Anesthetics in Cairo

Anesthetics are a medication that causes temporary loss of sensation or awareness. They are used during tests and surgical operations to prevent patients from feeling pain and discomfort, keeping them comfortable and enabling a wide range of medical procedures to be performed. 

There are several types of anesthetic, including:

• A general anesthetic puts you in a sleep-like state, preventing you from feeling any pain. You will be unaware of your surgery, do not move, or feel anything while it is carried out. It is mainly used for major surgeries, such as heart surgeries and knee and hip replacement. 
• Local anesthetics will numb a small area of your body, but you will not lose consciousness, meaning you will be fully awake during the procedure. They are commonly used in minor surgery, such as stitching a deep cut, wisdom tooth removal, or a skin biopsy. However, they can also be used to treat painful conditions or relieve pain after surgery. In some cases, they may be used for major surgery that requires you to be awake, such as awake craniotomy.
• Regional anesthetic works the same way local anesthetic does by numbing a specific area of your body while you stay awake. However, it numbs a larger part of the body. It is usually used for orthopedic surgery on an arm, leg, hand, or foot.
• The epidural anesthetic is a type of regional anesthetic. It is usually used to numb the lower half of the body, such as during childbirth. It can also be used to help control pain after major surgery to the chest or belly.
• A spinal anesthetic is another type of regional anesthetic. It is used to give total numbness to the lower parts of the body, such as in the lower back or the base of the spine. It is commonly used during arthroplasty, joint replacement, vascular surgery on the legs, and hemorrhoidectomy.
• Sedation is a medication that relaxes you mentally and physically and often makes you feel sleepy. It is used to keep you calm during minor, unpleasant, or painful procedures and is often used with a regional or local anesthetic to help you feel calm. 

Anesthetics are given by an anesthetist (doctors who have received specialist training in anesthesia) in a number of ways, including as a gas you breathe in, as an injection into a vein, or as an ointment, spray, or drops.

How Long Should I Stay in Cairo?

With local anesthetics, you should be able to leave the hospital on the same day. If your surgery involves a general anesthetic, you may need to stay in the hospital for a few days. In general, plan to stay in Cairo for at least 2 to 14 days. 

What's the Expected Recovery Time?

Recovery time depends on your specific situation, the type of surgery you have, and the type of anesthetic used. The effects of local anesthetic usually wear off in a few hours. General anesthetics may affect your memory, reflexes, and concentration for a day or two. It is generally recommended that you take time off work for at least a week or two, but, again, it depends on the type of surgery you undergo.

What Aftercare is Required?

Specific instruction will be given by your doctor, which may include food and activity restrictions. It is important to follow all of these instructions closely. Although the instruction will be tailored to your specific condition, you may be advised to avoid driving, drinking alcohol, or signing any legal documents for a few days.

What's the Success Rate?

Undergoing surgery and receiving anesthesia is safer today than ever before. Thanks to continuing advancement in equipment, medication, and training, serious problems are becoming rarer. However, this does not mean that there are zero risks. Although very rare, all types of medical procedures carry a potential risk, such as nerve damage and an allergic reaction to the anesthetic medication.

Are there Alternatives?

There are no alternatives to anesthetics. Without anesthetics, surgeries can be very painful and dangerous. Also, some surgeries would not be possible to be carried out without anesthetics. 

Anesthetics in and around Cairo

About Cairo

Cairo is the capital of Egypt and the largest city in the Arab world is next to the Nile River. As home to the amazing Giza Pyramid complex and the ancient city of Memphis, this city is often associated with ancient Egypt. People from all around the world are drawn to this beautiful city, and they normally visit to get a closer look at its magical landmarks. However, aside from its history and culture, people also come to Cairo for its healthcare. The city is believed to have been one of the most popular medical tourism destinations since the Pharaonic era. It also enjoys an excellent reputation as a therapeutic destination and is filled with high-quality hospitals that are ready to handle and care for international patients. These hospitals are armed with innovative equipment, skilled specialists, and amazing services.

Popular Parts of Cairo

Cairo is a perfect combination of modern and ancient. Most people from all over the globe come to see the Great Pyramid of Giza. This awe-inspiring pyramid is one of the last remaining wonders of the ancient world that has been around for nearly 4000 years. Still in the same complex of the pyramid is the Great Sphinx of Giza, which is a mythical creature with the body of a lion and the head of a human. Another popular attraction is the Egyptian Museum, which has one of the most important collections of ancient artifacts in the world. In this museum, visitors can admire the gleaming treasures of Tutankhamun and other pharaohs, jewelry, toys, and mummies. Museum of Islamic Art and Al Azhar Mosque are other must-visit places within the city. 

Transport in Cairo

Cairo International Airport is the primary international gateway to Cairo. It serves both domestic and international flights to Asia and Europe. Several budget airlines, including Flynas and FlyEgypt, operate flights from this airport. Cairo has an effective and dependable public transport system. Buses and metro are available. Both are relatively affordable and comfortable. Taxis and Uber are plentiful. Taxis are normally metered, but some taxis refuse to use the meters. Therefore, always insist on using the meter or agree on a fare before commencing your journey.

Visas in Cairo

Visa exemption is given to citizens of several countries, such as Hong Kong, Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain. Other nationals not listed in the visa exemption agreement must obtain a visa. Visa on arrival is available for several countries, including Japan and Australia. Egypt also provides an electronic visa for citizens of 46 countries.

Weather in Cairo

Cairo experiences a hot desert climate. Summer (May to October) is typically very hot with an average temperature of around 35°C. This temperature can sometimes exceed 40°C and comes with high humidity. Winter (November to April) brings pleasant and colder temperatures.

Additional Info

1. Local Currency: The official currency is the Egyptian pound (EGP). 1 USD converts to 15.7 EGP.
2. Money & Payments: ATMs can be found easily around the city. Credit cards are mostly accepted in the midrange and high-end businesses. Tipping is generally expected.
3. Local Language: The official language is Classical Arabic, but the most widely spoken is Egyptian Arabic. English is also widely spoken in the city.
4. Local Culture and Religion: Islam is the state religion and it is the biggest religion in Cairo. However, there are also small groups of Jews and Christian in the city.
5. Public Holidays: Several religious and national holidays are celebrated in Cairo, including Eid, Coptic Christmas Day, and Revolution Day.