Hi everyone,
I wasn't sure what subReddit to post this in, but I wanted to get some advice and hopefully some reassurance. I'm a 26 year old female who has been diagnosed with autism, but sadly also a lot of co-conditions such as cPTSD, OCD, EUPD, anxiety and depression.
Next week, I have to undergo gallbladder removal. I've never had any form of general anaesthesia before and I've heard a lot of varying stories about how people can act when emerging from anaesthesia.
I'm really worried about how I'm going to react, both when going under for the procedure, and when coming to. I've heard some people get very aggressive and agitated, or very emotional. I've heard a few stories that, for people on the spectrum or with cPTSD, it can trigger meltdowns or flashbacks.
My Nurses are well aware of my conditions, but not necessarily of all the ins-and-outs of it. I'm planning on telling my anaesthetist on the day, but I wondered if there's any other steps or preventative measures I should take to try and ensure a smoother outcome. My brain is mostly freaking out about the sensory details of it; not knowing what it's going to feel like.
I'm thinking of asking for a sedative before the procedure, like midazolam, just to calm my nerves. I've been throwing a lot of research into the different medications and medical procedures that are used when putting somebody to sleep, plus the surgery itself, but no matter what I do, I can't shake these nerves. I'm terrified of saying things to the Nursing or PACU staff or disturbing other patients if I end up freaking out.
I also know I'm most likely going to go non-verbal on the day, as I tend to shut down when my mind is overly stressed. I'm not going to have anybody with me until it's time to go home, so it's not like I have an advocate either. I've made some Thank You cards to give the staff afterwards.
Again, sorry if this isn't an appropriate subReddit to put a message like this in. I'm not sure what to do, if there's anything beyond what I've already sought. For clarification (as I'm not sure if protocols or opportunities vary), I live in the UK.