Many people fail to inform their physicians the types of herbal supplements they are consuming prior to an operation. They inform their doctors only on what medications they are taking. This vital information of herbal supplements is often left out, as many people do not equate medicines with supplements.
Because of this non-disclosure, many patients actually put themselves at risk during an operation. They may take a longer time than usual to wake up from an anesthesia; some develop fits upon recovery or bleed excessively after a surgery. In Singapore where my sister underwent a major operation last year, she had to undergo a blood-clotting test on the morning of her operation. They made a small incision on her finger and timed how fast or how slow the clotting takes place. If the clotting test fails, then they will call off the operation and schedule for another day.
Remember that many herbal supplements can interfere with the various actions of medications used during surgery and some has blood-thinning properties as well. Do not put yourself under such risk – tell your doctors the type of medications you are currently on as well as herbal and food supplement.
Below is a list of some common herbal supplements and its possible complications.
Aloe Vera – May cause increased peristalsis so it may decrease effectiveness of diuretics given after surgery
Bromelain – May cause bleeding or interact with antibiotics such as amoxicillin or tetracycline
Danshen – May cause bleeding
Dong Quai – May cause bleeding
Echinacea – May interfere with immune functioning, may alter effectiveness of immunosuppressant drugs given after transplant surgery
Ephedra – May cause abnormal heartbeat, extreme high blood pressure and coma if combined with certain antidepressants and anesthesia
Feverfew – May cause bleeding
Garlic – May cause bleeding, may interfere with normal blood clotting
Ginger – May cause bleeding
Ginkgo – May cause bleeding
Ginseng – May cause bleeding, rapid heartbeat, high blood pressure
Goldenseal – May cause or worsen swelling and high blood pressure
Kava – May enhance sedative effects of anesthesia
Licorice (not including licorice candy) – May increase blood pressure
Omega-3 fatty acids – May cause bleeding if taken in doses greater than 3 grams a day
Senna – May cause electrolyte imbalance
St John’s wort – May increase or decrease the effects of some drugs used during and after surgery
Valerian – May prolong the effects of anesthesia
This list is not exhaustive. Remember that the list of medications you need to reveal to your doctor includes all supplements, whether in pills, tablets or as a drink. Some of these supplements may have to be stopped more than 2 weeks prior to surgery. It is recommended that you show your doctor or physician the original container of all the supplements you are taking
