How Does Anesthesia Affect the Body?

Anesthesia is used when a patient undergoes any type of surgery 245. According to Surgery Encyclopedia, anesthesia is a medication administered to patients to numb pain or sensation while surgery is being carried out 245. It is routinely administered through inhalation or injection. Anesthesia works by blocking nerve impulses, which helps to temporarily sustain pain 45. There are four types of anesthesia: regional, general, local or intravenous sedation 234. Anesthesia has its own side effects that typically disappear after surgery 245.

Nausea and Vomiting

Vomiting and nausea may affect the body as a side effect of anesthesia, according to the American Society of Anesthesiologists 145. These symptoms typically occur after anesthesia administration and post-surgery 245. After surgery, doctors usually prescribe anti-nausea medications to alleviate these symptoms. Patients should contact a physician if symptoms become uncomfortable or severe.

Grogginess

According to MayoClinic.com, grogginess is a side effect of anesthesia 45. Typically, general anesthesia, where the patient feels nothing and goes to sleep, will cause the individual to feel groggy after waking up 234. As a result, confusion and disorientation may occur after surgery. Patients often feel drowsy, tired and weak for several days. In addition, individuals may also experience coordination problems, blurred vision and difficulties in making decisions.

Allergic Response

MayoClinic.com reports that an allergic response to anesthesia may occur 45. This can cause breathing problems, muscle spasms and rapid heartbeats. In addition, the patient may also develop a high fever. This condition, called malignant hyperthermia, occurs after general anesthesia administration 234. It is advised to consult a doctor if allergic reactions to anesthesia develop 45.

Anesthesia Toxicity

Toxicity may occur as a side effect to anesthesia, according to Surgery Encyclopedia 245. The medication halothane, used in some anesthesia, may cause necrosis or the premature death of living tissue in the liver 45. The medication sevoflurance may contribute to kidney toxicity. In addition, anesthesia machines may form carbon dioxide when breaking down inhalation anesthetics 45. This process can prove toxic to red blood cells.

Other Side Effects

A patient may feel dryness in the mouth or soreness in the throat. This often occurs with inhalation anesthetics where tubes are inserted down the throat to administer anesthesia 45. MayoClinic.com notes that the individual may also experience shivering and chills.