phlebotomy

Let them do it, you need it to start getting better

Hi,

I'm not quite sure what you mean by phlebotomy. I think it covers a range of procedures starting with taking a sample of blood to test.

I assume it was a nervous shock that caused you to react the first time. I too reacted to my first blood test, but that was to lead on to many more similar and bigger tests. It's something you get to cope with quite quickly, though I'd never say you get used to it.

It's important, if it's a test, to give them something to work on. Just let the nurse (phlebotomist) know that you are nervous and she should be able to help you cope and see you don't have to get up and walk out straight after.

I can never look at my arm when they take blood and it must be hundreds of times now that have done it.

You will find yourself relaxing to the situation after a while. Remember they have your best interests at heart.

Nigel

Hi, they only take a small amountof blood. Think of it as a blood test.  The hematologist usually takes a blood draw once month or so, along with you being on meds. Just until your blood levels off to an acceptable level. I think I had it for about three months. It is necessary, so please calm yourself. I don't know if you understand but when the red count is too high we actually have too much blood in ouir body.

The blood is also too thick, and we can get blood clots. This disease is too serious for us to be squemish about a little needle. Sorry to say it, I understand how some people dislike having certain things done. Phlebotomy really helps. I was diagnosed three yrs ago and Idon't need them any more. It takes about a year for the hematologist to see how well your meds work, andwhat dosage works for you. That is why we need to have a blood test once a month. He can see how well the meds and blood draws work. Believe me , myhematol ogisthas  been great. I work out an hour each day and walk an hour with the dog. Then Iclean  the kitchen, mop  the floors, etc. If I get tired,I take an hour nap in afternoon. I am 71, soon to be 72. This disease is serious, but wecan  live a normal life span, if we aretr eatedas i am . Lots of luck, my prayers are with you.    

Sounds like you are thinking 'outside the box' and maybe it's not the test itself but what proceeds or follows it. Certainly give yourself time to drive there comfortably and time once the to calm down. Particularly allow time afterwards to get your balance and be ready fro the drive home. Sorry yoa long drive. Mine is at the local surgery which is barely 10 minutes drive. The staff there should be ready to accomodate your needs and respect that you need time.

The needle generaly gives me no bother, but sometimes 'brushes' a nerve and that can give a strong ache down my arm. But of course I have to bear it until the needle is withdrawn. Some other times I hardly feel it - it's just the luck of the draw.

Nigel

P.S. A thought which might help is if the idea of needles is what gives the problems. Maybe try desensitising yourself by looking at videos of them in use. YoiuTube has loads. Gradually you will be able to look and not feel squeemish.

Pasta. ....that should be plasma. ...auto spell gone wrong

What a nice thoiught - eating Fettuccine Alfredo with Bacon whilst giving blood!

Nigel

Just adding my twopennyworth.

My meds are Hydroxyurea which I believe is directed at the problem caused by the PVR - reducing platlets. I also take warfarin to thin the bood, as I believe PVR causes it to become thicker. I take Omeprazole which I understand is to counter stomach problems which are related to the PRV. I take other meds aswell but they aren't directly related to PRV.

Nigel

Hi, monneywese, I forgot to mention, that the nurse did tell me maybe I Shd drink some juice while having the blood draw. That would help. She offerred me some. Also, although I had no side effects on the way home,  i was sweeping the pool later that day. I suddenly had rapid heartbeat. I had to rest for about an hour. They also advise us not to work out, or do strenuous exercise after a blood draw.

Since then, I have been more careful. I also wonder if it affects us more the first time we have blood drawn. However, I drive myself, and always feel fine. I rarely need blood drawn after three yrs. My meds are working so well, I Now only have to see the hematologist once every 4 months, and have a CBC only every two months. I hope it works as well for you. Hang in there.

Harrishill