How safe is anesthesia?

how safe is anesthesia

Never has anesthesia been safer than today. There are three basic types of anesthesia: general anesthesia causes loss of sensation in the whole body, regional anesthesia causes loss of sensation in only one area, and local anesthesia causes loss of sensation in only one very specific area.

There are certain substances used in the anaesthetic process, such as nitrous oxide, whose frequent, excessive or prolonged use is linked to damage to the marrow and the nervous system, as it interferes with the action of vitamin B12.

In the past, cocaine was used as an anaesthetic, although it caused side effects such as addiction and overstimulation of the nervous system. The general anesthesia used today is contraindicated in specific cases of heart disease, use of certain drugs, certain neurology and other pre-existing medical conditions.

There are several levels in its effects or repercussions on the organism. The first consideration is the psychological aspect, since for adults, and especially for children, the anesthetic procedure -- preparation, application and recovery -- involves discomfort, anxiety and even physical pain. Being completely unconscious and in the hands of another person also causes a lot of stress, so that every time it is applied our organism suffers physiological, mental and emotional trauma.

From the medical point of view, the substances used tend to be eliminated from the body relatively quickly. In principle, anaesthesia is not harmful, but it is a field in which more effective substances are constantly discovered and the methods of application and monitoring are renewed.

The techniques used are safe, but their long-term effects have not yet been fully studied. On the other hand, if the patient suffers from any pre-existing illness or medical condition, it is vital to talk to the doctor before undergoing this procedure.

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