Surgery fear & anxiety: 3 tips to be at peace before anesthesia

[@963ag]

I am literally having gastrointestinal surgery in about 1 hour. I have PTSD and am trying to use relaxation techniques I learned in therapy... I hope everything goes well during and after!

[@debralucas9519]

I genuinely hope it all went as well as possible for you.

[@jaydenp4975]

How did it go? Hope everything went well and you’re recovering nicely!

[@M1N1Girl007]

Me also on Tuesday. I am scared due to PTSD. Glad I found this channel. I hope it all went well. I have no clue about my anesthesia doctor

[@susan-1love]

❤ me also cognitive distortion think is what I've been having spinning out of control😢 I too am having my colonoscopy that I put been off years. Blessings everyone 🙏 going under

[@kfner23]

@@susan-1love You don’t need general anaesthesia for a colonoscopy. I had sedation for mine

[@christysbutterfly1612]

Unfortunately, I've been thru way to many surgeries and procedures and have had to learn how to self soothe before anesthesia. I've learned over the years that listening to a "guided meditation" video here on KZbin really works! My anxiety always creeps up 2 days before, so I do alot of distraction techniques and meditation. When we're driving to the hospital/surgery center, I listen to a guided meditation and am in a better headspace. I always tell the staff they can knock me out AFTER I hear my surgeon come in and address me. I trust him.. On the flipside of it all is my faith, that whatever happens is supposed to, I'll either wake up in recovery or in heaven, either way, it's all good!

[@christysbutterfly1612]

@bones7373 HI Bones 👋 Please don't give in to your fears! There's a reason you are scheduled for surgery. It may save or prolong your life! I'm scheduled for outpatient surgery next Thursday at 9am in Tulsa.. Please keep your appointment and know There's a middle aged lady in Oklahoma going thru a surgery too, you are definitely not alone in this! Try writing down why you're feeling anxious, like a pros/cons list.. then write down the positive things that will happen because of you taking a leap of faith.. Give yourself some grace and know no matter what, you are in good hands! And if you don't mind, I'll add you to my prayers list! If you need an ear, I'm here! You are definitely not alone in your anxiety! Big hugs from Oklahoma ~Christy 🦋

[@jangriffin-fi1yx]

Hi Bones me too in few days time having surgery so you & I have to listen to helpful reassuring caring Christy🦋 as I trust what she says ❤ We are going to be alright we are going to go in as positive & calm as we can, let's trust all's well & that our life is going to be 💯 after. We'll all 🙏 as 🙏 powerful ❤ Best wishes 🤗

[@RitaMBuda-tz6bi]

I wish I had canceled my surgery. It has traumatized me for life and I'll never never do it again no matter what. 😪😢😣😣😣😡😡😡

[@nerd_esh]

I am about to have a varicocele surgery Wish me luck 😓

[@RitaMBuda-tz6bi]

@nerd_esh good luck and God bless 🙌 🙏🏻 💖.

[@LoremIpsum1970]

2010, 40 years old and I was going into theatre. I was anxious, having underlying health issues, and I had a fear as to whether I would wake up after the anesthesia. In the end all I could think was if I didn't wake up after surgery...I'd know nothing about it (no, I'm not religious)... There was nothing I could do but accept this is not in my circle of control or influence, I could do nothing about it -- and all those negative emotions just went away. From that day onwards, I've not had any anxiety, fear, or any negative emotions as to my mortality. I now know worrying, even overthinking, about anything that 'might' happen is detrimental mentally and a waste of energy. As for procedures, or anything I have to do in life, my attitude now is to just get in there, get it over with and deal with any negatives after...not before.

[@elizabethlewis3509]

Asking many questions are so important to feel secure. I was made very comfortable when my surgeon was very willing to chat with me for quite a while to secure my confidence prior to my surgery.

[@lisazappala4381]

I hate surgery. I wish I had you years ago to help me, but I am so glad I found you to help me deal with surgery

[@triciaroyal8367]

This is an older video, and I realize you may not see this, but I wanted to thank you for ALL of your videos. I had a surgery yesterday, and all the tips you shared, especially regarding regulating breathing, confidence, educating yourself, and practicing gratitude were a HUGE help. I recommended your videos to the OR nurse, perhaps she can tell future patients who might have fears about anesthesia or surgery.

[@WellbredNfedKembleTV]

I've never seen an operating room with a city view. I'm sure it calms the patient but I HOPE the windows are covered during surgery. A surgeon possessing the most preternatural focusing ability, risks distraction by that constant stream of passing traffic. XoXo ❤

[@life-is-here]

Dr. Kave provides three powerful techniques to regain inner peace in a stressful operating room environment. His approach to taking control of your inner state of peace is insightful and helpful.

