Going Under Anesthesia Soon? Here’s What You Should Know

That flutter in your stomach when thinking about going under for surgery isn't something you face alone. The prospect of going under anesthesia is one of the most common reasons for feeling anxious before surgery. 

Whether you're scheduled for a minor procedure or major operation, those worries about not waking up, feeling pain during surgery, or experiencing side effects are completely normal. The good news? Modern anesthesia is remarkably safe, and understanding how it works can transform that knot of worry into confidence. 

Read on to learn what happens when you're under anesthesia, the differences between types of anesthesia, safety, and what to expect before, during, and after your procedure, all from the highest-trained anesthesiologists in San Jose.

How Safe is General Anesthesia?

Getting anesthesia is remarkably safe. In fact, over the past 30 years, patient deaths attributed to anesthesia have declined from one for every 10,000 cases to one per 300,000 cases. This decline in fatal complications is thanks to modern anesthetic protocols being more refined than ever and thanks to doctors being able to precisely control your level of consciousness while continuously monitoring your vital signs through sophisticated equipment. 

Who is at Higher Risk of Complications from Anesthesia?

Today, your personal risk depends on factors such as age, existing health conditions, and the type of surgery you're having. Those who face higher risks when receiving anesthesia include: 

• Elderly patients, usually over the age of 65, may experience more side effects as their bodies process medications differently and often have multiple health conditions. 
• People with obesity might face breathing difficulties or need specialized equipment and dosing. 
• Those with sleep apnea require careful monitoring since anesthetics can worsen breathing problems. 
• Existing heart or lung conditions, diabetes, kidney disease, or liver problems also increase risks, as do certain medications like blood thinners. 
• Patients with previous bad reactions to anesthesia, those who smoke, or those who have alcohol dependence face additional challenges. 
• Pregnant women require special considerations to protect both mother and baby.

Before surgery, your anesthesiologist will thoroughly review your medical history to identify these risk factors and create a personalized anesthesia plan that maximizes safety while minimizing potential complications.

How Eating or Drinking Before Surgery Can Affect Your Procedure

That strict rule that prohibits food or liquids before surgery isn't just hospital policy; it's an important safety measure that relates to your anesthesia. When you're under anesthesia, your body's normal reflexes that prevent choking are temporarily disabled. If your stomach contains food or drinks and you vomit while unconscious, that material could enter your lungs instead of being coughed out, causing a dangerous condition called aspiration pneumonia. 

This is why doctors typically provide NPO (nothing by mouth) instructions based on preoperative fasting guidelines, such as stopping solid foods at least eight hours before surgery and clear liquids two hours before. The emptier your stomach, the safer your procedure.

It’s important to note that certain patients, like those with diabetes, might receive modified instructions. Always follow your specific pre-surgery directions carefully, even if it means feeling hungry or thirsty for a while. This temporary discomfort significantly reduces one of the most serious risks of anesthesia.

What Are Common Side Effects of Anesthesia?

After surgery, many patients experience some temporary side effects as the anesthesia wears off: 

• Nausea and vomiting affect about 30% of patients, though anti-nausea medications can help prevent or treat these symptoms. 
• Feeling groggy, confused, or having slurred speech is normal for several hours after waking up. This is commonly known as an anesthesia hangover and typically clears within 24 hours. 
• You might discover a sore throat or hoarseness if your procedure required a breathing tube. This usually resolves within a few days. 
• Many patients experience chills or shivering as their body temperature readjusts. 
• Muscle aches, headaches, and dizziness are also common but short-lived complaints. 
• Some people, especially older adults, may experience temporary memory issues or confusion that can last a few days. 

While these side effects can be uncomfortable, they're generally not dangerous and improve quickly. 

How Long Does It Take to Recover from Anesthesia?

Post-anesthesia recovery happens in stages, with the timeline varying significantly from person to person: 

• Immediately after surgery, it usually takes anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours to wake up enough to speak and respond to simple commands, though you probably won't remember this period later. 
• Within 24 hours, most of the medications will have cleared your system, but subtle effects, like slowed reaction times, difficulty concentrating, or not quite feeling yourself, can linger for a few days. 
• Local anesthesia wears off fastest, usually within two to four hours, while the effects from general anesthesia last the longest. Your age, overall health, and the length of your procedure all influence recovery time. 
• Older adults and those who had longer surgeries generally need more time to bounce back. 
• Even after feeling normal, avoid driving, making important decisions, consuming alcohol, or operating machinery for at least 24 hours. Though you might feel impatient to return to normal activities, giving your body adequate recovery time is crucial for your safety and healing process.

Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) is an evidence-based post-operative protocol that supports faster, safer recovery after anesthesia. By combining optimized pain management, early mobility, and targeted nutrition, ERAS significantly reduces complications, shortens hospital stays, and helps patients return to normal life more quickly and comfortably.

Finding the Most-Qualified Anesthesiologists in San Jose for Your Surgical Needs

Understanding anesthesia can significantly reduce pre-surgery anxiety. Patients can approach their procedures with greater confidence and peace of mind by addressing common questions and concerns. 

G2 Anesthesia prioritizes your safety and comfort by bringing together a team of highly qualified professionals dedicated to excellence in anesthesia care. Our anesthesiologists are all board-certified and possess the expertise and leadership experience to ensure you receive the highest standard of care. 

With affiliations to renowned institutions like the University of California, San Francisco, and Stanford Medical Schools, we remain at the cutting edge of anesthesia advancements. Our commitment to precision and patient-centered practice means you can trust us to provide not just effective but compassionate care tailored to your individual needs.

Ready to get safe and effective anesthesia care for your next surgery or procedure from the top anesthesiologists in San Jose?