Not Waking Up From Anesthesia? How to Overcome Anesthesia Fear

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One of the most common concerns of my patient's before surgery is the fear and anxiety that they may not wake up. This fear can have serious consequences, in particular during and after surgery. Fortunately, there are many ways to overcome this fear, and it can even be done without medications in many patients!
Exposure therapy is very powerful, and it can become even more powerful when paired with biofeedback techniques to reduce the intensity of sympathetic nervous system tone. I've shown powerful relaxation techniques, in particular with diaphragmatic breathing, and the same techniques can be used combined with exposure therapy. This is what we do in operating room exposure therapy, like I demonstrate here.

[@luccamazzei4971]

I can feel the amount of empathy you have through the video. I appreciate you!

[@MedicalSecrets]

That's so kind of you to notice and share. Thank you for the kind comments! 🙏

[@payelchakraborty2023]

​@@MedicalSecretsI am an obese female..does anesthesia have bad effects on obese female?

[@kathyfalej3762]

I Have had many surgery’s, both elective and necessary. I’ve gotta say I look forward to anesthesia. Waking up is such a trip. It’s amazing to me how it all works. Luckily I have no fear and have never had a bad experience. Love your videos and know it will help many people feel more at ease. That being said…you are adorable. Total George Clooney eyes. Keep up the good work💉🥼🏥

[@MedicalSecrets]

So good to hear about your positive experiences!

[@Pebbles523]

Me to Kathy. I've never feared not waking up and if God forbid I didn't and passed away, I wldnt know it. So that's the way I'd want to go. 🤗 👍 ❤️

[@andrewdiaz5107]

Well tomorrow I am getting an endoscopy. Iam being consciously sedated and it's my first time iwm anxious an scared I just wanna cry

[@kendallchambers8165]

@@andrewdiaz5107 how did it go..

[@teayabern]

I have so much respect for Anesthesiologist, the responsibility and amount of work to provide the correct anesthesia and monitoring in a surgery as different patient's condition, age, sickness and etc has to be taken into consideration..they are so low profile most of the time because it's like working behind the scenes and when we visit patients who have gone through a surgery we are normally introduced to the surgeon only.

[@bnyob3463]

I have had about 4-5 surgeries and I always was introduced to the Anesthesiologist.....maybe it's a Florida thing?idk.

[@patriciat2702]

Also for anyone struggling out there with pre-surgery anxiety, the falling asleep part was NOT scary at all, you dont even notice how you fall asleep, one second you are starting to feel sleepy and the next they are already waking you up:) The quality of the short sleep you will have.. Let me tell you, you would love to fall asleep like this everynight!:)

[@autismisaac4826]

Thank you

[@louid8]

I wish I saw this before I went in for my surgery. I was so nervous but I experienced everything you mentioned. One sec I was up and the next second I had a nurse sitting next to me. They took really good care of me that day.

[@kendallchambers8165]

@@patriciat2702 Thank you. I got jitters.

[@payelchakraborty2023]

I have a fear...I am obese... I have heard obese women have greater risk under anesthesia..I am scared of my upcoming surgery for IVF😢

[@kendallchambers8165]

@payelchakraborty2023 I will say a prayer for you, my surgery is in 17 days.

[@Calibeachgtl1024]

Guys i had surgery yesterday and had never been under general anesthesia before. My anesthesiologists were amazing and kind. I told them about my anxiety and reassured me " well be with you every step of the way". Also tell them your anxious. They gave me something right before and that thing whatever it was hit me in like 3 seconds. I was as calm as can be. I vaguely remember the doors, and vaguely remember the mask to breath in anesthesia. I was like ok who cares no scaredness at all seeing those things. Woke up in recovery and that was it. But tell them you have anxiety, their used to it , and their sedatives are amazing !!!

[@mattbutler3292]

Thanks for another great video . You have mentioned Anxiety and other ways to deal with it many times which i find very helpful .

[@snehashrestha949]

Thank you so much for all this amazing information. You are truly an incredible doctor. I wish all of my doctors could be like you.

[@claudiagonzalez520]

I’m having ALIF surgery in less than 2 weeks . Your video has really helped me ease my fear of anesthesia and although I suffer from GAD I hope and pray I’ll be calm on that morning.