[@MedicalSecrets]

Thank you for the kind comments! 🙏

[@savannahballard5786]

So much has to do with having a surgery team who are willing to answer and listen to you as a patient. I wasn't even introduced to anyone on my anesthesia team. Never even saw their face for my last surgery. I saw my surgeon for maybe 2 mins and only had the 2 OR nurses to speak with. No one else was willing to speak to me or answer my questions. Talk about creating anxiety.

[@MedicalSecrets]

I'm so sorry to hear that, but how did your recovery go afterwards? I hope you feel more empowered than before to advocate for yourself to meet your team should you need surgery again

[@1aranel]

I am having my 4th spinal surgery tomorrow. I just want you to know how much I’ve appreciated your videos. ESPECIALLY this one. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@OhhhYummy]

I’m 22 Years old. Lots of problems as we all have , but your videos are very informative as you’ve already been told by many. You are inspiring me to not only learn to control my body and it’s emotions, but also to possibly pursue some sort of medical career (which I never thought I’d be interested in ) LOL! Dr. Thank you for the effort and time you put into sharing the information you’ve provided us all!

[@ropegirl8761]

WOW! These tips aren't just good for being at peace before anesthesia; they are great for just dealing with every day anxiety. Thank you!

[@sheilaguiles8078]

Thank you for such an informative video, it has made me much more relaxed and informed of what's going in my surgeries.

[@MedicalSecrets]

So great to hear! 🙏

[@KarenArnold-w2p]

I have a saying that I say before any surgery . " I got this!". I have too much to live for and this seems to help me relax and be calm before I go under. Also seeing my surgeon before hand helps too. I always have peaceful and stress free surgeries because of this.

[@andreaanderson6825]

Best feature of that OR is the view outside the window. Such pretty trees.

[@timbervalleyhomestead]

I wish I had seen this this morning. Traumatic experience as an 8 year old now hit me at 35 from a known trigger (rubbing alcohol smell in the mask) I managed to get through it but wow it threw my fight or flight before I passed out. Having to reiterate that I am going to be okay. I’m not a little girl being held down by 5 nurses this time. It was tough. I breathed and calmed myself down and I could hear the different heart tones on the monitor. I asked about the medications I’ll be on, what exactly the length of time I’ll be out for. It helped me figure out I do have a little bit of control.

[@ЛюбовьКулакова-о8н]

I had my surgery three weeks ago. Your videos helped me a lot ! Thank you !

[@RebeccaLoran]

I love these videos! I had FFS a year ago and I'm only a few weeks away from my final life changing vaginoplasty surgery! There is so much anxiety about the long waits, the delay that already happened(my diabetes wasn't 100% where it should've been, and I fixed it IMMEDIATELY, as in 7.2% a1c to 6.7% in a single month and got back on schedule) but the anxiety is really hurting me because this is such an important surgery and I feel like my life can never move forward until this is done. The fear of further delays keep me feeling scared. I do my best with meditating and going on runs almost every day, and have been talking with my therapist every week for the past 4 years, but it's just one of those things where I just don't think this will pass until I wake up after going under. It's a magical feeling, counting down from 10 and suddenly blinking awake. Mind blowing!

[@emsjas]

Im having knee replacement surgery in less than ten days… I have tried to talk with my surgeon again, but they have no appt’s. I’m someone who has been on pain meds (doctor guided) for chronic pain issues for sometime among other thing. My FEAR, is my pain won’t be controlled. I had the recommended Alovera procedure done, for the nerves. These are suppose to be dead, I still feel all of them. This was suppose to help. My Mind is spiraling. This doctor has done the same surgery on 3 people I know and all have been successful… but they don’t have the issues I deal with daily. I don’t know if I should stop the surgery. Great video but even more of a reason to put a pause on this surgery.

[@sushilaananda3365]

Thanks for this video! I recently had a cardiac ablation in an EP lab and there was no opportunity to settle in, meet the medical staff, look at the equipment, etc. The EP staff were super efficient and pleasant, but really fast-applying patches and sensors all over my torso and then a hand appeared from behind putting a mask over my face….I would have liked to know who was there and what their function was but that didn’t seem to an option. It felt like a pit stop service in a NASCAR race! I will be having another procedure in the same EP lab again in a few weeks-any tips on how to humanize it?

[@xo2quilt]

When you are being walked/wheeled into the room, start asking questions and tell them you want to meet the people who are in the room, what their job is and that you want the anesthesiologist to tell you what to expect. What they forget is that what is routine to them is new and scary to you! Remind them!!

