How do I overcome the fear of needles before surgery at 47?

Question

Hi doctor,

I am 47 years old and going to undergo gallbladder surgery under general anesthesia. I have a fear of needles and blood. During blood donation and one dental procedure, I have had episodes of syncope and fainting due to fear. It was managed both times by making me lie down and raise my legs, and the doctors laughed it off, saying it was good, and many people experience it. However, on subsequent blood donations and dental procedures, I did not have them as I psyched myself up my mind and was successful in it.

I want to avoid a similar issue during the surgery in the pre-operative area when they put the cannula or during the anesthesia (I fear that too). I am aware of relaxation exercises and tightening of muscles in case such an issue occurs again. However, is there any other technique or medicine to calm me and remove fear prior to going to the pre-operative area to help avoid this issue so that the surgery goes ahead successfully without any problem and I do not have any syncope and panic during the procedure?

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Hope you are doing well.

Regarding your query, it seems you are having vasovagal episodes during stress.

Needles, blood, OT (operating theatre) environment, and so on are all triggers for this kind of episode. These are not uncommon among patients at your age. There is no definitive therapy for this. You will be assessed by your anesthesiologist prior to posting for surgery. Just elaborate him whatever you have previously had. He will prescribe sedatives and anxiolytics the night before the procedure, so you will be calm and stress-free before starting.

There is nothing much to worry about. Just make sure you are accompanied by someone when you are in a pre-operative area, and do not take too much stress.

I hope that you get your answer.

Please let me know if you need any help.

Thank you.

Answer 2

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

They will help you keep calm and stress-free, but take only on the prescription of your anesthesiologist.

I hope that you get your answer.

Please let me know if you need any help.

Thank you.