[@BrianMacpherson1970]

How did it go x

[@claudiagonzalez520]

@@BrianMacpherson1970 better than expected lights out next thing I was in the recovery room . Felt like only seconds ! Almost 4 months after and feeling so much better

[@BrianMacpherson1970]

@@claudiagonzalez520 Well done Claudia, I have GAD (the full anxiety spectrum). I just do not know what will happen when I come out of it, Blood pressure etc x

[@claudiagonzalez520]

@@BrianMacpherson1970 when I came out of it I went into a anxiety attack but nurse gave me a pill which calmed me down quickly and I was back to myself. The fact that I had surgery and fear of effects after triggered my anxiety attack but you’ll be in good hands like I was . I have another surgery coming up on my neck now same Dr and hospital. Now I know what to expect and do not fear the unknown . Wishing you the best on your upcoming surgery too ! 🙏🏼

[@savanahasargent4856]

I would love to have you for my surgery. Or a clone with your way of approaching the "person". The Body Does keep the score. Having a Dr. who understands is rare. You are an enlightened, wonderful doctor and human. Thank you for the videos. GOD bless you.

[@MedicalSecrets]

Thank you for the kind comments! 🙏

[@sonshinetres4541]

I think I suffer from more than the "usual" anxiety, perhaps even PTSD, and admit to at least a couple phobia's, but I've never been afraid of anesthesia or being put to sleep. It all happens so fast!

[@armonshietze5706]

Thanks Dr. K. I've had multiple elective surgeries and have never had a fear of anesthesia. But this was informative for those who may fear anesthesia.

[@watchviewer]

Really interesting thanks for taking the time to share.

[@MedicalSecrets]

My pleasure!

[@Pickles007]

Wow Dr K, thank you so much for explaining exposure & controlling breathing & body. You're right if people had support in OR & people to trust in OR, PTSD would be reduced because sense of safety is key.

[@MedicalSecrets]

So important!

[@dang2648]

Wow very informative thank you

[@rosinaferrante8532]

Thank you for an excellent video

[@paulpoppenfuse7071]

Thank you this is really helping me a lot

[@robinorrubyyesthatsme5094]

you are a very kind Dr. the first time I started watching you I could tell that you’re very caring thank you😊

[@MedicalSecrets]

That's how kind of you. I hope you share what you've learned with others!

[@robinorrubyyesthatsme5094]

@@MedicalSecrets yes i have ….not to be afraid to ask questions that are important to oneself , I also think there should be more interaction and information spoken with your anesthesiologist before surgery. Sometimes people are afraid to ask the all important questions but if you were my anesthesia Dr i would be at ease ! I once had a bad experience with an anesthesiologist who treated me less than . It was unpleasant his tone but Maybe he was having a bad day. Anyway s I’m happy I found your channel , it’s very informative… thank you for taking the time out of i’m sure a very busy busy day to answer me.

[@michellenainkristinabusch1221]

I was a vet tech and I'll never forget when someone left the isoflorine tank on, after a surgery. Headaches and yawning for everyone. Thankfully, it was found before everyone was on the floor, sleeping...or worse.

[@jeanniepurcella8363]

h😅

[@Steve-iy5eq]

Amateurs

[@pmaccymac]

I’m about 3hrs after waking up and as someone who had some anaesthesia anxiety going in, I thought I’d describe my experience. And pardon the lack of medical knowledge/terminology. So I walked into the operating theatre for my procedure and as my surgery required access to the back of my head, I was set up laying on my side, spooning a pillow. I was introduced to everyone in the room who returned a friendly hello. Once in a comfortable position, I felt the slightest prick in my hand as the cannula (I think) was placed. Not painful, way less than a vaccination. Shortly after, a mask was placed over my nose and mouth and I was asked to breath deeply. Then the anaesthetist told me I’d be off to sleep shortly. I clearly remember breathing into the mask and wondering when I might start to feel something. Is this working? I guess I expected it to be instant but I felt nothing for what felt like 10 seconds. Just calm voices and breathing into the mask. Next experience was waking up thinking, “this isn’t my bedroom.” Maybe a few seconds of getting my bearings but otherwise that first moment felt more or less like waking from a lovely deep sleep. Strangely, I tasted coffee as I woke. Not sure what that’s about lol. I woke feeling a little tired and with a dull headache. The kind you get when you haven’t fed your coffee addiction. In fact, that might have even been it lol. Anyway, enough about coffee. After that, it was chatting to the lovely nurse who checked my blood pressure while we discussed travel plans etc. Then it was to a comfy chair where I was fed ginger ale and sandwiches. I’m not going to say don’t be anxious because that’s totally normal and understandable. But like most things, the waiting and overthinking is more than likely the only bad part. I hope your experience is like mine where you come out of it deeply impressed with modern medicine and the people who practice it.

