If someone with ataxia wants to have elective surgery with a general anaesthetic, is that possible?

[klazien]

[HarryB Administrator]

Hi klazien

It is absolutely possible for someone with ataxia to have a general anaesthetic. However it is very important that you have a pre-op assessment, particularly with the anaesthetist, to speak about your health. For example swallowing problems that are common in people with ataxia could be problematic with general anaesthesia. It might be the case that there is an alternative to general anaesthesia that should be explored.

A drawback of someone with ataxia having a general anaesthetic is the recovery period. I say this more from personal than clinical experience. General anaesthetics make anyone feel groggy for a time after having one but I think this feeling is harder to deal with in a person with ataxia. In my experience they can heighten fatigue and have an adverse impact on mobility and balance/co-ordination.

In summary and in answer to your question it is possible for someone with ataxia to have elective surgery and a general anaesthetic but it is necessary that the anaesthetic is carefully considered by you and your doctors.

Harriet

[jurgen]

I ´ve had general anaesthetic twice. But, obviously

doctors were not alarmed because of my recovery period