Concerns About Laryngospasm and Surgery Anesthesia
Greetings. I'm a 37-year-old woman residing in the UK, and I'm facing the need for gallbladder removal in the near future, classified as elective surgery. However, I harbor worries regarding the safety of anesthesia in my case. Around six years ago, I experienced a frightening incident that I suspect to be laryngospasm while I was asleep; it abruptly startled me awake and I was unable to breathe in or out for roughly ten seconds. Thankfully, that was a one-time occurrence, yet I frequently wake up gasping for air (though I am able to breathe, it feels akin to hyperventilation) a few times each week, leading me to consider the possibility of sleep apnea. I’ve come across information online suggesting that laryngospasm during surgical procedures could be life-threatening, as well as the potential dangers of undiagnosed or untreated sleep apnea in relation to anesthesia safety. Additionally, I have a Vitamin B12 deficiency for which I receive regular injections and I contend with an overactive nervous system due to PTSD, resulting in a constant state of hyper-vigilance and frequent panic attacks, which often come with episodes of waking to a racing heart. Moreover, I am contemplating undergoing tests for focal aware seizures since I've been having unusual episodes that seem to align with related symptoms. If I were to discover I had untreated seizures, I assume that would add another layer of risk concerning anesthesia, correct? As far as I know, I don’t have any heart or lung issues and my recent blood tests show normal results. The thought of experiencing a laryngospasm during surgery and potentially dying is immensely distressing for me. I’ve been grappling with anxiety and frequent tears, especially because I'm a mother. It's crucial for me to have this surgery performed as my gallbladder issues are severely impacting my quality of life and causing ongoing discomfort. Any advice, tips, reassurance, or support you can offer would be greatly appreciated! I haven’t reached out to my surgeon yet because I'm paralyzed with fear about setting the date for surgery. Thank you for your understanding.
Answers (1)
8/26/2025, 11:54:15 PM
OpenHealth AI
It’s completely understandable to feel anxious about undergoing surgery, especially with your history of laryngospasm and ongoing health concerns. Your worries about anesthesia and its safety are valid, and addressing these feelings is crucial as you prepare for your gallbladder surgery.
Main Points:
- Anesthesia Safety: With proper preoperative assessment and management, anesthesia can generally be safe even for individuals with your concerns.
- Communication is Key: Sharing your history and symptoms with your healthcare providers is essential for tailored care.
- Managing Anxiety: Finding ways to manage your anxiety will be important as you move forward with the surgery.
Explanation: Laryngospasm can be alarming, and it's good that you recognize it. While it is a concern during anesthesia, anesthesiologists are well-trained to handle such situations, especially if they are aware of your past experiences. Your symptoms like waking gasping for air occasionally may suggest sleep apnea, which can complicate anesthesia planning. Sleep apnea often gets addressed through further testing before surgery to ensure your breathing is managed well during the procedure.
You've also mentioned having panic attacks and considering focal aware seizures which can add complexity. It’s important that these situations are thoroughly assessed. Your recent normal blood tests are reassuring regarding certain underlying issues, but the extra factors you mentioned regarding your mental health and neurological status will need to be evaluated carefully.
Next Steps:
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Reach Out to Your Surgeon: Contact your surgeon and express your concerns about laryngospasm, possible sleep apnea, and anxiety. They can provide you with more personalized reassurance and may refer you to an anesthesiologist for preoperative evaluation.
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Breathing Techniques: Practicing relaxation and breathing exercises can help manage your anxiety before and after surgery. Techniques such as deep belly breathing or progressive muscle relaxation might be beneficial.
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Consider a Sleep Study: If sleep apnea is a concern, you might want to ask your healthcare provider about undergoing a sleep study to evaluate this condition before your surgery.
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Psychological Support: Given your experiences with PTSD and panic attacks, consider reaching out to a mental health professional who can provide strategies to help you manage your anxiety better before the surgery.
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Focus on Your Recovery Goals: Remind yourself of why this surgery is necessary for your well-being. It’s aimed at improving your quality of life, reducing discomfort, and allowing you to be more present with your family.
Acknowledging these concerns with appropriate healthcare support can significantly help ease your fears, ensuring a safer experience during your surgery. You're taking an important step in seeking help and planning ahead, and that’s commendable.
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