Is My Fear of Needles a Medical Condition? Seeking Help in Psychiatry

Is this considered a disease?

Hello: Three years ago, I had a fever and received an antipyretic injection; five minutes later, I fainted.
I hadn't received any injections for about ten years, so I was really scared.
Later, the doctor advised me to rest for a while after the injection before leaving.
Unexpectedly, about five minutes later, I felt very dizzy and weak all over, and I fainted! Last week, I went to have a tooth extracted and was very nervous (because I had to receive anesthesia).
Fortunately, I was fine afterward! About a week later, I went to have another tooth extracted; however, during the resting period after the extraction, I suddenly started feeling dizzy and broke out in a cold sweat.
I instinctively felt like I was about to faint again (the situation was almost the same as last time).
Luckily, the doctor quickly applied some essential oil on my face and kept massaging my face.
After about ten minutes, I gradually started to feel more awake.
They all said it was due to my anxiety.
I would like to ask if it really is just due to nervousness? Anxiety is not something I can easily control.
Now I have another tooth that needs to be extracted, but I am too scared to go back! If I need to see a doctor, which department should I consult? Thank you!

pinggu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/05/04

Dr. Ye Baozhuan reply Psychiatry

Your issue is likely neurogenic shock, which often occurs in young women due to sudden stimuli or stress leading to excessive neural overload.
I often liken it to an electrical overload causing a power outage; neurogenic shock is similar in nature.
Of course, fainting can also have psychological significance, as it may serve as a means to escape confronting harsh or frightening realities.
Individuals experiencing neurogenic shock tend to have a lower threshold, so even slight stimuli can trigger a "power outage." You may consider consulting a psychiatrist.

Reply Date: 2004/05/04

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing significant anxiety related to needles and medical procedures, which is quite common and can indeed be classified as a medical condition known as "trypanophobia," or fear of needles. This fear can stem from various experiences, such as your past incidents of fainting after receiving injections, which may have created a negative association with needles and medical settings.
Your symptoms, including dizziness, cold sweats, and fainting, suggest that your anxiety may be manifesting physically, which is not uncommon. When individuals experience high levels of anxiety, their bodies can react in ways that mimic physical illness, leading to symptoms such as lightheadedness, sweating, and even fainting. This is often referred to as a "vasovagal response," where the body reacts to stress or fear by lowering heart rate and blood pressure, leading to fainting.

Given your history and the impact this fear has on your ability to seek necessary medical care, it would be beneficial for you to seek help from a mental health professional, specifically a psychiatrist or psychologist. They can help you explore the underlying causes of your anxiety and develop coping strategies to manage it. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is particularly effective for phobias and anxiety disorders. CBT can help you reframe your thoughts about needles and medical procedures, gradually desensitizing you to the fear through exposure therapy techniques.

Additionally, if your anxiety is severe, a psychiatrist may consider prescribing medication to help manage your symptoms. Medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or benzodiazepines can be effective in reducing anxiety levels, making it easier for you to cope with situations that trigger your fear.

It's also important to communicate your fears to your healthcare providers. They can take extra precautions to make you feel more comfortable during procedures, such as allowing you to lie down during injections or providing a distraction technique. Some clinics even offer sedation options for patients with severe anxiety related to dental or medical procedures.

In summary, your fear of needles is a recognized condition that can significantly impact your life. Seeking help from a mental health professional is a crucial step in addressing this issue. They can provide you with the tools and support necessary to manage your anxiety, allowing you to receive the medical care you need without overwhelming fear. Remember, you are not alone in this, and many people successfully overcome similar fears with the right support and treatment.

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