Spinal and Epidural Anesthesia Side Effects and Warnings

Possible Complications

Complications are rare, but no procedure is completely free of risk. If you are planning to have spinal and epidural anesthesia, your doctor will review a list of possible complications, which may include:

• Severe headache or back pain
• Drop in blood pressure
• Nerve damage
• Infection
• Allergic reaction to the anesthetic used

Some factors that may increase the risk of complications include:

• Bleeding disorders
• Prior allergic reactions to anesthetics
• Dehydration
• Immune system disorders

Be sure to discuss these risks with your doctor before the surgery.

Call Your Doctor

After you leave the hospital, contact your doctor if any of the following occurs:

• Signs of infection, including fever and chills
• Persistent or severe headache or back pain
• Dizziness, fainting
• Weakness, numbness, or tingling in your arms or legs
• Loss of bladder or bowel control
• Skin rash
• Difficulty breathing

In case of an emergency, CALL 911.