Hi, like Gauge 15 needles?

[Schweinfurt]

Hello, friends. I am 69, been on dialysis (hemo) for ten months. I use a graft, in my arm. I am in Manila, the Philippines.

Have had my share of cramps, low blood pressure episodes, and three collapses. BUT, the thing I hate is the needles. They (Fresenius) use gauge 15 needles.

I hate dialysis because of the needles. I tried Lidocaine, and that freezing liquid. Nah, don't help much.

Somebody out there has some practical advice?

I am taking steps to get a transplant mainly because I cannot stand the needles.

Thank you.

[Simon Dog]

Have you tried EMLA cream (a mixture of Lidocaine and Prilocaine)?   You need to put it on an hour before puncturing, and it helps to cover it with a plastic wrap to keep it in place.

[Michael Murphy]

Into use 15 gauge needles, the only reason they don't bother me is that in the U.S. Fresinius also uses 12 gague needles they make the 15's seem small.

[Schweinfurt]

Thanks for your replies, guys.

Yes, I did try EMLA. Unfortunately, well, it didn't work for me. Good for the guys for whom it works. Also, it's kind of expensive over here.

Gauge 12 needles? Good God.

Ok, just gotta bear it.

[Bayushi]

Into use 15 gauge needles, the only reason they don't bother me is that in the U.S. Fresinius also uses 12 gague needles they make the 15's seem small.

The Fresenius that I attend every Monday-Wednesday-Friday tops out at 15 gauge.

I hadn't known that there were 12 gauge in use!

As much as the lidocaine hurts going in, it's a far cry better than having those subway tunnels being slid into your arm!

Is there any online documentation about these 12-gauge needles? Thanks!

[Michael Murphy]

 Yea they are the white needles the poor guy also has a 5 hour treatment. I shudder every time I see him.

[Darthvadar]

Hi...

  to IHD...

My late mum used EMLA cream when on Haemo, and found it really effective!...

Darth... Moderator...