[@tngal121]

Im having surgery on February 14th on my cervical spine. I'm more nervous about getting the IV than being under anesthesia. Hopefully I can use these techniques when getting ready for the surgery. Thank you! ❤

[@kananshusband9680]

This video alone calm my anxiety down

[@davidmorsse5437]

Thank you for all the information you provide in your videos

[@Sunshineandhydrangeas]

It’s always a bit scary when my mother has to be put under anesthesia. She is extremely sensitive to all medications, especially pain meds and anesthesia. She has always been basically dismissed by medical professionals when she brings it up, to the point where she’s almost died from it before. If you give her a normal adult dose of meds, it won’t go well. If I can take one pill, she needs a quarter of the same pill and may still have issues like excessive nausea and grogginess or even hallucinations (even with simple allergy medications). It’s just astounding the number of times she has been completely disregarded and been given things she shouldn’t have been, because she expressly asked not to be due to past experiences. The anesthesiologist or surgeon gives it anyway. And they are always surprised that she was right about what would happen. They didn’t believe her and just did what they always do for other patients, refusing to believe it could possibly be different for her. Dilauded, especially, gives her nightmare hallucinations….sometimes for days. It’s horrific, especially since it’s easily prevented. I go with her to her appointments now and it’s only when I make them look directly at me and stress how close doctors have come to actually killing her with overdoses because they didn’t take her seriously that they begin to really listen and consider that maybe they should take us seriously and should proceed with caution.

[@robo7643]

It's ridiculous that the people who have studied bodies don't seem to get that everyone's body and reactions are different

[@brentbakke230]

Simply thank you, in all you do !! The very best to you !!

[@caved555]

Thank you for taking the time to do this.

[@enterprise0523]

I’ve got an upcoming surgery & even watched the surgery on KZbin & I’m still anxious. I sure hope they give me a mild sedative to bring that anxiety down

[@spaghettimonster11]

I haD an accident on vacation in Indonesia, i got a trimalleolar ankle fracture. I had to wait 3 days for a guarantee of payment document. The morning the indonesian hospital received the document i was brought to a ct scan. I knew this day surgery is going to take place. After the ct scan in the lobby of the tiny hospital an anaesthesiologist came to me and she asked for my medical history and what kind of anesthesia i want. She let me choose from general anaesthesia or nerve block. I took general anesthesia. I asked her when are we going to start, and she said "now"! I asked for 5 more minutes to inform my family and friends via whatsapp. I turned off my phone and handed it to a nurse, also my glases. I had absolutely no time to be afraid. The next thing i recognize is that i was getting awake, asking a nurse if we are going to the OR to start surgery? She answered that it's all done and i am back in my room. She handed me my glases and phone. I felt so good at this moment. For me, having no time to think about surgery, was perfect.

[@JudyG745]

I get panic attacks just watching 😢 I'm having flash backs from Many surgeries.

[@MedicalSecrets]

I'm so sorry you had that experience, but I greatly admire your vulnerability in sharing that.

[@susanharris7463]

Thank-you for more information

[@MedicalSecrets]

Always! :)

[@sabodebol3836]

Great video 📹 very interesting and informative about surgeries 👍.

[@MedicalSecrets]

Thank you for the kind comments! 🙏I hope you are learning!

[@sabodebol3836]

@Medical Secrets I was wondering if you also do pain management or just at the hospital 🏥 because I was curious about epidural injection 💉 to manage pain like back pain or hips and knees. But if you do what would recommend.

[@jamielshields9680]

I have a disc replacement in about 10 hours. I suffer from severe anxiety and am scared to death. I am watching these vids trying to calm myself thinking maybe if I know what's happening

[@caratranby30]

How did it go?

[@stu2427]

How was it

[@PeteHob]

I have only one fear, and it can be alleviated by one statement from the surgeon and postop…” We will do everything in our power to control your post op pain”. hallelujah, serenity now stay well

[@saliexplore3094]

To what degree am I driven by interest curiosity vs deprivation curiosity? The latter is anxiety induced: the need to know. Very useful distinction to know about!

