ANAESTHETICS Meaning and
Definition
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Anaesthetics, also spelled anesthetics, refer to a class of drugs or substances that are administered to induce a reversible loss of sensation or consciousness, most commonly to minimize pain during medical procedures or surgeries. Anaesthetics can act on the central nervous system, peripheral nerves, or specific parts of the body, depending on the type of anaesthetic used.
There are two main categories of anaesthetics: general anaesthetics and local anaesthetics. General anaesthetics are used to induce a state of unconsciousness and complete loss of sensation throughout the body. They can be administered intravenously or inhaled. On the other hand, local anaesthetics are used to block pain sensation in a specific area or part of the body without causing complete unconsciousness. They are often injected near the site of the procedure or applied topically as creams or sprays.
The precise mechanism of action of anaesthetics is still not fully understood, but they generally work by interfering with nerve signals and transmission of pain sensations to the brain. This interruption of nerve signals prevents pain perception and allows medical interventions to be carried out comfortably and safely.
While anaesthetics are crucial for various medical procedures, they should only be administered by trained healthcare professionals due to potential risks and complications associated with their use. Side effects can include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, confusion, and allergic reactions. The dosage and administration of anaesthetics are usually tailored to each patient's individual needs and medical condition, taking into account factors like age, weight, and overall health.
Etymology of ANAESTHETICS
The word "anaesthetics" has its roots in the Greek language. It is derived from two Greek words, "an" meaning "without" or "not", and "aisthēsis", which translates to "sensation" or "feeling". When combined, the word "anaesthēsis" means "insensitivity to sensation". The term was later anglicized into "anaesthesia", and eventually pluralized to "anaesthetics" to refer to the substances used to induce anaesthesia.
