As important as surgery is, it’s not always easy to embrace the situation with calm nerves. In fact, Santiam Hospital explains it’s normal for patients to have anxiety before an operation. Fortunately, there are a few different things you can do to be more at ease in the time leading up to your procedure. Offering exceptional services at their surgery center in Oregon’s Mid-Willamette Valley region, this medical team highlights some of the most effective ways to beat pre-operative anxiety.

Whether the thought of being placed under anesthesia gives you a racing heart or you’re losing sleep thinking about your upcoming surgery, anxiety can make the experience more stressful than it needs to be. If you’re feeling uneasy about surgery, it can be beneficial to:

• Get All the Information: Anxiety before surgery is common because it’s often something unfamiliar to a person. By talking to your surgeon or medical team, you will get more information about the entire surgical process, including how it’s performed, why it’s necessary, and which tools will be used. If you’re nervous about being placed under anesthesia, talk to an anesthesiologist to learn what you can expect from the simple process.
• Turn to Your Support System: Simply talking about your fears can do a great deal to relieve your anxiety. Reach out to family and close friends to express your concerns, and spend time with them for support. By having a conversation about your surgery anxieties, you may find yourself adjusting to the idea ahead of time. It can also help to know there are people standing by to help before and after your procedure.
• Create Your Own Comfort Zone: On the day of your surgery, you may need a few extra tools to calm your nerves. Many professionals recommend listening to music, as it can help distract you from the situation. You might also learn a few relaxation techniques—such as intentional breathing—to help lower your blood pressure and release tension. These are exercises you can practice anywhere, whether you’re in the emergency room or waiting to receive anesthesia.

If you’re anxious about surgery, it’s important to remember your medical team is there to answer any questions you may have with honesty and compassion. For supportive surgical care in the Mid-Willamette Valley area of Oregon, you can turn to the trusted team at Santiam Hospital. As a non-profit surgery center staffed with experts in specialized care, they can offer your advanced services while also taking the time to fully address any concerns along the way. To schedule a consultation or appointment, contact their friendly staff at (503) 769-2175.