Smoking, vaping and anaesthesia

If you smoke or vape, stop as early as you can before your procedure and do not smoke or vape on the day. Even a short break helps your blood carry oxygen, and a longer break gives your lungs and wounds more time to recover. Tell your anaesthetist what you smoke or vape, and how much.

Why smoking matters for anaesthesia

Smoking affects the parts of your body your anaesthetist works hardest to protect during a procedure: your breathing, your heart and your circulation.

• Less oxygen. Cigarette smoke contains carbon monoxide, which takes the place of oxygen in your blood.
• Irritable airways. Smoke makes your airways more sensitive and produces more mucus, which can lead to coughing or breathing problems during and after an anaesthetic, and to chest infections afterwards.
• Slower healing. Nicotine narrows blood vessels, which can slow wound healing and increase the chance of wound problems.

When to stop

Any time without smoking helps.

• Stopping in the days before lets carbon monoxide clear from your blood, so more of it can carry oxygen.
• Stopping several weeks before gives your airways time to settle and your circulation time to improve, which helps with breathing and healing.
• On the day of your procedure, do not smoke or vape at all.

Ask your anaesthetist or GP what is realistic before your procedure date. Stopping for good brings the greatest health benefit, and a procedure can be a good time to start.

Vaping

ANZCA’s guideline on preparing for anaesthesia covers vaping as well as smoking. Vapes can contain nicotine even when the label says they do not, and vaping can irritate the airways. Tell your anaesthetist if you vape, including how often and what you use, and follow their advice about stopping before your procedure.

Cannabis and other substances

Please tell your anaesthetist if you smoke or vape cannabis or use other substances. This information is confidential. It matters because some substances change how your body responds to anaesthetic medicines and pain relief.

Children and second-hand smoke

Children who breathe in other people’s smoke are more likely to have breathing problems during an anaesthetic. If your child is having a procedure, keep their home and car smoke-free, especially in the weeks beforehand.

Getting help to stop

You do not have to do it alone.

• Talk to your GP or pharmacist about stopping, and about whether nicotine replacement products are suitable for you.
• Call Quitline on 13 7848 for free advice and support.
• Tell your anaesthetist if you are finding it hard. They can help you plan for the day of your procedure.

In an emergency, call 000. This information is general and does not replace advice from your treating practitioner.