How does one conquer wooziness at the sight of blood?

February 15, 2008 11:38 AM

Woozy, nauseated, room going dim. Is there a way to beat it?

My friend C has always wanted to become a vet. She's never had problems with watching someone draw her own blood, and she's never had problems attending autopsies. But she's recently discovered that encountering blood from a living animal is making her feel faint and woozy, and she's determined to get over it because she doesn't want to give up her lifelong goal.

Has anyone here overcome this phenomena? I don't think one can call it a phobia--I'm not sure what name it has. Any help?

I wasn't sure if this should go under science, or pets, or what -- so I guess "culture" was my best option.

posted by tzikeh to society & culture (5 comments total)

How does one conquer wooziness at the sight of blood?

The same way anyone conquers fear of anything -- systematic desensitization. While some may need clinical help to do this, most can just work through it. I'm sure there are doctors with decades of experience that still have things that give them the heebie-jeebies, but they've developed healthy coping strategies.
posted by Cool Papa Bell at 11:57 AM on February 15

What CPB said. Seeing a psychiatrist may or may not be helpful or necessary. The only other thing I have to add is that breathing is often critical in phobias, anxiety, and the like. I'd suggest some diaphragmatic breathing excercises along with whatever type of exposure she does to get over this.
posted by gauchodaspampas at 12:18 PM on February 15

Also, I should add, that, systematic desensitization, I think, is just one type of "exposure", that I've referred to. Some people may get better results from gradual desensitization, while others do better with one or a few big steps.
posted by gauchodaspampas at 12:22 PM on February 15

I had a few vasovagal reactions my first few times scrubbing in on surgery, but just did my best to fight it, keep myself hydrated, and not allow blood to pool in my legs. Got easier with time.
posted by gramcracker at 1:03 PM on February 15

I have the exact same problem. Well, mine is worse - I have literally passed out merely listening to gory descriptions of crime scenes. I think it's mostly biological. I think the body somehow thinks it is bleeding, and so tries to shut down. Vasovagal, as gramcracker said.

I've never personally been able to stand repeated exposure, but your friend sounds like she's slightly more determined.
posted by herbaliser at 1:38 PM on February 15