Suppose you have ever been to the hospital for a surgical procedure (or any procedure requiring anesthesia). In that case, you know that you must stop eating and drinking several hours before you report to the hospital in the morning. 

But what about alcohol? Do you need to refrain from drinking alcohol for longer than the recommended 8 hours of fasting? 

And why? What about alcohol makes it more risky to drink leading up to surgery?

Why do you need to fast before surgery? 

There are many researched-based reasons why surgeons recommend and require fasting before surgery, including:

• Preventing aspiration, where the stomach contents are regurgitated and then inhaled into the lungs — fasting helps keep this from occurring as there are no contents in the stomach to regurgitate
• Reducing the risk of postoperative nausea and vomiting, as anesthesia and some surgical procedures may trigger the body’s vomiting response
• Improve surgical conditions, as some surgeries can be unnecessarily complicated if there are food contents in the gut
• Helps patients mentally prepare for the upcoming procedure
• Can help with obtaining more precise diagnostic results, as food and drink can sometimes inhibit accuracy if samples are being obtained, sent out, etc

When it comes to alcohol, it is essential to abstain as the effects of alcohol can take hours to leave the body, running the risk of complicating the procedure/recovery process and causing harm to the patient. 

What are the side effects of drinking alcohol?

Alcohol, like all substances, impacts brain chemistry and causes the consumer to experience side effects, whether or not they are aware of the presence of these effects. Even a tiny amount of alcohol can trigger temporary changes. 

It also takes time for alcohol to flush out of the system; each side effect lasts for specific amounts of time and may take additional time to resolve and work through the body, making it increasingly necessary to follow fasting instructions. 

The side effects of alcohol and their duration are as follows: 

1. Impaired judgment and coordination — Because alcohol affects the brain’s ability to process information and make decisions, poor judgment and reduced motor coordination often occur. These effects can begin within 30 minutes of consumption and may last for several hours, typically resolving 6 to 12 hours after drinking.

3. Drowsiness and fatigue — Alcohol is a depressant, which can lead to feelings of drowsiness, fatigue or sedation. These effects can start within 30 minutes of consumption and may last up to 8 hours, depending on one’s metabolism and the amount consumed.

4. GI upset — Excessive alcohol intake can irritate the stomach lining, leading to nausea and vomiting. Nausea can start within an hour of drinking and may last for several hours, while vomiting may occur shortly after drinking and generally subsides within a few hours.

5. Hangover symptoms — After the effects of alcohol wear off, individuals may experience hangover symptoms, which can include headache, dehydration and overall feelings of illness. Hangover symptoms typically begin to manifest several hours after drinking has stopped and can last from 8 to 24 hours, depending on the individual’s drinking habits.

In order to prevent lasting effects from interfering with the surgical process, stopping alcohol consumption at least one day before the procedure is beneficial. 

However, it is crucial to speak with your surgeon about their personal preferences and recommendations regarding alcohol when preparing for the operation. 

When should alcohol consumption before surgery stop?

Not only should alcohol consumption stop before surgery so that the side effects can wear off, but alcohol can pose some serious anesthetic complications, including:

• Impaired liver function: The liver is vital in metabolizing anesthetics and other medications used during surgery. Alcohol consumption can impair liver function, making it less effective at processing these substances, potentially leading to complications
• Increased risk of bleeding: Alcohol can thin the blood, increasing the risk of excessive bleeding during and after surgery, which can interfere with a smooth surgical procedure and prolong recovery time
• Compromised immunity: Regular alcohol intake can weaken the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infections
• Dehydration and electrolyte imbalance: Alcohol is a diuretic, meaning it increases urine production and can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Proper hydration and electrolyte levels are crucial for maintaining physiological stability during surgery
• Interference with anesthesia: Alcohol can interact with anesthetic agents by creating adverse reactions or requiring higher doses of anesthesia, which can be risky

If you consume alcohol regularly, especially in large amounts, take the time to talk with your doctor about safely detoxing from alcohol before your procedure.

Are you considering alcohol detox treatment or rehabilitation?

If you need alcohol detox or any treatment for alcohol abuse, Silver Ridge Recovery is here to help. 

Contact us anytime to learn about our programs by calling 855-945-7788 or filling out an online contact form to contact a staff member today.