Brain surgery of any kind is never a simple operation, because it is the most complex organ in the body. After the surgery, you may experience various side effects that linger even a year or more after the procedure.
Most types of brain surgery are performed to correct physical abnormalities in the brain due to injury or disease. Aneurysms, bleeding, blood clots, tumors, swelling, and abscesses are among the most common reasons for having brain surgery. The side effects you may endure will depend on several factors, including what part of the brain was operated on and the extent of the damage that had to be repaired.
What Is It Like to Wake Up from Brain Surgery?
After brain surgery, you will be moved to the hospital’s intensive care unit so that the healthcare team can closely monitor you. When you are waking up, they will check whether your brain is working properly, which includes checking your eyes and asking you to answer questions. They will check for alertness, reflex, pulse, blood pressure, the amount of oxygen in your blood, and your breathing rate.
Your head will be kept in a raised position to help reduce swelling. You may be connected to a ventilator in order to give your brain a chance to recover. Brain surgery usually requires a hospital stay for at least a couple of days, during which you will see your neurosurgeon as well as various nursing and therapy professionals.
One of the side effects is that you may not remember what it was like to awake after brain surgery, and this is normal. You will have access to your neurosurgeon for any questions or concerns you have during your recovery and beyond.
How You May Feel After Brain Surgery
Depending on the type of brain surgery you have, you may experience the following:
- Nausea due to the anesthesia
- A sore throat from the breathing tube
- Swelling and bruising
- Headaches
- Dizziness or confusion
- Fatigue
There can also be other side effects of brain surgery, including issues with speech, balance, and coordination. Some people experience personality changes after having brain surgery. These issues can be addressed with physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy during your recovery and rehabilitation phase.
It’s important to keep in mind that you have a healthcare team that includes your neurosurgeon, nurses, therapists, and other specialists who will take care of you. Discuss any concerns and issues you may have with your neurosurgeon.
Top-Rated Neurosurgeon in Denver and Colorado Springs
For such a complex procedure as brain surgery, be sure to choose a top-rated neurosurgeon. Our surgeons here at Front Range Spine and Neurosurgery are experts in performing brain surgery, and we specialize in advanced microsurgical treatments.
Our neurosurgeons take a compassionate approach with each patient and understand the challenges of living with a brain condition, including the difficulty that often comes with accepting that you need brain surgery. From your very first visit, our neurosurgeons will make sure you do not feel alone, because you’re not – we’re here for you.
To schedule a consultation with an experienced neurosurgeon, contact us today by calling (303) 790-1800 or by filling out our convenient online form. We look forward to serving you.
