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Real members of MyParkinsonsTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Has anyone been diagnosed with breast cancer after being diagnosed with PD… I am so anxious about going under a general anesthesia,

A MyParkinsonsTeam Member asked a question 💭
Wilkes County, NC

I am having panic attacks thinking about
Having anesthesia.
Any thoughts or suggestions would be
Greatly appreciated!

January 28
 · 
Reactions
A MyParkinsonsTeam Member

The doctors can give a sedative in your intravenous line to help you relax. This is the time, they ask you to count backwards from ten. It actually relaxes you to sleep. You will wake up in the recovery room. 😊 Think positive; all the best.

January 28
A MyParkinsonsTeam Member

I had foot surgery 2 months ago. Went well. Had to have it so didn't think about it. You will be fine. God bless you in this time

January 28
MyParkinsonsTeam

Are you anxious about undergoing general anesthesia for a medical procedure?

Your anxiety about anesthesia is completely understandable, and you're not alone in feeling this way. Many people with Parkinson's experience fear and anxiety about medical procedures, and panic attacks in response to these worries are a normal Show Full Answer

Are you anxious about undergoing general anesthesia for a medical procedure?

Your anxiety about anesthesia is completely understandable, and you're not alone in feeling this way. Many people with Parkinson's experience fear and anxiety about medical procedures, and panic attacks in response to these worries are a normal reaction to stress.

Here are some suggestions that may help:

Talk to Your Medical Team
- Be honest with your anesthesiologist and surgeon about your anxiety and panic attacks
- Ask them to explain the process step-by-step so you know what to expect
- Discuss any concerns about how anesthesia might interact with your Parkinson's medications
- Request a pre-operative consultation if one isn't already scheduled

Coping Strategies
- Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to help manage panic attacks
- Consider asking your doctor about anti-anxiety medication if your panic attacks are severe
- Bring a trusted family member or friend to appointments for support
- Focus on one step at a time rather than the entire procedure

Remember Your Strength
As one MyParkinsonsTeam member wisely said about facing fears: "People being what they are, they meet, confront and fight them. There are many ways to do this."

You've already shown courage by managing Parkinson's. Taking this one step at a time and leaning on your medical team and support system can help you through this challenging moment.

January 28
A MyParkinsonsTeam Member

Merry, I am sorry you are having to deal with this. It doesn't seem fair to
have two big things to deal with. I will probably need shoulder replacement
surgery. I had one shoulder done before being diagnosed with PD , but now
need the other done. My concern from some of my reading on PD, is that
it is sometimes difficult while in the hospital to get the nursing staff to
give your PD meds as often/or as soon as they should be given. Consequently
you are then dealing with off time symptoms as well. Has anyone
experienced this problem?

Rhoda

January 29
A MyParkinsonsTeam Member

Hi, Merry2. Your Anesthesiologist is the highest-paid person in the room for a reason. It's his job to keep the patient (you) right on the edge of the cliff of death, while not allowing the patient to slip over that cliff. They are trained professionals, and I have never worried about that. It's your doctor; I would worry a bit about it. Just breathe, and it will all be fine.

January 29

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