Credit:Blind Grasshopper

It's quite common to find many people - not just children - to fear needles. Dr. Deborah Wiebe, a US health psychologist says for most people these are manageable fears that can be addressed through a variety of simple pain-management strategies. For the rest of them, here are a few ways that can help ease your nervousness.

If you prefer to know what to expect, simply ask for it. An accurate, gentle reply such as, You'll get a shot in the arm. It will sting briefly, and then it will be over, can be often reassuring.

Imagine yourself relaxing on a beach, feeling the warmth of the sun and hearing the waves come in and go out.

Take slow, deep breaths while concentrating on relaxing muscles.

Different strategies work well for different people; so if these don't work for you, try consulting the doctor.