Patient Info

Anesthesia is a medically induced state where sensation, awareness, or consciousness is temporarily blocked—allowing pain-free surgery and procedures. It may include components like analgesia (pain relief), amnesia, muscle relaxation, and unconsciousness, depending on the type. Anaesthesiologists are specialized doctors who ensure safe delivery, monitoring, and adjustment during your procedure.

There are three broad categories:

• General anesthesia: Induces unconsciousness (used in major surgeries), administered via IV or inhaled agents.

• Regional anesthesia: Numbs a large area, e.g., spinal/epidural for lower body or limb blocks.

• Local anesthesia: Numbs a small area for minor procedures (dental, skin, eye). You're awake during the process.

Anesthesia is generally safe under vigilant care. Common short-term side effects include nausea, dry mouth, grogginess, muscle ache, or confusion. Serious complications like breathing issues or aspiration are rare but taken seriously with close monitoring.

Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) are common—especially in sensitive individuals or specific surgeries. Modern anesthesia protocols and medications reduce this risk. If nausea persists, your anaesthetist can prescribe anti-emetics or hydration to help recover faster.

Anesthesia awareness occurs when someone becomes conscious during surgery and may remember the event. It’s rare—around 0.1–0.2% in general populations, and up to 1–2% in high-risk groups (e.g., obstetric, emergency, or difficult airway cases). Such risks are minimized with vigilant monitoring.

True allergic reactions during anesthesia are rare (~1 in 10,000), but can be serious—characterized by symptoms like low blood pressure, hives, or wheezing. Anesthetists are trained to manage these swiftly, with adrenaline and supportive care, and will recommend future avoidance and testing.

This evaluation involves reviewing your medical history, medications, allergies, previous anesthesia responses, and performing a brief exam. It helps tailor the safest anesthetic plan for you and includes informed consent confirmation.

Yes, preoperative anxiety is common—rooted in fear of pain, loss of control, or the unknown. It can trigger elevated heart rate, blood pressure, or sweating. Open communication with your anesthetist can help manage this—pre-surgery counseling, medication, or reassurance all work well.

General anesthesia typically wears off within 24 hours, but full recovery may take a few days to a week. Regional or local anesthesia resolves quicker—depending on the type and surgical procedure.

Waking up during surgery (anesthesia awareness) is extremely rare thanks to advanced monitoring and expert care. Similarly, not waking up at all is also extremely rare—modern anesthesia standards ensure safe and reversible induction every time.

• Fasting: Typically no food or drink for 6 hours before (confirm with your doctor).

• Medication: Continue or withhold meds (like blood pressure or diabetes drugs) as instructed.

• Allergies & History: Inform your doctor of allergies, prior anesthesia reactions, or medical issues like sleep apnea or reflux.

Absolutely. Pre-anesthesia consultations help clarify doubts, review your medical status, and optimize your plan. It’s your right—and part of high-quality care.