The Cancer Survivors Network (CSN) is a peer support community for cancer patients, survivors, caregivers, families, and friends! CSN is a safe place to connect with others who share your interests and experiences.

Thank you for being a part of the Cancer Survivor Network community. Survivors and caregivers like you have played a unique role in fostering an online environment that encourages connection among those needing support, community, and education. On May 28, the Network will be discontinued. More details are available here . If you have any questions, contact CSNSupportTeam@cancer.org. Thanks again for the support you’ve provided each other over the years. We remain committed to supporting you in other ways throughout your cancer journey.

BC and COPD

crissy1234
crissy1234 CSN Member Posts: 10
edited March 2014 in Breast Cancer #1
I will be having surgery in the next few weeks and am really scared because I also have COPD. I am not on oxygen, but I am on Sprivia and Albutesol. Has anyone else had surgery and COPD? What should I tell the anesthesiologist?
Like Care

Comments

  • Cat64
    Cat64 CSN Member Posts: 1,192 Member
    #2
    Crissy
    Hello & Welcome
    Having surgery IS scary enough, let alone having other health issues that add to the fear in the process.
    I would tell your anesthesiologist just what you mentioned. What you have, what you are on and the dosage. Several years ago I was diagnosed with Emphysema, however, I haven't use an inhaler for many years, and haven't taken any meds for it. To top it off-Yes, I smoke! :-( But, I do tell them whenever I have surgery this info so they can decide what to use accordingly. When I had my port installed, I was congested so they gave me a breathing treatment before I went in and it cleared me right up. I have never had any problems with the anesthesia.
    I know it's easier said than done, but try not to worry too much, you'll be fine!
    Hugz,
    Cathy
    Like Care
  • Sunrae
    Sunrae CSN Member Posts: 808
    #3
    Cat64 said:

    Crissy
    Hello & Welcome
    Having surgery IS scary enough, let alone having other health issues that add to the fear in the process.
    I would tell your anesthesiologist just what you mentioned. What you have, what you are on and the dosage. Several years ago I was diagnosed with Emphysema, however, I haven't use an inhaler for many years, and haven't taken any meds for it. To top it off-Yes, I smoke! :-( But, I do tell them whenever I have surgery this info so they can decide what to use accordingly. When I had my port installed, I was congested so they gave me a breathing treatment before I went in and it cleared me right up. I have never had any problems with the anesthesia.
    I know it's easier said than done, but try not to worry too much, you'll be fine!
    Hugz,
    Cathy

    Hi Crissy,
    I also will be
    Hi Crissy,
    I also will be having surgery in a few weeks and have COPD and Asthma. Before you have surgery the anesthesiologist will get in touch with you and go over any health issues and medication you take. I had surgery a few years ago and made it thru fine. They will be aware of your condition and take that into consideration when they decide what meds to use. I also have diabetes and its another factor. Just be sure and mention any medical problems you have. Wishing you the best. Please keep us posted.
    Like Care
  • Megan M
    Megan M CSN Member Posts: 3,000
    #4
    Sunrae said:

    Hi Crissy,
    I also will be
    Hi Crissy,
    I also will be having surgery in a few weeks and have COPD and Asthma. Before you have surgery the anesthesiologist will get in touch with you and go over any health issues and medication you take. I had surgery a few years ago and made it thru fine. They will be aware of your condition and take that into consideration when they decide what meds to use. I also have diabetes and its another factor. Just be sure and mention any medical problems you have. Wishing you the best. Please keep us posted.

    Hi Crissy! I just wanted to
    Hi Crissy! I just wanted to wish you good luck with your surgery! Sending you good thoughts and prayers.

    Megan
    Like Care

Discussion Boards