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MAKING THE DECISION TO HAVE SURGERY
In the United States, millions of surgical operations are performed annually, often faced with fear and doubt. Although few people enjoy the prospect of surgery, sometimes surgery is the best available means of improving the quality of life or extending life. Not knowing what is involved can mean putting yourself through far more discomfort than is necessary. Whether you are undergoing surgery for the first time or the tenth, understanding why you need it and knowing about the risks involved, available alternative therapies and treatments, and the aftereffects will help you make the right decision. Being educated about your illness will enable you to deal more effectively with the outcome.
EXPLORE YOUR OPTIONS
Many of the surgeries performed daily in the United States may be unnecessary for the patient. Before choosing surgery, explore all other means of treating the problem, including alternative and complementary therapies, nutritional supplementation, dietary and life-style changes. Do not be afraid to explore all your options. Surgery should be your last resort. Surgery does not always solve a problem, but it can create new ones. Going under the knife has its own dangers and considerations including but not limited to anesthesia complications and reactions, surgeon errors, increased risk of serious infections, cosmetic scars, as well as painful and prolonged recovery time at the medical center and at home. Surgery can result in painful adhesions and may create unnecessary disabilities in some individuals as a result of nerve damage, medical mistakes, gross negligence, and other complications. Too often we hear that the surgery was a success, but the patient died. Be careful when making this choice and do your research, if possible, prior to scheduling a surgery.
CHECK QUALIFICATIONS
Make sure that any surgical recommendation is given by a board-certified surgeon; you want to feel confident that the surgeon is qualified to perform the type of surgery you need. Get a second opinion, and possibly a third one. You will be better able to decide on the best form of treatment if you are well informed. Don't be afraid to ask your health care provider questions. Do research about your particular condition and situation. Explore any possible holistic alternative therapies that may be available to you. Make a list of questions to take with you to your health care provider's office at each visit.
DISCUSS YOUR CONCERNS
Your health care provider should address the following concerns:
- Why do you need the surgical operation?
- Are there alternatives to surgery? Are there other forms of treatment that might be used instead of surgery?
- How will the surgery improve your quality of life and/or your chances for survival?
- What are the benefits of having the surgery?
- What are the risks of the surgery?
- What percentage of the operations performed of this type are successful?
- What is the health care provider's experience in performing this surgery?
- What kind of anesthesia will you need?
- What physical changes will result from this operation, and what improvements can you expect?
- How long is the recovery period?
- What is the cost of the operation?
It is also wise to consult with your health insurance provider regarding coverage for the procedure.
PREPARING FOR SURGERY
Although few people enjoy the prospect of surgery, sometimes surgery is the best available means of improving the quality of life or extending life. After you have been informed of all your options and have decided that surgery is the only viable alternative, use the nutritional guidelines provided in the table below to prepare for the surgery. By taking these nutrients both before and after surgery, you will support the healing process and lessen postsurgical discomfort and pain. Make sure your diet is well balanced and healthy. Remember that your general health after surgery partly depends on your general health before surgery. Do not take any supplements or drugs, even aspirin, that thin the blood. Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), feverfew, garlic, ginger, gingko biloba, kava kava, ad vitamin E are among the supplements that should not be used prior to surgery.
If you are taking any medications, on a special dietary plan or have specific health issues in which any of these recommendations may be contraindicated, consult with your health care provider before using these products or beginning any type of alternative or complementary therapy.
HERBAL RECOMMENDATIONS
Herbal teas are highly recommended before and after surgery. Try the following teas:
- Alfalfa, Dandelion, and Nettle are high in vitamins, minerals, and can also increase the appetite. Alfalfa is also a good source of iron.
- Bromelain and Turmeric (Curcumin) have potent anti-inflammatory properties.
- Burdock Root and Red Clover aid in cleansing the blood and the liver.
- Echinacea enhances immune system function.
- Goldenseal is a natural antibiotic and helps to prevent infection.
Caution: Do not take this herb during pregnancy, and with caution if you are allergic to ragweed. Do not take goldenseal for more than one week at a time, as it may disturb normal intestinal flora.