[@coleslawadams]

helpful. thank you

[@user-nd7rd8jo6h]

Got Bottom surgery coming up soon. And I find this to be a lovely resource. At this time, I'm in total peace with it. Had surgery done as a kid (tubes 2x and adenoids removed), so while I haven't done that in a while, the idea isn't completely alien. It doesn't get much more transformative than this, and recovery can be very challenging. However, I have full confidence that by the end, we are going to make art 😁😁😁

[@Bloodyfoxclaws]

good luck !! i might get top surgery in the future.. hope it goes well!! :)

[@user-nd7rd8jo6h]

@@Bloodyfoxclaws Hope you do 😁 And thank you. 😊

[@rozanikoley]

thank you

[@oliviawhiteside5464]

I really like watching your KZbin videos Dr K

[@MariaSilva-fh8zo]

I wish I went to a surgery with OR having windows. Thank you Dr

[@melissasueferrin3409]

I live in Mexico and one issue I have is they don't allow me to wear my glasses in the or, or even pre-op and recovery rooms. I'm extremely near slighted an everything is a blur without them.

[@HotSkillet498]

WHY can't I have YOU as my anesthesiologist!!!! You are such a sweetie! I'm scheduled for surgery soon......can you come to North Carolina and hold my hand??? 🙂

[@rmwilliams8193]

I have been putting off sinus surgery because I’m scared to death of GA, I feel like I won’t wake up. I know it may be rare but my mind is always on “what if” mode. What if I’m that rare number that doesn’t wake.

[@Bonasita2]

This is helpful. I've had 13 surgeries and quite a number of procedures in which I was anesthetized. You'd think I'd be used to it, but I get pretty anxious now going under. I've had some unpleasant medical experiences so I've got a pretty nasty case of white coat hypertension. I appreciate your videos!

[@NickBouwhuis]

I had surgery a couple of weeks ago. What didn’t help with the sense of control was how fast everything went On Monday 3 pm they call me telling me a spot opened up for the next day at 2 pm. 11:30 am the next day I was on the operating table. I was nervous af but the staff did a great job.

[@TheDriftwoodlover]

It always amazes me that the one doctor you only meet right before he begins treatment is the anesthesiologist. No choice in the matter. 🤷‍♀️

[@jeremyfisher8512]

I need to have another surgery to stop getting constant infections but they really want it to be local but local didn't work on me at all last time and I was coerced into finishing the operation in tremendous amounts of pain with only a pack of gauze to squeeze when they made cuts and put in the stitches. Because of this and other medical experiences I now have severe stress and fear around going back into the doctor which is causing panic attacks and nightmares a year after it happened. I have no idea what to do, I'm not going in for another local surgery again but being put under apparently isnt advisable and scares the ever-loving shit out of me.

[@niasha7317]

Hi, you're a blessing to so many patients like myself. I'm so glad that I found this channel before my hugh operation coming up. I've got an eye transplant surgery coming up, ... well a corneal graft in both of my ocular organs aka eyes - and I've being stressing out over this operation. I'm so greatful that you're quieting our fears about the OR. I'm a person who dwells on worrying, despite I'd be ok ( according to my support system tells me ) it's gonna be, seeing and viewing this from an actual theater has put things in perspective for me, so #THANK #YOU!!!. Is it possible, you can display in one of your videos the detailed happenings during the corneal graft surgery?, I'm a nervous wreck - though it'd assist me In the long run. See - i was born with the aid of forceps, and if unfortunately squeezed the top of my head, I'm dealing with distorted communications in my body on a daily basis, .... so fears, it's very high on the list, together with anxiety., I'm 38, and is like I'm a baby (... who still needs her mommy ) - BUT nevertheless, I'm gonna ignore that feeling, and be a #BIG #GIRL - I've got high hopes of going into that operation room and acting like it's a normal day for me, BUT my brain is saying " NOOO, ITS NOT!!! - I would like to rid myself of always being dependent on my caregivers in lue of being disabled. I got this, but I need help. So,kindly assist me - Thanks

[@d.g.7582]

I find your videos very informative. I am curious if you are nervous even after all your presentations? You hold that vial of propofol in your hand, waving it around, and I find it unnerving. If it had a cap on the syringe instead of a needle , even a smaller syringe might not be that way. :) It's like a gloved and lubricated finger just prior to a rectal exam.

[@leehurlock943]

@medicalsecrets can you do a video about residual parlysis with awareness? This happened to me with 1st surgery and 2nd surgery but without the awareness. Thanks

[@suedejanovich8255]

I have never met my anesthesiologist until he is ready to knock me out.

[@suedejanovich8255]

Excellent information.

[@HOLYGIRL-s2n]

I need this one. I never been had surgery and never been put under

[@elachris8390]

I am a natural redhead and always get severe nausea after general anesthesia. What do you recommend to prevent or reduce nausea that I can share w/my medical team for my joint replacement surgery this Friday? I just happened upon your channel and I’m fascinated! Thank you!

