Likely cause
1. The decision is based on an elaborate examination of your overall health, medical history, the type of procedure being planned, and the type of anesthesia required.
2. Your anesthesiologist will review any heart, lung, liver, or kidney conditions, allergies, previous reactions to anesthesia, current medications, smoking or alcohol use, and any history of sleep apnea.
3. If needed, blood tests, an ECG, or other investigations may be requested to ensure anesthesia can be given as safely as possible.
What to watch for
1. Please let your doctor know if you have chest pain, shortness of breath, recent fever or infection, uncontrolled diabetes or high blood pressure, severe snoring or diagnosed sleep apnea, asthma, seizures, alcohol or recreational drug use, pregnancy, or a personal or family history of anesthesia-related complications.
2. Let your doctor know if have any known kidney or liver disease, thyroid disorders, acid reflux, or any bleeding or clotting disorders. Report if you have loose teeth, dentures, limited mouth opening, or neck movement problems.
3. Also mention all prescription medications, blood thinners, herbal supplements, and any allergies, as these may influence the anesthesia plan.
What you can do
1. Attend your pre-anesthesia assessment and provide a complete medical history, including previous surgeries, medications, allergies, and any chronic medical conditions.
2. Follow all fasting instructions carefully and ask your doctor which regular medications you should continue or temporarily stop before the procedure.
3. If you smoke, reducing or stopping smoking before surgery can improve recovery and lower the risk of complications.
When to see a doctor
1. Arrange a pre-anesthesia consultation well before your procedure, especially if you have significant medical conditions or have experienced problems with anesthesia in the past.
2. Seek immediate medical advice if you develop a new illness such as fever, cough, chest pain, breathing difficulty, or any significant change in your health in the days leading up to your scheduled procedure, as your surgery or anesthesia plan may need to be reassessed.
This is general information from a verified doctor and is not a diagnosis or a substitute for an in-person consultation. In an emergency, seek immediate medical care.
