Expert: Dr Ian Jackson - please note UK based - 2/15/2010

Question
My upcoming operation is a short, under one hour, superficial operation (testicular prosthesis) under general anesthesia. I have a minor stuffy nose, and a minor ticklish cough just starting today. Surgery is in three days.
Under what conditions will a surgeon decide not to operate,
specifically, which cold SYMPTOMS might be a problem: stuffy nose, cough, minor or major cough, sore throat, etc.??
Can you take cold medication for symptoms before surgery (right now I am not)?

Answer
Hi there
If you have a temperature or a blocked runny nose or a sore throat on the day of surgery then it is likely you will be cancelled. You may take cold medication to help the symptoms - that is not a problem.
I hope your symptoms settle and all goes well.
Dr Ian Jackson