What are the Side Effects of General Anaesthetics?
General anaesthetics render a patient unconscious and facilitate a successful surgery. Still, the administration of these drugs is not without side effects.
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Components of General Anaesthetics
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General anaesthetics are made up of a variety of drugs. The inductive drug is delivered by IV or inhalation, rendering the patient unconscious. Unconsciousness is maintained with anaesthetic gases or IV. A breathing tube maintains open airways, and muscle relaxants are administered to limit movement.
Common Side Effects
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Recovering patients typically suffer minor side effects, including nausea, sore throat, headache and muscle aches. These side effects contribute to a sensation similar to a hangover.
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Serious Side Effects
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The risks of serious side effects are generally low, depending on the patient's age, sex and other factors. These complications include heart attack, stroke, brain damage and death.
Anaesthesia Awareness
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Anaesthesia awareness occurs when the patient has not had enough general anaesthetic to maintain unconsciousness. Only occurring in about one to two-tenths of 1 percent of surgeries, the patient may experience pain or pressure from the surgery.
Precautions
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Patients undergoing general anaesthesia should take their doctor's precautions seriously. Generally, they include not eating or drinking for at least six hours before the procedure. Some prescription drugs may need to be administered or skipped, depending on the drug and the procedure.
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