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COPYRIGHT DEPOSm
Combination Edition
DR. CHASE'S
COMBINATION RECEIPT BOOK
BEING A COMBINATION OF THREE BOOKS
1. The Favorite Medical Receipt Book and Home Doctor
2. Dr. Chase's Receipt Book
3. A Practical Law and Business Guide for Home and Office
By Dr. A. W. qHASE
Enlarged by over One Hundred Physicians and Authors
Published by
THE F. B. DIGKERSON COMPANY
DETROIT, MICHIGAN
1915
-\i;
o"^
COPYRIGHTED 1915.
By THE F. B. DICKERSON COMPANY
Detroit, Mich.
All Rights Reserved.
NOTICE. ■;l
This book is also protected by the following copyrights:
THE FAVORITE MEDICAL RECEIPT BOOK AND HOME DOCTOR — Copy- righted 1902-1908 by F. B. Dickerson Co.
MEMORIAL EDITION DR. CHASE'S THIRD, LAST AND COMPLETE RE- CEIPT BOOK AND HOUSEHOLD PHYSICIAN, OR PRACTICAL KNOWLEDGE FOR THE PEOPLE — Copyrighted 1884 by A. W. CHASE. Copyrighted 1887-1908 by P. B. Dickerson.
THE ADVISER— A MANUAL OF USEFUL INFORMATION FOR THE FARMER, MECHANIC AND BUSINESS MAN — Copyrighted 1904 by F. B. Dickerson Company. DR. CHASE'S HOME ADVISER AND E VERY-DAY RE- FERENCE BOOK. Copyrighted 1894 by F. B. Dickerson Co.
WE WANT MORE SALESMEN TO SELL THIS BOOK.
Address
THE F. B. DICKERSON COMPANY
Detroit, Mich.
)CI.A416077
OCT 23 1915
PUBLISHER'S PREFACE
"DR. CHASERS COMBINATION RECEIPT BOOK" contains the Favorite Medical Receipts of over One Hundred of the Best Physicians and Nurses of this and Foreign Countries. It also contains the Original, Genuine, Last and Complete Collection of Medical and Cooking Receipts and the Very Choicest Miscellaneous Receipts of the World Re- nowned Dr. A. W. Chase. Furthermore, it contains A Practi- cal Law and Business Guide for Home and Office. We believe these Three Practical Books bound in one volume and costing but one price will be found the most useful "Combination" book ?ver published.
The practical value of Dr. Chase's Receipt Book is at- tested by the fact that during the past fifty or sixty years sev- eral million copies of the various editions of this book have found their way into as many homes in this and foreign countries, the book having been translated into several lan- guages. This record has never been equaled by any similar book. For over half a century Dr. Chase's Receipt Book has been considered standard authority the whole world over. Dr. Chase himself, however, realized that new methods are con- stantly being discovered and that it was necessary from time to time to enlarge his book. Nevertheless, the "Old Doctor" had a plain, simple and home-like style of writing never before nor since attained by any other writer on similar sub- jects, and for this reason the publishers have steadfastly re- fused to have his receipts revised or changed in any way by any other author. They have therefore deemed it wise and best to retain the whole of Dr. Chase's Medical and Cooking Receipts and the very choicest of his Miscellaneous receipts exactly as they came from the pen of the "Old Doctor" him- self and in the same form in which he wrote them for the "Memorial Edition" of his book. But in order that the book might be complete and up-to-date as well as simple and prac- tical we have seen fit to add to Dr. Chase's Receipts the Favor-
ite Remedies of Over One Hundred of the World's Best Physicians and Nurses of this and other countries.
Though it has taken a small fortune as well as years of time and labor to gather these favorite remedies from the whole world over yet it is fitting th-at only the very best re- ceipts that the world affords be made a part of Dr. Chase's Book. After years of labor these favorite remedies were first edited by Dr. Josephus Goodenough and published in separate form and over One Hundred Thousand Copies placed in as many homes that they might be tried and tested in a thoroughly practical manner. The results have been so en- tirely satisfactory that it is with great pleasure that we now print them alongside the famous Dr. Chase's Receipts.
It was always Dr. Chase's desire to give the people heap- ing good measure for their money and for this reason the publishers have added to this book ^'A Practical Law and Business Guide for Home and Office." This manual was first edited by F. B. Dickerson who for over twenty-five years was publisher of Dr. Chase's Books. Mr. Dickerson has had a successful business career of over thirty-five years' duration and has held many public positions of trust and honor under several governors of his own state and Presidents of the United States. As a business man he has had a wide and practical experience. His aim was to produce a practical rather than a technical book and that he has succeeded is evidenced by the fact that his business manual before being combined with this book was successfully tried out in many thousands of homes and offices where it has proved to be a source of practical business information and money-saving ideas.
"Dr. Chase's Combination Receipt Book" is a combina- tion of three of the most useful and practical books ever pub- lished. It contains Medical, Cooking and Miscellaneous Re- ceipts of all kinds besides A Practical Law and Business Guide for Home and Office and no matter how many of the former editions of Dr. Chase's Books the customer may have he cannot afford to be without this last and enlarged '*Com- bination Edition" of Dr. Chase's Receipt Book.
Jhe Publishers.
COMPILER AND EDITOR'S PREFACE,
EVERY reputable physician is to a certain extent a specialist. There are certain diseases he is most successful in treating, and for which he has his favorite remedies. The aim of this book has been to furnish its patrons with these favorite remedies — the safest, simplest and best known to the medical fraternity. To accomplish this we have gathered from many of the best physicians of this and other countries their favorite receipts, or prescriptions. The remedies thus collected cover all diseases to which the human body is subject, and have been arranged in a systematic and convenient form for the homes of this and other lands. We con- sulted with, and obtained these receipts from, over one hundred of the leading physicians and nurses of the world, to which has been added the combined experience and practice of the compiler and editor.
The scope of this work is entirely original, nothing like it ever before having been published. It contains complete yet simple treatises on Diseases of Women, Diseases of Children, Poisons and their Antidotes, etc., also a department on What Girls and Mothers Should Know by one of the most successful lady physicians in this or any other country. The illustrations are superior to those of any other family medical book in existence, and have been made, at great expense, especially for this work.
COMPILER AND EDITOR'S PREFACE.
To gather these favorite remedies from the best physicians of many lands and arrange them in conve- nient form for the homes and mothers of the world, has been a long, patient, but pleasant task, and if we have succeeded in supplying our patrons with a book that will serve them faithfully ' ' in time of need, " we will be amply rewarded for our labor.
In the preparation of this work Dr. W. R, Henderson, United States Post-office Physician, at Detroit, Michigan, U. S. A., has been our constant counselor and adviser, and to him we are much indebted for his valuable contributions and suggestions.
JOSEPHUS GOODENOUGH, M. D.
The Favorite
Medical Receipt Book
and
Home Doctor
Comprising the Favorite Remedies
of over 100 of the World's Best
Physicians and Nurses
SUPPLIED ESPECIALLY FOR THIS WORK
Compiled and Edited by
JOSEPHUS GOODENOUGH, M. D.
Published by
THE F. B. DIGKERSON COMPANY
DETROIT, MICHIGAN
1915
COPYRIGHTED 1915
BY
THE F. B. DICKERSON COMPANY
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
COPYRIGHTED 1902-1908
BY
F. B. DICKERSON CO.
PHYSICIANS WHOSE FAVORITE REMEDIES WILL BE POUND IN THIS BOOK.
A number of physicians sent remedies for this book who, for professional reasons, desired that their names should not be printed. The work contains in all the choice remedies of more than one hundred leading doctors, of this and other countries, and, in addition, many home remedies of experienced and prac- tical nurses.
I. N. L. Ci^ARKE Mobile, Alabama.
a. F. ViNSONHAi^ER lyittle Rock, Arkansas.
3. J. W. Hayward (Homeopathic). ..Taunton, Massachusetts.
4. John W. McCausi,and , Fort Wayne, Indiana.
5. J. E. Hanna , Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
6. J. G. Brooks Paducah, Kentucky.
7. Chbstbr W. Stranahan 0 . . .Erie, Pennsylvania.
8. A. L. Cl^ARK Elgin, Illinois.
9. J. F. Weathers New Albany, Indiana.
10. I. G. Anthoine Nashua, New Hampshire.
II. Henry Bai,dwin, Jr Springfield, Ohio.
12. J. S. Eaton Lincoln, Nebraska.
13. D. C. Brockman Ottumwa, Iowa.
14. C. N. Pai,mer Lockport, New York.
15. C. H. Myers South Bend, Indiana.
16. L. M. Berg. (Homeopathic) Laredo, Texas.
17. W. C. ChaFEE Huntington, Indiana.
18. C. C. Ei^LiS (Homeopathic) Somerville, Massachusetts.
19. Edwin Wai.ker .Evansville, Indiana.
20. Arthur T. Hudson Paducah, Kentucky.
21. A. W. ScHitLER Salem, Ohio.
22. Arthur O. Jones Raleigh, North Carolina.
23. G. W. H. Kemper Muncie, Indiana.
24. Severin LachapellE St. Henri de Montreal, P.Q.
25. W. H. HoDSON Lockport, New York.
26. M. C. Wedgewood Lewiston, Maine.
27. James W. Cokenower Des Moines, Iowa.
28. W. A. J. Poi,i,ocK Pensacola, Florida.
29. J. G. Kei,i.y Homellsville, New York.
30. A. L. Foreman Stockton, California.
31. Wm. Kerr Bay City, Michigan.
32. Margaret Cai^dweli. Waukesha, Wisconsin.
33. Danibi< Lichty Rockford, Illinois.
34. Arthur P. Ginn Nebraska City, Nebraska.
35. Wm. H. Hai,!, Saratoga Springs, N. Y.
PHYSICIANS.
36. J. T. Jones Jackson, Tennessee.
37. John R. Fi^eming (Homeopathic) Atlantic City, New Jersey.
38. J. N. McCoy Vincennes, Indiana.
39. JAS. A. Hart Colorado Springs, Colorado
40. Samuei. Mii^IvIKEN Dallas, Texas.
41. Wm. C. Wood Gloversville, New York.
42. T. E. Sands .Battle Creek, Michigan.
43. O. N. HoYT (Homeopathic) Pierre, South Dakota.
44. Geo. W. Crosby Atlantic City, New Jersey.
45. W. M. Campbei.1. Atchison, Kansas.
46. E. E. Levers » Spring Valley, Wyoming.
47. D. B. Wyatt Fond du Lac, Wisconsin.
48. New York Eye and Ear Infirmary, NewYork, N. Y.
(The largest institution of the kind in the world).
49. Robert W. Gibbes Columbia, South Carolina.
50. H. C. Jones Decatur, Illinois.
51. James A. Lane c .Leavenworth, Kansas.
52. F. J. Campbeli, Fargo, North Dakota.
53. P. I. Edwards Jackson, Michigan.
54. A. F. Hagadorn. West Bay City, Michigan.
55. J. C. HoYE New Castle, Pennsylvania.
56. Amos O. Tayi,or ( Homeopathic )..Altoona, Pennsylvania.
57. Wm. B. Reed Rome, New York.
58. P. J. O'Hara Paris, Michigan.
59. W. C. Gates Rockland, Michigan.
60. N. W. Cady Logansport, Indiana.
61. Donald Campbei,i* = Butte, Montana.
62. August HeiGEI.man Berlin, Germany,
63. Max Von WachTER Berlin, Germany.
64. GUSTAV HuhnhoIvZ Frankfort, Germany.
65. Otto Humrich Leipzig, Germany.
66. Frederick ObEnauER Potsdam, Germany.
67. Cari^ OESTERREICHER Hanover, Germany.
68. Pierre Rosei^o Marseilles, France.
69. Jui.ES Campau Bordeaux, France.
70. John S. Burns London, England.
71. Archie S. WoodhousE Leeds, England.
72. Cyrus S. Edwards Liverpool, England.
73. DouGivAS CAI.VERT. Glasgow, Scotland.
74. ARCHIBAI.D MacDougai.1, Aberdeen, Scotland.
75° Patrick J. McManis . . . . . .Dublin, Ireland.
76. ITO FucASi Tokio, Japan.
77. Cari^os D. Gutierrez City of Mexico^ Mexico.
78 Nectar M. Kai.aijian Samsoun, Armenia.
(Educated in the United States.).
79. Jacob SchrECK Amsterdam, Holland.
80. Frederick MuddeR The Hague, Holland.
81. FrithioF Stjernhjei^m Stockholm, Sweden.
82. Dr L. W. Lander » • • Stockholm, Sweden.
83. Oi,AF T0RDENSKJ01.D Christiana, Norway.
84. Ephraim J. McCoi.i,um Tiffin, Ohio.
Department I.
DISEASES.— CAUSES, SYMPTOMS. TREATMENTS. Etc.
ABORTION.— (See Diseases ofWombn).
ABSCESS.— A collection of pus or purulent matter among the tissues of the body, and in a cavity of new formation, attended with constitutional disturbance more or less pronounced according to the location and size of the tumor; and, if near the surface, noticeable by prominence, throbbing and tenderness.
Cause. — Abscesses are the result of acute local inflammation where swelling and presstue shut off nutrition until the part dies. Gradually the tissues soften, turn to pus, and the pus is discharged. This is Nature's means of elimination. Abscesses are usually acute, or wajm; occurring in weak or scrofulous persons, they may last indefinitely, in which case they are spoken of as chronic, or cold.
Symptoins. — Inflammation, swelling, and pain in the affected part. When they occur in internal organs, the symptoms indi- cating their presence are obscure and would not be recognized with any degree of certainty by other than a practiced physician. Diagnosis in such cases is not always made during life. Occurring in the brain, may cause headache, dilation of the papil of the eye on the affected side, vomiting and convulsions in the early stages; also respiration may increase up to a certain point or degree, and then gradually decrease to a temporary cessation ( Cheyne-Stokes breathing). Paralysis may occur in the later stages.
Boils and Carbu7ideSi{s^Q. description) come under the head of abscesses.
Treatments. —
What to Do in Advajice of a Doctor. — When abscesses form near the surface, poultice with flax-seed meal or bread and milk. Open as soon as pus has formed. Keep clean with castile soap and water. Take something to purify the blood. Keep the bowels regular. For abscesses of this character it is not necessary
2 FAVORITE MEDICAL RECEIPTS.
to call a doctor, but it may be advisable in severe and obstinate cases to have them lanced by a doctor. If there are indications of an abscess on the brain, a physician or surgeon should at once be consulted.
A. In the early stage apply poultice of flax-seed until the abscess is soft to the touch of the finger, then open with a knife which has been thoroughly cleansed and dipped in boiling water. Press lightly on the sides of the incision to force out the pus, but do not press too hard. Dress the wound twice a day by washing, using castile soap, and cover with clean, soft linen.
B. Dried Sulphate of Iron i drachm.
Sulphate of Magnesia 4 "
Elixir Vitriol 6
Syrup Ginger ^ ounce.
Add enough water to make the whole 3 * *
Mix. — Take a teaspoon ful in a wineglassful of water after meals. — ( 19) .
NoU. — Where the patient has a healthy color, the Sulphate of Iron should be omitted.
C. Where the abscess is slow, take Hepor Sulphur or Sulphide of Calcium in 2 -grain pills. This hastens suppuration and the healing process. — ( 12).
D. When forming, poultice with flax-seed or bread and milk, and open freely as soon as pus has formed. After opening apply clean linen, or absorbent cotton pad wet with solution of Carbolic Acid, teaspoonful to pint of boiling water. Change as often as soiled. Never poultice an abscess after it is open. — (13) .
Remark. — A poultice of ground flax-seed or ground elm bark is recommended by Dr. J. T. Johnson.
E. Open and syringe out with boiled rain or filtered water, containing 20 drops strong Carbolic Acid to the teacupful. Keep a clean cloth wet with the same over the part. Renew when soiled. Syringe out daily. — ( 14) .
ABDOMINAL DROPSY.— (See Ascites under Dropsy).
ACNE.— (See Skin Diseases).
ADDISON'S DISEASE.— (See Bronzed Skin Disease).
AGUE. — See Intermittent Fever under Malarial Fevers),
ALBUMINURIA.— (See Kidney Diseases).
ALCOHOLISM. — The physical and mental phenomena induced by the use of alcohol, of which drunkenness is an acute form and delirium tremejis an incident of the chronic form.
Drunkenness. — Syynptoms. — Intoxication begins with a period of exhilaration. The ordinary case does not go further than this, the effects passing away in sleep. In the more acute
DISEASES AND TREATMENTS, 3
form, produced by imbibing an excessive quantity of alcoholic stimulants, the exhilaration is followed by a delirious stage, which is in turn succeeded by a state of coma not unlike that in apoplexy, the breathing being sonorous in character and the face bloated and congested. (See page 470.)
Chronic Alcoholism. — The continued indulgence in alco- holic drinks brings about morbid changes in the various organs and tissues of the body. Dyspepsia, diseases of the heart, liver and kidneys, organic brain diseases and epilepsy may be brought about through this cause.
Symptoms. — Dyspepsia, usually vomiting in the morning, sleeplessness, restlessness, and an increasing muscular tremor. All the functions of the mind become perverted, and the indi- vidual comes in time to have an imbecile expression added to bloated and repulsive features.
Treatments. —
A. Continue the use of liquor, for a time at least, but restrict to a certain amount. Take perhaps two ounces a day, in the form of sling, and the balance of the time, or whenever there is a desire for liquor, drink Scullcap tea (see chapter on herbs) freely. If this is continued, the nerves will become toned up and the taste for alcoholic drinks will gradually die out.
It is also claimed that the dried root of Angelica (see chapter on herbs) , taken in doses of 15 to 20 grains, will cause a disgust for all spirituous liquors.
A tea made from Stramonium (see chapter on herbs) leaves is claimed not only to cure or relieve the appetite for alcohol, but also for tobacco. This tea may be given in ordinary tea or coffee, oftentimes without the patient's knowledge.
B. Those wishing to stop the use of intoxicating drinks will find the following a most excellent substitute. It will relieve the catarrhal condition of the stomach, aid digestion, and give vigor and tone to a weakened or shattered nervous system:
Strychnine Sulphate i grain.
Fowler's Solution 2 drachms.
Lloyd's Hydrastus 4 **
Tincture Chloride of Iron 3 **
Glycerine 2 ounces.
Add enough water to make 4 ounces. Mix, and take one teaspoonful before or after each meal.
C. Aromatic Spirits of Ammonia, a teaspoonful or two in a glass of water, helps to sober up and overcome the depression following excesses. May be repeated in half an hour or an hour. (14.)
4 FAVORITE MEDICAL RECEIPTS.
D. Hot bath daily; bowels kept open by the use of saltsj Aromatic Spirits of Ammonia, a teaspoonful in a little milk every two or three hours.
E. Bromidia in teaspoonful doses in water every hour. To produce sleep and quiet nervousness, li grain of Morphine Sulphate by hypodermic injection is good if some one can be depended upon to give it. Do not tell the patient he is being given Morphine. — (9.)
Note. — Morphine is only to help the patient to get sobered, and is not to be continued.
F. Bromide of Soda 10 grains.
Bromide of Potash 10 **
Bromide of Ammonia 10 **
Mix. — Dissolve in water and take every two or three hours until relieved. — (22).
