If you are planning to have general surgery in Arlington, TX, contact Dr. Jason Harrison for a consultation. Dr. Harrison and his staff will help you manage any feelings of pre-operative anxiety by taking the time to answer your questions about your procedure and will provide you with exceptional medical care.
DEALING WITH PRE-OPERATIVE ANXIETY
In the weeks and days leading up to your surgery, at Harrison General Surgery, you may experience odd or unpleasant thoughts and feelings. For example, you may find that you have suddenly become forgetful, tearful, or withdrawn for no obvious reason. Or, you may become easily agitated, suddenly clumsy, or a little spacey.
Don’t worry, you’re not going crazy. These types of thoughts, feelings and behaviors are perfectly normal for someone about to have surgery. They’re part of a spectrum of common behavior patterns known as pre-operative anxiety.
Of course, some people experience little or no anxiety before surgery, but others may be surprised at the intensity of their worries. Whatever the degree, research shows that pre-operative anxiety is normal and can be easily managed.
What Anxiety is About
Anxiety is usually based on the fear of the unknown. In the case of pre-operative anxiety, “the unknown” means the surgical experience itself, along with the prospect of a painful recovery. Three main causes lie at the root of these fears: loss of control, lack of information, and loneliness.
- Loss of control: Folks often panic at the idea of being under anesthesia. The unavoidable vulnerability that comes with the surgical process can leave you feeling helpless and frightened. But, you needn’t be concerned. Dr. Harrison is a highly qualified and experienced board certified general surgeon. He and his staff are committed to providing outstanding medical care for their patients, and you will be in very good hands throughout your treatment.
- Lack of information: In the increasingly technological world of medicine, the jargon, equipment, and confidentiality laws can be mind-boggling. Dr. Harrison will make sure to share important information with you and your family, answer any questions you have before and after your surgery, and ask for your input concerning key decisions about your medical treatment.
- Loneliness: Let’s face it—surgery can make you feel pretty alienated. You start out at your diagnosis set apart from everyone else because of your illness; then comes the physical separation from your family and friends at the operating room door. The recovery process can be just as lonely: You may not be able to get around as usual, which restricts your ability to fully participate in the daily activities of family and friends. And without you, who will care for your elderly parents, young children or grandchildren, or your plants and animals?
Coping With Anxiety
If you’re experience pre-operative anxiety, common sense provides most of the guidance you’ll need to cope with your concerns. First, take steps to beat your fear of the unknown. You can find plenty of information about different surgical procedures—and even watch video demonstrations—on the Internet. And, don’t be afraid to ask Dr. Harrison or his nursing staff any questions you might have about your surgery or post-operative recovery.
The fear of loss of control can be countered by realizing that the idea of “control” is an illusion. Yes, we can control our own actions, but are subject every day to events outside of our control, from inclement weather to bad drivers. By accepting this fact, you can eliminate much of the fear of losing control. And, remember that Dr. Harrison and the hospital’s surgical and nursing staff are there to help you get healthy. They will do everything in their power to see that you are well taken care of during and after your procedure.
Finally, realize that you are not alone. When your family and friends ones tell you “I’m here for you”, they mean it. There is no shame in accepting the help of others when you are ill, and your loved ones are eager to help you any way they can. Let them. Also, appointing a friend or family member as a “surgery buddy” can help ease any anxiety you may have prior to your procedure. The comfort of having a loved one by your side before and after your operation can turn a frightening experience into just another of life’s little things to be gotten though together.