Question:
How will alcohol cravings be affected by this surgery?

I have been drinking more than I should, mostly, I think, because of my depression. How can I expect these feelings to change, if at all, with the surgery??    — [Anonymous] (posted on October 28, 2000)

October 28, 2000
If you're drinking to medicate yourself for depression then surgery will have no impact on your craving alcohol. You'll get drunker faster is all. Please, get help now. Alcoholism is a slippery slope. And please, don't just go to an MD and ask for anti-depressants. Drugs without therapy will only mask the problem. Get with a good therapist. Most communities have mental health service with sliding scale fees if money is an issue. Get the help you need to get to the root of the problem. Good luck to you.
   — Roseann M.

October 28, 2000
And, alcohol affects us 3 times what it did preop - so you'll be in big trouble, real fast if you don't get help. Best wishes.
   — Cindy H.

October 28, 2000
Hi, I wanted to write and tell you that you need to be really open with your surgeon and let him know of your alcohol habit, ie...how many drinks per day and if it's liquor or beer/wine. It's important because they will give you meds while your in the hospital for withdrawl. I am an adult Critical Care RN and it's much worse not to know what's wrong with your pt. if withdrawl starts, than to be prepared with the right meds. Good luck to you, I hope things work out.
   — Mary G.

October 28, 2000
It is VERY IMPORTANT that your surgeon know exactly how much alcohol you are drinking. The residual alcohol in your system may conflict with anesthestia and pain meds. Also, you could experience DTs from withdrawal. My friend had self-medicated with alcohol for back pain and went into withdrawal after his surgery. His breathing was compromised and he had seizures. He ended up in a medically induced coma for 8 days in intensive care before he completed his detox. It almost killed him. YOUR SURGEON NEEDS TO KNOW!
   — Nanette T.

October 29, 2000
Hi you need to address the reason you drink and stop it ASAP. one of the deaths that was recorded was becasue of alcoholism . The alcohol effects you allot more aftre the surgery. If you cant stop on your own seek help AA or a psychiatrist to help with the depression. I have been there I know what your going through.
   — Lisa W.