Trypanophobia: What Causes it and What Can You Do About it?

Trypanophobia is the fear of medical procedures involving hypodermic materials and injections. It’s most commonly faced by individuals who’re afraid of needles. They just can’t imagine a needle piercing their skin.

Causes of Trypanophobia

Doctors aren’t very sure of what causes trypanophobia. Like other phobias, there are several different factors involved. These are:

• Negative Experiences: Research indicates that people who need more shots because of chronic illnesses are more likely to have a phobia. That’s because they’ve had negative experiences with needles.
• Biology:People who have a vasovagal reflex reaction suffer from severe dizziness and fainting when they’re given a shot—a fear reflex that’s said to be genetic.
• Sensitivity: People who are sensitive to pain tend to be anxious when they’re getting a needle.
• Restraint: Some people are restrained when receiving injections. The loss of control makes them more anxious.
• Genetics: Genetics plays a role in phobia. 80% of the people suffering from trypanophobia had family members who had the condition. 

How to Cope

Collecting Information

Make an appointment with the doctor to become familiar with the needles. Ask them how the procedure will be done and what to expect. Reading brochures can also help as collecting information removes fear of the unknown. Moreover, by understanding that the pain is temporary but necessary, many people are able to get through the ordeal.

Imagination and Meditation

According to Psychologist Dr. McGee, visualization can help deal with the phobia. Imagining being in a comfortable place at the time of receiving the shot can help. Moreover, meditating for 14 minutes a day can help with the phobia.

Medication

In case someone is not responding to therapy, the best thing to do is to take medications. Medicines such Selective-serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are given to ease anxiety levels. Benzodiazepines can relieve anxiety symptoms immediately.

Last Thoughts

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