smoking and surgery

[mla]

I am having surgery for two hernias in two weeks. I want to quit smoking, but the hernia doctor said I should probably wait until after the surgery, because quitting changes the whole respiratory system and the changes taking place could affect me while I'm under anasthesia. Has anybody ever heard of this? I would really like to quit now, because I know it is making my IC worse. What should I do?

[snowgirl]

Marissa,

I am a recovery room nurse of 16 years and I have never heard the rationale your surgeon gave you for quitting smoking after the surgery. I do know the anesthesiologist do not like it when you smoke the day of surgery..... they really frown on that.

Good Luck with your surgery,

Vicky

[ICNDonna]

Quitting smoking can have a real effect on our bodies, effecting even our blood pressure. One good thing is that when you have surgery, it's a really good time to quit, especially if you'll be in the hospital overnight. Most hospitals don't allow smoking these days.

Just remember --- if you have trouble quitting, I suggest you try some of the aids available for people who want to get away from smoking. It doesn't make it easy to quit, but it certainly helps.

Sending an encouraging hug,
Donna