Dr. Sukhdev Garg
Anesthesiology
The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.
Answered by
Medically reviewed by
Patient's Query
Hi doctor,
I am 47 years old and going to undergo gallbladder surgery under general anesthesia. It seems 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 is good, and many people experience it. However, on subsequent blood donations and dental procedures, I did not have them as I psyched up my mind and was successful in it. However, 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?
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 (operation 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 had previously. 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.
All the best for the procedure.
Patient's Query
Hi doctor.
Thank you for the reply.
So just wanted to know if the sedatives and anxiolytic medications the night before and some Midazolam in pre-operative will help me.
Hi,
Welcome back to icliniq.com.
They will help you keep calm and stress-free but take only on the prescription of your Anesthesiologist.
Was this conversation helpful?
Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!
Anesthesiology
Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.
This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. iCliniq privacy policy