- Green Tea contains powerful antioxidants that aid in the healing process.
- Kelp, Reishi, and St. John's Wort may help protect against the adverse effects of x-ray radiation.
- Milk Thistle protects the liver from the toxic buildup of drugs and chemicals resulting from surgical procedures.
- Pau D'Arco is a natural antibacterial herb. It enhances healing, cleanses the blood, and aids in the prevention of candidiasis.
- Rose Hips are a good source of vitamin C and enhances healing.
NUTRITIONAL SUPPLEMENTS
Unless otherwise stated, the dosages recommended here are for adults. For a child between the ages of 12 and 17, reduce the dosage to 3/4 of the recommended amount. For a child between the ages of 6 and 12, use 1/2 the recommended dose, and for a child under 6, use 1/4 of the recommended amount.
HOLISTIC RECOMMENDATIONS
Consult with your health care provider about minimally invasive surgery, also called laparoscopic, "keyhole," and "band-aid" surgery. This type of procedure - involving one or more small incisions rather than a large one - does less damage to the skin, muscles, and nerves than does conventional "open" surgery. It also involves a shorter hospital stay and less recovery time. Be aware that such procedures can be used for certain surgeries only.
If you are overweight and have sufficient time to diet before surgery, try to gradually lose the extra weight. Studies show that excess weight can increase both the difficulty of performing surgery and the length of the recovery time. It has also been linked to an increased likelihood of postoperative infection.
If you smoke, stop. Smoking delays healing and interferes with the actions of certain drugs.
Make sure your health care providers and those who will care for you are aware of any allergies you have to drugs, chemicals, or foods.
Ask your surgeon if there is anything that you can do to prepare for the surgery. In addition to the surgeon's recommendations, avoid taking vitamin E supplements, aspirin, and all compounds containing aspirin for two weeks prior to surgery. These substances thin the blood.
Make sure your health care providers and those who will care for you are aware of any nutritional supplements and medications - including natural medicines and herbs - you take regularly.
Because blood transfusions are sometimes required during surgery, speak to your health care provider about the possibility of storing your own blood for use during the surgery. By using your own blood, you will avoid the risk of contracting hepatitis or the AIDS virus. Remember that even disease-free blood can cause reactions such as rashes if not perfectly matched. Your health care provider will tell you if you need to take iron supplements a week before the surgery. (Whole blood can be stored for 35 days.)
Many operations require that the patient be shaved. If this is necessary, tell the surgeon that you prefer to be shaved the day of the surgery. Studies show that the infection rate is lower for patients who are shaved the day of the surgery when compared with those who are shaved the night before.
Add Fiber to your diet. It insures better intestinal tract function.
Check with your surgeon before using any treatments at home prior to surgery. If the surgeon concurs, take two cleansing enemas using the juice of a fresh lemon before entering the hospital. It is important to have a clean colon prior to surgery. Taking a half glass of Aloe Vera Juice in the morning and before bedtime will help keep your colon clean. Take a bottle of this remedy with you to the hospital. It tastes like spring water and may not need refrigeration.
Herbal Remedies: Aloe Vera Gel, NOW Foods, 1 Gallon
Herbal Remedies: Aloe Vera Gel, NOW Foods, 32 oz.
Herbal Remedies: Aloe Vera Concentrate, NOW Foods, 100% Organic, 4 oz.
Herbal Remedies: Aloe Vera Juice, Herbal Aloe Force, Organic Unprocessed Whole Raw Aloe Vera, 33.8 fl. oz.
Many hospitals employ massage with therapeutic essential oils to promote relaxation and relieve the inevitable stress of the pre-surgical period. If your hospital does not practice this therapy, make arrangements for a qualified massage therapist who is knowledgeable about aromatherapy to give you a massage prior to surgery.
Keep a positive attitude about your surgery, and look forward to getting out of bed and back to normal as soon as possible. The sooner you get out of bed, the better your chances of avoiding postoperative infection.