[@jaydenp4975]

Me over here watching the video and see doc waving around the propofol Sabre makes me anxious 😂

[@seagullvictim7563]

My anesthesiologist didn't call me today as expected, I'm in Monday AM. My Dr and more so the RN is dismissive of everything. This is my 4th Urologist and none of them seem to feel like I have any business knowing any of this stuff nevermind worse case or any sort of what ifs. I have none of the things you suggest and can't keep putting this off. Can't even get a reason based on my symptoms for why they want to do these different humiliating and painful tests.

[@tiffytatortots1278]

I have been putting off surgery for thyroid cancer because I am beyond terrified. I have ventricular and atrial arrhythmias and I worry what anesthesia will do especially with the ventricular tach.

[@mellymeow2752]

I was diagnosed with ptsd and anxiety/panic disorder. I've been taking Klonopin for years to calm myself. It's the only drug that really has helped me tremendously. I have a question for you Dr. Is it dangerous to have that in your system before surgery?

[@mariah1439]

Me too😢

[@Healthyhealings]

He doc, all great 👍 info, as usual… can you talk more about the kinesophobia at some point? I have a lot of questions about it…. Thanks - Chris

[@MedicalSecrets]

Great question! I actually have a video on it... We can discuss on the next live stream

[@Healthyhealings]

Cool… Thanks Doc… have good day out there on the “left coast “

[@knutritter461]

Tomorrow I will have a surgery and I had to fill out a form about my case history. There was a special question about allergies.... I only got one allergy! With 42 years of age I have had about 14 IVs in my life and I am allergic against IVs placed in the cubital vene or the back of the hand. My cephalica just LOVES IVs placed just below the wrist up to the lower half of my forearm. If you get an IV that's the place because it does not interfere with casual activities as you can wrap a loose gauze bandage around it for additional protection. Putting on a T-shirt, wearing this T-shirt, changing clothes, bending your elbow, working on a laptop, whatever you do with your hands.... if you don't want any irritations or slight pain or handicap go for the CEPHALICA! My anesthesiologist had to laugh when he read it and just nodded towards me. 😂

[@daviasmith3753]

Hi, I recently found your videos! I’ve recently been told i probably have a meniscus tear in my knee. Im waiting for a surgery date! How do I not over think it while in “limbo” waiting for things to move forward?

[@omarrodriguez6273]

I am not scared... I am TERRIFIED of it. I have already exit a wisdom teeth removal surgery with a panic attack and couldn't do it... I still have my wisdom teeth because I was unable to overcome the fear. And now, I have been scheduled for a shoulder surgery because I got acromioclavicular osteoarthritis and am unable to continue training in the gym unless I fix it through surgery. But I am thinking about calling and cancelling it because I know the same thing will happen as with my wisdom teeth, I will go to the appointment just to run away in a panic attack and make everyone lose their time. And I think it is connected to my fear of death. I fear the experience of losing consciousness without being able to do anything about it... I think I fear going under general anesthesia so much because for me it is the closest feeling to when you die and you fall into darkness without anything you can do about it... And the more information I look about it ''to ease my anxiety'' (which is how I landed on this video...), the more terrified I become. I was scared first about the experience of losing consciousness while being aware of it about to happen or happening... like my heart would be beating so hard that I'm afraid my panic attack alone may trigger a complication with the anesthesia. Then by researching, I learn that as soon as you lose consciousness, your lungs also stop being able to breath on their own and you depend on how quick they can put a tube connected to a machine to have you ''breathing''. That alone triggered a panic attack.

[@Drinadraws]

Yes I completely agree omarro. I was due to a have full abdominoplasty next week in London. ( I’m from UK) . It’s elective but I have medical issues too. I am fine with the actual surgery, pain and recovery. Not scared of that. But GA? Nada! Like you, I did my research and read that yes- you stop breathing ! My fear too is being unconscious; one step towards death - no thoughts or control. Lights out. I know some people do dream or have awareness but it’s rare. They give you propofol too which is the same anaesthesia as is injected into inmates being executed! The drug is so strong it depresses brain function and stops you breathing which is what happened to Micheal Jackson. I don’t care how safe it is- not for me thanks! Only if I have a medical emergency, serious accident, cancer or severe issue. So life saving yes, I’ll have a GA but no other reason could I justify letting someone “send me to sleep”. It’s a light medically induced coma, not a nice nap. Now I know the process, having that tube stuck down your throat too. Nope! It’s great that it works and saves millions of lives but not for me and unless absolutely necessary. I cancelled my op and am relieved. I’ll find another way to manage my issue. The thought of being unconscious as well as people cutting into your body scares the absolute bejesus out of me. It really is a frightening prospect. I’m sure many people don’t really understand the process and what it actually entails. I didn’t!

