Kyle's Guestbook

Kyle, I had similar fears regarding intubation. Know that you will be heavily sedated and the expert staff in the ICU will know exactly when and how to remove the tube. A few weeks ago as I returned to consciousness in the ICU I became very aware of the breathing tube in my throat. Fortunately, one's return to consciousness is gradual and closely monitored. Calm feelings resulting from the sedation will help tide you over. I remember that while coming to terms with the presence of the tube in my airway I summoned up an image of myself scuba diving, breathing in a restricted, but calm, underwater environment. That helped me. The tube isn't as restrictive as one might think. You will not choke. I remember being pleasantly surprised that I could produce a couple of liberating belches into the thing shortly before it was removed. Many people claim they remember nothing of the brief moments of waking while still intubated. That's a good scenario, too. I hope these anecdotes help you. Best wishes for your surgery, Kyle!