[@nicoleadoresyouu]

i’m having surgery in a few weeks and i’m terrified of the anesthesia, not even the surgery itself. thank you so much for sharing, it helped ease my mind a lot. my biggest fear is waking up during the surgery (or not waking up at all). i know the anticipation is probably the worst part. trying to be brave!

[@pmaccymac]

@@nicoleadoresyouu I’m glad it helped. I’m sure you’re going to be very well cared for and will do just fine. Feel free to ask me any questions you might have about the experience and I hope you’ll come back here and share your story. Keep being brave!

[@Nightmare_0608]

@@nicoleadoresyouuI’m having surgery tomorrow morning

[@tajuannataylor9295]

Thank you for answering this question. I have a procedure coming up

[@wandacason1792]

You have simply made me more comfortable when undergoing anesthesia.

[@MedicalSecrets]

That is fantastic to hear! May I ask what surgery you had? How did the recovery go?

[@hhk740]

love it thank you

[@d-meth]

I don't understand the fear. If I could I'd be put under every time I have a dental appointment! It's awesome, you get a shot of the white stuff and boom! you're out until they wake you up when they're done. All the tubes are placed after you're asleep so no worries about that. And of course no terrifying panic attacks while the dentist works. Best thing ever.

[@monicaperez2843]

The white stuff = Propofol (sp?)

[@iam1smiley1]

I feel the same way. I find headphones and music really help for me :)

[@d-meth]

@Monica Perez usually although anesthesiologists use different formulations

[@Pebbles523]

Like I posted in one of the other video's I love anesthesia. I have never had a bad experience except one time. I was 28 yrs old and had to have my wisdom teeth removed. I remember waking up screaming and crying for my mom. That's the 1st and only time I ever had an experience like that. Now being disabled I love propafol. It's the best anesthesia on the market. 👍 ❤️

[@MedicalSecrets]

I'm sorry to hear about that experience. Thankfully it was only once 🙏

[@darriontunstall3708]

Great live stream man!! I always learn a lot from you!! I have a operating room tour coming up soon, since I donate to the anesthesiologist Foundation, since it was hard for me to go to college to be a anesthesiologist after I graduated high school in 08 because of my cerebral palsy

[@robinorrubyyesthatsme5094]

never give up ! you’d make a fine anesthesiologist i’m sure 😊

[@darriontunstall3708]

@@robinorrubyyesthatsme5094 thanks man! I needed to hear that

[@Tiggmuffin]

I'm so excited for you...I'd love to be on the other side of the room! I thank both my parents for stressing to me to always ask questions about the world! I'm so glad you donate to something you love, something important....you clearly have a great soul and would be such a calming figure to anyone you are around🙂

[@darriontunstall3708]

@@Tiggmuffin thank you! I needed to hear that!

[@loisgilpin3051]

I'd like to request you for my surgery. Lol. I know that's impossible, but will make sure to share my concerns with my team. I love your love of natural remedies. I use both daily.

[@MedicalSecrets]

Thank you for the kind comments! I wish you the best 🙏

[@robsitalpower]

Thank you, Doctor. Your videos are amazing.

[@foxysil52]

Goodmorning from Cali. Can you Dr. Tell ne how safe is a catheter for blocked arteries, such as carotid, I also have one in my aorta..I'm terrified to have anything done. Hope I don't have a massive ❤ attack either way. My Dr. Never informed me as to ..if I need treatment. Thank you Dr. And if you can't answer my question, it's understandable becuz you have many more questions besides mine. God bless and keep you safe and healthy through all your highly needed care.😊

[@Tiggmuffin]

How do you not have 1 mil subscribers.....the world needs to know you and the way you teach! I will continue to feed the algorithm with my comments! See you next video 😆

[@MedicalSecrets]

That is SO kind of you! It's much appreciated. I'm told I spend too much time on educational content, and not enough on marketing. Hard to balance everything, especially when I don't do product placement. Thank you again!

