PATIENT INFORMATION
Cold, cough or fever before surgery
A mild cold does not automatically mean an operation must be cancelled, but a recent respiratory infection can matter. This is especially true for children, people with asthma or lung disease, and patients having airway or major surgery.
Why it matters
A recent chest or airway infection can make the airways more sensitive for some weeks. This can increase the chance of coughing, breathing difficulty or low oxygen levels during and after anaesthesia.
Contact the hospital before surgery if you develop
- Fever
- Significant cough or wheeze
- Shortness of breath
- A chest infection
- Vomiting or diarrhoea
- Symptoms of an infectious illness that your hospital asks about
The team can decide whether it is safer to proceed or postpone based on your symptoms and the planned procedure.
What to report
- When the symptoms started
- Whether they are getting better or worse
- Whether you have needed antibiotics or steroid tablets
- For children, whether they are eating, drinking and playing normally
Why not decide at home
A delay can be inconvenient, and some operations are urgent. Contacting the team early gives them time to assess you and reschedule if needed, rather than making the decision on the day.