Sedation temporarily affects your coordination and reasoning skills, so you must not drive, drink alcohol, operate machinery, make important decisions or sign legal documents for 24 hours afterwards.
After 24 hours, if you are in any doubt about your ability to drive, please contact your motor insurer so you are aware of their recommendations, and always follow your surgeon’s advice.
What are the risks of sedation?
Sedation is frequently used and generally safe. However, for you to make an informed decision and give your consent, you need to be aware of the possible side effects and the risk of complications.
Side effects of sedation vary, depending on which sedative is used. After sedation you may get a headache, feel sick or vomit. You may experience a drop in blood pressure or temporary loss of muscle control, causing limb weakness. You may also feel confused, may not remember the operation and may be tired or light-headed the following day. All of these symptoms are usually short lived and go within 24 to 48 hours.
Complications of sedation include:
Toxic reactions
Sign of a toxic reaction include tingling lips, ringing in the ears, drowsiness and slurred speech. Rarely this can lead to an arrhythmia (a disturbance of the normal heartbeat) and heart attack.
Low oxygen levels in the blood
This can cause breathless and confusion.
Complication of sedation include:
Signs of a toxic reaction include tingling lips, ringing in the ears, drowsiness and slurred speech. Rarely this can lead to and arrhythmia ( a disturbance of the normal heartbeat) and heart attack.
- Low oxygen levels in the blood
This can cause breathlessness and confusion.