What is your experience with general anesthesia?

Many patients report that undergoing general anesthesia is a surreal experience—and practically no one remembers anything between when the medication is administered and waking up in the recovery room. Once the medication hits your bloodstream, the effects will kick in quickly.

What does it feel like to wake up during surgery?

In the survey, patients who had woken up during surgery described experiencing a range of sensations, including choking, paralysis, pain, hallucinations, and near-death experiences. The paralysis was reported to be the most distressing part of the event – more so than the pain – the study revealed.

Can you feel pain while asleep during surgery?

General anesthesia is treatment with certain medicines that puts you into a deep sleep so you do not feel pain during surgery.

What does the anesthesia do?

General Anesthesia Procedure General anesthesia works by interrupting nerve signals in your brain and body. It prevents your brain from processing pain and from remembering what happened during your surgery.

What should I expect from general anesthesia?

What to expect from general anesthesia. Many patients report that undergoing general anesthesia is a surreal experience—and practically no one remembers anything between when the medication is administered and waking up in the recovery room. Once the medication hits your bloodstream, the effects will kick in quickly.

What are the side effects of anesthesia after surgery?

You may also experience other side effects after you awaken from anesthesia, such as pain. Your anesthesia care team will ask you about your pain and other side effects. Side effects depend on your individual condition and the type of surgery. Your doctor may give you medications after your procedure to reduce pain and nausea.

How does general anesthesia affect the digestive system?

General anesthesia relaxes the muscles in your digestive tract and airway that keep food and acid from passing from your stomach into your lungs. Always follow your doctor’s instructions about avoiding food and drink before surgery. Fasting is usually necessary starting about six hours before your surgery.

How many people are partially awake during general anesthesia?

Estimates vary, but about 1 or 2 people in every 1,000 may be partially awake during general anesthesia and experience what is called unintended intraoperative awareness.