G. Total abstinence, with 20-grain doses of Bromide of Potash every three hours more or less often as needed to control the nervous system. — (7.)
H. Celerina (proprietary) 3 ounces.
Comp. Tincture Cinchona 3 "
Tincture Nux Vomica 2 "
Fowler's Solution ,.... i>^ drachms.
Dose. — ^Teaspoonful in water three times a day, before meals.
or, Peacock's Bromides 4 ounces.
Dose. — ^Teaspoonful in water three times a day, between meals and at bedtime. — (20.)
X. Sulphate of Iron i drachm.
Magnesia 2 **
Peppermint Water 12 **
Nutmeg 12 **
Dose. — Two teaspoonfuls, twice daily, after breakfast and supper.
This is a tonic and stimulant, and has proven beneficial in numerous cases. -(70.)
Note. — Dr. Burns states, in giving this remedy, that it cured of drunkenness the father of no less a personage than the celebrated divine, Rev. Newman Hall.
Dutchman^ s Temperaiue Lecture — Short, but Sowid Common Sense. — "I shall tell you how it vas I drunk my lager; den I put mine hand on my head, and dere vas one pain. Den I puts mine hand on my body, and dere vas pain. Den I puts my hand on my pocket, and dere vas notting. So I jine mit de Demperance. Now dere is no pain in my head, and de pain in my body vas all gone away. I put mine hand on mine pocket, and dere vas 20 dollars. So I stay mit de Demperance beeples."
DISEASES AND TREATMENTS. 5
Delirium Tremens. — This is an incident in chronic alco- holism, and occurs in consequence either of unusual excesses or the withdrawal for a short time of the accustomed stimulus. It is the result of exhaustion of the nerve functions and consequent irritation of the brain.
Symptoms. — The delirium itself is usually preceded by two or three days of mental depression and restlessness, during which the patient is peevish and irritable and his sleep disturbed; or he may suffer from loss of appetite and nausea, and perhaps vomit occasionally. He is greatly dejected, and is haunted with a sense of impending danger or misfortune. As delirium develops he talks incessantly, mingling the real with the imaginary, his ravings frequently becoming unintelligible through a trembling of the tongue. There is a rapid pulse, a tremor of the muscles of the limbs, a fidgeting of the hands, a constant activity of the body and utter sleeplessness. Bodily and mentally he is busy day and night. He suffers from one delusion after another, being haunted with spectres, threatened with dangers, attacked by enemies, and at times covered with loathsome objects, as reptiles, vermin, etc., which he is unable to shake off. These symptoms continue until sleep is produced or the patient sinks from exhaus- tion. If he is unable to obtain refreshing sleep in four or five days, the disease is likely to terminate fatally. Treatments. —
What to Do. — Put the patient to bed and keep him as quiet as possible. It is a good idea to give a little hot sling — just enough to keep the brain slightly stimulated — but not to give it more than once a day . Bromide of Potassium may be given in from 5 to lo-grain doses, or a doctor may be called for further treatment.
In cases where delirium comes on while a man is still carrying on his long-continued debauch, there will generally be a greater determination of blood to the head than in the ordinary cases arising after a debauch has been discontinued for a short time. In this case there must be the most active derivative treatment to draw the blood away from the head, such as the feet in water as hot as it can be borne, with mustard in it, mustard plasters to the feet and back of the neck, sponging with strong cayenne whiskey, an active cathartic, etc., this to be followed with quieting treat- ment. A warm bath continued from three hours even to ten hours, with cold applications to the head, has proven a very successful remedy, patients often falling asleep in the bath.
A person suffering from delirium tremens is not to be trusted alone for a moment, as he is liable to injure himself by jumping out of a window, or in some other way, to free himself from his imaginary enemies.
6 FAVORITE MEDICAL RECEIPTS.
A. Force feeding with strong coffee, soups and milk or beef tea. Get patient in quiet place and to sleep if possible. If stomach will hold, give 20 grains of Bromide of Potash every two hours till quiet. Keep bowels open. Give ginger and pepper tea. No whiskey. Or give teaspoonful Tincture of Cinchona Compound in water every two or three hours. — (No. 13.)
B. Teaspoonful doses of Tincture of Capsicum. Milk diet. 2o-grain doses of Bromide of Potash, taken in water every three or four hours. — (No, 7.)
ALCOHOL,
In making the following statements concerning the effects of alcohol upon the human system, the aim has been to confine the thought entirely to the diseased changes produced upon the various tissues and organs by the continued use of alcoholic stimulants. The statements are not overdrawn, the object being to give the facts.
Alcohol is absorbed from the stomach into the circulation. No change takes place in the alcohol in the stomach; it circulates in the blood as alcohol, and in this diluted state it comes in direct contact with the tissues and inflames them. Its first effect is upon the nervous system.
Nerves of the Blood Vessels. — The nerves which govern the size of the blood vessels become paralyzed, the small vessels become relaxed and dilated, and the organs are flooded with blood which they do not need. The cells and organs receiving this increased blood supply become larger and, as a result, new cells begin to form. They develop by a division of the parent cells, and thus there is an increase in tissue. This new growth lacks quality, as alcohol is never a true tonic. The individual is bloated and the flesh is flabby. The effect is deceitful and superficial, and the alcohol steadily saps the vital forces and undermines the constitution.
Connective Tissue. — The new tissue mentioned is a form of connective tissue. As naturally supplied, connective tissue develops with the growth of the individual and acts as a frame- work for all the structures of the body. When resulting from inflammation, however, it invariably contracts. As the contrac- tion continues, the unyielding pressure on surrounding tissues causes a shrinkage in the size of the organ it envelops, and the functions of that organ are correspondingly interfered with.
DISEASES AND TREATMENTS. 7
The Stomach. — Commencing with the stomach, where the first effects of alcohol are produced, the little glands of the lining membrane, which collect from the passing blood stream certain materials and transform them into digestive ferments (see Diges- tion), are squeezed and pressed out of shape. Some are eitirely obliterated, others are closed, the openings of others are nawowed or closed, and they become useless. Many glands that are not destroyed may have some of their secreting cells destroyed. The stomach may be dilated and may contain more or less fluid, but the secretions are changed in quality and the digestive fluids are lessened. It contains too much mucus, and chronic dyspepsia is the result. This is proven by the morning vomiting of drunkards and by post mortem examinations.
The Liver. — The same change takes place in other parts : First in the liver, because the alcohol is carried direct to that organ from the stomach. The changes in the liver are practically the same as in the stomach, i. e., first overgrowth of connective tissue and then shrinkage of the organ, and the cause is the same — chronic inflammation. The shrinkage of the liver prevents more or less the return of the blood that passes through it. This return circulation comes from the stomach, digestive tract, spleen, etc.; and as the blood is forced back to these organs, the changes in the stomach are increased and congestion and inflammation of other organs follow. There results diarrhea, enlarged spleen, piles, abdominal dropsy, or more than one of these conditions may exist at the same time. This disease is called cirrhosis, or sclerosis of the liver, meaning a hardening. It is also called hob-nailed liver, rum-drinker's liver, whiskey liver, etc. With the single exception of syphilis, this disease can only be produced by alcohol and is frequently met with in habitual drunkards.
During the early stages of inflammation, liver abscess may form, and death may occur before the liver has had time to shrink.
The Kidneys. — The effect of alcohol upon the kidneys is much the same as upon the liver, and is the most chronic of all forms of kidney disease. The blood vessels supplying the kidneys are large in proportion to the size of the organs. This subjects them to a proportionately large amount of the irritating effects of alcohol, hence their great liability to disease.
The whole organ becomes shrunken, and the outer portion is nearly obliterated. This is also called sclerosis. It is one form of Bright' s Disease and is most often produced by alcohol.
The Heart. — Blood cannot circulate freely through the kidneys, as many small vessels have been destroyed, hence it is crowded into other channels. This renders them full and tense, and the heart beat is increased in proportion. The heart is
8 FAVORITE MEDICAL RECEIPTS.
enlarged, and the muscle fibres of the small arteries throughout the whole body are increased as a result of the extra strain upon them.
Fatty Degeneration of the heart may and does follow the low form of inflammation produced by alcohol. Gradually the cells of which the organ is formed lose their vitality, degenerate and are changed more or less into fat. The muscle fibres become indistinct, and the tissues are soft and easily torn.
The Arteries. — Degeneration of the walls of the arteries takes place, i.e., many cells change more or less to fat. While in this condition the cells constituting the arteries are unable to exert their selective power, and lime salts are frequently deposited. These salts are always present in the circulation, but in health are prevented from entering the walls of the blood vessels. Any disturbance of the nervous system leaves the tissues without proper support, and the individual cells are unable to absorb proper nourishment. The larger arteries are comparatively free from danger, because their walls are thicker and stronger. The medium-sized arteries are most affected — those of the upper and lower extremities and those supplying the brain. Ultimately some of these vessels become changed into a hard, brittle tube, like the stem of a clay pipe.
In amputation such arteries are secured with difficulty, as the ligature or thread with which they are tied is liable to cut through. This condition of the arteries is the principal cause of apoplexy, as in their diseased condition any strain, heavy lifting, or sudden bending forward, may so increase the blood pressure as to cause rupture of such vessels in the brain. Aneurism (see Aneurism) or Aortic Stenosis (see Stenosis) may also occur.
Brain and Spinal Cord. — Upon the brain and spinal cord alcohol produces the same effect as upon other organs or tissues : First, congestion ; second, a low form of inflammation, followed by an overgrowth of connective tissue. The contraction of this tissue produces hardening here as elsewhere.
The contraction of the connective tissue in the brain and cord causes pressure upon the nerves, nerve cells and surrounding tissue, obliterates many small vessels, interferes with nutrition, and the result is hardening and loss of function. The hardening is called sclerosis. This is responsible for many forms of spinal paralysis, and may be caused by alcohol or other irritants.
Bronchial Tubes, etc.— Alcohol also produces alow form of inflammation of the mucous membrane lining the bronchial tubes and air cells of the lungs. This is called chronic bronchitis. Alcohol produces the same changes here as elsewhere. At first the mucous membrane is congested and thickened, the calibre or
DISEASES AND TREATMENTS, 9
size of the air tubes is lessened, and the secretions are increased by reason of the increased amount of blood. This produces irri- tation and cough, and more or less expectoration of thick, tena- cious mucus.
The same catarrhal condition may be produced in the mucous membrane of the digestive tract, causing chronic diarrhea. Chronic catarrh may also result.
Absorption of Water. — Alcohol absorbs water from every part of the body, and this is the reason so much water is needed after drinking liquor. Alcohol also extracts water from the blood corpuscles, leaving them shrunken. The absorption of water causes condensation and hardening of all the tissues. This is most marked in the brain because the brain requires so much blood and contains so much alcohol. The brain is the seat of reason, judg- ment, memory, emotion, sympathy, charity, love, etc., but the effects of alcohol bring these noble qualities to the brute level.
Delirium tremens is caused by alcohol, which absorbs so much water from the brain tissues. As the brain shrivels and shrinks, and the vessels become irregular, the optic nerve, or nerve of sight, becomes so drawn and bent that it transmits to the brain tortuous, grotesque and frightful objects, while the excitement of the victim is the result of the poison acting as an irritant. For a time the user of alcohol lives fast in a physical sense, and enjoys animal exhilaration, but while he is doing this, the changes already described are taking place — slowly, but surely. It is true that it may require several years to produce the change in some people, while in others the same condition is produced in a shorter time; but sooner or later these changes occur in all who continue the use of alcohol.
AMENORRHEA.— (See under Diseases of Women).
AMYLOID DEGENERATION. — (See Diseases of I^iver).
ANiEMIA. — In this disease there is a deficiency in the number of the red corpuscles of the blood. The corpuscles present contain the normal amount of coloring matter, but for some reason their number is diminished. There are two forms of this disease — AncBmia and Pernicious Ancsmia. Ischcsmia is localized Anaemia. The last is generally due to the sudden shutting off of the blood supply.
Causes. — Anaemia may result from deficient food supply or improper food, lack of fresh air, want of sunshine, a scrofulous tendency or disposition, overwork, unhygienic surroundings, or indigestion followed by a catarrhal condition of the stomach and bowels; or may follow protracted fevers, ulcer of the stomach, or Bright's Disease. See Pernicious Ancemia, following.
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Symptoms. — The patient is pale, weak and irritable; the lips look bloodless, and the conjunctiva, or mucous membrane which lines the eyelids, is pale and white looking; there is loss of appe- tite, dyspepsia, and may be acid fermentation in the stomach and eructations; at times there may be nausea and vomiting. There may also be dizziness or fainting, or palpitation of the heart. The palpitation, when it occurs, is sympathetic, and is the result of the condition of the stomach. The heart and stomach lie in close relation and the same nerves supply both organs.
Treatments.—
A. In this disease the blood lacks the normal elements as a result of indigestion and constipation, and contains many impur- ities ; hence the treatment consists wholly in regulating the con- dition of the bowels and in nourishing food, never forgetting an abundance of fresh air and regular habits. The remedies which may be used in this disease are Iron, and Fowler's Solution. Blaud's Pills in 5-grain doses after meals are recommended by some, and are undoubtedly of value. We recommend as an excel- lent combination the following :
Lloyd's Hydrastus , 3 drachms.
Tincture of Chloride of Iron 6 '*
Fowler's Solution 2 "
Glycerine i>^ ounce.
Simple Elixir, enough to make 4 * '
Mix, and take one teaspoonful three times a day, after meals.
Iodide of Arsenic is also a good remedy; if substituted for the foregoing, the dose should be 1-50 of a grain, taken between meals and at bedtime.
If the heart is troublesome, give 2 drops of Fluid Extract of Digitalis three or four times a day, or less often; or give 2 grains of Caffeine every three hours, or as needed. Give either one of these often enough to keep the heart regular.
For the digestive tract, give 10 grains of Salol after meals and at bed time — four doses a day.
If constipation is present, give 15 drops of Fluid Extract of Cascara in the morning, or morning and night. This amount may be increased or diminished to suit the case. Before giving the Cascara, give 1-5 of a grain of Calomel every hour until two grains have been taken, and if while giving the Cascara the liver seems to be inactive, give an occasional J^-of-a-grain dose of Podophyllin. This amount may be given every night, if neces- sary. It will not be necessary to continue the Calomel.
If there is headache or dizzi-ness, give one pill or tablet of Aconitine Amorphus, i-ioo grain, every one or two hours.
DISEASES AND TRBATMBNTS, II
If there are neuralgic pains, give one pill or tablet — 1-250 of a grain — of Gelsemine every thirty minutes until it takes effect. If the eyelids become heavy and droop, it is from the effects of the Gelsemine, and if continued, the amount of the dose should be decreased or taken less often.
B. The successful treatment of anaemia demands pure, dry air; a wholesome, mixed diet, adapted to the digestive powers; daily moderate and cheering exercise; a daily stimulating and cleansing bath; and the employment of such medicines as strengthen the digestive organs and improve the quality of the blood. Flannel should be used next the skin, and should be changed frequently. The following may be used with advantage:
Caulophyllin 2 scruples.
Ptelea 2 "
Strychnia i grain.
Extract Dandelion 2 scruples.
This should be mixed and formed into about forty pills, one of which should be taken three times a day, an hour before eating. In connection with this take the following:
Ammonia-Citrate of Iron }4 ounce.
Dissolve in two ovmces of water, and add two ounces of Lemon Syrup. Take a teaspoonful half an hour after each meal.
This treatment should be persevered in, especially the Iron, for sometime after all anaemic symptoms have disappeared.
ANiEMIA, PERNICIOUS OR PROGRESSIVE.—In
the pernicious form all of the conditions which produce the ordi- nary anaemia are exaggerated.
Cause. — There has never been any cause given for this disease, yet we wish to state what seems to us to be a reasonable cause for this ailment. First, however, we will enumerate the
Symptoms. — The disease comes on without warning. First there is languor and constipation, followed by palpitation of the heart, difficult breathing, dizziness, fainting, poor appetite, nausea and vomiting; later there is fever and disturbance of sight. The patient is thin and weak. There are degenerative changes in the arteries and in the marrow of long bones, fatty degeneration of the liver and spleen, and rupture of small vessels just beneath the skin causes hemorrhage and gives the skin a mottled appearance. There are also hemorrhagic spots in the liver and kidneys, and degeneration of the heart muscles.
This condition and all of these symptoms indicate a lack of nourishment from some cause — poor food, dyspepsia, or bad hygiene. We believe the greatest cause to be the unhealthy condi- tion of the digestive tract. There are four avenues of elimination for the waste material in the body: One is the lungs, poison being
12 FAVORITE MEDICAL RECEIPTS.
eliminated by the air cells and tubes. Carbonic acid gas is given off through this channel, also i}^ pints of fluid in the form of watery vapor, every 24 hours. This vapor contains many poisons, the nature of which is not known. Another avenue is the skin. Many waste materials are eliminated through the pores of the skin. Another avenue is the kidneys. The kidneys eliminate many waste products, the principal one being urea, a deadly poison. The remaining channel for elimination is the digestive tract, but elimination by this route is checked, and the constipation allows degenerative changes to go on, resulting in the production of many poisons. These are absorbed more or less into the circu- lation, gradually the system becomes permeated with the impurities, and gradually the patient is brought under their lowering tendencies. This condition would not only account for pernicious anaemia, but for typhoid fever, consumption, cancer, softening of the brain, and any and all chronic diseases. The primary, or first cause, is dyspepsia, followed by constipation and lack of elimination, as stated.
Treatment. —
First, cause thorough elimination by the digestive tract by means of cathartics, and also flush the bowels with large injections of warm water. Give ten doses of Calomel, 1-5 of a grain each, every 30 minutes, and follow with one or two tablespoonfuls of Laxol (see hidex) . Arrange for good ventilation, see that the surroundings are all made clean and wholesome, and give frequent feedings of the most nutritious food. If there is evidence of dyspepsia, give artificial digestants {sqq Index). Give i teaspoonful of Bovinine with each meal, increasing the dose to 2 or 3 teaspoon- fuls if the patient does not object. Give 1-50 of a grain of Iodide of Arsenic three times a day, between meals and at bedtime, or perhaps a better remedy would be the following:
Tincture of Chloride of Iron %. ounce.
Fowler's Solution 3 drachms.
Glycerine 2 ounces.
Simple Elixir, enough to make 4 "
Mix, and take i teaspoonful after meals.
Give 10 grains of Salol four times a day. Give frequent baths, keeping the skin clean and healthy. Following the baths rub the surface lightly each time. Cod Liver Oil may be applied to the skin after each bath, or, if the odor is objectionable, Sweet Oil instead. This will relieve the friction and allow massage to go on to greater lengths; also the oil that is absorbed is digested and appropriated by the system.
ANASARCA.— (See under Dropsy).
DISBASES AND TRBATMENTS. 13
ANEURISM. — Aneurism is a tumor formed by the bulging of an artery. The artery may become weakened at some point, as described under Atheroma, or aneurism may be the result of violent exercise or heavy lifting. The force of the circulation may be brought so direct as to cause slight bulging, which gradu- ally develops into a large tumor. This sac formation, small at first, gradually becomes larger, as with each heart beat the blood is driven into it with greater force. It may occur on any artery, but usually occurs on one of the larger arteries.
