Expert: Dr Ian Jackson - please note UK based - 9/3/2009

Question
QUESTION: I am due to have a polyp removed from my womb next week but have recently discussed with my GP; firstly that I may have mild asthma and secondly nasal polyps (which are not obvious upon the GPs examination).  If you could confirm if this could possibly put me at a higher risk, as the operation will be done under general anaesthesia, or not, I would be grateful.  Thanking you in anticipation.

ANSWER: Hi Lynda
Neither problem is an issue for modern anaesthesia. Just let the anaesthetist know about your fears when you see them - I'm sure they will put your mind at rest.
Kind regards
Dr Ian Jackson

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Further to my previous question - I had the procedure done yesterday but later on in the afternoon started to get hoarseness, then later severe heartburn, and discovered last night Ive got oral thrush, and I am fairly sure, also vaginal thrush. Is this fairly common and anything to be concerned about? Is it possible I caught it from the instruments used? I have had general anaesthetic before but the only side effect was a sore throat. I will be seeing my GP later about this to get some medication etc but I would be grateful if you advise on this. Thanks once again for your previous reply.

Answer
Glad op went OK but sorry to hear about your problem.
Thrush can often start after you have been given antibiotics - so if you were given any that might have contributed.
Sometimes anaesthetists use a drug that dries up the secretions in your mouth - this can also make you more susceptible to oral thrush as saliva is a good protection against it.
Very very very unlikely that the intruments had anything to do with this - also it is all a bit quick i.e. from morning procedure to finding thrush at night.
Sorry can't help much more than that.
Kind regards
Dr Ian Jackson