Malignant hyperthermia

Malignant hyperthermia is a rare, life-threatening reaction to some drugs used during surgery or other procedures. These drugs include medicines to make you unconscious. They also include medicines to help your muscles relax. The reaction can happen during or after surgery.

The first signs are high levels of carbon dioxide in the blood and a fast heart rate. Other severe reactions can also happen. You may have stiff muscles and a very high body temperature. Muscle tissue can break down as well.

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 drugs that caused the reaction. It also includes giving medicines. 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 after the surgery.