An anesthesiologist plays an important role in keeping you comfortable and safe when you are undergoing surgery. An anesthesiologist is a vital part of your surgical team and a person you can turn to when you have questions or concerns about anesthesia during your surgery. The anesthesiologists at Associated Anesthesiologists Inc. in Tulsa, OK, provide a wide range of anesthesia services to help you when you need surgery.
How an Anesthesiologist Can Help You
Your anesthesiologist is an expert at anesthesia methods and can help you decide which anesthesia type is right for you. Consider:
General anesthesia provides the most profound anesthesia. You will not be conscious or aware of your surroundings and will not be able to respond. General anesthesia involves the administration of medications with an IV, combined with inhaled gases through a face mask.
Regional anesthesia blocks the nerves in a region of your body in the surgical area. Spinal, epidural, and peripheral nerve blocks are examples of regional anesthesia. A sedative medication may also be administered to help you relax during surgery.
Local anesthesia is used to numb the nerves in a small area of your body. Local anesthesia is typically used for minor procedures and may be performed by your surgeon.
Your anesthesiologist will also discuss the potential side effects of surgery and what to expect afterward. Anesthesia can make you feel slightly dizzy, tired, or unable to focus. Anesthesia may also make you feel nauseous, so your anesthesiologist may also administer medications to reduce nausea.
One of the most important things you may want to know is how long it will take you to recover from anesthesia. If you are having outpatient surgery, it’s helpful for you to know when you can be driven home.
There are several pieces of information you need to discuss with your anesthesiologist, such as:
- Your overall health, including recent illnesses and hospitalizations
- Medical conditions you have, including allergies, asthma, heart problems, breathing issues, and high blood pressure
- Medications you are taking, including blood thinners, sedatives, and antidepressants
Want To Know More About Anesthesiology?
To discover more about the role of an anesthesiologist, call the anesthesiologists at Associated Anesthesiologists Inc. in Tulsa, OK. You can reach them in the office by calling (918) 494-0612, so call today.