blood gases anyone?

my pulomary doctor is sending me for breathing tests, chest x-ray and blood gases. I understand the blood gases are very painful. I am very apprenhensive about this test not knowing how painful this is. Did anyone have this test? Any tips or info that would help would be appreciated. the test is for march 30 so I have a good week to obsess over this and I will!!!!! ON the plus side this is the last of my medical testing....just have to do sleep study in april. thanks angel

ANGELA, I have had blood gases drawn in the past.Pain is subjective of course,but in my opinion, they are a bit more uncomfortable than having regular blood drawn.Keep in mind it only takes a couple minutes.Definitely not worthy of the energy you would expend obsessing. Good Luck, Carol

I didn't find the blood gas draw to be so bad. I know people have said it's very painful. However, I found it to be just slightly more uncomfortable than a regualr blood draw. Nothing to worry about at all!

I've had blood gas taken before, and while it is more painful than a regular blood draw, it's over quickly and not such a big deal. Worry not!!! Kathy F.

I had it done and didn't realize that it was the blood gases until they told me when it was over. hahaha It was alittle bit more uncomfortable then regular blood taking. I chatter thru the whole thing cause I dont' care for needles. Maybe thats why it was over quick? Try the chatter! Good luck and god bless O my surgery is march 30, 2004. YIPPIE!!!!!

I had blood gases drawn while I was in the hospital recovering from my wls surgery. It didn't seem any different than regular blood test done. Maybe a little uncomfortable, but no more pain than reg. bloodwork. Susan