[@Tiggmuffin]

@@MedicalSecrets I shared your channel to my favorite support groups hopefully they will make it here and subscribe......you deserve the views, they deserve to know drs like you exsist for us! I'm having a surgery tomorrow that will hopefully help me quite a bit, I will have nothing to do for a few days but learn....and sleep, I will be online more than normal spreading you around!

[@VickyRyan2018]

Well this video is sooo reassuring ❤

[@stellawolf8278]

Great Vidéo... so B blockers would "block" the coupling of adrénaline on their B receptors? Or doesnt it work that way ..

[@andreahickman]

Hi Dr. Kaveh. I had a laryngospasm 25 years ago after the doctor took the breathing tube out from gallbladder surgery. They told me to always tell the anesthesia doctor I had laryngospasm. I’ve had multiple surgeries since then and I don’t no longer mention it because I’ve never had a problem since that one time. Do you agree?

[@irisc8737]

I had a GA last Tuesday (UK) I was absolutely terrified. I woke up thinking that if the beeping stops I’m gonna die! I was so freaked out. 😂 I also felt very jittery and weird for days. They gave me Fentanyl. It’s not to bad though for anyone as worried as me. The staff were cool and it’s just like when you fall asleep by accident and then wake up straight away. I did ask for extra anti nausea medication though and I think this helped as last time I was quite sick.

[@MedicalSecrets]

How did the rest of your recovery go? Have you gotten better from the nausea?

[@juliehillebrand3920]

I had ether for my tonsils. About 70 years ago. I have had many many surgeries. And anesthesia. I never was afraid of anesthesia. But I worked in a hospital lab so I was exposed to lots of different procedures and ER patients. My husband when he was alive also had multiple anesthesia situations. Only once did he have a problem. But even as serious as that was he survived this. I never even thought of being afraid of anesthesia.

[@Overbrook92]

I have surgery in a few days for ovarian cyst removal/oopherectomy and I’m completely terrified. Ever since I got diagnosed two months ago, I haven’t slept. My eating has been crappy and I’ve lost quite a bit a weight. I’m so nervous - I am praying I wake up. I feel like it’ll be my last day on earth. 😭

[@MedicalSecrets]

I'm so sorry you're feeling that way, but thank you for your vulnerability and sharing that. If you peek around the videos, you will see so many other comments expressing exactly what you are feeling. I'm sending you my best wishes and I hope you find resources here to help you feel more confident about your surgery, and therefore feel more in charge and in control 🙏

[@jaydenp4975]

How are you doing now? Hope everything went well and you’re doing great!

[@jilliannoticeable3448]

I feel that same way right now, I lose weight too and wake up in the mornings with anxiety 😢, how was your experience?

[@alissagonzales735]

I had surgery on a Tuesday early morning for gallbladder and didn't wake up til Thursday at 11 pm. Another time I gave birth at 7:42 am I didn't wake up til 4:15 pm. So yes I worry. It has happened three more times after a surgery.

[@VickyRyan2018]

God bless all Doctors and nurses ❤

[@Nadeshiroo]

Had a endoscopy scheduled this Friday because of ulcer and seeing if it was healed. Went to cardiologist yesterday he said no unless emergency until he finds out the heart enzymes were messed up over infection from the emergency operation for the ulcers. I’m worried he said my heart muscles were fine had s little plaque but was fine. Now I’m d seed of being out under.

[@katherinesmith3227]

Thank you so much for this video it is very helpful and very reassuring! Btw I am going to be getting a lumpectomy done soon, and I was feeling really scared about it. However, I have been getting Accupunture treatments done, and I find they really help with my anxiety levels, too!

[@MedicalSecrets]

It's my pleasure! I'm so happy to hear that he acupuncture is helping you!

[@katherinesmith3227]

@Medical Secrets btw happy to report my lumpectomy went well, and doctors were pleased with how well I did with the anesthesia! Again, thank you for your videos they helped me to feel prepared, not scared before my procedure.

[@MedicalSecrets]

@@katherinesmith3227 I'm so happy to hear that! I'm hoping the pathology and outcome otherwise are also favorable 🙏

[@katherinesmith3227]

@Medical Secrets Got my pathology report, and I am happy to announce that no cancer was detected and have received a clean bill of health!🎉🎉🎉

[@YackBackatcha]

Oh well that explains it! I had pneumonia and COPD so that explains why I did not wake up for days.

