Anxious

[Bianca S. 195]

I have 1 month and 5 days till surgery day, 2 weeks and 2 days till my pre-op testing in the hospital, 4 weeks and 1 day till my pre-op appointment with my surgeon.

As days get closer I get exited but also anxious.

How do you or did you deal with anxiety before and even after surgery if that makes sense hehe ?

Thanks

[MeepMeep 96]

Congratulations on getting closer to your date. I, too, was anxious. I found that by focusing on my pre-op diet and stocking up for days post-op helped. I had a list of questions to ask my Dr at my pre-op appointment. I left there feeling much calmer.

On the day of surgery, yes I was anxious but knew that I have done my part and couldn’t wait to be done. Now, 4 days out, I’m focusing on fluids and walking.

The entire process is overwhelming..I focus on one part at a time and that makes it easier for me.

You can do it!

[GreenTealael 24,866]

⏳⏳⏳⏳⏳⏳CONGRATULATIONS⏳⏳⏳⏳⏳⏳

[GradyCat 3,692]

I was more excited than anxious. A couple of days before the surgery of course I worried about "What if there are complications?" or "What if I die on the operating table?" but those are normal fears and here I am 7 months later happier, healthier, and lighter.

[Sharon B A 113]

@Bianca S. my surgery is on 7/23 and i am so anxious to the point of diarrhea! I have done so much research on the surgery and my Surgeon so I'm comfortable that this is the right decision for me but i just cant stop the anxiety.

Good luck on your surgery!

[James Marusek 5,244]

It is very common to feel anxiety prior to major surgery.

I would recommend three things.

1. Take a good before photograph of yourself, so that you have something to compare to after surgery. Many times we are blind to our obesity. We do not see ourselves. Therefore when the weight begins to drop off rather dramatically, we question if this is really happening. Photographs are a good visualization of our success. Many people carry a before and after photo with them, just to remind themselves of their success.

2. Walk 30 minutes each day, every day until surgery (or equivalent exercise). Walking helps the recovery process go smoothly and minimized the pain levels from surgery.

3. Wean yourself from caffeine and carbonated beverages now. After I gave up my 6 diet coke a day habit, I suffered from a week of severe withdrawal syndrome consisting of severe headaches and body aches. I was miserable. You don't want to combine the effects of caffeine withdrawal with the effects of surgery.

[Sharon B A 113]

Thank you, that is such good advice, will definitely start to wean off the caffeine. I walk on my treadmill daily for at least 45mins a day so that part is good.