What are the common side effects of anesthesia that patients should be aware of?

Drowsiness, nausea, sore throat, and muscle aches are indeed common side effects that patients may experience after anesthesia. Drowsiness is a result of the sedative effects of anesthetics, which can linger even after the procedure is complete. Nausea is particularly common and can be a side effect of the medications used during anesthesia, especially in patients who are sensitive to them. A sore throat can occur, particularly after intubation, where a breathing tube is placed in the throat to maintain the airway during surgery. Muscle aches are often due to the positioning during the surgical procedure or from the anesthesia itself. Understanding these side effects helps patients prepare for what to expect during their recovery and allows for better communication with the healthcare team regarding post-operative care.