Understanding Anesthesia
Almost all medical procedures involve some form of anesthesia which works and impacts risk differently.
Whether it's wisdom tooth removal, a diagnostic colonoscopy or a coronary bypass surgery - they all involve some sort of anesthesia.
Since we cover elective surgeries, we've made it a point to know as much about anesthesia as we can so you have the resources you need to have more confidence about your procedure or ask your healthcare providers any questions you might have.
The Basics
Anesthesia
Treatment to not feel pain during medical surgeries that works by blocking sensory signals to the brain
Anesthesiologist
A doctor that evaluates, monitors & delivers anesthesia
Analgesic
Pain medication, usually used in postoperative pain management
Who's at Higher Risk of Adverse Reactions?
Complications & Side Effects
Common Side Effects
Rare Side Effects
Before & After Anesthesia
Before Your Procedure
Expect to make some changes around smoking, blood pressure medication, ingesting food / drink / supplements leading up to your procedure as per your doctor's orders.
After Your Procedure
Have someone drive you home from the medical facility, follow your recommended rest / pain management regimen and do not drive, operate equipment, consume alcohol or make any important decisions for a day or two while the anesthesia leaves your system.
4 Main Types of Anesthesia
In increasing strength - local, sedation, regional & general. We've compared them below so you can better understand how they work, what to expect, and what you need to consider about risks or recovery.
Local Anesthesia
Numbs a small area so you stay awake and feel little to no pain.
Will I be awake?
Yes
How is it administered?
Injected or applied directly to the treatment area.
Commonly used in?
Minor skin procedures, stitches, and dental work.
Side effects / risks?
Temporary numbness, mild discomfort, or rare allergic reaction.
Sedation
Helps you relax or feel sleepy while still breathing on your own.
Will I be awake?
Usually drowsy, sometimes awake.
How is it administered?
Given by mouth, injection, or IV.
Commonly used in?
Colonoscopy, minor outpatient procedures, and dental procedures.
Side effects / risks?
Grogginess, nausea, and slower reaction time.
Regional Anesthesia
Blocks pain in a larger part of the body, like an arm, leg, or the lower half of the body.
Will I be awake?
Often yes, sometimes lightly sedated.
How is it administered?
Injected near a nerve bundle or spinal area.
Commonly used in?
Childbirth, orthopedic surgery, and lower body procedures.
Side effects / risks?
Low blood pressure, headache, or nerve irritation.
General Anesthesia
Puts you fully to sleep and blocks awareness and pain.
Will I be awake?
No
How is it administered?
Given through IV or inhaled gases.
Commonly used in?
Major surgery and procedures that need complete unconsciousness.
Side effects / risks?
Nausea, sore throat, confusion, or breathing complications.