Cause. — Aneurism may be caused by diseased arteries, such as result from syphilis, alcohol, old age, or any condition where there is mild inflammation long continued, as described under atheroma. It may also result from Bright' s disease, from violent exercise, from heavy lifting, or from the formation of an abscess near an artery.
Symptoms. — The most prominent symptom of aneurism is a pulsating tumor. By making pressure upon the artery above the tumor, that is, on the side toward the heart, the tumor will dis- appear, showing that the blood has drained away; by making pressure below the tumor, or on the side farthest from the heart, the tumor wall become larger as the blood is gradually pumped into it. These tumors also produce a peculiar whirring sound. They may form on the aorta, that is, the large artery that is given off from the lower left cavity of the heart and which is the beginning of the arterial system. If the tumor forms in the chest cavity, it may cause pressure upon the nerves which supply the lungs, and will cause cough; if it presses upon the nerve which supplies the heart, it may excite or depress the heart's action; if it presses upon the nerve that supplies the organ of voice, it will cause hoarse- ness. The same nerves supply all of these organs. They pass down, one on either side of the neck, and enter the chest cavity. Aneurism may exist for a limited time without noticeable symp- toms, but as the tumor grows it presses upon and wears away any and all tissues with which it may come in contact. It wears away bone as well as soft tissue.
Treatment. —
The first object should be to secure quiet. The patient should rest as much as possible. If the aneurism is not large, the patient can be around, but lying down several hours a day will be of great benefit. When we remember that the number of heart beats is from 20 to 30 less to the minute while lying down, we can readily understand the advantage of this suggestion, because the whole object is to lessen the circulation and lessen both the frequency and force of the heart beat. It is only by this means that any relief can be secured. A very low diet is also of great
14 FAVORITE MEDICAL RECEIPTS.
benefit. Veratrum and Aconite are given internally in i-drop doses every hour with a view to slowing the heart's action and lessening the force of the pulse. Mechanical pressure is also used. When the aneurism is favorably located, by making pressure above it, on the side toward the heart, the circulation is brought to such a low ebb that the aneurism remains nearly empty. If the disease is the result of syphilis, an ti- syphilitic treatment should be given. If the artery is on an arm or a leg, and all other means fail, the artery may be tied above the aneurism, thus shutting off the blood pressure. Should gangrene follow the tying of an artery, amputation would be necessary.
ANGINA PECTORIS. — ( See under Diseases of thb Heart).
DISEASES OF THE ANUS.
The anus is the lowest part, or termination, of the bowel. It is surrounded by muscular fibres, called sphincter ani, which keep the orifice closed when the bowels are not to be evacuated. It is subject to
Fissures, Fistulas,
Hemorrhoids, or Piles, Prolapsus Ani,
Itching. — An annoying itching is often felt at the anus, for which the best treatment is to keep the parts very clean with good soap and water, and to take internally Sulphur and Cream of Tartar. Also the application of an ointment made of Carbolic Acid in the proportion of ^ teaspoonful of Carbolic Acid to V2 pound of fresh lard, will stop the itching and burning so common in diseases of the anus.
FISSURE OF THE ANUS.— An ulceration of the anus.
Cause. — There are various causes which may result in such an abscess, among which are constipation and piles.
Symptoms. — In case of a fissure the pain attendant upon evacuation continues for several hours instead of a short time, as in the case of piles. Treatment. —
Fissure should be treated by a physician. The treatment recommended below is the proper one, but really requires a physician to make the application.
A. Clean the parts thoroughly and touch up the cracks with Nitrate of Silver. If this does not cure, have the parts stretched under Ether. (10).
DISEASES AND TREATMENTS. 15
FISTULA. — An unnatural passage leading from the skin or mucous membrane to any other surface. Occurring in the bowel, it is simply the track of an unhealed ulcer.
Cause. — In a rectal fistula the ulcer is the result of constipa- tion or injury; usually the former. The pressure from the dry and hardened faeces produces irritation and inflammation to such an extent that an ulcer forms. This may be one, two, three or four inches above the external opening; usually it is about two and one-half inches above. Suppuration continues, extending toward and usually appearing upon the surface. Where the pus burrows through until an opening is made on the surface, the fistula is spoken of as complete; if it does not reach the surface, it is spoken of as a bliyid or iiicomplete fistula.
Sy7nptoms.--Th.Q: most prominent symptom is the passage of faeces through the false opening. There is also a feeling of uneasiness and, sometimes, more or less pain, although the pain and burning sensation are not so marked as in fissure,
Trka^tment. —
The first part of the treatment only belongs to the patient to perform for himself, and consists in taking an active cathartic, and, after the bowels have moved thoroughly, to wash out the lower bowel with an abundance of water — two or three quarts. A physician will then pass a groove-director through the external opening into the bowel, cut through to the surface and make provision for dressing the wound.
HEMORRHOIDS— PILES. — Piles are tumors situated about the anus or just within the rectum. The former are external piles, the latter, iiiteryial piles. Both varieties may exist at the same time. In some cases these tumors break and blood is dis- charged from them, in which case they are spoken of as bleeding piles; if there is no discharge of blood, and they remain internal, they are spoken of as blind piles.
Cause. — What seems to be an imperfection in the anatomical structure of the veins surrounding the rectum is the primary cause of this trouble. The veins throughout the body and lower extremities are well supplied with little valves which prevent a return of the blood, but for some unknown reason those sur- rounding the rectum are not thus supplied. The absence of these valves favors congestion, and the veins gradually bulge until small sacs are formed. Everything that irritates the lower bowel, as strong physics, habitual costiveness and any of the causes which tend to produce it, as straining at stools, etc., will cause an increase of blood in this part and a consequent congestion, and piles are the usual result.
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Symptoms. — Pain, often a burning sensation, and a protru- sion of the pile. Usually there is hemorrhage, which may be slight or very profuse. If tlie hemorrhoids are large and remain internal, there will be a constant desire to evacuate the bowels for the reason that the sensation is the same as though the mass con- sisted of fecal matter. An examination will reveal the true condition.
Treatments. —
All conditions are benefited by the free use of intestinal anti- septics: ID grains of the Sulphocarbolate of Soda in tablet form, or the same amount of Salol, either in tablet form or powder, should be taken four times a day. To insure greater regularity of bowel movement, avoid meats and all heavy foods for supper. It is a well established fact that by eating light suppers difficul- ties of constipation are more readily overcome.
Local Applications:
A. The following ointment will be found of value in many cases of piles:
Vaseline i ounce.
Nut-Galls, pulverized 80 grains.
Pulverized Opium 3^ drachm.
Put on a plate and mix together thoroughly with a case-knife or something of the kind- Use after each movement of the bowels.
If the bowel comes down, put it back, carrying it up with the index finger as far as possible. This wall cure simple piles, but in case of fistula or hemorrhoids it wall be necessary to have a surgical operation.
B. Tincture of Iodine 10 drops.
Carbolic Acid 10 *' ^
Morphine Sulphate 5 grains.
Nut-Galls, powdered 80 **
Lanoline, enough to make i ounce.
(80).
C. Flour of Sulphur 2 ounces.
Nut-Galls, powdered I *'
Opium, powdered i drachm.
Add lard enough to make a paste and mix thoroughly. (63.)
D. Tannic Acid 15 grains.
Borax, powdered 10 '*
Carbolic Acid 20 drops.
Vaseline 2 ounces.
Mix, and apply to piles two or three times each day. Keep bowels regular with mild laxatives. (42.)
DISBASBS AND TREATMENTS. l^
E. Take the inner bark of the white oak tree, boil and strain, and boil again until you obtain }i pint of the extract, very thick; then add ^2 pint of oil of the oldest and strongest bacon you can procure; simmer together until a union takes place when cold, Apply by the finger up the rectum every night Abstain from strong and stimulating diet.
While the foregoing remedies are recommended as the most satisfactory methods of palliative treatment, a cure cannot be promised by their use. After the sacs have once formed, local treatment is uncertain. In many cases it will relieve, and pos- sibly in some cases effect a cure. The only sure treatment, however, is the injection method or removal with the knife. The latter requires anesthetics and two weeks in bed; the injec- tion method requires neither, and does not interfere with the occupation whatever it may be. The injections are made by the use of a hypodermic needle, and the treatment would, therefore, almost necessarily belong to a physician to perform.
PROLAPSUS ANI.~A falling of the lower intestine, which is sometimes protruded from the body at great length.
Cause. — This trouble occurs in weak and delicate children and is the result of general debility. The whole system is relaxed, and the sphincter muscle, which in health guards the external opening to the bowel, loses its sensitiveness and power to control. The connective tissue support is relaxed and weak- ened along the digestive tract, and the prolapse is simply the result of gravitation.
Treatment. — ■
The bowels should be kept regular, and a small quantity of cold water should be injected into the rectum each time before the bowels move. This contracts the tissues, is stimulating in its effects, and tends to prevent the trouble. When prolapse occurs, the part should be carefully replaced; usually this may be done without much trouble. The child should lie down with the hips elevated, and Sweet Oil or Vaseline be applied, as it will facilitate movement. Now carry the part inward carefully, by the finger. If this does not succeed, wrap a thin, soft cloth about the finger. The surface of the bowel adheres to the cloth, hence is more rapidly replaced. If the bowel is exposed for any great length, the part should first be bathed with cold water. This contracts the tissues. Now apply the Sweet Oil, elevate the hips, and stand the child on its head, if necessary; but usually there is no trouble.
C.R.-2
IS FAVORITE MEDICAL RECEIPTS.
APHASIA. — Aphasia means partial or complete loss of the power of expression. The patient may not be able to recall words, or may not be able to comprehend words, either written or spoken. In that variety of Aphasia known as ataxic^ the patient is unable to control the muscles of the face and mouth. This disease, or these difficulties result from some lesion or imperfection in the brain. There is no danger to life, and they are not amenable to treatment other than good hygienic surroundings and the usual attention to proper habits and principles.
APHONIA. — Aphonia means the loss of voice, partial or complete. Partial loss of voice may be caused by any interference with the nerves that supply the larynx, or organ of voice. This is a branch of a nerve that rises in the back part of the brain, passes down the neck into the chest and supplies the lungs, heart and stomach. Interference with this nerve, or with the branch that supplies the organ of voice, may be caused by tumors, by an aneurism, by tuberculosis of the vocal chords, or by cancer of the throat. A temporary cause may be, and usually is, the paralysis that follows diphtheria. In the absence of some local cai:se, the lesion or difficulty must be in the brain. Trkatmknt. —
Tuberculosis of the vocal chords may be benefited by treatment, but this treatment would have to be applied by a physician. There might be a temporary relief afforded in cancer of the throat by spraying with antiseptic solutions. The aneurism (for treat- ment, see under Aneurism) or the tumor ^nov^A be found in close relation to the jugular vein, either in the neck or high up in the chest cavity.
For a tumor, the probable treatment is removal, or tying of the arteries that supply it. This would necessitate an operation. Before resorting to surgical means, however, the following treat- ment may be given a trial:
Local applications of Iodine should be made and the patient should take large doses of Iodine internally, as 2 teaspoonfuls of Syrup of Hydriodic Acid between meals and at bed time; or, 12 to 15 drops of Tincture of Iodine in ^ glass of milk taken instead. The dose of Acid or Iodine should be increased until the eyes present a catarrhal condition. This is an indication that the patient is taking all the system will bear. He should then go back to half the dose and gradually increase as before. If there is no improve- ment at the end of four weeks, an operation is justifiable.
APOPLEXY. — A disease characterized by the sudden loss of the power of sense and motion. The name is derived from certain Greek words which mean a striking or knocking down, inasmuch as the subject of it falls to the ground imconscious as if he had received a violent blow.
DISEASnS AND TREATMENTS. I9
Cause. — It is caused by pressure on the brain substance, resulting from the rupture of an artery. Men are more subject to it than women, and those attacked usually have short necks and corpulent figures. Excesses in diet and alcoholic drinks are predisposing causes, also Bright' s disease and syphilis.
Symptoms. — There are three forms of attack. A person seized with the first form falls suddenly in a state of insensibility, breathes heavily with a snoring sound, pulse full and strong, face generall}^ flushed, body covered with a clammy sweat, veins of the head and temples standing out as though overfilled, and the eyes fixed and bloodshot. Sometimes convulsions occur, foam issuing from the mouth. The face is drawn toward one side.
In the second form the disease begins with a sudden pain in the head; the patient becomes pale, sick and faint, and usually vomits ; the skin is cold and the pulse feeble ; occasionally there are slight convulsions; the patient may or may not fall, but is likely to recover soon from all the symptoms except a headache, which will continue until after a time the patient becomes oppressed, forgetful, unable to connect ideas, and finally sinks into insensibility from which he never rouses. In some cases this form is accompanied with palsy of one side; in other cases no palsy occurs. While this form of attack does not appear so frightful as the first, it is of more serious import.
The third form is the sudden loss of power on one side of the body, also a loss of speech but not of consciousness; or, if the first attack is accompanied with stupor, it soon passes off. The patient appears rational and endeavors to answer questions and indicate his desires by signs. This may be called paralytic apoplexy, and in some cases it passes into apoplexy proper and the patient dies. In other cases, under proper treatment, he may recover rapidly, or the recovery may be gradual; or he may live for years with imperfect speech and the loss of the use of an arm or a leg.
Treatments. —
What to Do Till the Doctor Comes .^^Stn6. for the doctor, and
while waiting for him loosen the clothing, especially about the neck, raise the windows to give free circulation of air, prevent crowding about the patient, put the feet in hot water, as hot as ought to be borne, and apply a mustard plaster to the calf of the legs and along the spine, and, if the patient can swallow, give a large dose of Castor Oil or some active cathartic.
A. Keep patient in semi-erect resting posture. Apply cold to head and heat to extremities. If possible, give something to act thoroughly on the bowels. Mustard to back of aeck. Send at once for doctor. — (14.)
20 FAVORITE MEDICAL RECEIPTS.
B. Apply cold application to the head. Put cord around arm, three inches above elbow, and draw it down tightly. When the large vein just below the cord is tense and full, cut wdth a sharp pointed knife, and w^hen one pint or a pint and a half of blood is taken, remove cord and put a compress on the wound, or hold with finger pressed on it. Use a clean knife. — (9.)
C. Tincture of Aconite, 15 drops in ^ a glass of cold water. Give 2 teaspoonfuls every half hour until improvement sets in, then every hour or two hours. I have been very successful with this for over thirty years. — (18.)
Persons who have a tendency towards apoplexy, and espe- cially those who have had one stroke, should avoid highly seasoned food and stimulating drinks. If an immediate attack is feared, use frequent cathartics, say twice a week, eat plain food, drink no spirits, use cool baths for the head and hot ones for the feet, and take plenty of out-of-door exercise, but avoiding fatigue, excitement, or over- exertion.
APPENDICITIS.— The appendix is a narrow tube, usually from two to four inches in length, and in diameter about the size of a goose quill, or a little larger. It is situated in the abdom- inal cavity, rather low down and toward the right side. It is attached to the back part of the caecum. The caecum is the somewhat dilated commencement of the large bowel. Appendi- citis is inflammation of the appendix. The attached end of the appendix opens into the caecum and the outer end is closed. Sometimes appendicitis occurs more than once in the same person. This is called recurrent appendicitis. The appendix consists of a mucous lining, an outer and inner muscular coat and a peritoneal covering. These are all continuous with the structures of the caecum, in fact, the appendix is merely a branch or offshoot of the caecum, and its structure is the same. There is localized peritonitis in appendicitis, and in severe cases the tendency is toward the formation of an abscess.
An abscess always renders the case more grave, yet an abscess is the exception and not the rule, and even when it forms it is often, though not always, absorbed, that is, carried away by the circulation, and complete recovery follows. There is alto- gether too much excitement and fear regarding appendicitis. This is the natural result of the extravagance in operative procedures. If the price of operation was brought down to a reasonable limit, at least seventy-five per cent of the operations would cease at once.
Cause. — Many statements have been made and many theories advanced regarding appendicitis, yet the cause is not so myste- rious. The first cause of appendicitis is indigestion; following
DISEASES AND TREATMENTS. 21
this is unhealthy blood and an unhealthy condition of the digestive tract. Constipation results, with the production of many poisons and irritating substances. This condition produces a low form of inflammation, which extends along the digestive tract and into the appendix, and the secretions of this organ become unhealthy. The result may be simply a catarrhal condition which is so mild as to give no symptoms other than a few colicky pains, or the attack may extend all the way from this state to a more severe form, and even to death. Injury to the appendix, irritation from external causes, or any condition producing congestion and lowering the vitality of the organs will aid in producing appen- dicitis. It has been stated that the caecum is the somewhat dilated commencement of the large bowel, and that the appendix is attached to and opens into the caecum. When the food does not digest, it ferments, gases are formed, and the caecum becomes dilated. When the caecum dilates, the opening into the appen- dix is enlarged and the pressure of gases may force many substances into the appendix that never would have entered if this part of the digestive tract had been healthy. If the surgeon operates at this time, he makes the startling discovery that appen- dicitis was caused by — well, whatever he happens to find. Some irritating substance finding its way into the appendix may act as an exciting cause, but the real cause is excessive irritation pro- duced by a diseased digestive tract. This results in inflammation, and, if the appendix is involved, it is appendicitis. Usually the attached end of the appendix remains open and the products of inflammation are discharged into the bowels. This is why ninety per cent of the cases recover without operation.
The condition of the mucous membrane of the appendix in appendicitis is the same as that of the bowel in diarrhea. The only danger is that the membrane may become so swollen that the attached end will be closed, in which case there would be no opportunity for drainage and the swelling and pressure would soon shut off circulation. This is the first step towards the form- ation of an abscess. The swelling and pressure may be so rapid and the circulation shut off so suddenly that gangrene will result in patches. This accounts for those exceptional cases where rup- ture occurs during the first 48 hours; the rupture follows the gangrene. These cases are fatal. An operation could have been performed early enough to save life, but the trouble is that a rupture is not expected so soon. These cases seldom occur.
Symptoms. — The symptoms are:
First, sudden onset of pain. This may occur in the region of the appendix, or anywhere in the abdominal cavity.
Second, nausea and, usually, vomiting.
Third, elevation of temperature, or fever.
22 FAVORITE MEDICAL RECEIPTS.
Fourth, the localizing of the pain over the seat of the appen- dix, though later, in severe and even fatal cases, both pain and fever may disappear and the patient feel and appear comfortable. Continued pain and soreness is not evidence oj a severe case; on the contrary, it is evidence that the case is not severe. The pain is the result of neuralgic conditions, while the soreness is simply evidence of a diseased digestive tract. When the appendix is attacked, the abdominal wall or muscles over that region may be more or less tense. This is Nature's effort to protect the parts beneath, yet these symptoms amount to little because this tension or resistance may be entirely wanting within a few days and yet the case prove a fatal one. After the first cnset the most severe and dangerous cases are attended with the fewest symptoms, as will be show7i.