[@JrNelson-w4o]

Our they latex free tubes or not because I am highly allergic to latex were my throat close up?

[@Brenda-xw3fr]

My knee replacement syrgery was cancelled ny the anesthesiologist because he misunderstood my heart valve procedure going through groin artery in which i eould mot even soend the night, for open heart surgery in which is 6 week recovery. How to find better care in my small town?

[@AimeeryDC]

thank you so much :' ( i am debating if i should get pericardiocentesis soon as my pulmonologist said it is urgent but im really scared. im 21 from the Philippines and I can feel that my parents are sort of scared too and I'm just really hoping for the best.

[@Nathangames4]

I have dmd should I be worried about a port placement surgery

[@crybebebunny]

I am here feeling anxiety, stress, and scared of pain. The STUPID Doctor who caused me to feel like this didn't met with me at all before the procedure. The local anesthetic didn't work. I told her as she walked in that I had no tolerance for pain, she laughed. During the Procedure, she screamed to to not move, which if I did Did Not mean to. That if I want to die of cancer, she would stop, I asked which was less painful. She got Angrier.

[@crybebebunny]

I was screaming with pain 😭 throughout most of the Torture.

[@MedicalSecrets]

I'm so sorry you had that experience, but I greatly admire your vulnerability in sharing that. I hope you feel empowered to be an advocate for yourself should you ever need surgery again in the future. Unfortunately, those reactions occur (albeit not commonly) when there isn't an anesthesiologist present for the procedure

[@anamouchette5588]

I had an awesome anesthesia experience, not a worry or a complication in the world, the doctors were great and I trusted them, but I never feared anesthesia anyway. It's like teleportation 😄 an amazing time jump. Note: I suffer from years long depression and borderline and the most effective meds are "downers" & my only wish is kind of to be put down 😆

[@jgoodman75]

thanks for this

[@mryan6660]

I’m due to undergo double jaw surgery later this year ( upper & lower ) How will the doctors put the tube down my throat if they’re opening up my face ? Thanks in advance for your help.

[@MedicalSecrets]

I'm wishing you the best 🙏 check out my videos specifically on placing the breathing tube

[@bonjoey1]

How can i get Seconal for insomnia please?

[@meldaghost]

Dr Kave After I work up in recovery. I was gasping for air.. I was put on oxygen. Dr did a reversal.. twice it happened to me 2 different surgery. It is the most scariest feeling not being able to breath.. I had other surgeries and in recovery it didn't happen. What was different?

[@tammycobble6795]

I have a question I have aggressive systemic mastocytosis, and I get really bad tachycardia when I’m under anesthesia because I react to it. I’m about to have a stimulator put in for my back. What can I tell the anesthesiologist so that they will premedicate me to keep me from having such a bad reaction to the anesthesia? Thank you in advance.

[@MedicalSecrets]

Hi, I'm wishing you the best for your upcoming surgery. You should tell them specifically what your reaction was to anesthesia in the past so they can give medications to help minimize the chances of that same reaction from occurring again

[@estelleadamski308]

Never in my life have I ever seen a OR w/a window. I have had 12 surgeries, and will have 2 more surgeries in 2 states before the end of the yr. It is Oct 16 now. How long do you have to wait between surgeries due to the anesthesia?

[@scubabecky]

When I woke up after my first back surgery, I was screaming that I was on fire! I was yelling, “help me! Help me, I’m burning!” I went into the surgery full of fear and anxiety. No one really did anything to help me relax and I was afraid they would think less of me if I admitted I was afraid…so I just made jokes to hide my fear. I know that making jokes is often a sign of high anxiety and I wonder if anesthesiologists know that? I have adhd and so my mind is always spinning and whirring. How does adhd affect anesthesia?

[@MedicalSecrets]

I'm so sorry you had that experience, but I greatly admire your vulnerability in sharing that. some patients joke from a genuine place of humor, so it's not always anxiety. But you are absolutely right, that there are many cases when it is a coping mechanism for the understandable anxiety. Regarding ADHD, there are a couple considerations, we should discuss them on the next live stream!

[@scubabecky]

@@MedicalSecrets I would love to have a discussion about ADHD and surgery. I'll find out this Thursday if I'll be going for neck vertebrae surgery and I think it would help me to know more about how my neuro-divergent brain affects surgery and possibly anesthesia.

[@suesmith9314]

It sounds like it’s really a mixed bag related to the response doctors gave when we patients asked for pain control. Some see it as their job and part of the surgery and others seem to think it’s someone else’s job like anesthesia or a Pain Clinic. I wonder who’s responsible. The patient is responsible for letting them know your in pain. But responding to it seems in some cases a mystery.

