Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. General anesthesia uses medicines that make you unconscious. It affects your whole body. When it's used, you will be unaware. You won't feel pain during the procedure. It also causes you to forget things from right before, during, and right after the procedure. It also affects many of your body's normal functions, such as those that control breathing. So you will be watched closely. Your body's functions will get support to keep you safe. Anesthesia medicine may be given through a needle in a vein (intravenous, or IV.) Or it may be inhaled. Sometimes it's given both ways. During the procedure, an anesthesia specialist will watch you closely. They will adjust the medicines as needed to keep you safe and comfortable. Major side effects are not common. But all types of anesthesia have some risk. Your risk depends on your overall health. It also depends on how you respond to the medicines that are used. Serious but rare risks include breathing problems, heart problems, and stroke. Malignant hyperthermia is an extremely rare but very serious reaction that can occur with some anesthesia medicines. It can be deadly. The chance of having this reaction may be passed down in families. Some health conditions increase the risk of problems. Your anesthesia specialist will ask you about any health problems you have. You will discuss things that can raise your risk. These include sleep apnea; obesity; and heart, lung, or liver disease. You will get a list of instructions to help you prepare. Your anesthesia specialist will let you know what to expect when you get to the hospital, during the procedure, and after. They will talk with you about the risks and benefits of anesthesia. If you have questions, be sure to ask. Some things can raise your risk for problems with anesthesia. These include smoking, sleep apnea, and being overweight. Don't smoke for as long as possible (but at least 1 month) before your procedure. If your doctor suggests it, also try to lose weight beforehand. If you have a CPAP machine for sleep apnea, make sure to use it. Many people are nervous before they have anesthesia. Ask your doctor about ways to relax ahead of time. Relaxation exercises may be one option. If you will go home on the same day, arrange for someone to take you home. Current as of: October 20, 2022 Author: Healthwise Staff Next Section: Previous Section: Next Section: Previous Section: Current as of: October 20, 2022 Author: Healthwise Staff Medical Review:Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine & Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine & John M. Freedman MD - Anesthesiology & Heather Quinn MD - Family Medicine This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Learn how we develop our content. To learn more about Healthwise, visit Healthwise.org. © 1995-2023 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.Topic Contents
General Anesthesia
Overview
How it's done
Risks
How to prepare
Related Information
Credits
Medical Review:
Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine
Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine
John M. Freedman MD - Anesthesiology
Heather Quinn MD - Family Medicine
Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. Current as of: October 20, 2022 Author: Healthwise Staff Medical Review:Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine & Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine & John M. Freedman MD - Anesthesiology & Heather Quinn MD - Family MedicineGeneral Anesthesia