Hernia op cancelled.

[Gazart]

Hello, First time on here but wondered if anyone else has had a similar experience. I was due to have an inguinal hernia repair today with a LA. My anxiety levels shot through the roof whilst on the way listening to reports of the 'Richshaw Challenge' diverting to Boston Marketplace just before my op at the nearby medical centre ( I don't expext anyone to have experienced that bit lol !) I ended up leaping out of the car once we were close enough (wife driving) and running down the road to get to my appointment on time - by the time I was called in for the procedure I was experiencing a tachycardia attack that just would not settle down. The procedure was cancelled after months of waiting - I now have to wait a further 3 months for the next appointment. I am on 50mg Flec. twice a day. Apart from avoiding charity events etc on the day of the op. has anyone any helpful hints that help to keep the chance of a tachy attack ? Many thanks.

[rebecca70]

I use the beta blocker metropolol to keep the heart rate slowed down. I take it when I have an appointment and I know I will be anxious. Usually a half dose of my 25 mgs is effective.

[Goligoligo]

i have umbilical hernia and i take fenugreek supplement and i noticed that the hard part which i felt before was not that hard anymore

[fuzzflyer]

Check on/ ask about. a heprin bridge. i had a stroke after my hernia op.

[rosyG]

You seem to have worked out why this started !! Suggest you start off really early next time so you can arrive feeling very relaxed. Hope all goes well.

[Gazart in reply to rosyG]

If I left any earlier I might as well stay in a nearby B&B the night before ! At least there won't be the 'Rickshaw Challenge' blocking my way next time !

[Basia12]

I have to get into the right frame of mind before any op or procedure so the weeks before I start listening to relaxation and meditation tapes and I also have a "face your fear" one that has a mantra that I say in my head when I feel myself getting wound up ! It calms me down as does controlling my breathing and doing fewer breaths in a minute . If you are on BP meds make sure you take them in the morning of the op and also if your bp is consistently high you may need a meds review by your gp prior to your surgery .i have known some GPs prescribing a very low dose of diazepam pre op 3days prior to keep Stubborn BPs in check. As you are having a local Anaesthetic I am assuming you have some underlying medical history so it would probably be a good idea to discuss this with your doctor. Good luck x

[Basia12 in reply to Basia12]

Ps I mentioned the BP and meds because I find that they also control my heart rate too( specifically beta blockers x

[Gazart in reply to Basia12]

A low dose of Diazepam seems to be the route they have chosen as a box of them were handed to me whilst at the GP practice to collect my normal regular meds - no info as yet about when to take them as new op appointment is 3 months away, will learn more when I see my GP in two weeks time !

[Bagrat]

I had a hernia repair this time last year and was experiencing an increasing number of unrelated panic attacks prior to this. I was advised that a counsellor might help and was recommended the "Human Givens" approach.

hgi.org.uk/human-givens/int...

I know it may not suit all but even if seeing someone seems a bit of overkill, reading the info may help. Like Basia12 I practiced concentrating on my breath, in for 7 out for 11. Also imagine the situation with you walking in calmly and having a successful outcome.

[annhere]

Read Caroline Dean's book I believe it's called the miracle of magnesium. You may find her advice very helpful.

[Gazart]

Many thanks for all your advice.