Modern medicine has greatly improved outcomes, comfort, lifespans, and more. One of the most important aspects of modern medicine is anesthesia, through which an anesthesiologist can numb a part of the body or put people to “sleep” so that various medical procedures can be performed without resulting in pain. We’ll cover some questions you should ask your doctor. If you have other questions and live near Tulsa, Oklahoma, contact an anesthesiologist at Associated Anesthesiologists Inc.
What Type of Anesthesia Will I Be Receiving?
It’s important to use the right tool for the job. When it comes to anesthesia, there are several different types. As a patient, depending on the procedure or reason for undergoing anesthesia, you may be able to choose.
Here Are the Common Types of Anesthesia
General Anesthesia
Perhaps the most familiar form, with this anesthesia you are “put to sleep” or “put under.” General anesthesia is a bit different than sleep in terms of brain waves and other details. However, some patients do report dreaming.
Regional Anesthesia
Patients remain conscious and instead nerves are numbed so that they don’t send pain signals to your brain. This way, medical professionals can perform procedures without you feeling pain. With regional anesthesia, an entire region of your body, say an arm, is numbed.
Local Anesthesia
Similar to regional anesthesia but nerves in only a small area, say your finger, are numbed. Local anesthesia is often preferred when only a small area is being operated on or a simple procedure must be informed.
Want to learn more? If you live in Tulsa, Oklahoma, contact an anesthesiologist at Associated Anesthesiologists Inc.
How Will The Anesthesia Be Administered?
In some cases, anesthesia is injected or provided through an IV drip. Local and regional anesthesia is often administered with an injection or via a similar method. In other cases, it can be breathed in through a mask. General anesthesia is often administered via this method.
You can talk with your anesthesiologist about different methods. If you don’t like needles, for example, there may be other options.
Need to speak to an anesthesiologist and live near Tulsa, Oklahoma? Dial (918) 494-0612 to reach Associated Anesthesiologists Inc.