For some procedures an epidural anesthetic that numbs the abdominal region may be used instead of general anesthesia.
A frozen teething toy numbs the gums and reduces swelling, although it should not be left on the gum for more than one minute without a break.
Local anesthesia numbs only part of the body; general anesthesia causes loss of consciousness.
This usually occurs because of the extreme temperature of the ice pack; as it numbs the skin, you become unaware that it could, in fact, be doing some serious damage.
If your job numbs your mind by day, why would anyone expect it to instantly come to life at night?