What are the consequences of “awareness during general anesthesia”?
The consequences of awareness during general anesthesia vary from person to person. The continuum of consequences may be minor such as no psychological consequences or negative effects, to some level of psychological or emotional stress, anxiety, or effects, to a severe level of psychological or emotional injury. Some individuals are even diagnosed with posttraumatic stress disorder. The duration of the mental trauma can be from a few days, or months, to years. Regardless of how much or little, or the length of time for psychological consequences, a person should talk with a health provider about his/her concerns.