Although the side effects related to anesthesia depend on multiple factors, such as the type of anesthesia administered and when the patient last ate, most side effects go away as the anesthetic wears off. The common side effects of anesthesia include headache, dizziness, sore throat, nausea and vomiting, muscle pain, shivering or trembling, and mood or cognitive changes. However, in the case of general anesthesia, which affects the central nervous system, patients may feel drowsy, weak, or tired for a few days after receiving the anesthetic.

Although the risk of serious complications following major surgery and general anesthesia are low, these complications can include heart attack, stroke, brain damage, and death. The risks and complications in patients depend on multiple factors. Some of these factors include age, gender, weight, allergies, history of smoking, alcohol or drug use, and coexisting diseases.