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Real members of DiabetesTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

What to do about needle phobia, and you are terrified of sticking your finger?

A DiabetesTeam Member asked a question 💭
Rocky Face, GA

My youngest son has been showing signs of diabetes. Excessive thirst, and drinking a lot of soda and water. He does drink 3 energy drinks a day. He can't stand the finger stick

September 4 (edited)
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Answer Summary

Members responded with helpful advice for a parent worried about a son showing signs of diabetes who also has a needle phobia, with... Read more

Members responded with helpful advice for a parent worried about a son showing signs of diabetes who also has a needle phobia, with suggestions ranging from urine test strips as a first step to asking a doctor about a Continuous Glucose Monitor to avoid finger sticks altogether. Several members shared personal experiences with needle fear, noting that thinner lancets, going around the sides of the finger, and closing eyes before pricking can make the process much easier over time. A recurring theme was concern about the dangers of energy drinks, with members and even a cardiologist warning about serious heart risks, especially in young adults.

A DiabetesTeam Member

Stop the sodas, cause it causes other problems like kidneys

September 4
DiabetesTeam

It's completely understandable to feel worried about your son. The symptoms you're describing — excessive thirst and increased fluid intake — can be signs of diabetes. The energy drinks and soda are worth noting too, as high sugar intake can spike blood sugar levels. The most important first step is to get him seen by a Show Full Answer

It's completely understandable to feel worried about your son. The symptoms you're describing — excessive thirst and increased fluid intake — can be signs of diabetes. The energy drinks and soda are worth noting too, as high sugar intake can spike blood sugar levels. The most important first step is to get him seen by a doctor as soon as possible for proper testing. As for needle phobia — it's incredibly common, and there's no shame in it! About 28% of people who receive insulin injections experience fear of needles. Here are some ways to help manage it:

- Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs) — These use a small sensor placed under the skin and give ongoing blood sugar readings without repeated finger sticks. This can be a game-changer for needle-anxious people
- Distraction techniques — Music, deep breathing, or focusing elsewhere during a finger stick can really help
- Warming hands first — Running hands under warm water before testing improves blood flow, meaning less squeezing and less discomfort
- Letting blood flow naturally — Avoiding hard squeezing makes the process less painful

If your son is diagnosed, insulin pumps are also an option that reduces the need for constant injections. Insurance often covers both CGMs and pumps partially or fully.

The key is finding what works best for him and building it into a calm, predictable routine over time. Speaking with his care team about needle anxiety is a great starting point — they've helped many kids (and adults!) work through it.

September 4
A DiabetesTeam Member

Trypanophobia (fear of needles) are common with children. There are lancing devices with lancets that pricks your finger with less pain and doesn't sting like a bee. I don't remember the brand, but I have them as a backup when my CGM aren't working.

September 9
A DiabetesTeam Member

@A DiabetesTeam Member
I see a cardiologist myself..I asked him about the energy drinks
He said energy drinks were messing up young adults hearts. He is over 18 and he has been warned about the dangers. He is addicted and me and his brother have tried an intervention for him but nothing works.😪

September 5
A DiabetesTeam Member

When I was working RN, in the ER, we had a few young adults come in for drinking Energy drinks. We had to Defib a few of them it was not fun for them. If you want to know more you can ask.

September 5

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