Epidural Anaesthetic – Uses, Side Effects, and Key Differences
Just as the miracle of childbirth can be excruciating, so too can the pain associated with surgery or a chronic condition, and one of the most trusted methods relieving that pain is an epidural. An epidural anaesthetic is famous for being used for targeted pain relief – here, people can remain awake and with it while much of the pain in certain regions is removed, if not completely eradicated.
From hospital labour wards to operating theatres, epidural anaesthesia has been indispensable to modern medicine. In this blog we will look at what an epidural is, discuss the different uses, talk about side effects, and explain how it is not the same as spinal anaesthesia – so you can choose the best options for pain relief.
What is an Epidural? About Epidural Anaesthesia
An epidural anaesthetic is when a local anaesthetic is injected into the epidural space, a small space outside the spinal cord’s protective sac. This precise placement stops pain signals from reaching the spinal nerves, providing long-lasting pain relief for the lower body.
The test is typically performed with the patient sitting or in lateral decubitus with flexed spine. A catheter (a small tube) is passed into this space via a fine needle. This catheter is capable of providing intermittent or continuous analgesia and useful for prolonged surgery or chronic pain therapy.
Epidurals can be administered as a monotherapy, along with mild sedation, or as part of a postoperative regimen.
Uses of Epidural Anaesthesia
Epidurals have its diverse range of use in medical science some of which are:
- Childbirth: Epidurals are commonly administered during childbirth to relieve excruciating labour pains. But, they keep mum awake and feeling comfortable and not drowsy like medication through an IV.
- Surgery: Particularly helpful with lower body procedures such as C-sections, hip replacement or knee surgery. The patient is awake with the entire operative field being anaesthetised.
- Pain Relief for Chronic Conditions: Individuals with long-term conditions, such as sciatica, spinal stenosis or pinched nerves, can benefit from epidural steroid injections which may relieve inflammation and pain.
What is also amazing about epidurals is that they are adjustable – you can get a tiny amount and target even just one area of pain, or you can get as much as they are willing to give you, so it is very flexible.
Epidural Injection Side Effects: Risks and Considerations
As with any medical treatment, epidural injections can have side effects — but they tend to be mild and go away quickly:
Common Side Effects:
- Low blood pressure
- Mild headache
- Tenderness or bruising where you received an injection
Rare but Serious Risks:
- Injury to a nerve (typically a temporary injury)
- Infection
- Allergic responses to the anaesthetic
There can be several things that may affect the probability and severity of this side effect such as the general health of the patient, type and dose of medication taken and the way the clinician gives the medication. Happily, because surgery is performed by certified professionals, serious problems are relatively rare.
Epidural vs Spinal Anaesthesia: Key Differences
Although frequently combined, epidural and spinal analgesia are two separate methods:
Feature | Epidural Anaesthesia | Spinal Anaesthesia |
Onset | Slower | Rapid |
Dosage | Adjustable (via catheter) | Single fixed dose |
Duration | Can be extended | Shorter-lasting |
Depth of Block | Shallower | Deeper |
Injection Site | Epidural space | Into cerebrospinal fluid (subarachnoid space) |
It really comes down to timing and how long you will use the anaesthesia and whether the ease of control is better. Spinals are for shorter cases, as long as you don’t need to extend them and you don’t want to give post-op pain relief. Labour & Delivery epidurals are for longer cases where you may need to up the relief a little after a few hours.
The Epidural Procedure: What to Expect
If you are planning to have an epidural, here is what generally happens:
- Positioning: You will be requested to either sit or lie on your side and arch your back so there is more space between the vertebrae.
- Sterilisation: The skin will be washed and sterilised, and a local anaesthetic used to numb the area.
- Needle insertion: A needle is placed into the epidural space, and a catheter may be advanced.
- Sensation: You may experience some pressure but not pain.
- Onset: Pain relief occurs within 10 to 20 minutes and is maintained for as long as desired with repeat doses administered via the catheter.
Who is a Candidate for Epidural Anaesthesia?
Epidural anaesthesia is appropriate for:
- Pregnant women in labour with the need for pain relief.
- Patients requiring lower limb procedures involving general anaesthesia and/or where general anaesthesia is inappropriate.
- Chronic pain patients who have failed to respond to other treatments.
That said, epidurals are not advised for people who have:
- Blood clotting disorders
- Deformation or infection of the spine at the place of injection
- Allergy to local anaesthetics
A complete consultation is necessary to determine if you are a candidate.
Post-Epidural Care and Recovery
After the procedure, you’ll be watched closely for side effects or complications. You may be advised to:
- Do not attempt any sudden movements until all feeling has been restored.
- Tell your healthcare professional if you have numbness, weakness, or headache that doesn’t go away.
- Take a break from intense activity if used for chronic pain.
Recovery is generally rapid and most patients can be up and about within a day, however this may depend on the underlying cause.
Conclusion
An epidural anaesthetic is an effective, versatile and generally safe way to control pain – whether it’s from childbirth, an operation, or chronic disease. Knowing how it’s used, any side effects to look out for, and how it might differ to a spinal anaesthetic can help you make the best decision when choosing your pain relief.
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