What Happens If You Consume Alcohol Prior to Having a Procedure?
Healthline recently looked at whether consuming alcohol prior to surgery could have a negative impact on the procedure. According to their article, “Why You Absolutely Shouldn’t Drink Alcohol Before Surgery” drinking a beer or going out for cocktails before a procedure simply isn’t worth the risk. The article suggests abstaining from alcohol for at least 48 hours before your surgery.
Because your liver is taxed with detoxifying your body, consuming alcohol prior to surgery may prevent it from doing its job during surgery if it is still trying to get rid of other toxins. For instance, alcohol may prevent your liver from metabolizing the anesthesia used to put you under during your procedure. This could have deadly consequences, including an increased “risk of aspiration (inhaling vomit).”
Other problems that could arise from drinking too much prior to surgery include an increased risk of bleeding, interference with crucial medications, infection, and delayed healing. It simply is not worth the risk to your health and your body. If you are going into surgery, go sober. Stop drinking at least 48 hours prior to your scheduled procedure.
For people who are unable to stop drinking on their own, there are treatment options. You should also inform your physician or surgeon about your alcohol use so that they can treat you accordingly.
Consuming excess amounts of alcohol can not only have dire consequences for your health and well-being, but it can also result in life-changing events such as a criminal charge for driving under the influence. Monitoring your alcohol consumption may be key to preventing these problems. 24-hour alcohol monitoring through devices like a SCRAM Continuous Alcohol Monitoring bracelet can hold you accountable for your sobriety and ensure that you are abstaining from alcohol.