What are the risks of general anesthesia?
March 10, 2024 | 30,00 EUR | answered by Laura Hahn
Dear Doctor,
My name is Anna Karpinski and I am scheduled to undergo a planned surgery in which general anesthesia will be administered. I am very concerned about the risks associated with general anesthesia and would like to learn more in order to make well-informed decisions.
I have done some research on the internet, but the information is often conflicting and confusing. I have heard that there are risks such as allergic reactions to the anesthesia, breathing problems during anesthesia, low blood pressure, and heart rhythm disturbances. Additionally, I am worried about potential side effects after the surgery, such as nausea and vomiting, confusion, or memory loss.
My personal health is good, but I am slightly overweight and have a mild allergy to penicillin. I am a non-smoker and do not drink alcohol. My last surgery with general anesthesia was a few years ago and went without complications.
Could you please explain in detail the risks of general anesthesia tailored to my health condition? Are there measures that can be taken before the surgery to minimize the risk of complications? And what are the post-operative care and potential long-term effects of general anesthesia?
Thank you in advance for your time and support in addressing my questions.
Sincerely,
Anna Karpinski
Dear Mrs. Karpinski,
I understand your concerns regarding the risks of general anesthesia and would like to provide you with detailed information on this topic to help you in your decision-making process.
First and foremost, it is important to know that general anesthesia is very safe nowadays and in most cases, it proceeds without complications. The risks you have already mentioned, such as allergic reactions, breathing problems, low blood pressure, and heart rhythm disturbances, are possible but very rare. Your mild allergy to penicillin should be taken into consideration when selecting anesthesia to avoid allergic reactions.
Your good health and absence of smoking and alcohol consumption are positive factors that reduce the risk of complications during general anesthesia. However, being slightly overweight can lead to breathing problems during anesthesia. It is important to discuss your weight with your anesthesiologist before the operation so that appropriate measures can be taken to minimize the risk.
Regarding post-operative care, it is important that you follow the instructions given by your medical team. Possible side effects such as nausea and vomiting can be prevented with appropriate medications. Confusion or memory loss are also possible side effects but are usually temporary and improve over time.
Long-term effects of general anesthesia are extremely rare and usually only occur in individuals with existing health problems. It is important for you to attend regular follow-up appointments after the operation to detect and treat any long-term effects early on.
In conclusion, most surgeries involving general anesthesia are safe and well-tolerated. Have an open conversation with your anesthesiologist about your concerns and questions so that you feel well-prepared and informed.
I hope that this information has been helpful to you. If you have any further questions, please feel free to reach out to me.
Best regards,
Laura Hahn, Anesthesiologist
