Malignant hyperthermia is a rare, life-threatening reaction to some medicines used during a procedure or surgery. These medicines may be used to make you unconscious. They also may help your muscles relax. The reaction can happen during or after a procedure or surgery.
What causes it?
It's triggered by certain medicines that are used during general anesthesia. It's most likely to happen to people who have a rare problem with anesthesia that may be passed down in families.
What are the symptoms?
The first signs usually start during or right after surgery. They include fast breathing, a fast heart rate, and muscle spasms. The anesthesia provider will check for high levels of carbon dioxide in the blood. You may have stiff muscles and a very high body temperature. Muscle tissue can break down as well.
How is it treated?
Doctors and nurses who give anesthesia watch closely for the first signs of the condition. They can treat it right away.
Treatment includes stopping the medicines that caused the reaction. It also includes giving other medicines to treat your symptoms. Your body may also be cooled down. Usually the surgery has to be stopped. You may need to stay in the hospital for a few days. Your doctor will talk with you about your follow-up care.
What increases your risk?
Malignant hyperthermia is more likely if you or a family member has had it before. Your risk is higher if you have a disease that affects the muscles. You can have a test to find out if you're at risk.
What can you do if you think it might happen to you?
If you think you might be at risk, tell your surgeon and anesthesia provider before surgery. They can use different medicines to make you unconscious. They can also prepare to treat you right away during or after surgery if needed.
Wear a medical ID bracelet that says you are at risk for this condition. If you need emergency care, the bracelet will inform those who treat you. And talk with your family members. They might be at risk for this condition too. The Malignant Hyperthermia Association of the United States (MHAUS) at www.mhaus.org may be a helpful resource for families.
Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and contact your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.
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Clinical Review Board All WebMD Ignite education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
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The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.
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