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What an anaesthesiologist does

An anaesthesiologist is a doctor who makes surgery and procedures safe and comfortable by managing pain, consciousness and the body's vital functions. Training is an MD, DNB or DA in Anaesthesiology after MBBS. They assess you before surgery, give and monitor anaesthesia during it, and manage pain and recovery afterwards. Many also work in intensive care, emergency care and pain clinics.

Types of anaesthesia

• General anaesthesia: you are fully asleep; used for major operations.
• Spinal or epidural: numbs the lower body while you stay awake or lightly sedated; common for caesarean sections and leg surgery.
• Regional nerve blocks: numb a specific limb or area and help with pain relief afterwards.
• Local anaesthesia and sedation: for minor procedures.

Before your operation

The pre-anaesthetic check-up reviews your health, medicines, allergies and previous anaesthesia. Tests commonly include CBC, blood sugar, kidney function, clotting tests and an ECG. Follow fasting instructions strictly, usually six to eight hours for solids and two hours for clear fluids, as advised. Tell your doctor about blood thinners, diabetes medicines, herbal products, smoking, alcohol use and sleep apnoea.

Safety

Modern anaesthesia is very safe, with continuous monitoring of heart rate, oxygen, blood pressure and breathing. Risk depends on your health and the operation; discuss any concerns. Stopping smoking weeks before surgery lowers complications.

After surgery

Pain relief begins in the operating room and continues with medicines, nerve blocks and early movement. Nausea and sleepiness are common but usually brief. Fees are generally part of the surgical package and vary by procedure and hospital. Compare hospitals and doctors on Lab Dekho.

Trusted References

This guide is original content informed by recognised medical and public-health sources. For further reading:

• NABH – hospital accreditation standards
• NABL – laboratory accreditation
• Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY
• Ministry of Health & Family Welfare
• Mayo Clinic – Patient care & health information
• Cleveland Clinic – Health Library
• WebMD – Health A–Z

Disclaimer: This guide is for general information and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. Costs and fees are approximate and vary by provider. Institution names are given for orientation only; check current services and timings directly. In an emergency, call 108 or 112.