Anaesthesia means ‘loss of sensation’. Medications that cause anaesthesia are called anaesthetics.
Anaesthetics are used for a wide range of medical procedures. For example, tests and surgical operations.
Nerve signals usually keep you awake and aware. Anaesthetics work by stopping nerve signals from reaching your brain. This prevents pain and discomfort.
After the anaesthetic has worn off, the nerve signals will be able to reach your brain. This will cause feeling to return.
There are 2 types of anaesthetic that are used often. These are:
As well as local and general anaesthetic, there are some other types of anaesthesia.
Unlike general anaesthetic, these don’t make you unconscious. Instead, they stop you feeling pain in a particular area of your body. These include:
Different types of anaesthesia can be used together. For example, a regional anaesthetic can be used with a general anaesthetic. This may be used to relieve pain after an operation.
A sedative is sometimes used with a regional anaesthetic. It can help you feel relaxed, calm and pain-free.
An anaesthetic can be given in a number of ways, including as:
Anaesthetists are doctors with specialist training in anaesthesia. They’ll give you your anaesthetic. They are also responsible for your safety and wellbeing during your procedure.
Before the procedure, your anaesthetist will discuss some things with you. This includes:
Anaesthetists will plan your anaesthetic and pain control with you. If you’d rather a particular type of anaesthetic, they’ll consider this.
You should ask your anaesthetist anything you’re unsure about.
If you have a general anaesthetic, the anaesthetist will supervise the procedure. They’ll also make sure that you’re comfortable afterwards.
Anaesthetics consist of many medications that can cause side effects in some people. Your anaesthetist will tell you about any side effects you may experience. They’ll also explain what will be done to help reduce these side effects.
Some common side effects of anaesthetics include:
The side effects of anaesthetic don’t usually last very long. If necessary, some of them can be treated.
Tell the healthcare professionals treating you if you experience any side effects. You should also tell them if you’re in pain after your procedure.
As with any type of surgery or medical procedure, there’s a rare risk of complications.
The benefits and risks of surgery and anaesthesia will be carefully weighed up. Your clinician will then explain them to you before you have to any operation.
Very rare possible complications of anaesthetics include:
Your risk of developing complications will depend on many factors, including:
Before your procedure, your anaesthetist will explain if there are any particular risks.
In most cases, the benefits outweigh the risks. You should discuss any concerns you have with your anaesthetist before surgery.
Last updated:
29 February 2024