Anesthesiology

An anesthesiologist administers anesthesia during surgical procedures, monitors vital signs throughout the operation, manages post-operative pain, and provides critical care for patients with life-threatening conditions. They also specialize in chronic pain management.

The main types are general anesthesia, which renders you unconscious; regional anesthesia such as spinal or epidural blocks that numb a large area; and local anesthesia that numbs a small, specific area. The choice depends on the procedure and your health status.

Modern anesthesia is considered very safe for most patients. Anesthesiologists conduct thorough pre-operative assessments to identify risks and choose the safest approach. Serious complications are rare and occur in fewer than 1 in 10,000 cases for healthy individuals.

You should consult an anesthesiologist-pain specialist if you have chronic pain lasting more than three months that has not responded to standard medications, or if you need interventional procedures such as nerve blocks, epidural injections, or spinal cord stimulation.

Inform your anesthesiologist about all medications and supplements you take, any previous reactions to anesthesia, allergies, breathing problems, heart conditions, and whether you smoke or consume alcohol regularly.