Anesthetics are medications used to prevent pain and discomfort during medical procedures. They work by blocking nerve signals in the body, allowing patients to undergo surgeries or other treatments without feeling pain. There are different types of anesthetics, including local anesthetics, which numb a specific area, and general anesthetics, which induce a state of unconsciousness. Anesthetics are administered by trained professionals, such as anesthesiologists or nurse anesthetists, who monitor the patient's vital signs throughout the procedure. The use of anesthetics has greatly improved the safety and comfort of surgeries, making it possible for patients to undergo complex operations with minimal distress.