When an abscess forms, there is usually thrown out a false membrane, forming a sack, which surrounds the appendix and encloses the pus. An abscess increases in size by the destruction of tissue from within outward, first destroying the walls of the appendix. In like manner the inflammation keeps extending further back, and always keeps outside the pus. This inflam- matory zone constitutes the sack already mentioned which sur- rounds the appendix. If there should be an abscess within the appendix, and the appendix should rupture, the newly formed sack would hold the pus for a few days, when, if absorption did not take place, that is, if the pus was not carried away by the circulation, the sack too would rupture and allow the con- tents to pour into the cavity of the abdomen ; the poison would then cause general peritonitis, and death would result. Sometimes the sack is wholly impervious, that is, completely retains the contents, which renders the disease purely local. In these cases, instead of the usual symptoms of abscess, such as chills, fever, etc., there are no marked symptoms; the temperature is about normal, there is no pain, and the patient may feel able to attend to his accustomed duties. These abscesses may escape detection from even the most experienced surgeon. Such cases should be operated upon, yet in many of these the real condition is not understood. The patient may seem to be making rapid progress toward recovery, when suddenly there is a change; the abscess has ruptured, the patient has collapsed, and in a few hours death closes the scene. We are aware that some surgeons may criticise our statement that they cannot always detect an abscess in the abdominal cavity when it is present, yet the foregoing is the result of our experience in the field of operation and we feel it our duty to state the facts.
Some physicians claim to cure all cases by medication; others contend that even after the abscess forms it is better to wait for
DISEASES AND TRBATMBNTS. 23
one week, and then, if absorption does not take place, to operate; still others can see only one form of treatment for all cases, that is, operation. While the first is depending upon his medicine, and the second waiting for absorption, rupture may suddenly occur, with the results already described. In the case of the man who always operates, death ma}^ result from the operation itself, that is, the removal of the appendix from a healthy man will cause death in two or three per cent of cases.
If an operation reveals an abscess, and the appendix and surrounding structures are found firmly bound by inflammatory adhesions, it is good practice to wash out the abscess cavity and drain, and not persist in the efforts to tear the appendix loose, as such efforts might cause rupture into the abdominal cavity and this would be liable to result fatally. Treatments. —
IV/iai to Do Till the Doctor Comes. — As the pain in appendi- citis is very severe, it is assumed that a doctor will be sent for immediately. In the meantime, however, much may be done to relieve the patient.
If a severe pain is felt in the right side of the abdomen, put a mustard plaster over the pain, and give injections of water as hot as can be borne, the water to be made slippery with soap — soft soap is really better for this purpose than castile. Or, take a tablespoonful of Turpentine and the yolk of two eggs, beat thor- oughly together, put into a quart of hot water, and use that. The latter makes an excellent injection as it serves to draw the gas from the bowels. Also give warm drinks — some balm tea. Catnip tea, or something of that kind, is soothing and quieting to the nerves, and gets the patient to sweating. Of course, he will be put to bed. In place of the mustard plaster, cloths may be wrung out of a hot decoction of some bitter herb (as Smar tweed, Worm- wood, Tansy, etc.), and applied hot.
A. Perfect quiet and a good physician. — (4.)
B. Take a tablespoonful of Epsom Salts in a goblet of hot water. Apply hot fomentations and send for a doctor. Keep constantly in a reclining position. — (14.)
C. Send for a surgeon. In the meantime Epsom Salts, table- spoonful in water every three hours until bowels move freely. Do not give an opiate. — (19.)
APTHiE. — (See under Diseases of Children).
ASCITES.— (See under Dropsy).
ASTHMA. — Asthma is paroxysmal, and is usually a chronic disorder or disease of the organs of respiration (breath- ing).
24 FAVORITE MEDICAL RECEIPTS.
Cause. — The exact cause of this disease has never been satisfactorily determined. It is believed by some to be hered- itary, but it may start from diseases of the lining membrane of the nasal passages. It may be caused by sudden changes from a dry to a damp atmosphere. It is seldom entirely cured.
Symptoms. — It is characterized by extreme difficulty in breathing and an oppressive sense of suffocation. There is wheezing, and a distressing tightness about the chest. The trouble usually comes on quite suddenly, sometimes in a few hours. After the first attack the sufferer has warning symptoms of its approach. These warnings are the symptoms proper, only in a milder form. During the attack the face is usually flushed, and spasm of the respiratory muscles may exclude the air from the lungs to the extent that cyanosis may result. In cyanosis the patient turns blue, the eyeballs become prominent, and the respir- atory muscles, especially those of the neck, become distended. In some cases respiration becomes a mere gasp as the poor victim struggles for breath. The attack may last for a few hours only, or for a whole day or night, or both.
Treatments. —
What to Do Before a Doctor is Called. — If one is subject to asthma, he should have on hand, to take when a paroxysm CK:curs, the following:
Ipecac, powdered (or the crushed root) I drachm.
Bloodroot, powdered (or the
crushed root) % '*
Lobelia Seeds, crushed (or the
leaves) 2 **
Mix these three ingredients together, then fill a coffee cup (about one-half pint) one-third full of white sugar, or say half full, drop in the mixture and stir all together thoroughly with a spoon. Fill the cup nearly full of boiling water. Pour it out of a teakettle that has been boiling, turning it in slowly and stirring thoroughly with a spoon at the same time. Continue to stir it occasionally as long as the water remains warm, then set it to one side and let it settle. When thoroughly settled, strain. During a paroxysm, take a teaspoonful of this liquid everj^ fifteen or twenty minutes until sick at the stomach. By that time the lungs will have relaxed and the person be comfortable. Probably the second dose will be sufficient to relieve him.
Note. — If the above mixture is put into a bottle, corked tight and set in a cool place, it will keep four or five weeks. By adding one or two ounces of Glycerine to each pint, the mixture, bottled, will keep for months.
■'-sN
11
~--^;. .
No. t.
I, Tongue. 2, Muscles of Tongue. 3, Bones of Nose. 4, Soft Palate. 5, Gullet. 6, Spinal Canal. 7. Vertebrae. 8, Opening to Wind-Pipe. 9, Thyroid Cartilage. 10, Wind-Pipe. 11, Upper Brain. iiK» Lower Brain. 12, Eye Cavity. 13, Artery. 14, Vein.
DISBASES AND TREATMENTS, 25
A. The following is a most excellent remedy to take between the attacks of asthma:
Nitrate of Strychnine }4 grain.
Sulphate of Atropine 1-20 "
Glonoin i-io **
Glycerine 2 ounces.
Simple Elixir 2 "
Mix, and take one teaspoonful before meals and at bedtime.
In case of threatened attack, take one teaspoonful every hour until the throat is dry or the face flushed; then take one teaspoonful every two or three hours for a few doses.
The Strychnine is a systemic or general tonic; the Atropine dilates the small vessels, brings the blood to the surface, relieves congestion, and is one of the best remedies to relieve muscular spasm. Glonoin produces the same effect on the circulation and is also a powerful heart stimulant, but has no direct action upon the muscles involved.
This remedy has recently been tried by us in some severe cases, and been uniformly successful. It is by reason of this success that we feel justified in recommending it to our friends across the water. (62.)
B. Pulverized Lobelia i drachm.
Sulphuric Ether i ounce.
Mzx, and let stand two weeks, shaking the mixture every day.
Use. — Pour 15 or 20 drops on a handkerchief and inhale through mouth and nose. Should relieve asthma in three minutes. If not, repeat the inhaling process. (58.)
C. Dried Mullein leaves, soaked in a strong solution of Nitre (Saltpetre) and again dried. Smoke in a pipe and inhale the smoke, or inhale from a saucer.
To an adult, 25 drops of Laudanum. Inhalation of steam. Keep room well ventilated. (14.)
D. Oil of Lobelia i drachm.
Potass Iodide 3 "
Water 3 ounces.
Syrup 3 ♦♦
Mix and dissolve.
Dose: A teaspoonful three or four times a day. (8.)
E. Inhalation of fumes from Jamestown weed. (60.)
F. If the spasmodic action is very considerable, and has arisen soon after a full meal, let an emetic (see Emetics^ be at once given. Probably the best emetic in this case would be
26 FAVORITE MBDICAL RECBIPTS,
Ipecac, the dose of which would be one teaspoonf ul of the powder, or a teaspoonful of the fluid extract, or from one to three teaspoonf uls of the syrup; to be taken every fifteen minutes until the spasm is relieved. In the meantime get the feet into hot water for fifteen or twenty minutes, followed with Mustard to the feet, to divert the blood from the lungs. Warm water, or some warm herb tea may be drank with the Ipecac (or other emetic that may be used) to assist its action.
G. No one thing will be found to cure absolutely in all cases, because there will be found complications of other diseases, differ- ing in different persons, but permanent cures in some cases are claimed to have been effected with the following preparation:
Lobelia Seed j^ ounce.
High Cranberry Bark }^ "
Stramonium Seed j4 '*
Capsicimi ^ "
Alcohol I quart.
Mix, and let stand for two weeks, shaking daily.
Dose: From one-half to one teaspoonful three or four times a day as a cure, and every thirty minutes for relief.
Bathing daily is believed by some to be absolutely necessary to enable the system to resist the tendency to take cold, which is almost certain to bring on an attack of asthma with all who are subject to the disease. Begin by using warm water, but gradu- ally use cooler water until able to bathe in cold water, keeping this up until the little changes in the atmosphere do not have so quick an effect on the system. For those for whom a daily cold bath would be too severe, the following is recommended: a daily sponging with a tincture of Cayenne, ^ ounce of the Cayenne to one quart of whiskey, sponging the whole surface before dressing in the morning; and with this sponging, a cold or tepid bath two or three times a week.
In connection with either of these forms of bathing, some internal remedy (as recommended above) should be persevered in if permanent relief is expected. One difficulty with asthmatic patients in not being able to effect a cure, or at least a very consid- <erable benefit, is that they do not continue the use of a remedy sufficiently long to make a lasting impression. To work an alter- ative effect, the remedy must be taken three or four times daily for a month, or two or three months, as the previously short or long establishment of the disease would seem to call for.
Following are a few cases given by Dr. Ray, who uses Ferro- cyanuret of Potash — more commonly called Prussiate of Potash '—-in the treatment of asthma. A full history of each case is given:
DISEASES AND TREATMENTS. 27
1. "Mrs. S. , aged 48, has suffered for many years from palpita- tion of the heart, with dyspnoea ( difficulty of breathing ) and asthma, had often been under treatment by different medical men of some notoriety, but without permanent benefit, all of which was made known on my first visit. Prescribed as follows:
Ferrocyanuret (Prussiate) Potassa... i ounce.
Water 2
Simple Syrup 6 **
Sulphuric Ether i drachm.
MtJir. Dose: — One teaspoonful five times a day for a period of three or four months, with entire relief both of heart symptoms and of the re- spiratory organs."
2. " M. M., aged 60, male, feeble from long indisposition and much medication, subject to chronic bronchitis of long standing, expectorated freely a tough and glairy mucus, sometimes streaked with blood, making constant efforts to clear his throat, trouble- some cough at night and much irritability of the throat. Called at my office and gave the above history, stating that he had lost all hope of relief, having often been treated before. Prescribed as follows:
Ferrocyanuret of Potassa i ounce.
Alcoholic Extract of Hyoscyamus... i drachm.
Water 2 ounces.
Simple Syrup 3 "
MtJir. Dose: — One teaspoonful 5 times a day. which was taken for some months, with gradual but permanent relief. ' '
3." Mrs. McD. , widow, aged 30, seamstress, robust constitu- tion, but for many years subject to severe attacks of neuralgia upon the slightest change in the atmosphere, even a change in the direction of the wind often inducing an attack. She would suffer intolerable pains, either in her face, head or limbs, the disease not confining itself to any especial organ even in the same attack. Called at my office for medical aid, and in addition to the above stated that her digestive organs were in good condi- tion, bowels regular, catamenia ( turns ) appearing at regular intervals, and of natural color and duration. Prescribed as follows:
Ferrocyanuret of Potash i ounce.
Water 2 "
Simple Syrup 6 "
Sulphuric Ether 40 drops.
Mijt:. Dose. — One teaspoonful five times a day.
Improvement constant. No return of symptoms since. Con- tinued treatment for two or three months. The case being one of nervous irritability, needed no other than a sedative treatment."
28 FAVORITE MEDICAL RECEIPTS.
ATHEROMA. — Atheroma means a chronic disease of the arteries. This frequently occurs in old people as a natural result of old age; it also occurs in the young and middle aged as the result of syphilis, the prolonged use of alcohol, Bright' s dis- ease, chronic indigestion, or some form of excess. In this disease the arteries degenerate — lose their elasticity and become soft and flabby, and the coats may contain considerable fat, and during this change lime salts may also be deposited in the coats of the arte- ries. This is the same form of lime salts of which bone is formed. These salts are always present in the circulation, but during health Ihe various cells of the body, including those of the arteries, select irom the passing blood stream only such elements as are suited to their individual use; during the degenerative change going on in the arteries by reason of the diseased condition, the cells cannot exercise their selective power, and lime salts maybe deposited. This may occur in patches, or may include the arter}^ for some distance. In this condition and as a result of some sudden strain, as heavy lifting or bending forward, an artery may easily be ruptured. This frequently occurs in the brain and is the cause of apoplexy. Sometimes there is an overgrowth of connective tissue in the arteries, and when this contracts it hardens and becomes firm and resistant. This is called Arte7ial Sclerosis. In any of these conditions the tissues are poorly nourished.
Treatment. —
Give attention to diet, take nourishing food and keep the bowels regular. Guard against any symptoms of indigestion, avoid excitement, heavy lifting or athletic exercise, and take internally one teaspoonf ul of Syrup of Hydriodic Acid four times a day — between meals and at bedtime. Occurring in the old, care should be taken to guard against injury, as this is the condition present when dry gangrene is liable to occur, and the injury, be it ever so slight, even as the result of carelessness in the cutting of a toe nail, may excite inflammation and cause gangrene.
If the disease is caused by syphilis, give anti-syphilitic treat- ment; if it is the result of Bright' s disease, see treatment under that head.
ATROPHY. — Atrophy is a wasting of tissues or of an organ that was originally well formed. It means a loss of weight, size and function, and is dependent upon some disorder of nutri- tion. What is called active atrophy is due to the failure of the cells or tissues to assimilate the nourishment brought to them; passive atrophy is understood to mean a diminished supply of nourishment. Adipose or fat tissue is merely connective tissue (see chapter on Ai^cohol for description of connective tissue),
DISEASBS AND TREATMENTS: 29
where many of the cells are distended with fat. In atrophy the natural fat is gradually removed and the cells diminished in size, although the cells may still contain all the elements essential to normal function or activity, the fat not being necessary to the well-being of the part. Strictly speaking, however, atrophy means a decrease in the normal tissue elements, though as usually found it is more or less associated with fatty degeneration, that is, aside from the disappearance of the fat originally contained in the tissues, the structure proper is more or less degenerated and converted into fat. So long as waste and repair are equal and the waste is eliminated as fast as produced, health is maintained and atrophy does not occiu*.
Cause. — Atrophy is a natural result of old age; occurring in the young and middle aged, it depends upon diseased conditions. It may result from lack of circulation, from pressure, from inflammation, from lack of food, from lack of assimilation, from lack of exercise, and from bad hygiene. There is a certain amount of atrophy in the arteries and tissues following amputa- tion; there is atrophy of the optic nerve after removal of the eye; atrophy may result from tumor pressure or from aneurism, or from connective tissue overgrowth. Examples of the latter are found in the kidneys in Bright' s disease and in a sclerosed liver following the prolonged use of alcohol. Atrophy occurs in tuberculosis and other wasting diseases. It may occur in bone as well as soft tissue, and the cause is the same.
Order of Progressio7i. — The first effects of atrophy are found in the disappearance of the normal fat lying just beneath the skin; second, that contained in the abdominal cavity; third, a shrinking of the muscle fibers; fourth, the same effects are found in the arteries and nervous tissue; fifth, and last, destruction of the connective tissue. It is the destruction of the nervous tissue of the brain that causes insanity during starvation.
Treatment. —
Barring the natural decline of old age, atrophy signifies disease, either local or general. If in the kidney or liver, see treatment under those heads; if the result of tuberculosis or other wasting diseases, see treatment as described under those heads. In the absence of any known cause, atrophy requires general systemic treatment. This includes nourishing food and attention to digestion and elimination; it includes bathing and well- ventilated sleeping rooms, daily exercise in the open air, never carried to the point of fatigue, and attention to hygienic surroundings. These cases will be benefited by 1-40 of a grain of Strychnine in pill form, taken before meals. Also by 5-drop
30 FAVORITB MEDICAL RECEIPTS,
doses of Fowler's Solution at the same time. If the patient is pale and ansemic, give 20-drop doses of Syrup of Iodide of Iron between meals and at bedtime.
BALDNESS. — Baldness may be caused by the infectious diseases, such as syphilis, or by a severe case of eruptive fever where the disease is protracted. Baldness may also be caused by some forms of ringworm (See Ringworm). Perhaps the greatest cause of baldness is a lack of circulation in the scalp. The hair follicles are little thimble-shaped depressions in the skin, and at the bottom of each follicle is a tiny loop of blood vessels which supports the growth of the hair and nourishes the connecting gland. The gland, in turn, furnishes an oily secretion which keeps the hair and skin smooth and soft. When the circulation is inter- fered with, nourishment is lacking, and gradually the hair loses " tone" and eventually becomes loosened and falls out. In the majority of cases the vitality of the hair follicles is destroyed and baldness is permanent.
Many cases of falling out of the hair may be benefited or cured. Baldness resulting from a "run of fever" needs no partic- ular treatment. Baldness resulting from a lack of circulation requires stimulating applications, as any of those following. Mas- sage regularly and persistently applied will improve the circulation and aid materially in the support of the hair. Pilocarpine is credited with the power of producing a new growth of hair where the hair follicles are not destroyed. This remedy is very expensive and we cannot speak from personal experience. If used, it must be taken internally and continued for a long time. The dose must be governed by the effect in each individual case. If it causes an increase in the flow of saliva, this will indicate that the dose must be lessened ; if this symptom is not present, the amount can be continued and increased to the point of effect. Perhaps the aver- age dose would be i-io of a grain four times a day.
The discovery that Pilocarpine would cure baldness was accidental. Patients who had been kept for several months in some of our hospitals and given Pilocarpine for other causes, had, in case of baldness, noticed the hair began to grow. This surprised both patients and physicians. The latter became interested, and by comparing notes it was discovered that very many cases of baldness had been cured by the prolonged use of Pilocarpine; at least, there was no other known cause.
Pilocarpine increases the secretions of the whole body, including those of the scalp. During the course of treatment, where the Pilocarpine is given, the hair follicles and their con- necting glands always contain an increased amount of secretions. Putting the two facts together, that is, the increase in the secre-
DISBASBS AND TREATMENTS. 3 1
tions and the growth of hair in those cases that had been bald for years, the only intelligent solution that could be arrived at was that the new growth of hair was due solely to the Pilocarpine.
Treatments. —
A. Take a small handful each of the bark of Witch Hazel and Bittersweet. Put this into an iron dish and pour on to it one quart of boiling water. I^et it simmer (not boil) down to one pint. Strain and add four ounces of Bay Rum and }4 ounce of Glycerine. Rub thoroughly into the scalp once a day, shaking the bottle well each time before using. If the hair follicles are not destroyed, this will promote a growth of hair.
