1. Understanding Novocaine
Novocaine is a local anesthesia used to block nerve impulses and block pain. Injections usually occur before, during and after various surgical and dental procedures. It causes a temporary loss of sensation in the skin and the surrounding organs.
2. Novocaine Isn't for Everyone
Not everyone can receive Novocaine safely. This is why it is extremely important to tell your doctor if you have a blood clotting condition, eclampsia, liver disease, a previous infection, heart disease, an allergy to novocaine or procaine or if you are pregnant or breast feeding. All of these conditions can cause complications with the use of Novocaine. You should tell your doctor if you are taking medications such as blood thinners, antidepressant medications, medications for high blood pressure, or sulfa drugs. These drugs could have a bad reaction with the Novocaine and can even cause death.
3. Side Effects of Novocaine
Several side effects are associated with Novocaine. These side effects include anxiety, difficulty breathing or sleeping, nausea, vomiting, skin rash or itching, tremors, sweating and irregular heartbeat. You should inform your doctor immediately if you experience any of these side effects.
4. Novocaine can Stop Working
It is possible for Novocaine to stop working during a surgical or dental procedure. This is why it is important to tell your doctor if you start to feel pain while on Novocaine. Novocaine will create numbness to the area of injection, but it is a temporary numbness and it will wear off. However, a doctor can administer another Novocaine injection to help you control the pain of a surgical procedure or dental procedure.
5. After the Procedure
Once your dental or surgical procedure is complete, the Novocaine will maintain the area for a short time period. Do not be alarmed if you do not get the feeling back immediately. Novocaine affects each patient differently. Some may stay numb for a short while, while others may have to wait to regain sensation. If you do not regain sensation, then you should contact your dentist or doctor as soon as possible.