[@heyyhii8706]

i always wondered this but why is there a window in your or

[@MedicalSecrets]

Why not? Do you think it helps the environment feel more welcoming?

[@davidstacer]

@@MedicalSecrets Not welcoming at all. Looks like everyone from the surrounding buildings can watch the surgery.

[@jaydenp4975]

@@MedicalSecrets yea! Much better than a white room with no walls. My office has a window and it makes my job more enjoyable 😊

[@ericdallas3765]

Im having surgery on the 21th of this month. Im more scared of the nerve block cause im not sure what to expect

[@comandersid87]

I was wondering if you have any tips. I know you try to contact your patients before they have surgery but what would you recommend for someone who like myself has to have transplant surgery. I have seen one of the surgeons and have faith in them but I won't see the anesthesiologist till I'm pretty much ready to go under. Any tips?

[@sheilablack7180]

I’m having my second rotator cuff surgery on Thursday. It’s the same shoulder too. I’m terrified! The pain after surgery was excruciating. Plus, the anesthesiologist told me that he had a hard time regulating my heart. He said that it was all over the place. I did have caffeine before my surgery. Could that have been the reason? Plus, I have woken up on the operating table before.

[@MedicalSecrets]

What a great question. It's impossible to be certain without more information, but it is reasonable do withold caffeine, and certainly any other substances, for several weeks before most surgeries. As always you should discuss your concerns with your doctors. I'm wishing you the best 🙏

[@TrangNguyen-gv1ts]

I’m not scared of an operation, I’ve had multiple surgeries throughout the last two decades and is routine. So, if the medical staff ever asked me prior to the surgery, “Is there anything concerning we should be aware of?” And answer back, “When I fart, I wait for my friends to smell it! I fart in my sleep and can’t help it!”.

[@paulpoppenfuse7071]

Love that thanks

[@PeaceLoveAndRico]

Did I just see you on a rack at grocery checkout?😮 what a celeb! Haha

[@anjaneeshields4845]

Can I take celebrex before surgery?

[@horseygirlsec25]

I have surgery in 2 days and had a REALLY bad reaction to the medication is was given the last time (F and Morph). The meds gave me massive panic attacks and I couldn't think clearly for 3 weeks. How do I stay calm after such a traumatizing experience?

[@n-bynorthwest1347]

I recently had breast reduction. I also have 16 pins 4 Rods and 4 plates in my C spine. I asked not to have the tube as I am a spinal leaker in my C spine. The Anasthesia was done that way anyway. I ended up with a massive spinal leak that I couldn't get help for 5 months until it was repaired. Another thing, I went to er had 5 broken bones in my foot, it wasn't set nor cast, not even a brace, no crutches were offered either, I slid around my house for a week waiting for a friend to bring crutches. I was not given anything for the pain not that it mattered I deal with lifetime pain 4 rare spinal diseases none play nice along with neuro diceminated lyme, and other issues. 25 plus surgeries, I have woke during several. But 1 I was never out for. Have you seen the movie Awake? Yes I had full on surgery with zero Anasthesia, I ask why I wasn't out as I felt every knife, the dr said they were out, OUT! WTF were they doing surgery on me without Anasthesia?😢also after my recent breast reduction I was offered tylenol! No joke!! I couldn't get out of there fast enough and home to treat myself. I now put off going to the er even though I should, broken bones, nerve problems from things moving in spine. I refuse to sit there is extreme pain and be treated like a druggie when obviously the pain should be treated. Otherwise I would not have gone to the ER to begin with. The system us a failure to those who really need care, it's just wrong!

[@kimberlyforrest3676]

Every time I have been given an anti-anxiety med before surgery, within a few minutes, I begin to feel so overwhelmed that I want to die. What causes this reaction? Whereas I have no anxiety before the administration of this medication.

[@utahmonks]

It seems that in most surgeries the patient is extubated before going to recovery. But after open heart surgery the patient is still intubated for many hours after the surgery is over. Why? Thanks for your videos, btw. As you may have guessed I am looking at an ohs to repair an AAA. The more I learn, the less I think I can do it (not that the alternatives are acceptable)

[@MedicalSecrets]

Thank you for your honesty and candor with that question. The breathing tube stays in for some major cardiac surgeries to facilitate a smooth wake up from the anesthesia in the intensive care unit. However, there is considerable variation in this practice between institutions, and after some cardiac surgeries patients are extubated in the operating room. For AAA repair, various aspects of the recovery can be better handled when the patient is sedated hence why the breathing tube remains in longer than the operating room time itself. Certainly feel empowered to ask specific questions of your surgery team while you are considering this. I am rooting for you!