Of course, the scalp must be kept clean. Wash occasionally with soap — about one ounce of the tincture of Green soap added clear, a little at a time — rub the scalp gently, rinse thoroughly with dear water, and then apply the above wash.
B. Alcohol 2 ounces.
Water of Ammonia i>^ drachms.
Glycerine i "
Salts of Tartar i
Castile Soap, powdered' 8 grains.
Water, enough to make 5 ounces.
MtJtr, and rub well into the scalp two or three times a week.
C. A most excellent application is the following:
Resorsin 4 drachms
Listerine. 2 ounces.
Glycerine 20 drops.
Rosewater enough to make 8 ounces.
Apply to the scalp twice a week.
D. Friction of the scalp with a moderately stiff hair brush, and application of an ointment made of Carbolic Acid and Vase- line in the proportion of i part Carbolic Acid to 48 parts of Vaseline; or Oil of Tar i part to 24 parts of liquid Cosmoline.
17.)
E. Frequent shampoo and massage with Tar soap. (5.)
F. Tincture Spanish Fly i drachm.
Castor Oil )4 ounce.
Purified Beef Marrow i "
Lemon Juice }4 "
To be rubbed into the scalp morning and evening. (27.)
G. Tincture Cantharides 2 drachms.
Quinine Sulphate i "
Rum 8 ounces.
Rosewater, sufficient quantity to
perfume
Rub a small quantity well into the scalp once a day. — (21.)
32 FAVORITE MEDICAL RECEIPTS.
H. Sulphate of Quinine i drachm.
Tincture of Spanish Fly i "
Liquid Vaseline i ounce.
Aromatic Spirits of Ammonia ^ "
Bay Rum, enough to make 8 "
Mix together and use with a wet brush twice a day, rubbing in well. — (53,)
BARBER'S ITCH.— (See Ringworm of the Beard).
BED SORES. — Bed Sores mean sores that are occasioned by lying too long in one position. Sometimes only the skin is destroyed, sometimes the deeper structures. Lesions of this kind are most apt to occur in old people, and are very difficult to heal. Circulation is poor and nutrition is at a low ebb, and there is but little to stimulate the healing.
Cause. — Failure of nutrition due to low vitality and pressure. These sores occur at points sustaining the greatest weight. The pressure shuts off the blood supply, partially or completely, the tissues die and, in severe cases, slough away.
Symptoms. — The skin may first assume a brighter red, then gradually changes in color and becomes darker. Death may occur at one point in the center and spread, or may occur simultan- eously at several points and gradually unite.
Treatments. —
In case of long illness, especially of old people, bed sores are very apt to occur, and those having the care of them should employ
Preventive Treatments. — The position of the patient should be frequently changed. Bathing and friction should also be used daily, and especially over the surface where the greatest pressure occurs. This will improve the circulation and aid largely in keeping up a healthy condition. Clean sheets should be kept on the bed, and the sheets and mattress upon which the patient lies should be kept as smooth and free from wrinkles as possible. Great protection may be had by placing under the patient pillows, cushions, or soft quilts folded together. Air pillows are used in many cases. These are simply circular hollow rubber tubes filled with air.
Under Preventive Treatments the following applications are recommended for suspected or exposed parts.
A, Tannic Acid >^ ounce.
Glycerine 4 *'
Alcohol 4 "
DISEASES AND TREATMENTS. 33
B. Prevent by keeping patient changing from side to side. Do not let him lie in one position too long. Sponge back and hips three or four times a day with the following:
Alum I drachm.
Alcohol ^ ounce.
Pad back with soft cotton so as to keep pressure off tender places. — (13.)
C. To prevent bed sores, bathe exposed parts three or four times a day with clear alcohol. — (8.)
Applications for Sores.— The surface should be thoroughly cleansed at least twice a day — morning and evening — with warm water and Castile soap, after which any of the following applica- tions may be made:
A. Oxide of Zinc 1 drachm.
Ichthyol 2 '*
Vaseline, enough to make i ounce.
Mix well, spread on a muslin and place over sore.
B. Two per cent solution of Formaldehyde, which is made as follows:
Formaldehyde 10 drops.
Water i ounce.
After bathing, as above directed, wet a soft cloth in the solution and lay it over the sore, covering the cloth with a light bandage.
BELLYACHE. — This is a term somewhat loosely applied to the various pains that may occur either in the stomach or bowels. These pains are the result of indigestion, constipation, or pressure from the formation of gases, either in the stomach or digestive tract. They are sometimes "colicky" in nature. They all indicate practically the same condition, indigestion, either from overeating or eating too fast, and may also be influ- enced by sedentary habits as these tend to a sluggish condition of the digestive organs. It is a form of neuralgia, the same as rheumatism, lumbago, etc. Neuralgia is not a separate disease, but a painful reminder of our errors.
Treatments. —
A. A cathartic should be given, and the individual should be more careful regarding his diet. He should eat less for a few days and drink more water between meals. This will render the digestive tract more active and digestion will be improved, also elimination. Many of these cases call for better ventilation.
B. Give some warm tea freely, as Peppermint, Spear- mint, etc.
CJI.-3
34 FA VORITE MEDICAL RECEIPTS.
C. For babies, Catnip tea with a little Anise seed added. If bowels are too close, use Elder blows (Sweet Elder flowers), in place of Catnip.
Adults : Ten drops Essence Peppermint and 4 or 5 drops Spirits Camphor in form of hot sling. (14.)
D. A teaspoonful of Paregoric for adult, followed by oil or salts. In children the dose of Paregoric should be gauged to suit the age of patient: a child one year old should have 10 drops; a child ten years old, j4 teaspoonful. Never awaken anyone to give him Paregoric, or Opium in any form, such as Morphine or Laudanum . ( 9 . )
E. For baby, strong Peppermint water without sugar, or Catnip tea. If hands and feet are cold, wrap up. Warm flannel over stomach.
Older children same, with suitable doses of Paregoric, according to age. Give careful diet. Watch out for tender point over the appendix on right flank. (13.)
P. Paregoric i ounce.
Tincture of Capsicum i "
Spirits of Camphor i "
Syrup of Rhubarb 2 "
Spirits of Chloroform ^ drachm.
Simple Syrup 4 ounces,
i^z;r, and take one teaspoonful in warm water every hour until relieved.
Nole. -^While Paregoric has been and is a very common remedy for children, we wish to remind the reader of two things: First, Paregoric contains Opiimi, and its effect is the same as to give Laudanum diluted; second, small children and babies do not bear Opium well. Codeine will quiet nervousness or irritability and is perfectly safe. 1-60 to 1-40 of a grain would be a suitable dose for a child one year old.
BILIARY STONE.— (See Gall-Stones). BILIOUSNESS.— See I.1VER, Congestion of). BLACK-HEADS.— (See under Skin Diseases).
THE BLADDER AND ITS DISEASES.
The bladder is a membranous sac designed as a receptacle for the urine. It is situated in the pelvic cavity. Its position is sub- ject to great change, according to the amount of its distention, also according to the condition of the surrounding structures. The bladder has four coats. The lining mucous membrane forms the inner coat, next is connective tissue, then the muscular coat, and last the serous coat. The connective tissue unites the mucous membrane to the muscular coat. The serous or outer coat is formed of the peritoneum (the lining membrane of the abdomen) and does not entirely cover the bladder. The ureters lead from the kidneys into the back wall of the bladder near the bottom. The bladder may be considered simply as a dilatation of the ureters. What is called the neck of the bladder, the point of outlet, is surrounded by the prostate gland, and it is at this point that the urethra begins.
DYSURIA. — The meaning of this term \s> painful urination. It is not a disease of itself, but there are three conditions especially that are liable to produce it: the first is inflammation of the bladder, the second is stricture, and the third, which is less severe, arises from an enlarged prostate gland. Any of these conditions may result in complete retention of urine, in which case distention of the bladder soon follows and the pain is agonizing.
Treatment . —
Depending upon inflammation, it is amenable to early treat- ment (see Bladder, Inflammation of). Incase of stricture or an enlarged prostate gland (see under those diseases), the conditions are overcome with difiiculty and require prolonged treatment. In case of complete retention relief can only be had by use of the catheter, an instrument designed to be introduced into the bladder to draw off the urine. After one application by the doctor a soft catheter can be applied by any one.
Retention of Urine. — Take corn silks and pumpkin seeds, make a tea and drink freely of it, and place wheat bran poultices as hot as can be borne over the bladder. If these fail, use catherer.
35
36 PA VORITE MEDICAL RECEIPTS.
BLADDER, INFLAMMATION OF. -The bladder is subject to inflammation from the following causes:
The injudicious use of irritating drugs, especially Cantharides and Copaiba.
External injury.
Extension of inflammation from surrounding structures.
From local irritation, as in the formation of stone.
It may result from taking cold.
It may be caused by the urine when it contains too much add. This acid is the result of indigestion.
It may be caused by tumors or cancer.
It may be either acute or chronic.
Acute Form. —
Symptoms. — The onset is sudden. There is moderate fevp« and burning pain in the region of the bladder, and especially along the urethra following urination. The pain is increased b) pressure. The mucous membrane is red and swollen and ther^ is an almost incessant desire to urinate. This is not done freely and is accompanied with great distress. The increased blood supply results in an overproduction of new cells on the surface of the mucous membrane, and these drop away into the urine and are eliminated. The natural secretions of the mucous membrane are changed to a thick, tenacious form, and if the inflammation is severe enough small vessels will rupture and d/ood will also appear in the urine. At first the urine may be clear, but as the result of new cell formation and the thick, ropy mucus, it soon becomes cloudy and undergoes decomposition. If the inflamma- tion is in the neck of the bladder there may be complete retention of urine (see Dysuria) , and great pain in the perineum as well as great distress in the bladder. If continued, this would result in distention of the kidney and blood poison. The bladder lies in close relation with the rectum, and sometimes the irritation causes a frequent desire to evacuate the bowels. This is called tenesmus.
Treatments. —
What to Do Till the Doctor Comes. — Put the patient to bed and use hot applications to ease the pain until the doctor can arrive. Cloths may be wrung out of hot water, but are more effective wrung out of a decoction of Smartweed. They should be put across the abdomen as hot as the patient can bear them and changed often enough to keep the sun ace hot. Or an excellent way is to put the Smartweed into two sacks, steep them up, wring one out at a time and lay across the patient, changing as often as necessary.
DISBASBS AND TREATMENTS. 37
The hot applications tend to evacuate the bladder, but if the case is too obstinate for relief to be afforded by such means, it will be necessary for the doctor to attend to this on his arrival. In calling the doctor he should be informed of the nature of the difficulty in order that he may bring the necessary instruments with him.
A. Give a large dose of Castor Oil or other active cathartic, and put the patient to bed. Absolute quiet is necessary. If the urine is highly acid, which is indicated by a high color, give a teaspoonful of the following every two hours:
Acetate of Potash yi ounce.
Tritica 4 "
If the urine is alkaline and contains thick ropy mucus, give one teaspoonful of the following mixture every two hours:
Benzoate of Soda yi ounce.
Glycerine i "
Water 3 "
Mix together.
or,
Salicylate of Soda ^ ounce.
Glycerine i "
Water 3 "
Mix, and take one teaspoonful every three hours.
or, Salol 10 grains every three hours.
B. Tea made of corn silks — green silks if in season. May be drank freely.
Quinine in 3-grain doses four times a day in connection with the remedy mentioned above. Avoid eating acids or anything sour. Drink alkaline waters after meals. — (9.)
C. Benzoic Acid i drachm.
Borax lyi "
Water 8 ounces.
Mix, and take tablespoonful every two hours until relieved.
D. Tartar Emetic 2>^ grains.
Epsom Salts 2 ounces.
Sulphate of Morphine 2 grains.
Tincture of American Hellebore ... i^ ounces.
Aromatic Sulphuric Acid yz drachm.
Syrup Ginger 2 ounces.
Water 10 "
Mix. Dose: — A tablespoonful every two, three or four hours. — (20. )
E. Treatment depends upon conditions and causes, and requires investigation by a medical man to be intelligently treated.
-(14.)
38 PA VORITB MEDICAL RBCBIPTS.
F. Give watermelon or flaxseed tea, and inject Laudanum and warm water into the bowel. — (6.)
Chronic Form. — Inflammation of the bladder may become chronic. This is more liable to occur in old people, and may be caused by stricture or by stone, but is more often due to an enlargement of the prostate gland, which surrounds the neck of the bladder and in an enlarged state keeps up a constant irrita- tion. This is followed by congestion, a low form of inflammation and an overgrowth of tissue. The walls of the bladder may become one-half inch thick. The desire to pass water is unduly frequent, and the bladder never entirely empties itself. (See Prostate Gi.and KnIvArgbd.) The urine presents a cloudy appearance, is alkaline and contains a large amount of mucus and pus. On standing, it deposits a thick, ropy sediment, and often gives offensive odor because the retained urine undergoes decom- position. Chronic inflammation of the bladder is also accompanied with a dull pain and more or less emaciation and weakness.
Trkatmknts. —
A. Give ID grains of Salol four times a day, or lo grains of Benzoate of Soda four times a day. The bladder should be com- pletely emptied several times a day. Eat plain food and drink large quantities of pure water. If chronic inflammation continues until the walls of the bladder become thickened, there is no cure. Avoid active exercise, walking or riding, as these tend to aggra- vate the case and increase the inflammation.
B. One ounce best Gum Arabic dissolved in a glassful of water.
Dose. — A teaspoonful every two or three hours. Especially useful in chronic and sub-acute cases. — (8.) What is called ammoniacal decomposition of urine may present a cloudy appearance. This may occur without inflam- mation of the bladder. Normal urine has what is called an acid reaction. If a piece of blue litmus paper is thrust into it, it will change to red . After the decomposition mentioned this change will not occur, but the urine will now change red litmus to blue. This form of fermentation is caused by the small trace of mucus that is always present, and other organic matter in the urine acting as a ferment converts the urea, which is normally present, into Car- bonate of Ammonia. This form of decomposition can be detected by the odor. If the litmus paper which has been changed to red is allowed to dry, the original blue color will return as soon as the Ammonia has evaporated.
BLADDER, GRAVEL or STONE IN. — Gravel may be
present in the bladder, having been carried through the ureters from the kidneys. A$ stated under Diseases of The Kidneys,
DISEASES AND TREATMENTS. 39
this gravel is clusters of uric acid crystals. Gravel may be more abundant in the bladder because there is more room for it. It may collect in such quantities as to cause irritation. In the case of an enlarged prostate gland where the bladder is not entirely emptied, the accumulations may continue to the formation of one or more stones of large size.
Cmise. — The cause of gravel is fully stated under Diseases of the Kidneys. Stones may originate in the bladder, but are usually discharged from the kidney into the bladder where they continue to grow in size. Stone may result from alkaline urine following inflammation of the bladder. In this case, as in the kidney, the stone would be formed of phosphates.
Symptoms. — Stone in the bladder first produces uneasiness, followed by a dull pain in the region of the organ. The desire to urinate is more frequent, especially during the day, or when the patient is exercising. Walking and riding increase the irritation and pain. Urination may increase the pain, because it is apt to disturb the stone, which is sometimes drawn over the entrance to the urethra and effectuall); stops the flow. By changing posi- tion, the stone may be removed and the bladder empty itself. If the stone is rough, with sharp edges, it produces severe pain when brought in direct contact with the sides of the bladder as it is being emptied. There is usually more or less mucus present in the urine, and blood may also be present at times. A stone that is perfectly smooth may reach large proportions and produce no symptoms at all.
Treatments.—
A. For medical and general systemic treatment, see Stone in the Kidney. If medical treatment fails, an operation will be called for. It should be remembered, however, that the symptoms of stone in the bladder may be caused by other conditions, and an operation should never be made until an examination has demonstrated the presence of stone. This examination is made by passing a sound into the bladder, and by careful manipulation bringing it in contact with the stone. The contact must be both heard and felt. This leaves no room for doubt and is the only sure method of diagnosis.
B. Drink freely of Gravel Weed tea (^see chapter on herbs'). If this does not dissolve the stone, and [the trouble continues, consult medical aid. The stone may have to be crushed with instruments.
40 PA VORITE MEDICAL RECEIPTS.
BLEBS. — Blebs are water blisters, varying in size from a bean to an ^gg, which form on the skin. They are characteristic of a skin disease known 2iS pemphigus. (See Pemphigus).
Treatment. —
A. Open them and apply an ointment made as follows:
Carbolic Acid i part.
Lard, or Cosmoline 20 "
(7.) BLISTER. — A thin bladder raised on the skin, containing a watery fluid. It may be caused by some injury, as burns, unaccustomed friction, etc. Blisters are sometimes raised with plasters over the seat of a severe pain as a means of relieving the pain. The vesicles that form in small-pox are small water blisters. If the fluid in a water blister, or vesicle, becomes purulent, that is, changes to pus, it is then called a pustule.
Treatments. —
A. For a severe blister take cabbage leaves, soften them by putting in warm water, take out stems, and apply warm over the blister. If the cabbage leaves are not at hand, dress the blister with bread and milk poultice.
B. Draw a coarse thread in blister with a needle, cut thread and leave ends protrude at least half an inch from blister. (4.)
C. The blister should not be molested so long as there is any sensation of the burn, but when the pain has subsided, puncture near the base, but be careful not to rupture the skin of the blister as it acts better as a covering for the raw surface than any artificial dressing that can be substituted. (9.)
BLOOD BLISTER.— Blood blisters are caused by a slight injury, as a light blow, or pinching the skin. When these effects are severe enough, some of the little vessels that are just beneath the skin are ruptured, blood escapes, the outer layer of the skin is raised, and this constitutes a blood blister. If these are opened they should be opened with a sharp needle, which should enter the skin a short distance from the base of the blister and be pushed through to where blood is contained. This allows free drainage and does not disturb the outer layer of the skin.
BLOOD POISONING.—This means poison in the circula- tion. It is not understood to mean blood poisoning resulting from contagious diseases, such as scarlet fever, diphtheria, small- pox, etc., but includes only those cases of blood poisoning resulting from an unhealthy or infected wound, where poison is being absorbed into the circulation. Medical writers divide blood
DISEASES AND TREATMENTS. 41
poisoning into several separate forms, as follows: Septicemia, Saprcemia and Pycsmia. Septicemia is frequently spoken of as Septic Infection, and Sapraemia as Septic Intoxication.
These divisions are largely theoretical. The cause, symp- toms and treatment are practically the same in all. In treating a case of blood poisoning, neither the doctor nor the public consider the conditions indicated by the foregoing terms. It is treated simply as a case of blood poisoning.
Cause. — The cause of blood poisoning is the absorption into the system of a specific virus or poison, usually from a poisoned wound. It may follow a case of confinement where the after-birth or some part of it is allowed to remain in the uterus, or it may result from abscess formation in the body — bone abscess, abscess of the kidney, of the liver, ulcers formed in the digestive tract during tj^phoid fever, abscess of the lung or abscess of the middle ear. Any of these conditions may produce blood poisoning, and the cause is the same — the absorption into the circulation of a specific poison or virus. In some cases there is also absorption of pus or other putrid matter. The absorption of both the specific poison and the putrid matter is called Pycemia^ meaning pus in the blood.
