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Overcoming needle phobia

Some patients flinch, cry and faint at the sight of needles, but patience and understanding from healthcare practitioners can help alleviate the fear

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The fear of needles can come from a combination of factors, including one's biological fear of pain and injury or past experiences such as a poorly managed procedure.

The fear of needles can come from a combination of factors, including one's biological fear of pain and injury or past experiences such as a poorly managed procedure.

PHOTO: ISTOCKPHOTO

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Whenever accounts executive Philomena Chew needs a jab at the clinic, she asks for a few minutes to compose herself.
The 48-year-old Singaporean has a fear of needles, also known as trypanophobia, which doctors say is common among patients here.
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