If you are undergoing general anesthesia soon, you probably have some questions. The specialists at Associated Anesthesiologists Inc. in Tulsa, Oklahoma answer some common questions in the guide below.
What Is General Anesthesia?
Being awake during a surgical procedure is no one’s idea of fun – and it can be dangerous. It’s much easier and safer to be asleep. This is where general anesthesia comes in. It’s typically a combination of gas that you inhale and IV drugs that puts you in a state of unconsciousness while your procedure takes place.
What Does It Feel Like?
Technically, nothing. You’re asleep and your brain doesn’t register pain signals or reflexes. Therefore, you’ll feel nothing during the procedure. When you wake up, you’ll probably still be sleepy and a little foggy mentally – at least for an hour or two. Your throat might be a bit sore if a breathing tube was used. Some people also feel cold, a bit nauseous, and a little anxious.
How Long Does It Take to Recover From General Anesthesia?
The drugs usually take about a day to get out of your system. If you’ve had a procedure and will be released the same day, you’ll need someone to drive you home. It’s also wise to keep someone with you for at least 24 hours to help you out with cooking and other tasks. Don’t plan to return to work until the drugs are completely out of your system.
How to Prepare for General Anesthesia
The specialists at Associated Anesthesiologists Inc. in Tulsa, Oklahoma will provide you with specific instructions, but there are a few things you can expect. Most often, you’ll be told not to eat anything for at least six hours before the procedure. Often, you’ll also not be able to drink anything during this time except for a few sips of water to take medication. You may also need to avoid certain medications as they can cause complications, so you’ll need to ask your specialist about anything you normally take.
If you have any further questions about general anesthesia or your procedure, give Associated Anesthesiologists Inc., in Tulsa, Oklahoma a call at (918) 494-0612.