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01 Nov 2021 | 04:56 PM (IST)

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Anesthesia

Introduction

Anesthesia is a way to control pain by giving medicine to a patient before he undergoes a surgery.

There are three main types of anesthesia:

1. Local anesthesia: Numbs one small area of the body but the person is awake

2. Regional anesthesia: Blocks pain sensation from a large area of the body, such an arm or leg. A common type is an epidural anesthesia, which is often used during childbirth.

3. General anesthesia: Makes the person unconscious and the person does not feel any pain

The type of anesthesia or sedation you get depends on many factors. It includes the procedure you are having and your current health.

Preparation for Anesthesia

1. Your doctor or nurse will guide you a day before the surgery on specific precautions to take, if any.
2. Stay calm.
3. If you are taking any medications, consult with your doctor about changes to the medicine routine.

Complications of anesthesia

The complications of anesthesia are not common. However, a prolonged duration or inadequate concentration of anesthesia may lead to complication such as:

1. Heart problems

2. Pneumonia

3. Sore throat

4. Vomiting

5. Allergic reaction to the medicine
6. Awareness during anesthesia
7. Brain damage due to hypoxia or nerve damage
8. Hypotension

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Tata 1mg's sole intention is to ensure that its consumers get information that is expert-reviewed, accurate and trustworthy. However, the information contained herein should NOT be used as a substitute for the advice of a qualified physician. The information provided here is for informational purposes only. This may not cover all possible side effects, drug interactions or warnings or alerts. Please consult your doctor and discuss all your queries related to any disease or medicine. We intend to support, not replace, the doctor-patient relationship.