Medical conditions that may increase the risks of anesthesia

Some medical conditions may increase your risk of complications when you are receiving anesthesia. These include:

• Heart and cardiovascular problems such as angina, a previous heart attack, heart failure, high blood pressure (hypertension), or valvular heart disease.
• Neurological problems such as a stroke or seizures.
• Lung problems such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPD).
• Airway abnormalities.
• Obesity.

Other conditions that may also require special consideration include:

• Pregnancy.
• A cough or respiratory infection.
• Smoking.
• Diabetes.
• Kidney problems.
• Liver disease.
• Thyroid disease.
• Cancer.
• Arthritis or systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
• Alcohol or drug abuse.

Certain conditions, such as digestive system problems, increase your risk of nausea and vomiting, which in turn can increase your risk of aspiration. Aspiration occurs when an object or liquid is inhaled into the respiratory tract. Conditions that increase your risk of nausea and vomiting include:

• Hiatal hernia.
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
• Cancer.
• Prior surgery on the esophagus or stomach.

Your anesthesia specialists will identify any conditions you have that could affect your anesthesia care. They will closely monitor your vital body functions to reduce potential complications.