Can't sleep... general anesthesia in the morning?

Question

See I thought I was brave and everything turns out I'm just as scared as the next guy lol ... one thing I wanna know though which one is better the breathing tube or the breathing mask ?? do I get to choose ?? and if it's the breathing tube then when exactly do they use it... I hope it's not while I'm still awake

Answer 1

Sorry, I did not see this in time to allay your fears. However, I will answer in case someone else is monitoring this question for the same information.

No, you do not get to choose whether you a have a mask or a breathing tube. The anesthesiologist will decide this based on the type of surgery being done, the positioning (of your body) required during the procedure and how long it is anticipated that you will be under anesthesia.

Do not worry! The breathing tube is not inserted until after you are already under anesthesia and is removed before you are fully awake. In most cases, you won't even know you had the breathing tube until later when you are awake and alert enough to realize that your throat is a little sore (very mild). You may also experience some muscle aches in your neck and shoulders...all normal and of short duration. Best wishes for a speedy recovery!