Symptoms. — The symptoms of blood poisoning commence soon after the introduction of the diseased matter. When fol- lowing confinement it usually makes its appearance four or five days after labor. In many cases there is a chill or sense of chilliness, restlessness, high temperature, nausea, vomiting and, later, diarrhea. The eliminations may contain blood, and hemorrhage may occur in spots beneath the skin. There is a dry, coated tongue, headache, weak, rapid pulse, scanty, high- colored urine, loss of strength and emaciation. If the disease continues, the temperature falls below normal, there is a gradual failing of respiration, increasing heart failure, unconsciousness and death. Delirium may occur during the progress of the disease. In what is called Pyaemia, small abscesses may form in different parts of the body, hence in these cases the symptoms may vary slightly, as, a chill may follow the formation of each new abscess, and following the chill a few hours later there may be profuse sweating, the result of weakness.
Treatments. —
The treatment is the same in all cases. If the poison has been absorbed from a wound, first thoroughly cleanse the part. If on the surface, make a large opening and wash out carefully with a strong antiseptic solution, and secure thorough drainage. Dress the wound with antiseptic cloths and bandages. This will cut off the supply, and the patient has now only to get rid of the
42 FA VORITB MEDICAL RECEIPTS.
poison in the system. If the wound is on the hand or foot, and red lines extend towards the body, it is evidence that resistance is being overcome and that the poison and inflammation are extending. These lines, which are the veins, gradually assume a darker hue. They should be cut open at frequent intervals and the poisoned blood be allowed to escape. Wash thoroughly with antiseptics and use antiseptic dressings. The wound should be dressed once or twice a day, as the case demands. Thorough cleanliness must be maintained or success will not follow the treatment. If the foot, hand or arm is badly swollen and the inflammation is extending toward the body, the limb may be wrapped with a loose bandage and kept wet with a solution of Corrosive Sublimate, 15 grains to one quart of water. If the disease is the result of a poisoned uterus, the uterus should be thoroughly washed out with warm water containing 20 grains of Carbolic Acid to the pint. If any portion of the after-birth is present, it must be removed by mechanical means. lyike the wound, the uterus may need washing out once or twice a day for a few days.
These cases need stimulants. Some use large quantities of Whiskey and Quinine; others depend upon 1-30 of a grain of Strychnine or 2 drops of Fluid Extract of Digitalis about once in three hours. These remedies are especially strengthening to the heart. Give an active cathartic, secure thorough movement of the bowels once or twice a day, keep the skin active by means of baths and brisk rubbing, feed the patient at frequent intervals with the most nourishing foods, secure good ventilation and give abundance of pure water. If this general treatment is well observed, there will be less danger of heart failure. If there is much vomiting, put a large mustard plaster over the stomach or give small quantities of milk and lime water, equal parts. The lime water must be fresh. The following is also good:
Carbolic Acid i drop.
Subnitrate of Bismuth 2 drachms.
Ivime Water 2 ounces.
Mi::^:, and take ^ a teaspoonful every twenty
or thirty minutes more or less often as needed,
or give, as one dose,
Lactopeptine 10 grains.
Bismuth 10 "
every thirty minutes or every hour. In many
cases crust coffee is more effectual in checking
vomiting than any other treatment. It should
be given without sugar or milk.
The points to be remembered in treating blood poisoning are:
First, thorough cleanliness.
Second, free elimination and nourishing food.
Third, give stimulants as the case requires.
DISEASES AND TREATMENTS. 43
BLOODY FLUX.— (See Dysentery under Diarrhka).
BLOODY URINE. — This is not a disease, but is a condi- tion that may be present in inflammation either of the bladder or kidneys. Its presence would indicate some trouble of this kind, and an investigation into the cause of it should be made. It may also be due to injury.
BOIL. — A boil is an acute affection of the skin in the form of a circumscribed inflammation. It starts as a small pimple and gradually increases in size until it attains certain dimensions, when it suppurates and casts out pus, and a tough, whitish mass of dead matter called a ''core." A boil is about a week in devel- oping sufficiently to discharge its contents, after which the part heals.
Cause. — A vitiated condition of the blood.
A. Keep constantly covered with Carbolized Vaseline. Go to your doctor for internal medicine. — (14.)
B. Boils are local troubles and do not come from bad blood, as supposed by many. Some foreign matter finding its way into the skin alongside of a hair is the origin of a boil. Boils need poulticing until they contain pus, and should then be opened with a clean knife. Do not bruise the flesh by pressing after opening. Apply soft oiled cloth after the boil is open. — (9.)
Note. — The above statement as to the cause of boils is somewhat con- trary to the opinion popularly held, but it is the opinion held by one of the physicians represented in this book, and we desire to give all sides of a question so far as the scope of the present volume will admit.
C. Carbolic Acid 10 drops.
Cocaine, 10 per cent solution 5 *'
Fluid Extract of Ergot i drachm.
Mix. Put 5 drops on a plaster made of the yolk of one <t%% and one teaspoonful of salt. Apply twice daily. — (22.)
BONE DISEASES,
Bones are two-thirds lime salts and one-third soft tissue. There are 200 separate bones in the human body not counting the teeth. They act as a framework and support other struc- tures. The surface of bones is firm and compact; the inner portion is somewhat porous, that is, contains many openings, which extend in various directions. These accommodate the pas- sage of blood vessels and nerves for the purpose of nutrition. All bone is surrounded by a thin firm membrane called periosteum. It is through the periosteum that the blood vessels are distrib- uted, and from there they enter the various channels and divide
44 PA VORITE MEDICAL RECEIPTS.
throughout the bone substance ; hence, whenever the periosteum is destroyed, or torn loose by accident, that portion of bone which it covered may die from lack of nourishment. Bone is subject to disease the same as soft tissue. Abscess, caries and necrosis are preceded by inflammation. In inflammation of bone the pain is intense because the bone is resistant and unyielding, hence the pressure is greater.
INFLAMMATION OF BONE.— When this occurs in the center of a long bone, it is called myelitis; when occurring on the surface, it is called ostitis ; when it includes the w^hole bone, it is called osteo-myelitis; when occuring in the periosteum, which sur- rounds the bone, it is called periostitis, {itis means inflammation. )
Causes. — Injury, syphilis, extension of inflammation from other tissues. When digestion is poor, the blood contains many irritating substances. Such irritation may, and often does, cause inflammation of the kidneys, liver or lung, and may also cause inflammation of bone. In the young and healthy, injury is the most frequent cause. Inflammation of bone may terminate in caries, suppuration or necrosis.
Symptoms.— In acute inflammation of bone the pain is always severe. It is deep," boring," and at times agonizing, because the structure is firm and resistant and there is no room for swelling as in soft tissue. This is why a bone felon is so painful. The pain is usually worse at night, and is also influenced by damp weather. If pus forms, there are one or more chills, and later there is redness and swelling on the surface.
Treatment. —
In acute inflammation of bone put the patient to bed, elevate the affected part, put on a bandage as tight as can be borne, and wet with the following solution:
Sugar of Lead 4 drachms.
Laudanum 2 ounces.
Water 2 quarts.
Give an active cathartic. Give Morphine or Opium inter- nally, if necessary. If the disease has existed for some time, apply heat instead of Lead, water and Laudanum. Also apply counter- irritants. A large mustard plaster wrapped around the limb would answer for this purpose. If unable to control the case, cut the tissues clear to the bone, including the periosteum. This will relieve the pressure and also the pain to some extent. If there is evidence of pus, continue the opening into the bone, and if pus is discovered, give free drainage and dress as directed under necrosis. Any surgical measures would require the services of a physician.
DISEASES AND TREATMENTS. 45
BONE ABSCESS. — Abscess of bone is a chronic disease. Bone abscess was first described by Sir Benjamin Brodie, hence is sometimes called Brodie' s Abscess. It usually occurs near the ends of long bones, as those of the leg or arm. These bones are larger and contain more blood ; again, they are subject to greater strain, hence to greater irritation.
Cause. — The cause is inflammation resulting from injury. At first there is an increase in the blood supply. This is followed by an increase in bone tissue. The pressure from the newly formed cells and from the congested and inflamed vessels continues until circulation and nutrition are shut off and the structure dies. The death of the first cells occurs at any point where the pressure is greatest. The surrounding bone thickens and hardens by reason of the inflammation of the periosteum. Pus usually breaks through at the end of the bone because the ends are not covered by the periosteum, hence there is less resistance at this point. The cause of abscess in bone is the same as in soft tissue and the changes are the same. See abscess in Appendicitis.
Symptoms. — There is pain, which is usually worse at night and which is aggravated by dampness. The pain is localized and persistent. Later there is discoloration of the skin. Motion or dependent position or any slight injury causes violent attacks of pain. The nearest joint is especially subject to pain, the cause being the sensitiveness of the synovial membrane. This mem- brane surrounds the joint and is the part first affected in inflam- matory rheumatism.
Treatment. —
We have stated before that wherever pus is discovered the abscess should be opened at once. There is no exception to this rule. In opening bone abscess open at the point of greatest tenderness. Give free drainage, scrape away dead bone, and by means of a syringe wash out the cavity with any antiseptic solu- tion. Maintain absolute cleanliness. Dress the wound ever>^ day, more or less often as needed. Of course the treatment also includes attention to the general system, to food, ventilation, elimination, etc.
ULCERATION OF BONE.— CARIES.— Ulcer in bone is the same as ulcer elsewhere. The only difference between ulcer and abscess is that an ulcer opens on the surface and an abscess does not. Caries is death of bone resulting from ulceration or suppuration. This is sometimes called molecular death, meaning that only molecules or minute particles of bone are destroyed at a time: it is a gradual destruction. Caries of bone excites some inflammation around the diseased area, and some new tissue forms. This new tissue protects the healthy bone, and at the
46 FAVORITE MEDICAL RECEIPTS.
same time some of the new tissue is destroyed by inflammation and pressure and aids in the formation of pus, which is discharged.
Causes.— It may be caused by syphiHs, scrofula, tuberculosis, or any condition where there is lowered vitality and a lack of nutrition. Caries may also be caused by mercury or phosphorus; it may also be caused by freezing or by burns; it may follow scarlet fever or typhoid fever where the disease is protracted, as in that case the health of the patient becomes very low and the system debilitated. It usually occurs in the young. Injury is probably the exciting cause, that is, the immediate cause.
Symptoms. — This form of bone disease commences on the surface of the bone, hence the pus can readily escape through the skin. In abscess the disease commences below the surface and within the substance of the bone. The symptoms are the same as those of inflammation of bone, though less severe. There may be some soreness, and enlargement or swelling due to the pus may be noticed. If not opened, the pus breaks through and is discharged. The pus from caries, or slow death of bone, contains small particles of bone matter and feels gritty. This is positive evidence that the bone is diseased. The odor from this kind of abscess is very foul. A probe inserted through the bone and coming in contact with it causes a dull sound. A healthy bone would give a clear note. The surrounding bone is softened, and oftentimes the probe can be pushed through it. If not treated, the opening from caries does not heal and the discharge becomes chronic.
Trkatmknt. —
If due to syphilis, give anti-syphilitic treatment ; if it is the result of scrofula or tuberculosis, give treatment described under those diseases ; if it has been caused by the fumes of mercury or phosphorus, those employed in factories where these are used should change their occupation. The opening through which the pus passes out should be enlarged, the dead bone scraped away and the cavity swabbed with some strong antiseptic solu- tion, even pure Carbolic Acid, and then washed out with pure water. The greatest care should be exercised to maintain clean- liness, both in the cavity and out. New dressings are usually required once or twice a day for a time, but may be lessened as the condition improves. General systemic treatment is required.
SOFTENING OF BONE. — OSTEO MALATIA.— MOLLITES OSSIUM. — In this disease the bones become gradually softened, are dissolved, and are carried away by the circulation. The urine contains an excessive amount of bone salts. This change commences toward the center of the bones and extends toward the surface.
DISBASBS AND TREATMENTS. 47
Cause. — The cause is said to be unknown, although some believe it is the presence of lactic acid in the blood. Undoubtedly the cause of bone softening is a lack of nutrition, which means poor food, indigestion, lack of elimination, bad air, etc.
Symptoms. — There may be light pains, rheumatic in character. Fractures occur as the result of very slight cause. Later, the bones may bend out of shape and various deformities thus result.
Trkatment. —
Mechanical support in the way of splints. Try to strengthen the system by means of nourishing foods and good hygienic surroundings.
DEATH OF BONE.— NECROSIS. — Necrosis means
death. Gangrene is necrosis. When applied to bone, necrosis means death of a portion or portions large enough to be seen.
Cause — Tearing off or destroying the periosteum may be the cause. The vessels which supply the bone are first distributed through the periosteum, hence destruction of this membrane cuts off nutrition ; inflammation may be the cause, as inflammation destroys or shuts off the circulation and the tissues die for want of nourishment ; it may be caused by taking Mercury or Phos- phorus; it may die from injury or may follow a burn or freezing; or it may follow scarlet fever or typhoid fever where the inflam- mation is slow and the patient becomes greatly emaciated.
Where a shell of bone dies and becomes separated from the surrounding healthy bone, it is called a sequestrum. The dead bone is light in color because it contains no blood and because bone is naturally white. The dead bone is a foreign body and the surrounding healthy bone is greatly inflamed, the same as any soft tissue following gangrene, and this line of inflammation would correspond to the line of demarkation as described under Gangrejie; the periosteum surrounding the dead bone is also greatly inflamed; there is a production of new tissue, the same as that following inflammation elsewhere. This new tissue breaks down and causes suppuration, and this leaves a space between the dead bone and the living. The dead bone cannot escape, and if the pus is not absorbed it breaks externally and the dead bone is left in the cavity. The surrounding case of healthy bone is called an involucrum, meaning a sheath of bone. The opening through which the pus escapes is called a cloaca, meaning a canal.
Symptoms. — The first symptom is that of inflammation of bone. The pain stops when the pus escapes because the pressure is relieved. A probe inserted through the cavity will strike the healthy bone, which will be hard, and which, on tapping
48 FA VORITB MEDICAL RECEIPTS.
lightly, will give a clear note; in caries the sound is dull, because in caries the surrounding bone is more or less affected and is soft. These openings do not heal.
Treatment. —
The treatment consists in making a large opening and giving free drainage. Scrape the cavity, if necessary, and swab it out with a strong antiseptic solution. Clear Carbolic Acid is recom- mended by some. Pack the cavity with Iodoform gauze and dress with a bandage. These abscesses require daily dressing — the dressings should be frequent enough to maintain thorough cleanliness of the surface. Remove the dead bone as soon as it becomes loosened. These cases usually require special attention to food and careful hygienic surroundings. If the disease is caused by syphilis, give anti-syphilitic treatment; if the result of phos- phorus, change the occupation.
HYPERTROPHY OF BONE. — This means an over- growth.
Cause. — Increased blood supply. This may result from a low form of inflammation; said to result in some cases from ex- cessive use of the part; may also result from injury in the young and robust as this might cause chronic inflammation. There is slight overgrowth following the healing of bone abscess or the repair of fracture.
Treatment.—
Local treatment is not needed for hypertrophy or overgrowth of bone. If the cause is removed, that is, if the injury heals or the inflammation is checked, the overgrowth will remain a permanent addition to the bone. If the overgrowth is the result of a low form of inflammation long continued, it will eventually end in abscess, ulcer, softening or death of bone. Constitutional treatment may do much to prevent this result. Much depends upon diet, f*-esh air and proper exercise.
ATROPHY OF BONE .—(See Atrophy) .
BOWELS, INFLAMMATION OF.-Inflammation of the bowels is confined to the mucous membrane lining the digestive tract, and is accompanied with soreness, diarrhea, fever and more or less prostration. The conditions in inflammation of the bowels are inseparably connected with those resulting from diarrhea and dysentery. Diarrhea and dysentery are different stages of the same inflammation, and the treatment for any one of these three
DISBASnS AND TRE^^TMBNTS. 49
conditions is only a modification of the treatment for the others. The three can be more intelligently treated under one heading, and the reader is therefore referred to the subject of Diarrhea,
DISEASES OF THE BRAIN.
The brain, which is the acknowledged medium of communi- cation between mind and matter, is incased in three distinct membranes and inclosed within the skull. Both the brain and its membranes are subject to disease. Any disease of the brain causes a disturbance of the mental faculties, the acute form being characterized by delirium and the chronic form by the loss or perversion of some or all of the mental faculties. All diseases of the brain have a tendency towards convulsions and paralysis. Owing to its inclosed position its diseases can be diagnosed only by symptoms, and in cases of abnormal changes in the structure of the brain the diagnosis is seldom made during life, although improved surgical methods now reach and relieve or cure many cases of abscess and other local lesions.
Diseases Particularly Affecting the Brain. — Alcoholism, chronic dyspepsia, Bright' s disease and syphilis bring about morbid changes in the structure of the brain which not only render it more liable to disease, but to impairment of the mental faculties.
ACUTE MENINGITIS.— The term meningitis refers expressly to an inflammation of the membranes covering the brain. It runs a rapid course. Death may result in a few days, or the fever may continue for two or three weeks.
Causes. — It may occur during the course of acute infectious diseases, i.e., scarlet fever, measles, etc. Continued sleeplessness, exposure to the sun, syphilis and delirium tremens are among other causes.
Symptoms. — The earlier symptoms are: intense pain in the head ; redness of the face and eyes, the latter being wild and brilliant and sensitive to light, and the pupils much contracted ; dryness of the skin ; thirst ; lack of sleep; sensitiveness to sound; costiveness; vomiting; convulsions; and delirium, which, as the fever develops and increases, becomes violent.
In a few days, or perhaps hours, an entire change of symp- toms takes place: light and sound no longer affect the patient, his vision and hearing now being dull and perverted; the pupil of the eye from being contracted now expands unnaturally ; instead of being wildly delirious he is likely to lie in a semi-unconscious state, muttering indistinctly; there is a twitching of the muscles, and local paralysis may occur in any part of the body.
C.R.-4
50 PA VORITE MEDICAL RECEIPTS.
If the patient recovers, these symptoms gradually disappear, yet the paralysis may be obstinate or even permanent, or there may be a permanent impairment of the vision or hearing. If the patient does not recover, he sinks into a state of coma, succeeded by death.
Treatments.—
W/iat to Do Till the Dodo? Comes. — When there is indication of serious brain trouble, send immediately for your doctor. In the meantime the point is to recall the blood from the upper to the lower extremities. For this purpose apply heat to the feet and cold to the head. The feet may be put into hot water, or cans of hot water laid to the feet and along the limbs. For the head, the nicest thing, if there is a butcher's shop anywhere around, is to get a beef's bladder, fill it about half full with crushed ice, tie it so it cannot drip, and lay the head on that. It makes a cool, soft pillow, does not allow dampness to spread to the bed or clothing, and will sometimes keep for twenty-four hours without melting. If the patient is in a stupor, this is all that can be done till the doctor comes; if he is not in a stupor, and is wild, a little Laudanum, say from 5 to lo drops, according to age, may be given. For a child, use Paregoric in place of lyaudanum.
A. Keep head cool by cold applications. Quiet, darkened room, moderate temperature. Mustard to neck. Send for a doctor. — (14).
B. For further treatment, see Cerebro-Spmal Meningitis (inflammation of the brain and spinal cord). The same treat- ment will be found most satisfactory for Inflammatioii of the Brain alone.
