Inquiry About General Anesthesia
Hello, I hope you're well. I’m a 26-year-old female and have been experiencing various neurological symptoms since February. It appears that these issues may be related to dysfunction of the vagus nerve, but I’m still undergoing tests, including upcoming 24-hour ECG and blood pressure monitoring. The symptoms I’m dealing with include frequent pre-syncope episodes, signs of dysautonomia which seem consistent with POTS, nausea, migraines, episodes of dizziness, vision disturbances, anxiety, occasional depression, and gastrointestinal problems, among others. I have an unrelated surgical procedure scheduled for mid-August, specifically orbital decompression, but my condition related to the vagus nerve has persisted since February. I’m due to be administered general anesthesia for this surgery and am curious about how my current symptoms might affect the outcome, especially since I haven’t received a definitive diagnosis yet. I intend to discuss my health concerns during the pre-operative assessment, but as this is my first surgical experience, I find myself feeling anxious about how my symptoms might play a role in the surgery. I am receiving treatment through the NHS in the UK. Thank you for your assistance!
Answers (1)
6/29/2025, 11:20:31 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel anxious about undergoing surgery, especially given your complex health background. General anesthesia is generally safe, but your unique symptoms and ongoing neurological concerns warrant careful consideration.
Understanding Your Concerns:
General anesthesia can affect individuals differently, especially those with autonomic nervous system dysfunction, such as Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS). Symptoms like dizziness, anxiety, and nausea can be influenced by how your body responds to anesthesia.
Key Considerations:
- Lack of Diagnosis: While waiting for further evaluations, it's important to share all your symptoms with your surgical team. This helps them prepare for any specific concerns related to your condition.
- Effects of Anesthesia: General anesthesia can cause changes in blood pressure and heart rate. Since you mentioned pre-syncope and dysautonomia, anesthesiologists might need to monitor you more closely.
- Pre-existing Symptoms: Your current symptoms like dizziness and anxiety may be heightened during the perioperative period, but the surgical team will have strategies to manage these.
Prioritized Next Steps:
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Pre-Operative Assessment: Make a comprehensive list of all your symptoms and concerns, including any medications you're on or treatments you're undergoing. Discuss this thoroughly with your anesthetist and surgeon during the pre-operative assessment to ensure they understand your situation.
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Prepare for Anxiety: Consider ways to manage your anxiety leading up to the surgery. Techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or discussing your concerns with a loved one can help you feel more at ease.
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Hydration and Nutrition: In the days leading up to the surgery, maintain good hydration and balanced nutrition to support your body. Discuss with your healthcare provider whether specific dietary adjustments may help manage your symptoms better.
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Follow-Up Care: Post-surgery, be vigilant about monitoring how you feel. If you notice any unusual symptoms, such as increased dizziness or changes in heart rate, communicate this with your healthcare team promptly.
Remember, you're not alone in this, and your health team is there to ensure your safety and comfort. You’re taking the right steps by seeking information and being proactive about your health. If you have more specific questions about your symptoms or the procedure, feel free to ask!
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