Understanding Potential Side Effects After Surgery

It's normal to experience some side effects after surgery. This page explains common issues and what to expect. Your care team will discuss these with you, but this information can help you feel more prepared.

Common Side Effects & What to Do

Here's a breakdown of potential side effects, what causes them, and how to manage them.

1. Hallucinations (Less Common)

• What it is: Some patients may experience hallucinations, which are seeing or hearing things that aren't real. This is sometimes linked to the use of ketamine, a medication sometimes used in patients with severe burns or other serious injuries.
• What to do: If you experience hallucinations, tell your care team immediately. They can assess the situation and adjust your medication if necessary.
• Important Note: Hallucinations are usually temporary and resolve on their own.

2. Backache & Joint Pain

• What it is: You might feel pain in your back or joints after surgery. This is often due to muscle stiffness and the positions you were in during the procedure.
• What to do: Rest, gentle movement, mild pain relievers (as directed by your care team), and warmth can help.
• Who's at higher risk: People with arthritis or those undergoing longer procedures.

3. Hoarseness

• What it is: A sore throat and hoarseness can occur if a breathing tube (tracheal intubation) was needed during surgery.
• What to do: This is usually temporary. Warm liquids, throat lozenges, and gargling with warm salt water can provide relief.
• Persistent Hoarseness: If hoarseness persists, it could be related to nerve damage. Report this to your care team.

4. Muscle Pains (Myalgia)

• What it is: Many patients experience muscle pain the day after surgery, particularly in the upper body, chest, and back. It can feel like the beginning of the flu.
• What to do: Rest and mild pain relievers are usually effective.
• Cause: Often related to the use of suxamethonium (a muscle relaxant). This medication is used when rapid muscle relaxation is needed, such as in emergencies or when a patient is at risk of vomiting.
• Who's at higher risk: Younger patients undergoing minor procedures who go home the same day.

5. Sore Throat & Tongue Discomfort

• What it is: A sore throat is common after surgery, especially if a breathing tube was used. The tongue may also be sore or bruised.
• What to do: Warm liquids, throat lozenges, gargling with warm salt water, and mild pain relievers can help.
• Cause: Can be related to the breathing tube, the laryngoscope (used to insert the tube), or pressure on the tongue.

General Post-Surgery Side Effects

Here's a list of common side effects and how to manage them.

• Grogginess or Disorientation: This is normal as the anesthesia wears off.
• Nausea and Vomiting: Common, especially after general anesthesia.
• Pain or Discomfort: Typically at the surgical site.
• Swelling or Bruising: Around the area of surgery.
• Dizziness or Lightheadedness: Especially when standing up or moving around.
• Muscle Aches or Headaches: From prolonged positioning during surgery.

Managing Minor Side Effects: A Detailed Guide

Here's a more detailed breakdown of how to manage specific side effects.

• Nausea: Anti-nausea medications may be provided. Stick to clear fluids and light, bland foods.
• Sore Throat: Soothing sprays or lozenges can ease discomfort. Warm liquids, cold water, and gargling with salt water can help.
• Pain: Follow your surgeon’s pain management plan. Ice packs can reduce inflammation.
• Swelling or Bruising: Ice packs for 10-15 minutes at a time.
• Dizziness or Lightheadedness: Move slowly, stay hydrated.
• Muscle Aches or Headaches: Gentle movement, light stretching, over-the-counter pain relievers.

Important: Always discuss any concerns or persistent symptoms with your healthcare team.