[@richardkostura3474]

Last I heard, the actuarial probability of death due to sedatives/anesthsia was about 1 in 2700. The reported numbers are so low because the CDC does not tract this. Medically caused deaths do not appear in the top 10 causes of death, yet at over 100,000 per year they are third behind only heart disease and cancer

[@JM-ig4ed]

Can you talk about anesthesia for someone with AFIB and Pulmonary Hypertension (I have both) - thanks.

[@blueomega2853]

Dang I missed the live stream.. maybe next time.. btw it looks beautiful outdoors behind you

[@MedicalSecrets]

Next time! I need to start scheduling these in advance!

[@trudgingtheroadofhappydest3983]

🇨🇦 At first glance I thought passers-by could look in from the outside! Oh my. Ha ha.

[@michellenainkristinabusch1221]

I have Epilepsy and have been dx with Venus insufficiency, so I have a mediport, I've had 7 IO's prior to getting my port. I recently had an ankle surgery, and the nurses said the anesthesiologist didn't like using ports. Thankfully, my surgeon was on top of it and briefed the Anesthesiologist of my needing to use my port. Why doesn't the Dr like using a mediport?

[@aganethabergen8879]

I have many surgeries 4 C-cection and tanzels starting from 11 years, and a huge back surgery with on the left hip taking bone replacement, on that same leg knee replacement, now that I hear what they do to keep me alive that freaks me out..

[@elizabethhamilton1166]

I had a couple of procedures in the early '60's for which they gave me ether. That made me really scared of surgery. Imagine my relief when I had a surgery under modern general anesthesia. It was like falling off to sleep in my own bed! I haven't been afraid of anesthesia since.

[@barbarakirsch2538]

I keep having abnormal movements post op. I was told this was from EPS from Reglan IV. I have a seizure disorder, but this has happened after having babies, and after surgery. So one time, I reported this to my doctor, he avoided Reglan, and this did not happen. Is this an allergy to Reglan?

[@mikeschulte4271]

That’s cool how u have a window in the operating room! Can u watch the surgery from the street or is it one way glass?

[@keithbyrne1234]

hi there . i had operation last friday. got disk replacement in the c4-5 due to spinal cod compression . i was terrified with getting the anesthesia . funny experience in the end i woke up thinking i be late for picking kids up from school .

[@kendallchambers8165]

I never had anesthesia to put me to sleep, but got surgery for prostate in few months, terrified of it all, putting to sleep, the catheter, waking up part.

[@kendallchambers8165]

Update, surgery next month August, getting closer to the big day. And my talk with anesthesiologist.

[@goingslowlynowhere]

It is interesting how the main focus on anesthesia fear tends to be death or pain. For me, I have never worried about either, it is just too rare to be worth much consideration. But when I was a child, I had my tonsils taken. I still clearly remember asking what would happen, and got told "don't think about it, you will be asleep". A few years later, I found out that "difficult" (aka, kids struggling with stress, in my case due to bullying) would from time to time be gynecological examined "just in case" when they was drugged down, and people seeking abortions had been used to train regular gynecological examinations on, without their consent or awareness. It was found out, cause someone recognized their sister, and had the decency to tell her afterwards. I also have a major gap in my memory, and do not remember to be rolled into the surgery room at all, I assume I was given propofol or similar. I remember so clearly to thinking that I was calm and brave all things considered, and in hindsight I have found out that I was just drugged. It was a surreal realization. After that, and seeing how out of it people are after anesthesia, talking like they are drunk, and barely knowing who they are? I became very, very careful with any mind-altering substances, and any and all health care professionals. Fortunately, anesthesia is not used for colonoscopies and similar here at least, so I do not have to worry about that. Sterilization on the other hand? That has turned out to be a nightmare to get done awake here.

[@rmorris3722]

Back in May, gallbladder removed. Woke up with 2 nurses ready for me to chuck. Currently I have seen a ENT, barium swallow test, upper gi for my throat feeling swollen android voice gets raspy. Can this be from chucking while I was asleep before being woke by nurses?

[@sandrawilson8337]

I have had 2 knee replacements and I got through those, but now I have found out I need spinal fusion surgery and I am TERRIFIED about that.

[@BrendaLee8]

Yes I wish that too, have phobia with dentist and needles

[@pualani609local9]

What is the schedule of these lectures?

