hospital anxiety

Well I have to get surgery again for my ankle but I also have anxiety disorder and when i have to fast I really hate it because you're not allowed to drink water but water is the one thing that helps with my anxiety.

I get to the point where I start feeling like I'm about to chock if i don't drink water, then I panic, also when I'm in the waiting room I am aware of my breathing and that also triggers my panic attacks for some reason.

So what should I do?

oh and another bad thing is I cant walk atm I have a cast on and when i panic I cant just leave the situation.

Post Edited (ozm8ey) : 10/30/2014 12:28:50 AM (GMT-6)

hi ozm8ty,

just my opinion here, but try and trust that everyone in the hospital has their job to do, and that they are highly skilled at doing it. they have probably done your type of surgery dozens of times, and they know what to do.

there is nothing wrong with being aware of your breathing. it can be comforting if you let it be.

about the dry mouth, i don't think there's anything wrong with having a sip of water if you are dehydrated. they just don't want you to have a stomach full of water when they operate, it causes problems.

i wish you good luck. post again afterwards to tell us how you are doing.

love,

Hi Oz.,

Wishing you well on your upcoming procedure!! I am sure that as the other say, you are in good hands...and all will go well.

Of course knowing this does not always eliminated all of the anxiety....and everyone has some level of it when a surgery is in the future.

However, if you feel that it is more than you can handle...let your medical team know that you are struggling, and I am sure that they can help you in some form or another. (either medically, or finding ways for you to feel more in control of the situation while you are in the hospital.)

You should also use your coping skills at this time as you prepare for this time. Here are some great links, if you need ideas.:)

Self Help sites with breathing/relaxation exercises instructions

Panic attack relief exercises:

 

http://www.healthcentral.com/anxiety/c/73076/34334/breathing-lessons/

http://www.healthyplace.com/

http://www.stress-relief-exercises.com/

http://www.ehow.com/video_4405003_breathing-exercises-panic-  

http://www.psybersquare.com/anxiety/panic_relax_I

When is your procedure? Keep posting and let us know how we can best support you during this time!

Scaredy Cat