Watch The Story of Medicine: Pain, Pus & Poison

The Story of Medicine: Pain, Pus & Poison is a gripping documentary series produced by BBC that explores the fascinating history of medicine. The show takes a deep dive into the major medical breakthroughs, inventions, and discoveries that have saved countless lives and changed the world. It is a comprehensive look at the evolution of medical science, from the earliest known remedies to contemporary treatments.

The series examines the way that medicine has transformed our understanding of suffering, disease, and healthcare, and sheds light on some of the most notable moments and figures in medical history. It covers a range of themes, including pain management, infectious diseases, and the use of chemicals and toxins for medicinal purposes.

One of the major themes of The Story of Medicine: Pain, Pus & Poison is pain management. The series traces the history of pain management from the use of natural remedies and opiates to the development of more sophisticated painkillers. It also examines the use of pain management techniques in surgery and other medical procedures, and the ethical implications of pain management.

The show also covers the history of infectious diseases and the ways in which medical science has sought to prevent and treat them. From the discovery of germ theory to modern vaccination programmes, the series explores the changing approaches to infectious disease throughout history. It also highlights the ways in which political and social factors have shaped the fight against infectious diseases.

Another fascinating aspect of The Story of Medicine: Pain, Pus & Poison is its exploration of the use of chemicals and toxins for medicinal purposes. From the use of snake venom in ancient remedies to the development of antibiotics and chemotherapy, the series shows how our understanding of the chemical properties of substances has revolutionized medicine. It also explores the ethical implications of using chemicals and toxins in medicine, including experimentation and the use of untested drugs.

Throughout the series, viewers will be introduced to some of the most important figures in medical history, including Hippocrates, Galen, Pasteur, Lister, and Fleming. The show helps to put these key figures in context and explain why their contributions were so significant. It also explores the role of medical science in shaping culture and society, and highlights the impact that medical advances have had on human history.

Overall, The Story of Medicine: Pain, Pus & Poison is a fascinating and informative documentary series that will appeal to anyone with an interest in medical science and the history of medicine. It is a well-produced and engaging look at the ways in which medicine has evolved over time, and provides a greater understanding of the challenges that medical science has faced and continues to face. Whether you are a student of history, a medical professional, or simply a curious viewer, this series is definitely worth watching.