Understanding the Risks of Surgery While Ill
When your body is fighting an infection, your immune system is already under stress. Adding the physical trauma and strain of surgery on top of that can compromise your body's ability to heal and recover effectively. The primary risks of proceeding with a procedure while sick include:
- Increased Anesthesia Complications: Anesthesia affects your respiratory system. When you have a cold, flu, or other respiratory infection, your lungs may already be compromised. This can make it difficult for the anesthesiologist to maintain proper oxygen levels during the operation, increasing the risk of respiratory distress.
- Weakened Immune Response: A sick body is not an ideal environment for recovery. A weakened immune system is less effective at preventing and fighting off post-operative infections, which can lead to longer hospital stays and potentially severe complications.
- Delayed Healing: Your body needs energy to mend from surgery. If it's already using its resources to fight an illness, the healing process for your surgical wound can be prolonged and less efficient, leading to a slower and more painful recovery.
- Infection Control: For contagious illnesses like the flu, performing surgery puts the healthcare staff and other patients at risk of contracting the illness. Hospitals are dedicated to preventing the spread of infection, so rescheduling is often necessary for contagious conditions.
Common Illnesses and Their Impact
The type and severity of your illness are major factors in the decision-making process. Some conditions are more likely to cause a delay than others.
Minor Illnesses
For mild symptoms such as a runny nose or a slight sore throat, the impact on your surgery may be minimal. However, you should still inform your surgical team, as they will need to assess the risk based on the specific procedure and your overall health. For example, a scratchy throat might be manageable, but if it evolves into a more severe cough, it could warrant postponement.
Respiratory Infections
Any illness that affects your lungs or breathing, including the common cold, flu, bronchitis, or pneumonia, poses a significant risk. These conditions can interfere with your oxygenation during and after the procedure. Most elective surgeries will be postponed until you are fully recovered, which can be weeks after the initial infection has cleared.
Fevers and Contagious Viruses
A fever is a sign that your body is actively fighting an infection. A high or unexplained fever will almost certainly result in your surgery being delayed. Similarly, highly contagious illnesses like COVID-19 or chickenpox will lead to a postponement to protect staff and other patients.
Gastrointestinal Issues
If you have a stomach bug involving nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, your surgery will likely be rescheduled. This is especially true if you are scheduled for a procedure requiring general anesthesia, as vomiting can create serious complications.
Comparing Elective vs. Emergency Procedures
| Consideration | Elective Surgery (Planned) | Emergency Surgery (Urgent) |
|---|---|---|
| Sickness | Usually leads to postponement to minimize risks. | May proceed despite illness if the surgical risk is lower than the risk of delaying the procedure. |
| Risk-Benefit | The benefit of delaying until healthy often outweighs the inconvenience. | The benefit of immediate surgery often outweighs the increased risks associated with illness. |
| Decision Maker | The medical team (surgeon and anesthesiologist) in consultation with the patient. | The medical team based on a critical assessment of the immediate threat. |
What to Do If You Become Sick Before Surgery
If you start to feel unwell, the most important step is to contact your surgeon's office as soon as possible. Do not wait until the day of the procedure. Be honest and thorough when describing your symptoms. Your medical team will then advise you on whether to proceed, reschedule, or if a pre-operative evaluation is necessary.
Staying Healthy in the Days Before Surgery
To avoid getting sick and potentially delaying your procedure, follow these simple precautions:
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Try to limit time in crowded indoor areas, or wear a mask if necessary.
- Get plenty of rest and eat a nutritious diet to support your immune system.
Conclusion
While delaying a much-needed or highly anticipated surgery can be frustrating, prioritizing your health is essential for a safe procedure and a smooth recovery. Ultimately, the decision of whether you can I still get surgery if I am sick will be made by your healthcare providers based on a careful analysis of the specific circumstances. Always communicate openly and promptly with your medical team to ensure the best outcome.
For a detailed guide on managing colds and other infections before an operation, review resources from reputable medical sources like Verywell Health What to Do if You Have a Cold or Get Sick Before Your Surgery.
