What is anesthesia, and how does it work during medical procedures?

Question

I’ve always been curious about how anesthesia works during surgeries and medical procedures. I know it numbs the body, but I don’t fully understand how it affects the brain and senses.

What exactly is anesthesia, and how does it prevent pain during surgery? I read that there are different types, such as general, local, and regional—what are the differences between them, and when are they used? Also, how does the body react to anesthesia, and are there any risks or side effects to be aware of?

I also want to understand how doctors determine the right dose of anesthesia. Does it depend on the procedure, the patient’s health, or other factors like age or weight? Are there natural or alternative methods for reducing pain or anxiety during medical procedures without anesthesia?

If anyone has had surgery with anesthesia, what was your experience? Did you have any side effects, and how quickly did you recover from the effects of the drug?

Dr. Harsha Joy · Accepted Answer

Anesthesia works by temporarily blocking the brain's ability to perceive pain, allowing patients to undergo surgical or medical procedures without discomfort. There are different types of anesthesia: general anesthesia, which induces unconsciousness and is used for major surgeries; regional anesthesia, which numbs a larger area of the body, such as during childbirth or certain surgeries; and local anesthesia, which numbs a small, specific area for minor procedures. The right dosage of anesthesia depends on the patient's health, age, weight, and the complexity of the procedure. While anesthesia is generally safe, there are risks such as nausea, dizziness, or allergic reactions. Ayurveda recommends practices like deep breathing, meditation, and herbal preparations (e.g., Ashwagandha, Brahmi) to reduce anxiety and support the body’s natural healing and pain management processes, though these should not replace medical anesthesia in major procedures.

What is anesthesia, and how does it work during medical procedures? - #14744

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