Blood tests - how to prepare if veins not great/slow blood?!

[permaquandry]

I'm not sure which of the above applies to me but every time I have had a blood test, it's a struggle. It takes ages and can be quite painful/have lots of bruising afterwards.

Is there anything I can do to prepare to help this process, ie: drink water, run around/get my heart rate up?

Thanks, in advance.

They always tell me it's better if you've recently eaten. Also they ought to use a butterfly needle if you have probs (this is from my much-punctured experience, am not a phlebotamist).

Drink plenty of water. Being properly hydrated can help.

I'm having at least 3 blood tests a week at the moment and it's been good advice for me, especially the early morning ones.

Thx for the replies. Hey Linerunner, hope you're OK? That doesn't sound fun.

I always ask for a baby blue needle now. It's made what was a terrible ordeal into a doddle, it's a small needle so now struggling to find a vein anymore. :-)

Sorry *no not now.

Yes to all those suggestions.
Lo I look after (nanny) has weekly blood tests, found staying hydrated, have a snack, and using a butterfly needle to be the answer. Even with v. Bruised veins.

Sympathies, I have the same problem. I was in hospital recently and being severley dehydrated my veins (which are normally hard to find) just disappeared. I was told that keeping warm and hydrated helps
still took 8 attempts by drs, nurses, and a surgeon to cannulate me

Arnica cream/gel is good for the bruising afterwards

I have this problem op

I was told to
eat breakfast (for morning test)
drink
wrap up warm.

But also after many tests, I discovered that my left arm is hopeless and my right ok, so I won't let them use my left arm now

Drink well 24 hrs before. Be warmish not cold
small blue needles can help