[@UserHilux579]

You could totally go into acting if this whole doctor thing doesn’t work out for ya - George Cloony vibes 😜

[@MedicalSecrets]

😁

[@beverlybevins6627]

If you're a person who runs really really really low blood pressure like 75/55 how do you get meds to go into surgery

[@bonnieghezzi9562]

I had weight loss surgery in 1995. Rue N y. It was still in the early stages. It took 8 hours Because my stomach was so big and I was bleeding too much. I woke up during surgery with this horrible burning searing pain that I can't totally explain and express the pain. I groaned and I heard "administer blah blah blah" and I was out again. Then it took a lot longer to wake me up. I felt like I was drowning and dreamt it. Then I awoke to my mom next to me saying that I'll be ok just breathe at the same time calling for help. It was an awful surgery and took longer than expected. So my recovery took a lot longer. I lost the weight but I've suffered so many consequences that I wish I could go back and not do it. I can hardly eat meat. Absolutely no beef at all! No raw vegetables and I have to peel tomatoes, pickles/cucumbers... anything with skin. I still throw up if I don't chew enough or it's something like fucking grapes. I know that surgery is different now. I can't have reversal surgery because of how mine was done. Was told they did some funky shit with my surgery. Wow just sucks. I'm almost 55 and I'm miserable

[@scumfck2062]

how much fenta mix with clonopin is letal ?i have hell off Akathysia help my end my agony

[@adrianacoates1353]

I am going to have a Cardiac Ablation done on February its my first surgery. I am really nervous even though it's a simple surgery. I have svt tachycardia and I decided to go with the surgery I will be in local anesthesia but I'm scared ima feel my heart go at a high heart rate. I'm scared of alot of things ? Is it that simple ? the surgery?

[@vmrsguru]

Just recently had hernia surgery and in meeting with the anesthesiologist he had some concerns as i am redheaded with blue eyes. Can you explain this in one of your livestreams

[@junelynn63]

I have chronic bronchitis smoke and can't do 2 flights of stairz, I have an atrial right side lipoma and am so fearful of dying on the table , my dad died of blood clot after bac K surgery, I am female and 59 help?

[@EVERLYNFRIENDS]

I hate the loss of control

[@cassieyoung6080]

I can't walk up 2 flight of stairs so how would they put me to sleep because I have paranoid about being put to sleep especially since I'm older now and have COPD

[@greggcheap6208]

I'm 2 for 2 with anesthesia. 1.) Woke up swearing and freaking everybody out in recovery 2.) Had colonoscopy at 9:55am and woke up in recovery at 2:45pm Not sure why I go through this? Could they be giving me to much? P.S. I don't do well with benzodiazepines...knock me out for a long time! Last time they gave me 2mg. Ativan and 5mg. Haldol for clostrophobia. I woke up 2 days later in same hospital 😞

[@crim.is.better]

I'm so scared of anesthesia. I'm below 16 and there's a chance I might need to undergo surgery. My biggest fear is not waking up and I hate the feeling of being forced to sleep. I'm terrified.

[@jordanking7711]

In my opinion, the anesthetist themselves DEFINITELY helps amongst all else. I can't tell you how many operations and procedures I have had where I have been nervous and anxious before (you would think I would be used to it by now, but sadly not), but I have a caring, empathetic anesthetist (which fortunately for me all but a couple of them have been for me), it hasn't been a problem for me because I know that I am being taken well care of, much like Dr Kaveh here because you can tell he takes care of his patients. And also they have all told me about the breathing techniques that Dr Kaveh described here.

[@gracier2718]

I am one of the weird ones who has a fascination of anesthesia and when I was little I've always wanted to have surgery because of that...Don't know if that is weird. I've never had anyone in my family who is a anesthesiologists let alone a doctor.

[@matthew27215]

It makes me anxious just watching

[@AA-cy9ib]

I have anal fissure surgery and I have Class 3 obesity (BMI 45). My doctors are suggesting me general anesthesia instead of spinal. I wouldn't be fearful had I been fit but right now I am scared due to my obesity. Is general anesthesia good for me? Or should I insist on spinal anesthesia?

[@SayuriSeriati]

Hello Doc, I am so freak out now to have an IV sedation for my upcoming surgery, I have never gotten any Sedation before , I am not a fan of put into sleep. How I can be more relaxed on the day of surgery? Thanks

[@aparker884]

I personally would recommend chest x-ray and blood test even if everything is fine so to be on the safe side.

