Have you ever had to have an operation? Or has someone in your family had to? Before the operation, you are anesthetized, which means you are put to sleep so that you don't feel any pain. One way to do this is to breathe in a special gas. Sevoflurane is a very important medicinal gas used to relieve pain during surgery and other medical procedures. Let's talk about it in a simple way today.
Simply put, what is Sevoflurane?
Sevoflurane is a colorless, sweet-smelling gas that you inhale. Its main function is to put you into a state of complete unconsciousness, that is, a deep sleep, during surgery. This is called general anesthesia . When you are in this state, you do not feel any pain, and you do not remember anything about the surgery.
This medicine is given in a controlled environment, such as a hospital operating room, by an anaesthetist and his team, who have specialist knowledge in this field. So it is given very safely, with constant monitoring of your condition.
Things you should tell your doctor before taking this medicine:
Before you are given Sevoflurane anesthesia, the anesthesiologist will ask you about your health history. At this time, it is very important to tell us about all your medical conditions without hiding anything . Be sure to tell us about these things in particular.
- Allergy to anesthetics: If you or someone in your family has ever had a severe allergic reaction to anesthetics, especially Malignant Hyperthermia (a dangerous increase in body temperature caused by anesthesia).
- Kidney or liver disease: If you have any kidney or liver disease.
- Neuromuscular diseases: If you have diseases related to nerves and muscles, such as Duchenne muscular dystrophy.
- Seizures: If you have a condition like seizures or convulsions.
- Other allergies: Tell us about any allergies you have to any other medicine, food, or dye, not just to Sevoflurane.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: You should also inform your doctor if you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
Based on the information you provide, the doctor will be able to choose the safest and most appropriate anesthesia method for you.
Can there be problems with other medications?
Yes, absolutely. Some medications can interact with Sevoflurane and cause unwanted effects. Therefore, tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking. This includes prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, herbal products, and vitamins (dietary supplements).
Be especially careful about things like:
- Alcohol and illegal drugs.
- Narcotic medicines.
- Some medications for mental illness (for example, MAOIs ).
- St. John's wort , a herbal product.
- Neuromuscular blockers are medications used to relax muscles during surgery.
- Medicines such as Isoniazid (INH), which is given for tuberculosis.
Once you give the doctor a complete list, he will take the necessary steps.
Side effects and things we need to be careful about
Although Sevoflurane is a very safe drug, like any medicine, there is a possibility of minor or serious side effects. You have nothing to worry about as you will be constantly monitored by the medical team in the operating room and in the ward afterwards. If any problems arise, they will provide the necessary treatment right away.
Below are possible side effects and what to do if you notice them.
| Side effect | Description and what to do |
|---|---|
| Serious symptoms that should be reported to the medical team immediately | |
| Severe allergies | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips or tongue. |
| Difficulty breathing | Slowed breathing, difficulty or shortness of breath. |
| Changes in heart rate | Fast or irregular heartbeat. |
| Effects on the liver | Symptoms such as yellowing of the eyes or skin (jaundice), dark urine, pain in the upper right side of the stomach, and fever. |
| Increased body temperature | Excessive increase in body temperature without reason. |
| Seizures | Sudden fainting or loss of consciousness. |
| Things that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Nausea and vomiting | This is a common condition after anesthesia. There are treatments available if needed. |
| Shivering and feeling cold | This can occur when body temperature returns to normal. |
| Drowsiness | It is normal to feel sleepy for a few hours after anesthesia. |
| Slight cough | It can be caused by a minor injury to the throat while breathing. |
| Restlessness | Children, especially, may appear restless when waking up from anesthesia. |
What happens after anesthesia?
After the surgery is complete, you will gradually regain consciousness as soon as the Sevoflurane is stopped.
- Drowsiness and dizziness: It is normal for you to feel drowsy and somewhat dizzy for a few hours after anesthesia. Therefore, avoid risky activities such as driving or operating machinery until your doctor tells you to.
- Get up slowly: When getting out of bed or from a sitting position, do it slowly. Getting up suddenly can cause dizziness and fall.
- No alcohol: Avoid alcohol completely for a few days after anesthesia. It can interfere with the effects of the medication.
Since this medicine is given in a hospital, you don't have to worry about missing a dose or taking an overdose. The medical team will take care of everything. If there is an emergency, they will be ready. They will also not let you take this medicine home.
Take-Home Message
- Sevoflurane is a very common and safe anesthetic gas used to relieve pain during surgery.
- Before anesthesia, tell your doctor about all your medical conditions and all medications you are taking (including traditional medicines).
- It is normal to feel drowsy and dizzy after anesthesia. Follow your doctor's instructions.
- If you notice any serious side effects such as yellowing of the skin, difficulty breathing, or high fever, notify the hospital staff immediately.
- All of this happens under strict medical supervision, so don't be afraid. They are always concerned about your safety.
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