Local Anaesthesia

Why local anaesthetic is used

A local anaesthetic is used for many different types of minor operations (surgery) and procedures. For example, if you need to have a tooth removed.

You may have a local anaesthetic if:

it's safe for you to be awake (conscious) during the procedure
it's possible to numb the area that's being treated with an injection, cream, gel, spray or ointment

Local anaesthetic is also sometimes used for pain relief after surgery, or to treat a painful condition.

Some medicines containing mild local anaesthetic are available on prescription or over the counter from pharmacies.

Other types of anaesthetic

Other types of anaesthetic include:

sedation - where you're awake (conscious) but drowsy and relaxed
regional anaesthetic, such as an epidural - where a larger area of your body is numbed so you're awake but do not feel pain
general anaesthetic - where you're asleep (unconscious)

What happens when you have a local anaesthetic

A local anaesthetic may be given as an injection, cream, gel, ointment or spray, depending on what it's being used for.

It works by stopping your nerves sending pain signals to your brain.

You'll usually have a warm, tingling feeling as the anaesthetic starts to work. When it's working, the area being treated should feel totally numb.

The doctor or dentist will make sure you have the right amount of anaesthetic before starting treatment, so you do not feel any pain.

They'll also monitor you carefully during your treatment, although serious side effects from local anaesthetic are very rare.

Side effects of a local anaesthetic

Local anaesthetics are generally safe and serious side effects are very rare.

The doctor or dentist will explain any risks to you before the procedure. Let them know if you have any allergies to medicine or other substances.

Some of the possible side effects of a local anaesthetic include:

some discomfort when the injection is given
minor bruising, bleeding or soreness where the injection was given
a tingling or burning sensation as the local anaesthetic wears off
headaches, dizziness or blurred vision
twitching muscles or shivering
continuing numbness, weakness or pins and needles

Side effects usually get better within a few minutes or hours. You may need medicines to help with some side effects, such as any soreness.

More serious side effects, such as a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis), are rare and usually happen within a few minutes. The doctor who gives you the anaesthetic will be trained to deal with allergic reactions and treat them immediately.

It's important to move carefully until the anaesthetic has fully worn off as you may not notice if you injure yourself. You should also get someone to drive you home after a local or regional anaesthetic. The doctor or dentist will usually advise you about this.

Ask for an urgent GP appointment or get help from NHS 111 if:

you've recently had a local anaesthetic and you're worried about any side effects or they do not get better

You can call 111 or get help from 111 online.

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