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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Extreme Sleepiness In An Elderly Lady Post A Back Surgery?

My mother-in-law had back surgery on Tuesday. She has been sleeping a lot and we are wondering if the anesthetic is still in her system. She is 80 years old. She is also been vomiting but they have taken her off Flexeril. She is been in chronic back pain for almost a year. She had L4 and 5 compressed nerves repaired. Could you help us by answering our question of how long is anesthetic in your system? Thank you for responding.
Mon, 31 Dec 2018
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General Surgeon,  's  Response
Hello,

In my opinion, there is no reason to be worried and usually, this is just temporary and self-limiting. Excessive daytime sleepiness is common issues and should be considered in this case.

Excessive daytime sleepiness may be caused by conditions such as sleep deprivation, metabolic disturbances, sleep apnoea, medications, neurological disorders such as seizures and psychiatric disorders such as depression.

If emotional causes are ruled out then some tests can be done to confirm the diagnosis.

In my opinion, polysomnography (sleep study), is one of the necessary examinations in order to achieve a correct diagnosis. Please discuss with primary care Doctor about these issues.

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Take care

Regards,
Dr Ivan R. Rommstein, General Surgeon
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What Causes Extreme Sleepiness In An Elderly Lady Post A Back Surgery?

Hello, In my opinion, there is no reason to be worried and usually, this is just temporary and self-limiting. Excessive daytime sleepiness is common issues and should be considered in this case. Excessive daytime sleepiness may be caused by conditions such as sleep deprivation, metabolic disturbances, sleep apnoea, medications, neurological disorders such as seizures and psychiatric disorders such as depression. If emotional causes are ruled out then some tests can be done to confirm the diagnosis. In my opinion, polysomnography (sleep study), is one of the necessary examinations in order to achieve a correct diagnosis. Please discuss with primary care Doctor about these issues. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further. Take care Regards, Dr Ivan R. Rommstein, General Surgeon