Undergoing surgery is a significant life event that requires careful preparation, not only in terms of medical readiness but also through self-driven adjustments that can decrease your risk from surgery and improve your outcomes. Making positive lifestyle changes before surgery can significantly impact outcomes, contributing to smoother recoveries and enhanced overall well-being. There are several areas where your habits can either positively or negatively influence surgical outcomes, and where any amount of positive effort can be beneficial.
Nutrition and Hydration
Ensuring your body is well-nourished and adequately hydrated is important before surgery. A balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains provides essential nutrients to support the healing process. Staying hydrated aids in optimal organ function and helps prevent complications like constipation. Patients should consider increasing their water intake, eating protein-rich foods to facilitate tissue repair, and consuming important vitamins and minerals.
Physical Activity
Engaging in regular physical activity before surgery contributes to better cardiovascular health, strengthens muscles, and improves overall fitness. While the type and intensity of exercise may vary based on individual health conditions, even moderate activities like walking can have positive effects. It’s important to consult with your healthcare provider to determine what exercises are suitable and to remember that gradually increasing activity levels is the best way to avoid overexertion.
Stop Smoking
If you smoke, quitting before surgery is one of the most impactful lifestyle changes you can make. Smoking hinders the body’s ability to heal, increases the risk of complications, and can negatively impact anesthesia administration. Quitting, even for a short period before surgery, improves respiratory function and reduces the likelihood of postoperative complications. Patients can seek support from healthcare professionals or smoking cessation programs to establish an effective but reasonable plan. It’s also critical to inform your surgical team about your smoking history.
Stress Management
Reducing stress before surgery is good for both mental and physical well-being. High stress levels can affect the immune system and contribute to a slower recovery. Incorporating relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga, can help manage stress and promote a more positive mindset.
Weight Management
For individuals carrying excess weight, reducing weight before surgery is beneficial. Weight management contributes to improved surgical outcomes, reduces the risk of complications, and enhances the body’s ability to heal. Having obesity is particularly detrimental to anesthesia, as it makes anesthesia administration and respiratory support more challenging. Consulting with professionals, focusing on sustainable and gradual weight loss, and emphasizing a balanced diet are strategies to keep in mind.
Medication Review
Reviewing your current medications with your healthcare team is crucial before surgery. Some medications may need to be adjusted, paused, or continued depending on the surgical procedure and individual health considerations. Patients should provide a comprehensive list of all medications, including any non-prescription drugs, discuss any previous adverse reactions to medications, and follow the instructions of their doctors.
Lifestyle changes before surgery can significantly enhance the overall surgical experience and improve outcomes. Taking proactive steps to optimize nutrition, physical activity, and mental well-being sets the stage for a smoother recovery and contributes to long-term health benefits. It’s essential to collaborate closely with healthcare professionals, openly communicate concerns, and actively participate in the preparation process.