How long after a craniotomy before drowsiness subsides

Feb 25, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Lei
Introduction
If the craniotomy is successful, drowsiness may gradually decrease within one week after surgery. If discomfort occurs after surgery, the recovery period may need to be extended, and it may generally take 3-4 weeks before drowsiness subsides. If excessive drowsiness or other unusual symptoms persist for a prolonged period after surgery, medical attention should be sought promptly. During the recovery period, patients should ensure adequate rest and maintain healthy lifestyle habits.

  If the craniotomy is performed successfully, drowsiness may gradually decrease within one week after surgery. If discomfort occurs postoperatively, the recovery period may need to be extended, and it generally might take 3-4 weeks before drowsiness subsides. If prolonged abnormal drowsiness or other discomfort is experienced after surgery, timely medical attention should be sought. Detailed analysis is as follows:

  If the craniotomy is performed successfully and the patient does not experience any complications such as cerebral edema, infection, or neurological dysfunction, drowsiness may gradually decrease within one week following surgery. Typically, in the early postoperative phase, patients may feel fatigue and drowsiness due to the effects of anesthetic agents and the body's natural response to surgery. As the body gradually adjusts and recovers, this drowsiness will slowly diminish.

  After surgery, brain tissue may be damaged due to the surgical procedure, leading to cerebral edema. Increased intracranial pressure caused by cerebral edema can compress arousal centers such as the thalamus and brainstem, resulting in drowsiness. Since the resolution of cerebral edema usually takes some time, the drowsy state may persist for 3-4 weeks.

  During the recovery period, patients should ensure adequate rest and maintain healthy lifestyle habits, such as regular sleep patterns and a balanced diet, to promote a faster recovery.

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