What will it feel like to wake up from anesthesia?

After your surgery is complete, you’ll be moved to a recovery area, often called the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU), where a team of healthcare professionals will monitor you closely as you wake up from the anesthesia. If you had general anesthesia, you may feel groggy or disoriented at first, and it’s common to experience a bit of confusion or drowsiness. With regional or local anesthesia, you may remain more alert but will still be observed closely as sensation returns.

The nursing staff will regularly check your vital signs, such as heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing, to ensure everything is stabilizing. You might feel cold or shaky as your body readjusts, but blankets and other comforts will be provided to help you relax. Depending on the type of anesthesia you received, you may experience mild side effects such as a sore throat (from the breathing tube used in general anesthesia), nausea, or dizziness, but these typically fade quickly with proper care.

How will my pain be managed after surgery?

Pain management is a key part of your recovery after anesthesia. As the anesthesia wears off, you may start to feel some discomfort or pain, but your healthcare team will have a plan in place to manage it. Depending on the type of surgery and anesthesia you had, this may include oral pain medications, IV medications, or even continued regional anesthesia, like a long-acting nerve block. The team will regularly assess your pain levels and adjust medications as needed to keep you comfortable