What are some common side effects post-surgery?

Post-surgery side effects can vary depending on the type of surgery and anesthesia you receive, but there are several common ones most patients experience. You might feel groggy or disoriented as the anesthesia wears off, especially after general or deep sedation. Here are some common side effects you might experience after surgery:

• Grogginess or disorientation: As the anesthesia wears off, feeling groggy or disoriented is normal.
• Nausea and vomiting: Common, especially after general anesthesia
• Sore throat (if a breathing tube was used during surgery)
• 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 after being stationary. 
• Muscle aches or headaches from prolonged positioning during surgery. 

How should I manage minor side effects?

Managing minor post-surgery side effects is usually straightforward with the guidance of your healthcare team. For each of the above-mentioned side effects, the following is a breakdown of how you, along with your healthcare team, can work to manage these side effects:

• Nausea:  
  • Anti-nausea medications may be provided during or after the procedure. At home, continue any prescribed medication and stick to clear fluids like water or broth, gradually introducing light, bland foods like crackers or toast as your stomach settles. Avoid heavy foods until the nausea fully subsides.

• Sore throat:
  • If a breathing tube was used, a sore throat is likely, but your anesthesiologist may offer soothing sprays or lozenges to ease the discomfort while you recover. At home, sipping on warm liquids or cold water, using throat lozenges, or gargling with warm salt water (make sure not to swallow!) can help. In general, the soreness won’t last for more than two days.

• Pain: 
  • Pain at the surgical site is expected, but your healthcare team will give you a personalized pain management plan, which might include over-the-counter pain medicines or a prescription for more severe pain. Applying an ice pack to the affected area for 10-15 minutes can help reduce inflammation and pain. Follow your surgeon’s advice about when and how often to use ice or heat packs.

• Swelling or bruising:
  • Swelling or bruising is common after surgery, and your healthcare provider may recommend icing the area. Apply an ice pack for 10-15 minutes at a time to help minimize swelling and discomfort. You’ll be given instructions on how long to continue icing, and your team will monitor the area for any signs of excessive swelling or infection during follow-ups. 

• Dizziness or lightheadedness:  
  • Dizziness often occurs after surgery, mainly if you’ve been lying down for an extended period or if your body is adjusting to the anesthesia wearing off. Move slowly when leaving bed, and avoid standing up too quickly. Staying hydrated is key, so drink plenty of water. 
  • If you have anemia or other conditions that may cause dizziness, your healthcare team will monitor your blood pressure and hydration levels and provide specific guidance.
• Muscle aches or headaches:  
  • Prolonged positioning can cause muscle aches or stiffness after surgery. Your healthcare team may prescribe medication to ease these aches. Gentle movement and light stretching can also help alleviate stiffness. 
  • For headaches, over-the-counter pain relievers and rest are typically sufficient.