There is another form of this disease where the inflamma- tion attacks the coverings of both the brain and spinal cord. This is called
CEREBRO-SPINAL MENINGITIS.
Symptoms. — A typical case begins without previous symp- toms or warning. The attack is sudden and frightful. There is vomiting, an agonizing headache, dizziness and an overw^helm- ing sense of weakness. The vomiting is peculiar; there is a forcible ejection of the contents of the stomach without apparent effort, called projectile vomiting. With children there may be convulsions, loss of consciousness, and rapidly rising temperature — 103 to 105. Within a few hours the muscles of the back of the neck and back contract and become rigid. The head and shoulders are drawn backward, while the feet and lower limbs are drawn in the same direction. Only the heels and back
No. 2.
I, Jugular Vein. 2, Artery supplying Face and Scalp. 3, Artery. 4, Vein. 5, Salivary Duct. 6, Large Artery of Neck. 7, Nerves.
DISEASES AND TREATMENTS. 5 1
of the head touch the bed. There is great pain in the sHghtest effort to move. Sleep is absent, and, if a child, its screams may- be heard for some distance. The whole body has now become extremely sensitive, and the nervous manifestations seem past all control.
Cramps or spasms of individual muscles may occur; this trouble usually takes place in the lower limbs. Usually within twenty-four hours there is a slight rash of a bluish red color on the face and upper eyelids, especially the latter, hence it is some- times called Spotted Fever. The head is hot, the feet cold. There may be dark spots along the spine, caused by an excess of blood and the rupture of some small vessels just beneath or into the skin„
Altogether Cerebro- Spinal Meningitis presents a degree of suffering seldom met in any other disease. In some cases there is early collapse, that is, great prostration of the vital powers, followed by rapid death, which may occur within 48 to 72 hours. Where recovery takes place, the disease passes into a convales- cent state in from ten days to two weeks.
The foregoing symptoms are not overdrawn, but are taken from actual experience. In like manner the following sugges- tions regarding treatment are not only prompted by that same experience, but are the most effective in checking the disease.
Trjsatment. —
For a Child. — Place the child in a tub of warm water. If he is old enough to sit upright, there should be water enough to cover the shoulders; if an infant, he must be supported so that his face will be kept above the surface. Pin or hold a quilt around the child's neck and allow it to fall over the tub. This will retain the heat and aid materially in producing sweating. Potu- in hot water from time to time — pour it against the side of the tub and keep the water within the tub moving so as to prevent the hot stream from striking the child. Gradually increase the temperature of the water in this way until quite hot. Allow the child to remain in the water until profuse sweating takes place, say from thirty minutes to one hour — two or three hours will do no harm if the child is quiet. The relief is so great that the child often falls asleep in the water.
In a severe case, according to our experience, the hot bath is required once in about fifteen hours for two or three days, then less often.
For an Adult. — The same treatment applied to an adult will meet with equally satisfactory results, but cannot always be accomplished as conveniently. The bath may be substituted by artificial heat, as bottles or jugs filled with boiling water placed
52 PA VORITB MEDICAL RECEIPTS.
around the patient. Also hot herb drinks may be given. These are not likely to cause nausea, and aid in producing perspiration, which is the object of the treatment. The patient should be kept well covered.
How does this benefit the patient? Simply by equalizing the circulation. Just beneath the skin is a dense network of blood vessels estimated to be capable of holding one half the blood in the body. The heat from the warm water dilates these small vessels, and they are immediately filled with blood ; this relieves the brain and spinal cord. The treatment should be repeated often enough to keep the patient quiet. The need of it will be indicated by contraction of the muscles and increasing pain. The head will be hot and the feet cold.
All physicians understand that drug medication is of little value, and may do actual harm by irritating the stomach, which is extremely sensitive, and thus increase the vomiting.
Absolute quiet must be maintained as far as possible. When the appetite returns, the question of feeding is an important one, as any interference with digestion may cause alarming symptoms and even a relapse. Only the most nourishing and easily digested food should be allowed, and this in small quantities at first.
TUBERCULAR MENINGITIS-This disease is an inflam- mation of the membrane covering the brain. During the disease the under surface of this membrane is covered more or less with small elevations or tubercles about the size of a millet seed, hence the name — Tubercular Meiiingitis.
The tubercles are situated mostly on the under side of the membrane, that is, next to the brain substance. They follow the small arteries, and this obstructs the circulation and causes pressure, and there follows an escape of the blood into the brain substance. The ventricles or lymph spaces are distended, which increases the pressure still more. This pressure accounts for the over-sensitiveness and delirium which are often present, also for the insensibility, deepening into coma, which precedes death.
Cause.— ^\\\s disease is caused by irritants in the blood. These may be the result of scarlet fever, measles, typhoid fever, or may result from improper food and indigestion. The reason children are especially liable to this disease is that the brain is not weU developed and lacks the power of resistance.
Symptoms. — Irritability, poor appetite, child loses flesh, abdomen may be enlarged, loss of sleep, sudden screaming of the child either day or night. The head is often thrown backwards or rolled from side to side, the child may keep its hands more or less about the head, and there may be vomiting. All of these symptoms gradually grow worse. The child is very sensitive to
DISEASES AND TREATMENTS. 53
noise. Later the symptoms subside, the fever disappears, there may be delirium or stupor, and the child lies motionless, taking no food. The result is always fatal.
Treatment. —
There are some remedies recommended for this disease, but without much hope of cure. The only treatment seems to be symptomatic. Make the child as quiet and comfortable as pos- sible, secure good ventilation, give the most nourishing food, etc. Syrup of Iodide of Iron is recommended by some, also small doses of Quinine, or Cod Liver Oil if the child can take it. Salol is also a good remedy.
Of the Syrup of the Iodide of Iron, the dose for a child one year old would be from 3 to 5 drops taken in a little sweetened water four or five times a day between feedings; of the Quinine, 1-5 of a grain dose four times a day ; of the Cod Liver Oil, a teaspoon- ful of the clear oil of good quality may be taken three times a day. The Salol is intended for the bowels, the dose for a child one year old being from one to two grains four times a day. If the bowels are free from offensive odor, give one grain ; if not, increase the dose until there is an improvement and then return to the original dose.
For this disease we wish to recommend the treatment under Cerebro- Spinal Meningitis. We would suggest three baths every day, allowing the child to remain in the water at least one hour each time.
SOFTENING OF THE BRAIN.— When softening of the brain occurs, it usually follows diseased arteries. It may result from a weak heart. Diseased arteries and a weak heart are the natural results of old age. Softening of the brain may follow Bright' s disease, or accident or injury where from hemor- rhage or blood clot the circulation is shut off. It may follow mental overwork, aneurism, or inflammation, where swelling and pressure interfere with nutrition. When occurring in the young or middle aged, it is the result of alcohol or syphilis. These pro- duce chronic inflammation of the arteries and the vessels become soft and flabby, lose their elasticity, and change more or less to fat; this constitutes Atheroma. The arteries are formed of three coats or membranes. The inner coat is composed of a single layer of flat cells joined together edge to edge, like a tile floor. This layer of cells has the power to prevent the coagulation — clot formation — of blood. In the inflammation following syphilis or the prolonged use of alcohol, the inner coat is sometimes des- troyed in places, and wherever this occurs blood clots form. These may be broken loose by the circulation and carried to the brain,
54 i^^ VORITE MEDICAL RECEIPTS.
when, on reaching some artery too small for their passagfe, they completely shut off the circulation, and for want of nutrition that part of the brain supplied by such an artery will die and degenerate. The diseased artery may occur in the brain and be followed by blood clot. In this case the symptoms are of a more chronic nature. In the plugging of an artery in other portions of the body the congestion and exudate are usually absorbed, or may become organized, that is, bands of connective tissue may form and later be followed by arteries. In this case the circu- lation and nutrition of the part gradually improves, and the diseased area returns to its normal state, barring the contraction of the new tissue formation, which resembles a scar ; but in the brain, softening generally results. The muscles and skin are the most resistant to degenerative changes, and the brain and bowels the least. When through a lack of circulation the brain is de- prived of nourishment, it readily undergoes degenerative changes, the tissues softening. Softening of the brain means death of the part. The dead area is not circumscribed, but passes insen- sibly into the surrounding tissues. The brain is composed of nerve cells and their prolongations, the nerve fibres, all held toget- her by a form of connective tissue called neuroglia. The cells are dark and situated on the surface; the fibres are light in color and are situated beneath the surface. The cells are first affected, though the fibres first show degenerative changes. Later the cells degenerate, and finally the connective tissue and the arteries, and together these break down in a granular mass containing much fat, hence may be called fatty degeneration, though is gene- rally called softening. As the tissues soften they change in color to red, yellow or white, the color being governed by the amount of blood in the vessels and the amount of exudate. Softening of the brain is named in accordance with the color of the tissues. The so-called yellow softening is simply a later stage of the red softening where the color of the blood^^has gradually faded. Where the circulation is shut off suddenly, as by a blood clot, the color may remain white, or white softening may become red as a result of hemorrhage into the diseased area; hence we see that these divisions are of little value. jBrain softening is most common in the aged as a result of narrowing of the arteries following chronic inflammation and a weak heart.
The brain is supplied by two sets of arteries. Both arise from the same source, yet in their distribution they are entirely sepa- rate. One set supplies the surface and outer portion, and the other supplies the central portion. There is no communication between them, hence there is a borderland of diminished blood supply; and this accounts for some cases of softening, especially in the aged.
DISEASES AND TREATMENTS. 55
Symptoms. — Where the circulation is shut off suddenly, as the result of a blood clot or hemorrhage, there would be dizziness, fainting and unconsciousness. Occurring less suddenly, there would be pallor, more or less loss of power, dizziness, headache, and occasionally fainting might occur. This condition and these symptoms would follow disease of the arteries from old age, alcoholism, syphilis. Bright' s disease, or any condition where there was general debility. In these cases softening of the brain would be secondary and there would be other evidences of disease before the degenerative change in the brain had made its appearance.
Treatment. —
Since the degenerative changes in the brain are secondary to other diseases, the treatment must be directed to the general sys- tem. If from syphilis, give anti-syphilitic treatment ; if due to alcohol, stop the use of alcoholic drinks; if from Bright' s disease, see treatment under that head. Whether from these causes or from old age, the treatment consists practically in diet, tonics, and the internal administration of some of the Iodides. The Iodides in any form are simply a means of administering Iodine, which cannot be taken in the pure form (or raw state) because it is too irritating. Iodine is valuable following chronic inflamma- tion because it is one of the best known remedies to liquefy the products of inflammation and render them in a condition to be more rapidly taken up and carried away by the circulation. Iodine is also a most excellent antiseptic, thus aiding the blood in over- coming the morbid influences of disease and putrefactive changes. In treating this condition, elimination must receive special atten- tion. If there are any evidences of indigestion, artificial digestants should be given. If the bowels are inactive, give Podophyllin in 3^ -grain doses at bedtime. Also give lo-grain doses of Salol four times a day. Regarding the choice of Iodine preparations, Iodide of Arsenic may be given in doses varying from i-ioo to 1-50 of a grain four times a day, between meals and at bedtime ; or one teaspoonful of the Syrup of Hydriodic Acid four times a day may be substituted. Iodide of Potash is equally as valuable, but its taste is decidedly unpleasant. If the patient is pale and anaemic. Iodide of Iron would be the best preparation — 1-50 of a grain four times a day, between meals and at bedtime. Only the most nourishing and easily digested food should be allowed. The amount of exercise will depend upon the condition of the patient. If the brain trouble is the result of a blood clot or hemorrhage, if the pulse is full and the temperature elevated, an active cathartic should be given, followed by small doses of Aconite until the condition is changed. The same treatment should follow inflam- mation of the brain. Absolute rest and mental q.uiet would also be indicated.
56 FAVORITE MEDICAL RECEIPTS.
BRAIN, HARDENING (Induration) OF.— In cases of chronic inflammation, a directly opposite effect may be produced, the brain matter hardening instead of softening. Such chronic inflammation may follow any of the infectious diseases, or be the result of rheumatism, etc.
Cause. — The hardening process is the direct result of new tissue growth. This tissue as naturally supplied acts as a frame- work for all the structures of the body, including the brain, but when resulting from inflammation it invariably contracts, and the natural tissue is either pressed upon or caught in the mesh of the contracting fibers and destroyed.
Symptoms. — In the early stages hardening of the brain matter causes convulsions because of the pressure.
Treatment. —
Wkal to Do Till the Doctor Comes. — It is assumed that in case of convulsions a doctor will be called. In the meantime put the patient in bed, surround by hot packs, cover with quilts, and, if able to swallow, give hot drinks — hot teas of herbs that possess sweating properties, as Pleurisy Root, Golden Seal, etc, would be best. Sweating relaxes the system and, if the disease has not progressed too far, relief may be had in a short time. It will readily be seen, however, that the conditions are such that only temporary relief is likely to be afforded.
BRAIN, CONCUSSION OF.— Due to a shock or injuiy to the brain, as a fall from a horse, etc. In accidents of this kind the brain substance is liable to be ruptured or torn. This result may follow when there is no fracture of the skull, or frac- ture may occur without serious injury to the brain substance. Fracture where there is no displacement of bone may be over- looked.
Symptoms. — The patient usually lies in an unconscious con- dition. He may partially recover and indulge in incoherent, rambling talk, or may lie and moan; periods of delirium may occur. Also vomiting may occur, according to the part of the brain affected. Injury to the base of the brain will produce vomiting. Any brain injury sufficient to produce unconscious- ness should be considered dangerous.
Treatments. —
What to Do Tih the Doctor Comes. — Get the patient out of an exposed condition, either from a hot sun or from cold, as soon as possible. It would be a good idea to put the feet into hot Mus- tard water and to put a Mustard plaster to the nape of the neck. If the surface is cold, apply artificial heat by any means. If he is in a stupor, this is all that can be done till the doctor comes; if
DISEASES AND TREATMENTS. 57
he has revived and is delirious, a little I^audanum, say from 5 to 10 drops, according to age, may be given. If a child, give Pare- goric in place of Laudanum.
A. The recumbent posture; ice cap to the head. 2-drop doses of Tincture of Aconite every three hours. Sips of hot water to relieve vomiting, if present. (7).
BRAIN, ABSCESS ON.— (See Abscess).
BRAIN, TUMORS ON.— Tumors may form on the brain which do not suppurate, that is, do not become abscesses. The effect produced, however, is very much the same, that is, charac- teristic of brain lesions. These lesions (changes brought about by disease or injury) of whatever nature, if produced by consti- tutional disease, as syphilis, etc., are benefited by constitutional treatment.
BRAIN, WATER ON. —(See Hydrocephalus, under Dropsy).
BREASTS, DISEASES OF.— (See under Diseases of Women) .
BRIGHT'S DISEASE.— (See under Kidney Diseases).
BRONCHITIS.— (See under Lung Diseases).
BRONCHOCELE.— (See Goitre.)
BRONZED SKIN— ADDISON'S DISEASE.— This is
a constitutional disease, consisting of a peculiar anaemic condition. It is characterized by a coloring of the skin that has given rise to the term, "bronzed skin disease." It first affects the supra-renal capsules — small organs situated at the upper margin of the kid- neys.
Cause. — Diseased conditions of the blood, as from scrofula or syphilis.
Symptoms. — It begins insidiously. There is a gradual lessen- ing of vital force, causing a feeling of languor and indisposition. The person is easily fatigued, is troubled with shortness of breath and some palpitation of heart. There is loss of appetite, indiges- tion, depression of spirits and an inclination to sleep a great deal. The skin at first presents a pale appearance, the pallor extending also to the mucous membrane of the mouth, then gradually turns dark, later becomes jaundiced, and finally changesUo a mulatto or bronze hue. In persons of fair complexion, probably the first noticeable change would be a darkening of the skin. The ten- dency of the disease is towards death, which usually occurs within a year or two.
58 FAVORITE MEDICAL RECEIPTS,
Treatments. —
WAai to Do. — In diseases of this kind that creep on stealthily, a doctor is not usually consulted until the disease is too far advanced to give him a fair opportunity to do anything for the patient. Therefore, if a person is not feeling well, he should try to improve his condition by taking care of himself and taking the simple home remedies that seem to fit his case; but if after a reasonable trial there is no improvement, he should see his doctor without further delay.
A. Compound Syrup of Stillingia 4 ounces.
Iodide of Potassium i drachm.
Shake, and let dissolve.
Dose. — I teaspoonful three times a day, be- tween meals and at bedtime. Take an alkaline bath twice a week.
B. FreshSulphurous Acid should be frequently applied. Get small vial at a time and keep well corked, as it otherwise absorbs Oxygen and becomes Sulphuric Acid, which irritates and exco- riates.— (14.)
C. Perfect rest and freedom from care and mental worry. Good, nutritious diet. Stimulation with coarse towels after a hot bath. By using a little Sweet Oil on the surface the rubbing, or massage, may be carried on indefinitely without irritation, and more than that, it produces a soft, healthy texture. Any portion of the Oil that is absorbed goes to nourish the system. Also give 1-20 grain doses of Arsenic after meals, and lo-drop doses of Tincture of Iron three times a day after meals. — (7).
BUNIONS — BURSA, ENLARGED.— A bursa is an irregular cavity formed in the loose connective tissue around joints, being situated between the tendons. The bursa is filled with a fluid which is poured out over the surface of the tendons to facilitate their movements and prevent friction. A bursa may be either superficial or deep. The superficial are those that pro- tect the small tendons in their movements over light joints near the surface, as, for instance, the ball of the great toe; the deep bursa is to protect the large tendons in their passage over rough bony prominences situated around large joints, as, for example, the hip joint. Continued pressure from tight shoes excites a mild inflammation of the bursa over the great toe joint and increases its secretions. This constitutes a bunion and, if continued, results in an overgrowth of the bone, causing permanent deformity .
Treatments. —
A. Turpentine externally and poultices of hot Flax seed at night. Chloroform liniment to relieve pain. — (7.)
DISEASES AND TREATMENTS. 59
B. Put cloths saturated with Turpentine over the bunion on retiring. Bandage to keep cloths in place.
C. Get shoes to fit. Apply bunion plaster. — (13.)
D. Paint with Tincture of Iodine. When very painful, apply hot fomentations of Smartweed and Wormwood. Avoid irritating part.
CANCER. — There are two principal varieties of cancer, one called sarcoma and the other called carcinoma. The first usually occurs before forty years of age, and the second, after that period. These two forms of cancer differ only in the appearance (as shown under the microscope) of the cells of which they are formed, and in the kind of tissue in which they occur. Practically there is no difference, for, unless successfully removed, either is destructive to life.
Cause. — There are two theories regarding the cause of cancer: One is that it is caused by a germ, and the other that it is the result of degenerative changes going on in the body. While there are a number of investigators who hold to the germ theory, although unable to discover the germ, the majority believe that cancer is the result of the retrograde changes mentioned. That standard authority, Green's Pathology, page 249, states that the germs or parasites found, which are claimed to be the cause of cancer, "apparently are not parasites, but are degenerate cells or products of cells. In the few cases in which parasites have been present in the tissues, they may have been there as a secondary infection." Page 256 states, "Some cancers seem to be due to irritation in people whose resistance is diminished."
