Feeling nervous before surgery is completely normal. In fact, about 70% of people experience some level of anxiety before a procedure. It usually comes from not knowing exactly what to expect, worrying about pain, or feeling like things are a bit out of your control.

Anxiety is often apparent from the first visit with the surgeon.

Common Symptoms Anxiety can show up in lots of ways—both physically and emotionally:

• A racing or pounding heartbeat
• Trouble falling asleep
• Nausea or an unsettled stomach
• Feeling restless, tense, or irritable
• Difficulty focusing on anything else

When anxiety gets really intense, it can even influence how smoothly recovery goes, so it’s worth paying attention to how you’re feeling.

Several common factors can contribute to pre-surgery anxiety.

Understanding these can help patients feel more prepared and less overwhelmed:

• Fear of the unknown: Not knowing exactly what will happen before, during, or after the procedure can create significant worry.
• Concern about pain: Many patients are anxious about how much pain they might experience during recovery.
• Loss of control: Surgery requires placing trust in others, which can feel unsettling for people used to being in control.
• Worry about complications: Even with low-risk procedures, patients may fear something unexpected going wrong.
• Previous negative medical experiences: A bad experience with anesthesia, surgery, or hospitalization can heighten anxiety.
• Concern for family responsibilities: Patients may worry about childcare, work, or the impact of recovery on daily life.
• Embarrassment or vulnerability: The idea of being examined, sedated, or seen in a vulnerable state can create discomfort.
• Financial stress: Costs and insurance uncertainties can add another layer of worry.

Feeling anxious before surgery doesn’t mean something is wrong with you. It means you’re human. With the right tools, information, and support, you can move through the process with less fear and a lot more confidence.

1. Ask questions
   Understanding the procedure reduces fear. Many people feel calmer after hearing:

• What exactly will happen
• How pain will be managed
• What to expect afterward

2. Practice relaxation routines

• Slow breathing
• Guided imagery
• Listening to calming music
• Short meditation sessions
• Meditation apps
• Gentle Stretching

3. Use your support system
   Talking with family, friends, or a trusted healthcare provider helps lower feelings of isolation.
4. Prepare ahead of time
   Feeling organized (transportation, recovery items, schedule, etc.) can give you more control over the situation.
5. Share concerns with the surgical team
   They are very used to this and can offer reassurance or tools — including safe, short‑term medication if needed.

Surgery: Learn More – What can help relieve anxiety before surgery?

National Library of Medicine

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279557/

How to cope with pre-surgery anxiety

British Heart Foundation

https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/medical/cope-pre-surgery-anxiety

COPING WITH ANXIETY BEFORE SURGERY

UMass Memorial Health

https://www.ummhealth.org/health-library/coping-with-anxiety-before-surgery-0