panic attacks

hey everyody, was just wondering how many of you have had panic attacks right before surgery and what did you do to help ease the situation? I had one today and don't want to have another. surgery is nextwednesday on the 17th. do you think if i tell the doc he will prescribe me something to take before i get to the hospital or should i just request for something in my IV right away to help prevent one from coming on?? I am so scared this is going to happen again..

Hi Dawn, My daughter suffers with panic attacks, and I have seen just how bad they can be. I think you should definitely talk to your surgeon and let him know what's going on. There are some good meds available to help calm things, should you feel another one coming on, in the days before surgery. And if you tell the anesthesiologist at your pre-op appointment, he/she will make sure you get some "happy meds" going into your IV ASAP. Try not to worry ... there are ways to make sure you don't suffer through another one of these attacks. Just call your doctor. I wish you the best ... Dawn

Hey Dawn, first thing you need to do is step back and take a big deep breath. Try to identify what actually triggered the episode. Then try relaxation techniqes to help reduce stress. Try taking a long hot shower or doing something that keeps you mentally busy so you are not dwelling on wls if that is the stressor. Also, try talking about what is bothering you instead of letting it build up. Panic attacks can come on really fast and once they start you pretty much have to let them run the course. If you feel like you are getting stressed or anxious step away from the room you are in and go for a walk or something to take you mind some place else. If those things don't work, your doctor can prescribe somthing like Paxil to help with the panic attacks. But keep in mind meds like that take around 2 weeks to start working. Also you have to be really careful of over-the-counter meds you take with them. So really try the relaxation techniques. This close to surgery, they are your best bet. The day of surgery, they will definately give you something good to take away just about any worry you could have. Stay positive and try to relax. --Angela