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

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
Benson Ang
Lifestyle Correspondent
Updated
Jan 24, 2021, 10:50 AM
Published
Jan 24, 2021, 05:00 AM
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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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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Sunday Times on January 24, 2021, with the headline Overcoming needle phobia. Subscribe

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