SURGERY

Few emetophobes relish the thought of having to take medication or undergo medical treatment, due to the risks of nausea and/or vomiting. However, it is surprising that a large number of emetophobes succeed in undergoing procedures normally associated with nausea/vomiting without so much as a single retch.

For an emetophobe faced with essential surgery, it is strongly advised to ask who will be performing the operation and discuss the concerns of nausea and vomiting with the surgeon before actually being admitted to hospital. Once in hospital, then you should be visited by an anaesthetist prior to the surgery when you will have a chance to discuss your concerns again. Generally, anaesthetists are sympathetic towards emetophobia and will administer anti-emetic medication prior to, during the surgery and after surgery to ensure the risks of nausea/vomiting are minimised. It may also be possible to select an anaesthetic and analgesia with the lowest possible risks.

ANAESTHETICS:

Anaesthetics may be either inhalational or intravenous. Inhalational anaesthetics include: Halothane, Enflurane, Isoflurane and Desflurane. Halothane is said to have a 'low incidence of post-operative vomiting' but it is not as widely used since it is associated with liver damage. Intravenous anaesthetics include: Thiopentone Sodium, Methohexitone sodium, Etomidate, Propofol and Ketamine. Propofol offers rapid recovery without a hangover while recovery is relatively slow following Ketamine anaesthesia. Midazolam, a benzodiazepine, is increasingly used for induction and is highly recommended as a sedative (eg for dentistry) by some Gut Reaction members.

American emetophobes recommend Versid (a benzodiazepine derivative) and Nubaine but warn patients to steer well clear of Brevitol and Sodium Pentathol (thiopentone sodium, brand name 'Intraval' in the UK).   (Thanks to the Liverpudlian Consultant Anaesthetist for clarifying brand names.)

More information will be added to this section shortly.