[@JasmineBrown21]

I am having a parital hystercomy done so im scared of not waking up i always freak out over it i had surgery before does everyone wake up or wat

[@connie1166]

Hey doc , would you be afraid of going under anesthesia? since your an anesthesiologist , I'm so curious to know , thank you

[@MedicalSecrets]

Great question, there would be a little bit of anxiety, I would like to think a healthy amount!

[@ilonabakman]

I used to be so scared of anesthesia and still of course worry but I actually love the feeling of anesthesia now.. is that weird? I typically try to fight going to sleep to sustain the feeling longer but of course it’s so strong that it takes over. I actually have a bigger phobia of the needle/iv whilst it’s in the arm and go into a manic cry while they put it in

[@MedicalSecrets]

Thank you for being vulnerable and sharing that. You are definitely not alone, and that's a great topic for a future live stream question!

[@gwsstudios5342]

I have not had general anaesthesia since the age of 15, nearly 35 years ago. Each time I did I would wake up with dizziness and vomiting which would last for several hours. If I was to need general anaesthesia again, what measures could nowadays be put in place to either avoid or alleviate these symptoms?

[@loisgilpin3051]

I'm terrified and facing cervical surgery Nov 3rd. 3,4,5,6,7. I'm enjoying your videos, I've watched most of them trying all you suggest to overcome fear. My greatest fear is waking during procedure

[@MedicalSecrets]

The numbers are on your side for not waking up! In addition to all the other tricks I shared in the video

[@Tiggmuffin]

How are you doing now after a few days....I hope you are well!

[@miatrue98]

@Lois Gilpin How are you doing?

[@loisgilpin3051]

I'm still in a hard collar, not too bad as far as pain. Surgery was a breeze, the anithesiologist was spectacular with bed side talks and preparing me stress free. I had L5 S1 fusion done 6 weeks after after. That I'm still struggling with. Lots of low back pain and leg issues due to the sciatic nerves. I'm in physical therapy every week, hopeful for a full recovery

[@miatrue98]

@@loisgilpin3051 Thank you for your response, I truly hope that your recovery gets better! Did you have a general Anaesthesia or Regional Anaesthesia?

[@monicaperez2843]

I bought an audiotape years ago, made by an anesthesiologist, on one side, he explained anesthesiology, and the other side, relaxation exercises for both before the surgery and immediately before being put under. It was very effective. I don't know if they have one now that is on other formats. If you can find it, or something like it, I highly recommend it.

[@MedicalSecrets]

Super powerful! I've made one on MP3, too :)

[@RUDEMASTER]

@@MedicalSecrets Where can I get that MP3 that you made??

[@BrendaLee8]

@@MedicalSecrets is this available to buy, on what website?

[@robinorrubyyesthatsme5094]

@@MedicalSecrets i’d like to listen to it too!

[@MedicalSecrets]

@@RUDEMASTER sorry for the delay, I'll need to resurrect it and put it on the new website!

[@scarba]

I have multiple sclerosis and walk with a walking stick. I’m facing a whipple and terrified I’m not strong enough for it

[@MrLogic1971]

Im not diagnosed with ptsd but have had ptsd issues from tramatic stuff in the past. What should I tell my doctor? Worried about waking. I had colonoscopy and woke fine.

[@MedicalSecrets]

I'm happy to hear your colonoscopy went well! You can tell your doctor about your experience and if they think it's compatible with PTSD

[@TheFirstManticore]

I know, systematically relaxing the muscles in the context of fear can reduce the fear. Good for phobias and even for normal but inconvenient fear.

[@coachbobg]

They had trouble waking me after hip replacement surgery. I think over an hour after I should have. Also had very low blood pressure and POUR afterwards. Now I need my other hip replaced so naturally I’m nervous about it. I was miserable for 3 days trying to recover from the anesthesia.

[@blueomega2853]

This is interesting, your fight or flight response triggers your physical response, creates adrenaline, so if you can control your mental state, which is easier said than done, but that'll help control your physical state, makes complete sense

[@michellenainkristinabusch1221]

I've been known to wake up semi aggressively, usually needing some sedation to calm me down after surgery. Typically, I throw myself around the operation table/Gurnee.

[@hannahherrmann4921]

does dysautonomia (in general) affect how patients react to anesthesia?