[@Anonymous-zi5wr]

One of my anesthesiologists put a mask over my face and then said, "It's just plain air." Whaaa? WTF did they think I would believe at that moment in time? Did they think I am a blithering idiot? What it made me think was that my anesthesiologist wasn't too bright if they thought I would believe that line. Not the most comforting thing to be thinking when being put under.

[@darriontunstall3708]

Great video! I always talk to my anesthesiologist and jock with my anesthesiologist, that’s helps me to relax and ask for music! I really enjoy donating to the anesthesiologist Foundation,,since It was hard for me to go to college because of my cerebral palsy, I have always wanted to be a anesthesiologist since I was in middle school, I’m 33! Do your feet smell after work? Just ask lol! You rock man

[@carlasmith1579]

I dont want to be conscious when I enter the operation room, Im closing my eyes Nd not opening them until Im in recovery 1:19

[@bryanzam1412]

I need all the positives in this negative world I can get . Thanks for the input !

[@hummingbird7713]

Looking at eye surgery! That is the worse surgery I could every think of doing! First all the lights give me a instant migraine .idk not. Sure I’ll go through with it,

[@valeriearias8101]

Hi I am new to your channel I wish I found you b4 my surgery in July 2022 I was freaking out I was having anxiety attacks just terrified to have a full knee replacement I am 66 and need to have the other leg replaced. I'm happy with the results but the surgery was so horribly painful that I am fearful for the next one. What are the risk of any danger during a knee surgery? I was afraid i could die. Thank you

[@lynnebucher6537]

I've read a lot of people's comments elsewhere concerning knee replacement. Quite a few said that one of their two TKRs was far less painful. Odd, but I guess each time can be different even on the same person. So there's hope for you that your 2nd one isn't going to be as bad as the 1st.

[@sarahhayslip1793]

I'm having a total hip replacement in July 2023. I'm scared to death. Can you help me to be more relaxed 😢

[@aellaaskew4263]

So a lot of people would love to do a lot of these techniques but this requires a level of therepy that those living through traumatic situations aren't going to me in tune with in their distress. Again as always- trauma awareness. It would be lovely to have emotionally regulated patients but thats not realistic. We need our doctor's to be cognizant that we have heard it all and still we are fearful. There is a whole system around you to treat us unkindly- especially when we are minorities, poor, not having insurance or the right insurance, not having someone with us, being female, having rare conditions or complex cases, we suffer outside that operating room before and after. So by the time we get there patients are already in fight or flight having been harassed by medical staff. Either for in or out patient procedures this is possible. Its hard when you're not taken seriously because the very institutions you must return to over and over have already taken that trust. Those that can go through untraumatized with nice doctor's with friendly faces calling the night before a procedure a becoming among the priveledged this day in age. I appreciate your efforts but most of us cant afford the kind of therapy that would teach such things and would support a patient directly through a trauma. Which most surgery is these days. The kind of support offered today is " let me tell you who you can call " not "Ill be right there" endless calls with no aid. So you are constantly in survival mode with disability and medicaid. Im barely surviving. Its cruel. Im treated as such by hospitals and doctor's alike - oh well medicaid only gets you so far. So we are fearful. Tell me how we are to build trust in a system that defiles us. Because that's my problem... the abilism and the calousness of my doctors and their obliviousness to the trauma of the system's we are caught in to keep ourselves alive.

[@sheagoff6009]

I’ve been in an operating room so many times in my life that I don’t even get nervous anymore. I actually look forward to being put under.

[@andreasobuaculla9511]

how does one overcome fear and anxiety,after being blackballed,and try to coerce me into signing DNR form last time i was hospitalised,that was 3 years ago and am still suffering from what they did to me

[@Drinadraws]

Blimey that’s hideous- you poor thing! I hope you’re doing well now. Best wishes x

[@Zelda-q2y]

Is there risks to somebody who smoke a lot?

[@xo2quilt]

If someone used illegal drugs in the past, but is no longer using (clean for 6+ years), is there a risk for anesthesia during a needed surgery?

[@oliviawhiteside5464]

I was very scary about my colonoscopy procedure with Dr Wendy Ann Craig at UPMC East

[@MedicalSecrets]

How did it go?

[@aellaaskew4263]

So what do you do when you are asking all your questions and the trust is violated?

[@oliviawhiteside5464]

I'm on the Autism Spectrum Disorder diagnosis

[@MedicalSecrets]

💪🧠 so great to see you learning and empowering yourself with more knowledge!