Facing Surgery Anxiety in Just a Few Hours (40M)
I want to provide some context about my situation. I’m a 40-year-old male, standing at about 5 feet 8 inches tall and weighing roughly 175 pounds. I have experienced malignant vasovagal syndrome, both during medical situations and in day-to-day life, which tends to lead to relatively low blood pressure. To manage my symptoms, I take midodrine in minimal doses as needed, particularly on days when I experience low blood pressure, and beforehand for any intentional medical interventions. At the moment, I have a suprapubic catheter. My medical team has arranged for surgeries to align with the change of this tube, but they haven't managed to get me under sedation for this upcoming procedure. I recently underwent phalloplasty, which is the reason I have the catheter in place. There is a developing urethral stricture, but we need to wait for the original surgery’s inflammation to subside before we can address that issue. A repair is set for May. I’ve previously undergone a similar procedure in the office, and I was so dissociated that I didn't feel anything until moments post-procedure, at which point the staff offered me comfort. Back in early January, I received 1.25mg of medication; while I have fragmented memories from that experience, they’re not entirely clear. For this upcoming procedure, I’ve been prescribed just 1mg, and I worry it won’t suffice. Is there a workaround to ease my apprehension about what lies ahead, other than considering extreme measures? I understand that for many in the urology field, this is a common procedure, but with my vasovagal reflex, I could face this monthly for the rest of my life, yet still struggle with the same level of anxiety each time.
Answers (1)
4/1/2025, 12:01:32 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's completely understandable to feel anxious about an upcoming procedure, especially given your history of vasovagal syndrome and past experiences with sedation. Your concerns are valid, and you're looking for ways to ensure your mental well-being as you approach this situation.
Explanation
Surgery and medical procedures can be stressful, particularly when there's a history of discomfort or negative experiences. Your vasovagal reflex adds another layer of complexity to how you may react during medical interventions. While sedatives can help, your anxiety levels are just as important to manage before and during your procedure.
Next Steps
Here are some prioritized steps you can take to alleviate your anxiety and ensure a smoother experience:
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Communicate with Your Medical Team:
- Share your concerns about sedation. Discuss the effectiveness of the prescribed dosage and ask if there’s an option to adjust it. Sometimes, a lower dose can be supplemented with additional strategies for managing anxiety.
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Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques:
- Before your procedure, practice deep breathing or mindfulness meditation. This can significantly reduce anxiety levels. For example, take a deep breath in for 4 counts, hold for 4, and exhale for 4. Repeat this for several minutes.
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Visualization:
- Picture a calm and serene environment. Imagine yourself going through the procedure safely and comfortably. Visualizing a positive outcome can help reduce fear.
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Support System:
- If possible, ask a friend or family member to accompany you. Their presence can provide emotional support and help distract you from anxiety.
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Post-Procedure Care:
- Prepare for post-procedure care mentally. Knowing what to expect afterward can ease fears about feeling disoriented or concerned. Discuss this openly with your healthcare provider for clear expectations.
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Continue Self-Medication if Necessary:
- If your doctor allows, you may consider taking a mild dose of your midodrine before your procedure to help manage low blood pressure, which could alleviate some anxiety associated with that concern.
It's vital to acknowledge and express your feelings. You’re not alone in this, and addressing your anxiety with practical strategies can lead to a more manageable experience. Let me know if you need further details or support!
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