Hospital Panic Attacks

I am scheduled for TAH 7/31/12. I had an ablation done 5/8 for excessive bleeding that came back with hyperplasia in the pathology reports.

My problem is this, 2 years ago, I spent 4 months in the hospital watching my mother die because of her toe (lead to other issues..). Shortly after her passing, at my next doctor appointment I had a severe panic attack. Never had one before, didn't have another for almost two years. When I first went to my OB/GYN to discuss the ablation, I was afraid that it would happen again, but it didn't. Not until I went to the hospital for pre-op testing. Had to go back to the hospital the day after for a CAT scan (for another problem) and had ANOTHER panic attack.

Now with this new surgery coming up when I actually have to spend time in a hospital, I'm very worried about having more panic attacks. My doctor has put me on an anxiety medication, but its not helping. Any other suggestions? I don't really want to end up on the psych ward!

(((Hugs)))

So very sorry you are having panic attacks. It is good that your doctor put you on something, but if it isn't helping, maybe you should call to let him know and maybe they can try something else.

Also, the day of your surgery, tell the anesthesiologist, your doctor, and nurses about your nerves and they will give you something.

I don't have panic attacks but I have that "white coat syndrome" and always get nervous at the doctor's and it shows in my blood pressure.

Just communicate with your doctor your fears and about your panic attacks that way they can address it.

You definitely need to let your doctor know the meds are not working. He can tweak your dose or change medications.Handle this pre op because if you freak out after surgery and try to reason with the nurses you might sound crazy. Better to get it all documented and under control BEFORE it happens.
:cathugs: