Facing Surgery This Monday Despite Being Under the Weather
I weigh 128 lbs and generally enjoy good health (no smoking, alcohol, or drug use). I’m scheduled for gallbladder surgery this coming Monday. When I consulted my surgeon on Wednesday, I mentioned that I tested negative for both flu and COVID-19, but my best friend has strep throat, leading me to suspect it might be the same for me. He reassured me that I should recover in time for my surgery if it turns out to be strep. Currently, I’m dealing with nasal congestion and a sore throat. Is there a chance the anesthesiologist could decide to postpone my surgery? I don’t have my tonsils anymore, so my throat isn’t terribly swollen, though I do sound a bit congested. I’m not experiencing any coughing—just mainly mucus buildup. With only two days left to improve, I’m feeling the pressure since I've already submitted my leave request at work, and rescheduling would be quite difficult. While my surgeon seemed confident that I would be okay despite my illness, I still have concerns. He seemed unfazed during our appointment, but I can’t shake the uncertainty.
Answers (1)
7/4/2025, 8:31:04 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel anxious about your upcoming surgery, especially when you're experiencing symptoms like nasal congestion and a sore throat. The good news is that many patients are able to go through with surgery even when they have mild illnesses, but there are important considerations.
Main Points:
- Mild upper respiratory symptoms may not automatically lead to surgery postponement.
- Your overall health and the specifics of your condition will be key factors in the decision.
Explanation:
Surgeons and anesthesiologists prioritize patient safety. If you're showing signs of a viral or bacterial infection, they will evaluate whether your condition poses any increased risks during surgery and anesthesia. Since your surgeon was reassured by your health and symptoms, it suggests they believe you are at low risk for complications. However, if your symptoms worsen or you develop a fever, that could change the situation.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep track of how you're feeling in the next couple of days. If you notice any increase in fever, severe sore throat, or difficulty breathing, it could be necessary to discuss this with your surgical team.
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Hydration and Rest: Focus on staying well-hydrated and getting ample rest to help your body recover. Warm fluids can soothe your throat, and saline nasal sprays can help with congestion.
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Communicate with your Surgical Team: If your symptoms don’t improve or get worse, consider reaching out to your surgeon's office. They can provide guidance specific to your case. It may be helpful to update them about any changes in your health.
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Prepare for Surgery: If you believe your surgery will proceed, ensure you adhere to pre-operative instructions, including fasting and any other preparations.
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Manage Stress: Surgical anxiety is common. Practice deep breathing or mindfulness techniques to help ease your tension over the next couple of days.
By following these steps and closely monitoring your health, you can optimize your chances of proceeding with surgery as planned. Remember that your well-being is the priority, and your healthcare providers will work with you to ensure a safe approach.
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