Over 20 percent of people in the United States are afraid of needles to the point where they would rather live with a debilitating illness than get bloodwork done for diagnosis and treatment. On the flip side, some others have trouble with their veins being weak or hard to find, making it more difficult and often painful when you go in for blood drawing in Largo.

Fear is a natural response, but you don’t have to be afraid of bloodwork. Good phlebotomists are careful and attentive, taking your phobia or past history into account.

However, there are things you can do to make the process easier too, such as:

Hydrate, Hydrate, HYDRATE!

We cannot stress this one enough! Water provides proper hydration for your body, which plumps your veins and makes them easier to stick for bloodwork. It’s important to drink 64 ounces of water on a daily basis, but you can improve your blood drawing experience by drinking 16 ounces of water two hours before your appointment.

Do Light Exercise to Get Your Heart Pumping Before Your Blood Draw

Cardio exercise, like jumping jacks or a brisk walk, gets your heart beating harder, which plumps your veins with a rush of blood flow. This makes blood draws easier by making your veins more prominent in some places beneath your skin.

Get to Know Your Veins

If you’ve had bloodwork before, you should have some idea of where your good veins are located. Make a mental note and suggest those veins to the phlebotomist.

You Should Get Regular Bloodwork Annually

Bloodwork is important to maintaining good health. You should strive to get bloodwork at least once a year. We at Polmed Primary Care & Walk-In Clinic are experienced in blood drawing in Largo. Call to schedule your annual appointment for a doctor’s checkup and bloodwork today – (727) 339-2054.