[@MedicalSecrets]

Yes! Sounds like I should do a video on this...

[@tmreed]

I woke up happy from my surgery. I was very scared of never waking up. Now I feel that if I can go through spinal fusion surgery I can go through anything.

[@MedicalSecrets]

That's so empowering! Thank you for sharing!

[@BrendaLee8]

I had 3 disc replacement in neck

[@harlonlantz4094]

Best sleep you will ever have.

[@michellenainkristinabusch1221]

It's actually not sleeping

[@aparker884]

Normally if I'm inhaling the anesthetic gases you can feel your mind going. I remember when breathing the gases it feels funny in your throat but I just can't remember much of it

[@patdaniell5528]

Can you say things that isn't like you after cancer surgery in the room before the ward

[@MedicalSecrets]

Absolutely

[@elkiepops]

How do you know if they’ve got malignant hypothermia if they’ve never had an anaesthetic before? Thanks xxx

[@MedicalSecrets]

Great question! If there is no family history of malignant hyperthermia it is quite unlikely for somebody to have that mutation out of nowhere. Not impossible, but rare. I have a couple videos on this topic

[@elkiepops]

@@MedicalSecrets thanks xxx

[@jenmoon1906]

I’m a red head so it takes a lot of propofol to knock me out. But boy oh boy, the versed they give before surgery, that’s my fav 😂

[@TheFirstManticore]

My friend apparently woke up during surgery for broken arm. They asked him aftwerward whether he "remembered anything." He said no, but later he recalled a "dream" that he saw them working on his arm. Interesting, eh?

[@HotSkillet498]

Can a severe COPD patient be sedated for gallbladder removal??

[@scotttodd3216]

What kind of anathesa do you give for arthroscopic shoulder surgery

[@MedicalSecrets]

Usually nerve block and general (sedation possible, also!) Are you having shoulder surgery soon?

[@scotttodd3216]

@@MedicalSecrets yes,my friend told me the use profoltol for the sedation

[@stevtris]

I'm going to have posterior lumbar luminectomy spinal surgery and work on nerve root compression. How do I get my anaesthesia if I'm laying face down ready for the surgery? And also ... worse case scenario ... if I stop breathing... how do you do cpr if I'm facing the floor? I can't find this out anywhere on the internet. Thanks in advance ☺️

[@michellenainkristinabusch1221]

You get the anesthesia and then they flip you over.

[@stevtris]

@@michellenainkristinabusch1221 Thank you very much 😊

[@tmreed]

Good luck on the laminectomy. I had a spinal fusion.

[@annalouis4915]

Im due to have surgery on my back and I’m terrified of not waking up. I smoke and am overweight. I’m terrified of leaving my son behind, he only has me. I’m in constant pain but in a way I would rather be in pain then leave him without me. I get out of breath from one flight of stairs due to my weight. Please help me

[@cheryldaniels3659]

Why isn't epidurals used more often. That's what I ask for if I'm having anything below the waist. I ask for an epidural with the twilight. I wake up perky and not sick to my stomach.

[@MedicalSecrets]

We often do offer it for all the advantages you said!

[@lucycantor1081]

No fear here doc but hate it when I go under, as being curious, I want to see as much as possible before they do 🙁.

[@sandrawilson8337]

Would you be more fearful if you had surgery because of your vast knowledge or less, Dr K?

[@LookingForThatBlessedHope]

I had one of my many surgeries where I could not wake up afterwards when in all actuality inside of me I was awake I was alert I could hear everybody talking I could feel anybody that touched me however I couldn’t move a single muscle I couldn’t blink my eyes I couldn’t do anything to let them know I was awake and that was scary because it lasted several hours and they were talking about taking me back into surgery for some reason and the entire time I was thinking no you can’t do that I can feel everything you’re doing to me so it does happen

[@MedicalSecrets]

That's an awful experience... Were you able to follow up with her surgery team after to learn what happened? Regardless, I hope you are doing better now after that traumatic event

[@LookingForThatBlessedHope]

@@MedicalSecrets that was almost 30 years ago and they thought maybe I was given a little to much anesthesia because I'd woken up on several prior surgeries. I was very good friends with my anesthesiologist as well as my surgeons I worked with them and they did thank me afterwards for letting them know that I could hear and feel everything because that way they were aware of that for any future surgeries that they may do

[@cherylwright3342]

I am having acid reflux surgery .