Does anaesthetic unconsciousness = restorative sleep?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the relationship between anaesthetic unconsciousness and restorative sleep, questioning whether being under anaesthesia equates to actual sleep. Participants highlight that anaesthesia, particularly with agents like propofol, may inhibit REM sleep, which is crucial for cognitive restoration. Several anecdotal accounts suggest that while anaesthesia can provide temporary relief, it may not fulfill the restorative functions of natural sleep, particularly in terms of memory consolidation and emotional regulation. The potential long-term effects of repeated anaesthetic use on sleep quality and cognitive health are also raised, indicating a need for further research.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of anaesthetic agents, particularly propofol and nitrous oxide.
  • Knowledge of sleep stages, especially REM sleep and its significance.
  • Familiarity with the physiological effects of anaesthesia on the brain.
  • Awareness of genetic factors, such as the RYR1 gene, related to anaesthetic reactions.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the effects of propofol on REM sleep and cognitive function.
  • Investigate the long-term cognitive effects of repeated anaesthetic exposure.
  • Explore studies on sleep deprivation and its impact on mental health.
  • Learn about the relationship between anaesthesia recovery and Alzheimer's disease risk.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for medical professionals, anesthesiologists, sleep researchers, and individuals undergoing surgical procedures who are interested in the implications of anaesthesia on sleep health and cognitive recovery.

  • #31
I've had an active life. 13 emergency surgeries in the span of about 30 years for various insults to my body. That does not include 3 colonoscopies and a half dozen tooth implants. I love general anesthesia. Always wake up fine. I had noticed an article in a British Medical Journal that gave a higher risk of dementia for anesthesia patients in a dose response manner. Genetically I'm a low risk for Alzheimer's (APOE 2/3). At 71, so far so good. Went to a party hosted by a physician in the 70's who passed out some anesthesia but not enough to put me out. It was the best hallucinogen I ever tried. 30 minute trip and no side effects. Since the mid 80's I have had nocturnal epilepsy from time to time. I don't take drugs for that anymore but have found that a high dose of melatonin with theanine helps a lot. I sleep well and do not seem to be cognitively impaired yet but perhaps this rambling post is a sign.
 
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  • #32
A recent post from Nature indicated animals in general need sleep to restore mitochondrial electric balance. Without this excess ROS are generated. Certain neurons detect this and make us sleepy. https://phys.org/news/2025-07-mitochondria.html. I suppose anesthesia could do the same thing?
 

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