What is a common side effect of nitrous oxide sedation?

Nausea is a common side effect of nitrous oxide sedation. This occurs due to the effects nitrous oxide can have on the gastrointestinal system as well as its impact on various neurotransmitters in the brain. The sensation associated with nitrous oxide can sometimes lead to an upset stomach, making nausea a frequent complaint among patients post-sedation. It’s important for practitioners to monitor patients for these effects and to prepare to manage them if they arise, ensuring patient comfort and safety during and after the use of nitrous oxide.

Other side effects like headache, fever, and fatigue can occur in some contexts, but they are less specifically linked to nitrous oxide sedation compared to nausea. For instance, headaches may emerge due to tension or dehydration rather than the sedation itself. Fever is not a typical response to nitrous oxide and may indicate an unrelated health issue. Fatigue can occur after sedation but is not as directly tied to nitrous oxide as nausea is.