What are possible side effects of anesthesia in children?

Although anesthetics can provide complete pain relief and loss of consciousness during an operation, they do occasionally have side effects in both adults and children. They tend to decrease breathing, heart action and blood pressure. The anesthesiologist is specially trained to ensure that these anesthetic effects are minimized. Different children may awaken from anesthesia at differing rates. Some children may be fully alert upon arriving in the recovery room. Others may be groggy for hours after surgery. If you have any concerns about your child's recovery, you should feel free to ask your anesthesiologist. Although operations are much safer these days, they still produce stress on the body and may cause your child to have a "sick" feeling. Nausea and vomiting are occasional side effects after surgery and anesthesia.