Anesthetic agents block pain so procedures don’t hurt. You’ll meet two big groups: local anesthetics that numb one area, and general anesthetics that make you sleep. Knowing the difference helps you ask the right questions and stay safer before, during, and after surgery.
Local anesthetics: Lidocaine and bupivacaine are common. They numb a patch of skin or a nerve. Uses include dental work, stitches, minor skin surgery, and nerve blocks. They act fast (seconds to minutes) and wear off in hours.
Regional/spinal/epidural: These are stronger local techniques. Spinals and epidurals work around the spine to numb whole legs or the lower body. They’re routine for cesarean sections and some leg surgeries.
General anesthetics: Propofol, sevoflurane, and ketamine are examples. They make you unconscious for major operations. General anesthesia often combines drugs: one to sedate, one to manage pain, and one to relax muscles.
Adjunct drugs: Opioids (like fentanyl) control pain, antiemetics prevent nausea, and muscle relaxants help during surgery. Each adds benefits and side effects, so teams use the lowest effective doses.
Before any anesthesia, tell your care team about: current medications, allergies (especially to local anesthetics or eggs if relevant), previous bad reactions to anesthesia, sleep apnea, heart or lung disease, and pregnancy. These details change drug choice and dose.
Follow fasting rules. Don’t eat or drink as instructed — usually nothing 6–8 hours for solids and 2 hours for clear liquids before general anesthesia. This lowers the risk of vomiting and breathing issues during sleep.
Know common side effects: nausea, sore throat, dizziness, low blood pressure, and temporary confusion. For local anesthetics, watch for signs of toxicity: ringing in the ears, metallic taste, worsening drowsiness, or seizures. If you see these, get emergency help.
Aftercare: Arrange a ride home after general anesthesia. Avoid driving or important decisions for 24 hours. Hydrate, move slowly, and follow pain medication instructions closely. For numbed areas, don’t chew or touch until sensation returns.
Kids and older adults need special dosing and monitoring. Anesthesia teams adjust drugs and watch breathing, oxygen, blood pressure, and heart rate during procedures with devices like pulse oximeters and capnography.
One last practical note: anesthetic drugs are controlled and should only be handled by licensed professionals. If you’re buying medicines online, use reputable pharmacies and always have a prescription. If anything feels off before or after a procedure, contact your provider right away.
Want help preparing questions for your anesthesiologist? Ask about which drugs they plan to use, expected side effects, fasting rules, and pain control options after the procedure. Clear answers make the whole experience safer and less stressful.
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