With the advent of new drugs and better medical equipment, general anesthesia is safer than ever before. Although patients may still experience side effects, they are usually mild and generally will disappear quickly, often before the patient is discharged from the hospital. There are some steps patients can take if they are troubled by side effects of general anesthesia.
Instructions
Sore throat
1. Gargle with warm salt water to decrease inflammation and help to heal any irritation caused by the breathing tube. Repeat as often as necessary throughout the day.
2. Purchase an antiseptic throat spray or lozenges that contain lidocaine to numb throat pain. Follow dosing instructions on package label.
3. Ask your physician if you can take an over-the-counter pain medication such as Tylenol to help with throat pain. Follow dosing instructions on package label.
Nausea and vomiting
4. Ask your physician to prescribe antiemetic medication to control persistent vomiting.
5. Avoid sugary drinks. Drink small amounts of liquids every 10 minutes rather than finishing one large glass at once to control nausea and prevent vomiting. Drink electrolyte enhanced beverages, such as Gatorade, to replenish minerals lost from vomiting.
6. Consume a bland diet and avoid heavy foods that will upset the stomach. Refrain from eating anything fried or greasy, too sweet or too starchy. Consume small amounts of whole grains, apples, bananas and brown rice.
Headache
7. Ask your physician if you can take an over-the-counter pain reliever such as Tylenol to relieve persistent headaches associated with anesthesia.
8. Apply a cold compress to the forehead. Repeat as often as necessary to reduce pain.
9. Shut off the lights and lie down in a dark and quiet room. Use an eye cover to block out additional sunlight. Use ear plugs if necessary to block out inside noise or outdoor congestion.
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