Short Wave What Happens While You're Under Anesthesia?
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Feb 24, 2025 
Dr. Alopi Patel, an anesthesiologist with a passion for patient care, discusses the calming techniques she uses to ease pre-surgery anxiety. She dives into the fascinating history of anesthesia, highlighting significant milestones, including Queen Victoria's use of chloroform during childbirth. Dr. Patel explains the physiological effects of anesthesia on the body and the concept of 'verbal anesthesia.' Finally, she emphasizes the emotional connection anesthesiologists forge with patients, showcasing the importance of communication and compassion in the operating room.
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Queen Victoria and Anesthesia
- Queen Victoria initially rejected anesthesia during childbirth, influenced by societal stigma and religious beliefs.
- Her eventual acceptance of chloroform for her eighth child legitimized pain relief during labor.
Anesthesia's Systemic Effects
- Anesthesia affects various bodily functions like heart rate, blood pressure, and blood flow to vital organs.
- It's metabolized by the kidneys, liver, and lungs, with inhaled anesthetics being exhaled.
Nervous System Effects
- Anesthesia relaxes the nervous system, shifting from the 'fight-or-flight' sympathetic system to the parasympathetic system.
- This slows brainwaves, creating a relaxed, 'zen mode' that allows for surgical procedures without the body feeling it.