I'm having back surgery tomorrow and really worried. ocan you offer me some helpful hints on how to go?

Surgery remorse: Depends what kind of surgery. Being anxious is normal, because surgery is just plain scary to people who don't perform it everyday. Just relax. Review the information your doctor and the hospital gave you and you should be fine. If you have questions, write them down and ask your doctor in the morning. There is time to change your mind until you get anesthesia. If still unsure, get a 2nd opinion.

Try not to worry.: Hydrate the day before surgery, avoid any heavy meals that day. Avoid alcohol that day to prevent any interaction with anesthesia on the day of surgery. The morning of the operation do not have anything to eat or drink. Only take the morning medications that you have been asked to by the surgeon or anesthesiologist. Talk to your anesthesiologists about your concerns. Good luck.

Many Ways: Anxiety before surgery is to be expected. I suggest methods of relaxation such as meditation, music, exercise, sexual activity (protection), moderate use of alcohol (if ok with surgeon), family/friends support. I also ask patients to remember that objectively speaking, they should be aware that they will be safer during the time of surgery that driving on the freeway. Best wishes.