This will distract you from the actual injection because you're anticipating pain in another area.Write a poem or song.It's a good time to have a recital.Your focus and energy will be on remembering and not on the present moment.A distraction can be provided by engaging the doctor or nurse in conversation before or during the injection.Listening to him talk may distract you from the subject.
Step 5: Don't look at the needle.
Our expectations of pain can make it worse.Studies show that not seeing the needle makes an injection less painful.Do not look at the needle.Either close your eyes or look away.
Step 6: Take a deep breath.
While the injection is being administered, hold your breath for a few seconds.This increases blood pressure and decreases nervous system sensitivity.If you hold your breath and use other techniques, it can help reduce pain.
Step 7: Allow the fear to be normal.
The fear of needles, injections, and pain can make you place disproportionate focus on the injection.Fear of needles is normal.Knowing that you are not alone and that fear is normal can help you relax during the process.
Step 8: Do not tighten your muscles.
It's important to keep your muscles loose because tight muscles can make pain worse.When scared, certain techniques can help.Breathing exercises such as taking a deep breath, holding it in for 10 seconds, and then releasing it help if done shortly before the injection takes place."I am going to get an injection," rather than "This will not hurt."The latter helps you accept the inevitable, which will allow you to relax rather than tense up.
Step 9: Talk to your nurse about your apprehension.
Discuss any fears you have about the injection with your nurse.Medical professionals are willing to help their patients.The nurse can place a numbing cream on your arm to make the injection less painful.The cream takes up to an hour to work.Helping patients relax is one of the things nurses do.He might be able to help you stay calm with relaxation techniques if you mention your fear.
Step 10: Put a warm cloth on the injection site.
The next day, injection sites can bother patients.If this is the case for you, place warm water over a washcloth and place it over the injection site.This will provide some relief from the pain.
Step 11: You can massage or rub the site.
This will help loosen the muscles.There are exceptions to the rule.After the injections, they should not be touched, as this can lead to more pain and swelling.
Step 12: Ibuprofen or acetaminophen should be taken.
A lot of pain comes from inflammation.Over-the-counter pain meds can help relieve pain.
Step 13: The body part that was injected should be used.
Slow down and rest can be counter productive to pain reduction.If the injection was in your arm, keeping in motion can increase circulation and help you return to normal more quickly.