Anesthesia question

Hello Dr.,
Had a hernia repair 12 days ago.  No problems with the operation, no fever, vomiting, regular bowl movements.  I am, however, feeling 'foggy'.  Having some difficulty concentrating, particularly when reading.  Vision is 'fuzzy' sometimes.  Mild headaches off and on.  Not feeling mentally sharp.  Did not have these symptoms before the operation.  I was curious as to whether my system could still be processing the anesthesia or not.  A friend who is an O.R. nurse told me that I could still be working the anesthesia out of my system.  Not sure if she was just trying to make me feel better :).  The operation took about an hour.  I was asleep for approximataly 2hrs 15 mins.
Thanks for any information you could provide.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

Although possible, it would be atypical for the anesthesia to last that long, since many of the agents would have been out of the system by 12 days.  That being said, it may be possible that some remnents can cause the symptoms if there is any underlying disease that causes the drug the stay in the body longer than normal (i.e. liver disease).

If the symptoms continue, one can consider a referral to a neurologist, where imaging studies such as a head CT or MRI can be considered.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
http://www.straightfromthedoc.com

[augustsb]

Sorry - forgot to mention I stopped taking pain medication (cellebrex & percocet) 9 days ago.
Thanks!