Needle phobia: a neglected diagnosis
- PMID:7636457
Needle phobia: a neglected diagnosis
Abstract
Needle phobia is a recently defined medical condition that affects at least 10% of the population. Because persons with needle phobia typically avoid medical care, this condition is a significant impediment in the health care system. The etiology of needle phobia lies in an inherited vasovagal reflex of shock, triggered by needle puncture. Those who inherit this reflex often learn to fear needles through successive needle exposure. Needle phobia is therefore both inherited and learned. In a family practice, needle phobia can be managed by reassurance and education, avoidance of needles, postural and muscle tension techniques, benzodiazepines, nitrous oxide gas, and topical anesthesia applied by iontophoresis.
Comment in
- Perspectives on needle phobia.Daniels AJ.Daniels AJ.J Fam Pract. 1995 Nov;41(5):437; author reply 512.J Fam Pract. 1995.PMID:7595258No abstract available.
- Perspectives on needle phobia.McSherry J.McSherry J.J Fam Pract. 1995 Nov;41(5):437, 512.J Fam Pract. 1995.PMID:7595259No abstract available.
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