Relaxation techniques such as breathing exercises, meditation or muscle relaxation can be helpful. These techniques can be learned in classes or with the help of pre-recorded audio training courses. Massages, acupuncture, homeopathy, aromatherapy or hypnosis are sometimes offered before surgery too.
Strategies to cope with anxiety
Relax your body and muscles, and control your breathing. You can do this through exercises such as yoga, guided meditation, mindful meditation, and breathing exercises. Use visualizations, music, and meditation to relax and ease your mind.
Yes, in most situations you can receive medications prior to surgery to help relieve anxiety.
Effects of Anxiety on Surgery
Anxiety is a natural response and should therefore not be completely denied either. If patients experience it before surgery, it can help them prepare and have realistic expectations. Indeed, the right amount of anxiety can help psychologically prepare someone for the experience of pain.
Anxiety is particularly important, because it has the potential to affect all aspects of anesthesia such as preoperative visit, induction, perioperative, and recovery periods [2, 3].
Research suggests preoperative anxiety can increase the level of postoperative pain, meaning the higher a person's anxiety is before the surgery happens, the more pain and discomfort they may experience during recovery.
Examples of affirmations
I am relaxed and calm as I prepare for this surgery. My surgery will be successful. I will wake up easily and feel refreshed after surgery. When I wake up after surgery, my pain will be managed.
Anesthesia won't make you confess your deepest secrets
It's normal to feel relaxed while receiving anesthesia, but most people don't say anything unusual. Rest assured, even if you do say something you wouldn't normally say while you are under sedation, Dr. Meisinger says, “it's always kept within the operating room.
Medications & Testing
Please stop taking all herbal remedies, aspirin, and anti-inflammatory medications (Advil, Aleve, Ibuprofen, Motrin, Naproxen, etc.) seven days prior to surgery unless otherwise instructed. However, it is okay to take Tylenol (acetaminophen) if something is needed for pain.
Can I take diazepam before surgery? Diazepam can be given as a pre-med to relax you before an operation or dental treatment that may be uncomfortable or make you feel anxious. It's important to tell your doctor or dentist if you're already taking diazepam.
This “Juice” is typically a mixture of 2 different medications. One is an antihistamine (similar to Benadryl) and is used in most mixtures. The name of this medication is Hydroxyzine. The other medication will either be Valium, Versed (similar to Valium but more common with younger children), or Demerol.
Look around you and name three things you see. Then, name three sounds you hear. Finally, move three parts of your body — your ankle, fingers, or arm. Whenever you feel your brain going 100 miles per hour, this mental trick can help center your mind, bringing you back to the present moment, Chansky says.
Express empathy
Empathizing with a patient's fear and normalizing the experience can help them feel calmer. Even if you deal with this medical condition frequently, it may be new and scary for them.
Prayer to Pray Before Surgery
Dear God, today, I am facing a surgery that makes me feel anxious and afraid. I ask for Your protection as I enter the surgery room and the doctors work on my body. Please guide the surgeon's hand as they perform the task that is set before them.
Heavenly Father, I take refuge in Your unfailing promises as I undergo this surgery. Protect my physical body as the surgeon operates on me. Let Your Spirit be with the surgeon, Lord, that he may help me to be restored to good health once again.
General anesthesia brings on a sleep-like state with the use of a combination of medicines. The medicines, known as anesthetics, are given before and during surgery or other medical procedures. General anesthesia usually uses a combination of intravenous medicines and inhaled gasses.
Do not take herbal supplements, including vitamin E and Fish Oil, one week before surgery. Do not take anti-inflammatories (such as ibuprofen, Motrin, Advil, Daypro, Aleve, Naprosyn, naproxen, etc.) for five days prior to surgery, or as instructed by your surgeon. Do not shave the operative site for 48 hours prior.
The Don'ts
Do not eat or drink anything after midnight the night before your surgery. This includes water, coffee, gum, or mints. If you do, it may be necessary to cancel your surgery. Do not smoke or use chewing tobacco after midnight the night before your surgery.