- It is not unusual for patients to feel anxious around the time of surgery.This is a normal response to any kind of stress but patients may experience a range of physical as well as emotional changes.
Some patients feel restless and agitated and many feel irritable. Some find that they are prone to emotional outbursts or crying. As the day of surgery comes closer they may find they need constant reassurance and will often call the doctor or office staff frequently.
Stress has both good and bad sides. It is true that it can reduce a patients ability to cope or cause them to misperceive problems. However it may also give them more energy to deal with their problems.
After surgery it is important that both the surgeon and the patient are aware of the association between anxiety and pain. A cycle can develop in which pain causes anxiety and anxiety causes pain. This cycle can be interrupted by careful use of pain killers and sedatives. More important is a good relationship between the surgeon and the patient. It is important that patients can discuss their fears and concerns with the surgeon. It is also reassuring to know that the doctor is easily available in an emergency.
In most cases the feelings of anxiety will pass and patients will return to their usual behavior patterns. However if the symptoms become severe a consultation with a counselor may be worthwhile. This is true both before and after surgery.
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