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Had Sterotatic Breast Biopsy. Used Lidocaine. Feel Ears Ringing, Dizzy And Nauseated. Disoriented, Sweating, Clammy, And Vomited. Allergic Reaction?

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Posted on Fri, 28 Jun 2013
Question: I had a sterotatic breast biopsy done yesterday, (they took 2 biopsies from different areas) and used 20 cc overall of Lidocaine for the procedure. About 4 hours after the procedure, I started feeling absolutely awful. My ears starting ringing, very dizzy, nauseated and passed out. My husband said my head went straight back, my coloring was totally white, eyes open and was gurgling. He got my head up and starting screaming my name until I came too. I was totally disoriented, sweating, clammy, still white and then vomited violently. I am wondering if I am allergic now to Lidocaine or if it was too much. I weigh 125 lbs.
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Answered by Dr. Dr. Ivan Romich (24 minutes later)
Hi and welcome to XXXXXXX

Thank you for your query.

It sounds like it could be allergic reaction to lidocain, despite the fact that this reaction is usually seen immediately after lidocain injection. But in some cases there can be later absorption of anashetic and then it would cause symptoms several hours after the procedure.
This is moderate dose of lidocain and up to 50cc can be used without heart side effects.
The other cause can be panic attack,even if you dont consider it is. There can be autonomic nerve acivation due to anxiety, pain or fear of malignancy.

In every case, I think it wont happen again,and if does, you should do extensive work up to rule out some heart or neurologic disorders.
Take enough fluids,eat easier food next few days and rest.
I am sure you will feel better. Also, inform your doctor next time about this reaction and some other anaesthetics should be used.

Wish you good health. If you have any questions I ll be glad to help.Regards
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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj
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Answered by
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Dr. Dr. Ivan Romich

General Surgeon

Practicing since :2008

Answered : 13886 Questions

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Had Sterotatic Breast Biopsy. Used Lidocaine. Feel Ears Ringing, Dizzy And Nauseated. Disoriented, Sweating, Clammy, And Vomited. Allergic Reaction?

Hi and welcome to XXXXXXX

Thank you for your query.

It sounds like it could be allergic reaction to lidocain, despite the fact that this reaction is usually seen immediately after lidocain injection. But in some cases there can be later absorption of anashetic and then it would cause symptoms several hours after the procedure.
This is moderate dose of lidocain and up to 50cc can be used without heart side effects.
The other cause can be panic attack,even if you dont consider it is. There can be autonomic nerve acivation due to anxiety, pain or fear of malignancy.

In every case, I think it wont happen again,and if does, you should do extensive work up to rule out some heart or neurologic disorders.
Take enough fluids,eat easier food next few days and rest.
I am sure you will feel better. Also, inform your doctor next time about this reaction and some other anaesthetics should be used.

Wish you good health. If you have any questions I ll be glad to help.Regards