Background Information
Coffee has become an integral part of our everyday lives. For many of us, it helps to kick-start our mornings and keep us going throughout the day. But for those about to go through a general anaesthetic, can coffee still be consumed?
The effects of general anaesthesia on the body can sometimes be serious, so it is critical that it is administered safely and accurately. Coffee is known to increase alertness, concentration, and heart rate, and doctors will typically ask if you have consumed coffee or any other stimulants before the procedure. However, the extent to which coffee affects your general anaesthetic is often misunderstood.
Caffeine Effects on the Body
When coffee is consumed, caffeine is absorbed into the bloodstream, where it can be found up to twelve hours later. This results in a stimulant effect where the heart rate is increased and blood vessels are dilated. Caffeine has also been known to increase blood pressure, affect breathing, and change the acidity of the stomach. As general anaesthesia involves a drug that is depressant in nature and slows the functioning of the body, this could lead to a dangerous interaction if consumed together.
Moreover, researchers suggest that caffeine can reduce the effects of certain drugs used in general anaesthesia, leading to a longer period between administering the drugs and them taking effect. This could result in the patient being under general anaesthesia for longer than intended and potentially cause harm.
Guidance from Experts
Doctors and anaesthesiologists recommend not to drink coffee before a general anaesthetic. The Royal College of Anaesthetists suggest that “patients should avoid all stimulants including caffeine, energy drinks and cigarettes four to eight hours before general anaesthesia as they may affect blood pressure, heart rate and breathing during the procedure.”
The American Society of Anesthesiologists recommends that patients avoid coffee and other stimulants for 24 hours before anaesthesia, plus the patient should refrain from eating or drinking anything except water for at least 8 hours.
Consumption of Coffee Before the Operation
Knowing the effects that coffee can have on the body, it is important that patients are aware of the risks associated with drinking coffee before a general anaesthetic, as this can have adverse effects if consumed. The body can be affected by caffeine even 12 hours after consuming it, so it is recommended to not drink coffee or other caffeinated drinks in the 12 hours running up to the anaesthetic.
Before drinking coffee before a general anaesthetic, patients should speak with the anaesthetist beforehand to determine if it is safe. The anaesthetist may change the drugs they use to prevent any adverse drug interactions. Patients should also consider that it could result in the procedure lasting longer due to the effects of caffeine on drugs used in general anaesthesia.
Practical Implications
A vital consideration when preparing for a general anaesthetic is to abstain from drinking coffee or any other stimulants. The effects of general anaesthesia can be serious and the patient should take the time to research and bring up any questions with their anaesthetist if necessary.
Before the operation, patients should ensure that the anaesthetist is aware that they have consumed any stimulants, or food and drink recently to ensure that it does not have an effect on the procedure.
The American Society of Anesthesiologists recommend avoiding any stimulants for at least 24 hours before the anaesthetic; it is important to keep this in mind when preparing for the procedure.
Stress Management Before the Operation
Patients should try to manage the stress associated with the procedure and the day before, so they are adequately prepared. To help with this, practice a few relaxation methods to reduce anxiety. For instance, controlled breathing and guided visualisations are known to reduce stress and help with relaxation.
Exercising regularly can help to reduce stress levels and improve overall wellbeing. Aim to do some type of activity daily, such as yoga or walking, to help you relax and prepare for the general anaesthetic.
Patients could also reach out to a counsellor or mental health professional to discuss and manage their feelings of anxiety associated with the procedure.
Changing Drug Regimen
If a person has consumed coffee or any other stimulants before a general anaesthetic, the anaesthetist might alter the drug regimen when administering the anaesthetic.
Different drugs can be used to counter different effects of general anaesthesia, so the anaesthetist might alter the dosage or use a different combination of drugs to ensure the anaesthesia is effective in all situations. The anaesthetist may also use alternative techniques such as warming packs, for example, to facilitate the anaesthesia.
By speaking to their anaesthetist before the procedure, the patient can ensure that the best drug regimen is employed depending on the stimulant they have consumed.
Ensuring the Safety of the Patient
Anaesthesiologists take great care to ensure the safety of patients before and during a general anaesthetic. Before the procedure, the anaesthetist may ask the patient to complete a questionnaire regarding what they have consumed, in order to assess the safety of the procedure.
When answering questions, the patient should remain honest and open with the anaesthetist. It is important to disclose any stimulants or medications that have been taken leading up to the anaesthetic, as it can have an effect on the drugs used in the procedure.
Informed Decision Making
Before the procedure, it is important for the patient to discuss the risks associated with drinking coffee before a general anaesthetic with their anaesthetist. It is also important for the patient to create a plan with their anaesthetist for before, during and after the procedure.
The patient should also discuss with their anaesthetist the effects of caffeine and the alternative drugs they might need to administer during the procedure. It is also important to keep in mind that the effects of caffeine may take up to 12 hours to wear off, so patients should be mindful of when they consume coffee before a general anaesthetic.
Use of Medication
Based on the patient’s answers to the questionnaire, the anaesthetist may decide to administer certain drugs to reduce the risk of any potential adverse effect on the patient. For example, if the patient has had coffee before the procedure, the anaesthetist may administer a benzodiazepine sedative that has a “slowing” effect on the body. This will counteract the stimulating effects of caffeine and can help to keep the patient safe during the procedure.
Dietary Changes
Patients should also consider changing their dietary habits before the procedure. If a healthy, balanced diet is already being followed, then this will not be necessary. However, if a person has been following an unhealthy diet, they should make an effort to follow a healthier diet in the days leading up to the general anaesthetic.
Banning caffeine from their diet can be beneficial, as it will reduce the chances of experiencing any adverse effects from its interaction with the anaesthetic. Consuming fresh fruits and vegetables can also help to boost the immune system, as well as adding foods rich in proteins, complex carbohydrates, and fibre to ensure that the body is adequately nourished for the procedure.
Managing Cravings
Drinking coffee or any other caffeinated beverage day after day can cause addiction and withdrawal symptoms in users. Therefore, if someone is trying to cut out coffee, it is important that they are mindful of their cravings for it.
If experiencing cravings, the patient could instead replace them with healthier alternatives such as herbal tea or flavoured water, or treating themselves to a mini reward like a pinch of dark chocolate. The patient should also practice mindful eating where they eat slowly, savour every bite and be aware of their physical and emotional cues related to eating.
They should also make sure they stay hydrated and get enough rest to manage the cravings associated with not drinking coffee.