The practice of ordering routine laboratory tests before admission for surgery is commonplace in most hospitals. Many health care providers believe that urinalysis, chest x-rays, or complete blood counts, for example, can identify potential problems that might complicate the surgery if not detected and treated early. Tests that are commonly performed before surgery, and the symptoms that prompt health care providers to order them, including the following:
- Blood Glucose: Alcoholism, altered mental status, cystic fibrosis, diabetes, excessive sweating with tremor or anxiety, muscle weakness, or pancreatitis.
- Blood Potassium: Congestive heart failure, diabetes, diarrhea, high blood pressure, kidney failure, muscle weakness, tissue damage, use of drugs known to affect potassium levels or vomiting.
- Blood Sodium: Central nervous system disease, cirrhosis, congestive heart failure, diarrhea, excessive sweating, pulmonary disease, thirst or fluid intake, or vomiting.
- Chest X-ray: Abnormal sounds when breathing, chest pain, cough, fever with no known source, or shortness of breath.
- Electrocardiogram (EKG): Chest pain, distant heart sound, heart murmur, irregular heartbeat, or palpitations.
- Platelet Count: Alcoholism, blood loss, easy bruising, or use of drugs known to affect platelet count.
- Urinalysis: Diabetes, discharge, kidney disease, side pain, urinary frequency or hesitancy, or use of drugs known to cause kidney disease.
- White Blood Count: Fever, suspicion of infection, or use of drugs known to affect white blood cell count.
Discuss with your health care provider the necessity of having certain tests performed prior to surgery.
Ask about potential risks and side effects of having anesthesia. Be sure to mention any medical problems you have, including allergies, and any medications you have been taking, since they may affect your response to the anesthesia.
After surgery, do not overwork your body by eating highly processed foods. Try to consume at least 8 cups of liquids a day, including distilled or quality bottled water, herbal teas, juices, and protein drinks. The appetite is often poor after surgery, and large meals can be overwhelming. Try eating five to seven small, light, nutritious meals a day.
After surgery, exercise caution when engaging in strenuous activity such as lifting. Most health care providers advise patients to avoid lifting anything in excess of 10 pounds for two weeks after surgery. Ask your health care provider when you can begin light exercise, which has been shown to aid circulation and speed physical recovery. Also ask if there are any specific exercises that can aid your recovery.
After surgery, the homeopathic remedy, Arnica montana is good for reducing swelling and promoting healing.
Herbal Remedies: Arnica Cream Homeopathic First Aid Cream, 100% Organic, 1 oz.
Herbal Remedies: Arnica Warming Relief Massage Oil, NOW Foods, 8 oz.
Herbal Remedies: Arnica Gel, Arniflora Homeopathics, Boericke & Tafel, 2.75 oz. Topical Gel
Herbal Remedies: Arnica Montana Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.
Herbal Remedies: Arnica Extract Tincture, Herbal Remedies USA, 2 fl. oz.
Herbal Remedies: Arnica Flower Supplement (Whole), Alternative Health & Herbs, 4 oz.
Mountain Rose Herbs: Arnica - Organic Bulk Herbs
OTHER CONSIDERATIONS
After major surgery, people generally experience a rapid breakdown of skeletal muscle, which increases any feelings of weakness. In studies in which the amino acid glutamine was added to postsurgical intravenous solutions, muscle breakdown rates were greatly diminished.
Some health care providers recommend that patients be given 2,000 IU of vitamin E 12 hours prior to heart surgery. This amount of vitamin E lowers free radical levels in the blood. This is only recommended under a health care provider's supervision.
Some foods interfere with the actions of certain medications. Milk, dairy products, and iron supplements may interfere with some forms of antibiotics. Acidic fruits, such as oranges, pineapples, and grapefruits, can inhibit the action of penicillin and aspirin.
Substances That Rob the Body of Nutrients
Different substances deplete the body of different nutrients. Use the list below to determine which supplements you may need as a result of the use of prescription or over-the-counter drugs, including alcohol and caffeine.
