Anaesthesia
Side effects
Anaesthetics consist of a number of medications that can cause side effects in some people. Your anaesthetist will tell you about any side effects you may experience after having a specific type of anaesthetic, and measures that will be taken to reduce these.
Some common side effects that can occur after having a general anaesthetic and some regional anaesthetics include:
- feeling sick or vomiting
- dizziness and feeling faint
- feeling cold or shivering
- headache
- itchiness
- bruising and soreness
- difficulty passing urine
- aches and pains
The side effects of anaesthetic don't usually last very long and,if necessary, some of them can be treated.
Tell the healthcare professionals treating you if you experience any of the above side effects or if you're in pain after your procedure.
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018
Introduction
Find out about different types of anaesthetics, how they work, and the potential side effects. Also, read about the role of the anaesthetist.
How anaesthetics work
Anaesthetics work by stopping the nerve signals that keep you awake and aware from reaching your brain. During this state of induced sleep, procedures can be carried out without you feeling anything.
Types of anaesthesia
As well as local and general anaesthetic, there are a number of other types of anaesthesia. Unlike general anaesthetic, these don't make you unconscious; they stop you feeling pain in a particular ar
How anaesthetics are given
An anaestheticcan be given in a number of ways: as an ointment, spray or drops as an injection into a vein as a gas you breathe in
Anaesthetists
Anaesthetists are doctors who have received specialist training in anaesthesia. They'llgive youyour anaesthetic and be responsible for your safety and wellbeing during your procedure. Before the proc
Side effects
Anaesthetics consist of a number of medications that can cause side effects in some people. Your anaesthetist will tell you about any side effects you may experience after having a specific type of an
Risks and complications
In recent years, having anaesthesia has become very safe. Advances in equipment, medication and training mean serious problems are rare. However, as with any type of surgery or medical procedure, the
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