ABG's and barium swallow

ok i got to have abgs tomorrow and a barium swallow. I am terrified of the abgs. I have seen patients get them in the past and they act like it kills them. Any feedback anyone who has had them is much appreciated.

Michelle

It wasn't that bad.  I had worked myself up over it so bad that by the time I actually got stuck, it was kinda anticlimatic.   It does hurt worse than a regular blood draw but its not unbearable. 

Good Luck
Christy

Don't be terrified! It's not that bad. Everyone is different, but I had no more discomfort than any other time I've had blood drawn. You'll be fine - do not worry about this one.
~Angela

The ABG was not that bad, I really didn't know what it was until I got there.  The lab tech who did mine there at PCMh was GREAT.  Hope you got her too! 

The Barium swallow test is not bad either if it is the same thing I had, which was called un Upper GI.  The results of RNY make all these pre-surgery tests are worth every bit of effort or pain you have to go through.  You'll be glad you did it!

And by the way, Dr. Chapman is WONDERFUL!  He has operated on me twice (RNY and colon cancer) and my hubby 3 times (cancer/hernia related).  You couldn't have picked a better doc!

You should come to the support group meeting today at 6:00.  Call me if you need directions.  252-744-4756.

Good luck!  Alice

Thanks to everyone for the replies. You were all right. They weren't that bad. I dreaded it much worse than it was. I am interested in finding out where the support groups meet and when. Thanks.

Michelle