Anxiety and Surgery

Miss E

New Member

Joined : Feb 2012

Posts : 1

Posted 2/13/2012 5:01 PM (GMT 0)

I have been experiencing anxiety attacks, crying spells since I had gallbladder surgery in 2010. My therapist said she has seen people who have had this type of surgery, fairly minor, develope anxiety. I take ativan, which does not work very well, I had been taking xanax, but developed withdrawal symptoms from it, very horrible experience. Does anyone know why a surgery would cause chronic anxiety? I also have fibromyalgia and depression. I found takin a quarter of an ambien makes me feel "right" again, but my doctor won't prescribe the ambien for the anxiety, only insomnia.

Scaredy Cat

Elite Member

Joined : Sep 2006

Posts : 28868

Posted 2/13/2012 5:30 PM (GMT 0)

Hi Miss E and welcome!

I do not know why some people develop anxiety after surgery, but it is a common trigger. I have read more than a few posts about gallbladder/anxiety issues, but do not know if there is a connection that has been 'documented' or not.

We have had many members with chronic illness and post surgery anxiety issues. I think that anyone who has the potential for it, can be triggered by a physical and mental stressor such as illness/surgery.

The good news is that anxiety is treatable. If you find that medication is not something that you want to continue because of withdrawl and 'off label' troubles, then I would recommend looking into therapy.

CBT in particular is helpful for many with A/P. You can ask your doctor about a referral. We also have a Resource Guide here on our main page (3rd post) with links to self-help sites. Instruction for breathing/relaxation exercises, how to stop a panic attack, therapy downloads and more are available.:)

Keep posting with us as well. It is healing to talk with others who understand what you are going through. We are here to help and support and look forward to getting to know you better.

Take care,
Scaredy Cat

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