During an episode of malignant hyperthermia, wrapping the patient in a cooling blanket can help reduce fever and the risk of serious complications. Drugs such as dantrolene, lidocaine, or a beta-blocker drug can help with heart rhythm problems.

Fluids given by through a vein and by mouth, as well as certain medications, are essential for maintaining kidney function during an acute episode.

Malignant Hyperthermia Association of the United States - www.mhaus.org

Repeated episodes or untreated episodes can cause kidney failure. Untreated episodes can be fatal.

• Breakdown of muscle tissue (rhabdomyolysis)
• Weak muscles (myopathy) or muscular dystrophy
• Kidney failure
• Metabolic acidosis
• Death

Notify both the surgeon and anesthesiologist before having any surgery if:

• You know that you or a member of your family has had problems with general anesthesia
• You know you have a family history of malignant hyperthermia