Substance Depleted Nutrients Allopurinol (Zyloprim) Iron. Antacids B complex vitamins; calcium; phosphate; vitamins A and D. Antibiotics, general (see also isoniazid, penicillin, sulfa drugs, and thimethoprim) B complex vitamins; vitamin K; "friendly bacteria". Antihistamines Vitamin C. Aspirin B complex vitamins; calcium; folic acid; iron; potassium; vitamins A and C. Barbiturates Vitamin C. Beta-blockers (Corgard, Inderal, Lopressor, and others) Choline; chromium; pantothenic acid (vitamin B-5). Caffeine Biotin; inositol; potassium; vitamin B-1 (thiamine); zinc. Carbamazenpine (Atretol, Tegretol) Dilutes blood solution. Chlorothiazide (Aldoclor, Diuril, and others) Magnesium; potassium. Cimetidine (Tagamet) Iron. Clonidine (Catapres, Combipres) B complex vitamins; calcium. Corticosteroids, general (see also prednisone) Calcium; potassium; vitamins A; B-6, C, and D; zinc. Digitalis preparations (Crystodigin, Digoxin, and others) Vitamins B-1 (thiamine) and B-6 (pyridoxine); zinc. Diuretics, general (see also chlorothiazide, spironolactone, thiazide diuretics, and triamterene) Calcium; iodine; magnesium; potassium; vitamins B-2 (riboflavin) and C; zinc. Estrogen preparations Folic acid; vitamin B-6 (pyridoxine). Ethanol (alcohol) B complex vitamins; magnesium; vitamins C, D, E, and K. Fluoride Vitamin C. Glutethimide (Doriden) Folic acid; vitamin B-6 (pyridoxine). Hydralazine (Apresazide, Apresoline, and others) Vitamin B-6 (pyridoxine). Indomethacin (Indocin) Iron. Isoniazid (INH and others) Vitamins B-3 (niacin) and B-6 (pyridoxine). Laxatives (excluding herbs) Potassium; vitamins A and K. Lidocaine (Xylocaine) Calcium; potassium. Nitrate/Nitrite coronary vasodilators Niacin; pangamic acid, selenium; vitamins C and E. Oral contraceptives B complex vitamins; vitamin C, D, and E. Penicillin preparations Vitamin B-3 (niacin); niacinamide; vitamin B-6 (pyridoxine). Phenobarbital preparations Folic acid; vitamin B-6 (pyridoxine); vitamin B-12; vitamins D and K. Phenylbutazone Folic acid; iodine. Phenytoin (Dilantin) Calcium; folic acid; vitamins B-12, C, D, and K. Prednisone (Deltasone and others) Potassium; vitamins B-6 and C; zinc. Quinidine preparations Choline; pantothenic acid (vitamin B-5); potassium; vitamin K Reserpine preparations Phenylalanine; potassium; vitamins B-2 (riboflavin) and B-6 (pyridoxine). Spironolactone (Aldactone and others) Calcium; folic acid. Sulfa drugs Para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA); "friendly" bacteria. Synthetic neurotransmitters Magnesium; potassium; vitamin B-2 (riboflavin) and B-6 (pyridoxine). Tobacco Vitamins A, C, and E. Thiazide diuretics Magnesium; potassium; vitamin B-2 (riboflavin); zinc Triamterene (Dyrenium) Calcium; folic acid. Trimethoprim (Bactrim, Septra, and others) Folic acid.
See Drugs: Substances That Can Rob The Body of Nutrients for more information about nutrients that are lost with the use of different drugs and drug addiction and abuse.
An article published in the journal American Health reported that research from the University of Chicago Medical Center found that patients who ate potatoes, tomatoes, and eggplants prior to surgery reacted unpredictably to anesthesia. These foods contain natural chemicals that affect metabolism and may alter the effect of anesthesia.
Postsurgical depression is not uncommon. A healthy dietary program can help fight depression.
Remember: It takes the body a few weeks to recover from the trauma of surgery. During this period, hormonal imbalances are corrected and the rate of metabolism is adjusted. Most incisions close within two days and heal within a week to the point that the skin will hold together under normal stress and body movement. However, you should obtain your health care provider's approval before engaging in any exercise, or lifting anything over 10 pounds in weight.
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