If you or your child have an upcoming surgery, you may be scared and worried.
If so, you’re not alone.
It’s completely normal to be anxious.
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There are times when this normal fear can become so severe that it becomes a serious concern.
Fortunately, there are a number of steps that people can take to help address their fear of surgery.
Anxiety can be a vicious cycle.
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Patients with severe anxiety may postpone or avoid surgery, even if it’s extremely harmful to their health.
Controlling the anxiety well enough to allow surgery to proceed is essential.
An understanding ofanesthesiaand the low risks of having anesthesia may also help with your concerns about surgery.
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For many, anxiety is a normal response to being expected to make a life-altering decision with minimal information.
when you’ve got the necessary facts, your anxiety may be relieved.
Making a payment plan beforehand with the hospital may help alleviate your financial worry too.
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Antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications are typically used for this purpose.
Many herbs, despite the label all natural are known to interact badly with anesthesia and other medications.
Some can cause blood thinning, heart arrhythmias, and other reactions that are not desirable during surgery.
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Most therapists are able to recommend exercises to help you control your anxiety and your physical response to stress.
If you’re obviously afraid of surgery, your child will likely be fearful too.
Children should be told about the procedure with enough time to have their questions answered.
The best way to approach preparing your child for surgery varies with the age of your child.
Most pediatric hospitals offer pre-surgery tours and information sessions to help relieve anxiety.
Davis-evans C.Alleviating anxiety and preventing panic attacks in the surgical patient.AORNJ.
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Fortier MA, Kain ZN.Treating perioperative anxiety and pain in children: a tailored and innovative approach.Paediatr Anaesth.
2015;25(1):27-35. doi:10.1111/pan.12546