First, let us remember that the human body, all parts, tissues and organs, are composed of small particles of matter called cells. The life work of these cells is to take up nutrition, to constantly build up their own structure and to eliminate waste material. The failure from any cause to take up nutrition is the first step in the chain of malignant tissue growth that leads to cancer. In health the blood contains elements of nutrition, which are sup- plied through the circulation. When nutrition is lacking, it is an indication that the blood is unhealthy, — the result of poor food, or of indigestion from some cause. In health the tissues and individual cells are under the intelligent guidance of the nervous system and for a time can successfully resist the morbid influence or effects of unhealthy blood, but when this condition exists too long, or the amount of poison in the blood increases beyond a certain limit, it will cause congestion; mild at first and perhaps unnoticed, yet after a time, at some point where the resistance is least, the nerve fibres become more or less paralyzed, and this allows the congestion to increase, lessens nutrition and leaves the
6o PA VORITB MEDICAL RECEIPTS.
tissues without proper control. In health the nervous system controls the function of the cells and retards decay and death; but with this power or influence lessened and the tissues gorged with unhealthy blood, the cells at that point multiply more rapidly and deviate more or less from the normal. This is the beginning of cancer.
The conditions from which cancers arise, then, may be enumerated as follows, remembering that inflammation always depends upon an irritant which excites an increased blood supply:
First, an unhealthy digestive tract, lack of nourishment and the formation of many poisons.
Second, the absorption of the poisons, which act as irritants.
Third, the irritants produce first, congestion, and second, inflammation.
Fourth, the result of the inflammation is an increase in the blood supply, and the tissues at that point being overfed, the cells first enlarge, then divide and subdivide, first one and then another, and thus new tissue forms. But the blood is unhealthy, the vitality low, and the morbid effects of the degenerative changes which are constantly going on in the new growth renders the cells malignant and the blood more impure, and in turn the in- flammation and growth are increased.
In health the cells constituting the different organs and tissues of the body have a certain well defined size and shape, not all alike, but each peculiar to the organ or part to which it belongs, and which under the microscope can be recognized just as a man can be recognized by his appearance. But as a result of the conditions described the cells constituting the growth lose their identity, and this is the reason that there is no specific cancer cell, that is, no particular size or form. The cells may be large or small and variously shaped, due to their malignancy and mutual pressure upon each other. As a result of rapid growth and from lack of vitality, they break down easily. The cells constituting "proud flesh " may be large or small like the cancer cells, but they too lack vitality and break down easily. When the general system is unhealthy and the surrounding tissues offer but slight resistance, the growth is rapid. The new cells do not have time to develop, but remain small and the growth soft. The softer the growth the more numerous the blood vessels, hence more blood and lymph are supplied. These are the reasons why this form of cancer is more rapidly fatal. If the vitality improves, the resistance improves also, and the growth is checked in pro- portion. Cancerous growths have a framework of connective tissue the same as other organs. This connective tissue is strong and fibrous. It pervades and supports all the organs and struc- tures of the body. The growth of the malignant cancer cells may
DISEASES AND TREATMENTS. 6l
be lessened, and the inflammation may still continue to cause an increase in this connective tissue. But connective tissue resulting from inflammation always contracts and hardens. This is the condition when a large, hard, slowly growing lump appears in the breast or elsewhere. Rapid increase in tissue cells always results in a diminution, or loss, of vitality. Most cancers grow so rapidly that the cells do not have time to mature; their vitality is low and pressure upon each other aids in their own destruction; they break down easily. They are constantly undergoing this change, and furnish the phenomena known as suppuration. If on the surface, as the nose, face or lip, it breaks externally and the acrid discharge corrodes the skin if allowed to come in contact with it ; or when situated internally, the poison excite$ inflammation around the growth. Dead and dying tissue always excites inflammation, and the inflammatory zone aids in checking its spread. This is Nature' s method of localizing disease. A more common example of Nature's effort to check disease is found in the inflammatory zone which surrounds every abscess, and the red line which separates the living from the dead in gangrene ; in gangrene it is called the line of demarkation.
Yet in spite of efforts to localize the disease, the morbid effects of the malignant growth gradually pervade the system and digestion and assimilation are reduced to a low ebb. This is why the patient grows so thin and weak, and this is why the disease ends fatally. ^
The individual cells of the body need stimulation the same as a man needs exercise. Such stimulation is the natural result of repair and waste. The cells are actively engaged in taking up new elements from the blood and reforming and refitting them into their own structure; these elements become living matter. In health there is given off an equal amount of waste. This is a natural action and produces a natural stimulation. All life's forces depend upon this stimulation. Besides the work mentioned, many of the cells manufacture new products which are necessary in maintaining life and health: The liver cells manufacture bile; those of the salivary glands, ptyalin; those of the thyroid gland, iodine; and those of the stomach manufac- ture pepsin. These products all act as ferments and aid diges- tion. (See Digestion under Stomach Diseases.) The pancreas also furnishes four ferments which aid in the same work. The kidney cells eliminate urea, and those of the lungs and skin eliminate many other poisons. This aids still more in stimulating the organs, but when irritation from impure and poisonous blood renders these changes excessive, it is called inflammation. This lowers the powers of resistance and disease results, hence the statement in Green's Pathology, "Cancer seems to be due to irritation in people whose resistance is diminished."
62 FA VORITE MEDICAL RECEIPTS.
Symptoms. — A cancer growing within the body may present no early symptoms. The first evidence of its presence may be a gradual loss of appetite and of weight. Among the early symp- toms are stinging, darting pains. Later, as the growth develops, the pain becomes more constant. By this time, if the cancer is situated in the breast, stomach or abdominal cavity, it can be felt. When in the stomach, the appetite is affected earlier than when in other situations, and sooner or later there is vomiting. In some cases vomiting is delayed until three or four weeks before death. If on the surface — face or lip — there is first a small, hard lump, which bleeds easily and does not entirely heal. This may develop to the size of a small pea and then remain stationary for some months, when it begins to grow again and soon forms a slowly extending ulcer. The edges of such an ulcer are hard and ragged or irregular. The discharge is foul-smelling and irritating, and destroys the skin if allowed to come in contact with it. In cancer of the breast the inflammation extends to the skin, giving it a puckered appearance. The skin looks dark and congested.
Treatments. —
In many cases cancers are treated by surgical means only, that is, are removed by the surgeon's knife. Those who follow this method of treatment claim that by making liberal allowance for the growth, — "cutting wide of the mark", — complete removal is assured, and that, if the operation is made early, it is the only safe and intelligent method of dealing with this otherwise fatal malady. On the other hand, there are those who treat cancers by local applications — plasters — and who believe that in all cases where the growth appears on the surface, it can be successfully treated in this way. Statistics favor this claim. Certain it is that many a cancerous growth treated in this way has been lifted out whole, with the fibres, or roots, unbroken, the part from which it has been removed showing all the various avenues into which these roots penetrated. The danger in using the knife is that some of these roots may be cut off, and should the least portion of one of them remain, the cancer is almost certain to grow again. The applications named below have been used with great success; in action they seem to follow up the various branches of a cancer, and to seek out and destroy its uttermost parts.
The following are a few of the more important remedies used and recommended by leading doctors. The list includes the treat- ment employed by Doctor Lombard, the noted "cancer doctor."
A. The first remedy is one recommended by F. W. Brewer, M. D., and reported in the Chicago Medical Times, as follows: —
Chloride of Zinc Yz ounce.
Powdered Blood Root yi ounce.
Flour • % ounce.
DISEASES AND TREATMENTS. 63
Make into a paste with Aromatic Sulphuric Acid. Spread on a soft cloth and apply. Continue the application until the growth is destroyed. Then dress with any mild application, as Vaseline containing ten drops of Carbolic Acid to the ounce.
B. The second remedy is used by W. N. Sherman, M. D., and reported in the Medical World:
Chloride of Zinc 5 grains.
Powdered Alum 5 grains.
Tannic Acid 2 grains.
Persulphate of Iron 3 grains.
Glycerine sufficient to make a paste.
Apply as above. The after treatment is the same.
C. Dr. J. L. Horr says, in the Boston Medical and Surgical Journal:
'' Having, without solicitation on my part, become possessed of the knowledge of the secret remedies employed by the late Doctor Lombard, the famous 'cancer doctor' of Maine, I feel it my privilege, as a member of the scientific profession that has only for its object the advancement of knowledge and the relief of suf- fering, to make a simple statement of the remedies and methods which were employed in the so-called 'treatment of cancer.' The remedy employed, if the cancer was small, was the dried juice of the leaves of Phy tolacco ( Poke Root) , which was applied in the form of a plaster until sloughing took place. The after treatment was some simple dressing, like simple Cerate.
"If the tumor had obtained considerable size, Doctor Lombard first used a paste composed of Chloride of Zinc and pulverized Blood Root until a scar was produced, and then used the same dressing as before until the mass sloughed away.
' 'The knowledge of these remedies was given to me by Doctor Lombard himself while I was attending him during his last illness, but a few days before he died."
D. There are many other remedies used for the removal of cancer. Chromic Acid, melted on the end of a glass rod and applied direct, or made into a paste and applied to the growth, is used by many. The juice of fresh Sorrel, dried down to a paste and applied, will prove equally satisfactory.
CANCRUM ORIS.— (See under Mouth, Diseasejs of).
CAPILLARY BRONCHITIS.— (See under Lung Dis- Ease;s).
CARBUNCLE. — A carbuncle is an inflammation of the deeper layer of the skin, and includes more or less of the tissue beneath the skin. The swelling or inflammation strangulates the circulation more or less, nutrition is shut off and the tissues de- stroyed, hence pus is formed. A carbuncle differs from a boil as
64 f^A VORITE MEDICAL RECEIPTS.
it is divided into many sections or parts by a framework of con- nective tissue, giving to the whole structure a honeycombed appearance. It is larger than a boil, has a flat top, and when suppuration takes place it discharges from several openings, which correspond to the number of its divisions. They appear most frequently in persons above middle age. They occasion g^eat suffering, and sometimes prove fatal. They usually occur on the back and posterior portions of the neck, but upon the head or neck they are more dangerous than in other situations.
Cause. — Carbuncles are due to irritation from unhealthy blood. The irritation becomes excessive and is followed by inflammation; the inflammation becomes localized, swelling and pressure interfere with nutrition, the tissues break down and pus forms. Like inflammations elsewhere, a carbuncle is enclosed by an inflammatory zone which prevents the spread of the pus.
Symptoms. — There is burning, throbbing, deep-seated pain, and a decided loss of strength and energy. Constitutional symp- toms, as chills and fever, are also present.
Treatments. —
To Abort. — When a carbuncle first begins to come, paint it over with the Tincture of Iodine twice a day until the surface becomes sore, and attend to the general health. For instance, if the bowels are constipated, regulate them wath Castor Oil, with Senna steeped up, or with some mild cathartic pill, and take the following for a blood purifier, which is also good for boils:
Burdock root. Yellow Dock root. Wild Cherry bark. Dandelion root.
Take a small handful of each, add a quart of hot water and steep in an iron kettle. Simmer until the strength is out of the roots, strain, and then boil the liquid down to a pint. Sweeten, if preferred, and take a tablespoonful three times a day.
Do not meddle with the carbuncle itself. Do not squeeze it, do not pick at it, but paint it over when it first starts with Iodine, and if it is not aborted (prevented from developing) by the above treatment, that is, if pus begins to form, poultice it. Bread and milk with Catnip leaves stirred into it thoroughly, makes a soothing poultice.
A. Alcohol I ounce.
Glycerine i "
Boracic Acid 2 drachms.
Corrosive Sublimate i grain.
Water 8 ounces.
MiXy and apply locally on wet cloth, keeping parts continually moist. — (46.)
DISEASES AND TREATMENTS. 6$
B. Carbolic Acid 20 drops.
Glycerine i ounce.
Apply on cotton.— (6.)
C. Should be opened early and freely and dressed with Car- bolated Vaseline to which 10 drops of Turpentine has been added. — (14.)
D. Silicea, 12th dilution, applied night and morning. When opened, wash frequently with Permanganate of Potash in solu- tion— 2 grains of the Potash to i ounce of water. This wash will stain, and clothing should be protected from it. — (3) — Homeopathic.
CARIES,~(See under Bone Diseases.)
CATALEPSY. — An hysterical state in which the mind, or intellect, seems for the time being to be cut off from the body. All movement ceases and the trunk and limbs remain fixed in the position in which they were when the fit occurred. If moved by another person, they remain as placed. The breast does not rise and fall, and the person does not seem to breathe, but a profes- sional ear can detect a slight beating of the heart. The eyes are fixed and staring and the subject of the fit is said to be in a trance. The fit may be brief or may continue indefinitely, a peculiarity ^)eing that when consciousness is regained the person immediately completes the act that he was about performing when his senses were arrested.
Treatments. —
What to Do Till the Doctor Coynes. — During the fit hold Hartshorn to the nostrils, rub the head and back part of the neck with a Turpentine liniment, put Mustard to the feet and calf of the legs — may also be applied to the spine. Give Catnip tea or Asafoetida pills .
A. Keep the person warm and apply Mustard to the feet.
CATARRH. — This disease is an inflammation of a mucous membrane, from which a fluid is discharged.
Caiize. — It is induced by " taking cold." The lining of the nose, throat and bronchial passages are especially liable to attack as the result of a cold iu the head. Catarrh may be either acute or chronic.
Symptoms. — Acute Nasal Catarrh is attended with a cough, thirst, lassitude, chilliness followed with slight fever, watery eyes, feeling of fullness in the nostrils, dull pain in the forehead and a discharge from the nose. This discharge is at first watery and later purulent in character. The air passages leading into the throat also become inflamed and the discharge is ejected by C.R.-5
es PA VORITE MEDICAL RECEIPTS.
the mouth or swallowed. If constant care is exercised, however, in keeping the nostrils open and the mouth closed, the patient not permitting himself to breathe through the mouth, the inflam- mation is less likely to extend to the throat and bronchial pass- ages.
Treatments. —
A. Take the root of Colt's-Foot (for a description of this plant see A Chapter on Herbs), wash, dry in the sun or by the fire, and powder. Sift, and use same as snuff. Salt and water snuffed up the nose is also good. Take 3 grains of Sulphite of Soda and 6 grains of Chlorate of Potash, dissolve in a glass two- thirds full of warm water. Snuff up both nostrils, draw through to the throat and spit out.
B. Camphor 15 grains.
Menthol (crystal) 15 "
Mijc until of clear appearance and add
Vaseline to make i ounce.
Make into an ointment.
When having this ointment made up, secure from the drug- gist a small glass tube, about as big around as a pipe stem. Dip this into the ointment, taking up a smdl quantity, and pass the tube well up into the nostril. Hold the other nostril closed, and also press the nostril around the tube so as to exclude the passage of air; then give a hard snuff and the ointment will be drawn from the tube well up into the head. It not only clears the pas- sages, but heals the mucous surface. It may be used several times a day (too often may cause nausea as some of it will pass through into the throat) . A fresh cold in the head will often be entirely overcome, and it will give relief in the most stubborn case of catarrh. Probable cost, thirty cents.
From a head and throat specialist of Milwaukee, Wis.
C. To half a pint of water use one ounce of Glycerine, ten drops of Carbolic Acid, and a half teaspoonful each of baking soda and salt, to which add a teaspoonful of I^isterine. This will always relieve cold or catarrh in the head.
CATARRH, CHRONIC NASAL.— When catarrh be- comes chronic, the air passages are widely dilated, and both bones and cartilages may be more or less destroyed. The mucous membrane which lines the cavities, once thick and swollen, has now become thin, firm and resistant as a result of the contraction of the newly formed connective tissue. The sense of smell is more or less interfered with — in some cases is entirely lost. The nat- ural secretions are changed both in quality and quantity ; they are unhealthy and ill-smelling, and sometimes of a greenish color. The secretion, reaching the surface, forms crusts or scales, which must be removed before successful treatment can be instituted.
DISEASES AND TREATMENTS. 67
Treatments. —
A. Boracic Acid i ounce.
Pure Water I quart.
Dissolve the acid in the water, pour in a fountain syringe and hang syringe on the wall at some convenient place. The patient should bend the head well forward, place the tip of the syringe in the nostril, first one, then the other, and allow the solution to pass through the nasal openings and out through the mouth, which should be kept open. This will thoroughly saturate, loosen and remove the crusts which form in chronic nasal catarrh, and when you have rendered the surface clean and wholesome, you have cured the disease. Any mild antiseptic may be used in place of the Boracic acid.
B. The following may be used morning and evening, and will be found most satisfactory in all cases not too far advanced:
Menthol 5 to 10 grains.
Oil Eucalyptus.. lo drops.
Oil Wintergreen 2 '*
Liquid Alboline i ounce.
Mzjr, and use in Atomizer morning and eve- ning. When using the atomizer, draw in the breath, and be sure the vapor passes through the nasal cavities into the throat.
C. Ely's Cream Balm is a catarrh remedy that is well known and has for years been sold throughout the country. See PAT- ENT Preparations.
D. Use the following as a nasal spray three times daily:
Camphor Gum 30 grains.
Menthol 10 "
Liquid Alboline i ounce.
-(46).
E. Castile soap and water snuffed up the nose from the hand will always improve, and often cure. — (12).
F. Iodine 10 grains.
Alcohol I ounce
Put into a 2 oz. vial, and when the Iodine is dissolved fill the vial with soft water Inject a little of the mixture into the nostrils with a small syringe 3 times daily. An alterative con- taining Iodine, taken internally, wall be a de- sirable thing in treatmg an obstinate case of chronic catarrh.
The above has been a very successful treat- ment.— (65).
CATARACT.— (See under Eye, Diseases of).
CEREBRO-SPINAL MENINGITIS. — (See undef Brain, Diseases of) .
68 PA VORirn MEDICAL RECEIPTS.
CHANGE OF LIFE.— (See under Women's Diseases). CHAPPED HANDS.— Remedies.
A. Quince Seed >^ ounce.
Borax X
Glycerine 2 "
Water 12 "
Add the Quince seed to the warm water and let stand until it becomes quite thick. This ma}^ require several hours. Strain, and carefully dissolve the Borax in a little of the mixture, add the two together and lastly add the Glycerine; add perfume as desired. This makes a preparation that will keep the hands soft and free from all roughness. It dries in a few minutes, and kid gloves may then be put on with ease.
B. Flostilla is a remedy for chapped hands that is widely known throughout the country. It will be found among the Patent Preparations. It is a very satisfactory preparation and will please all who use it.
C- Sweet Oil 3 ounces.
Spermaceti 4 "
Pulverized Cmphor i **
Heat gently in a clean earthen vessel, stirring to prevent scorching, and apply, after warm- ing a little, night and morning. Butter just churned and unsalted may be substituted for Sweet Oil — same quantity. — (79).
D. Deer's Tallow 4 ounces.
Glycerine i "
Pulverized Camphor ^ *'
Honey ^ "
Carefully incorporate together by gentle heat, or by rubbing with a knife or spatula on a plate, or in a mortar.
Makes a ver>^ healing ointment for chaps, sore lips, etc., also for chafing from trusses . — (79).
E. Wash clean at bedtime with warm water containing a bberal amount of wheat bran, and after wiping apply Glycerine and rub dry. (17).
P. Pulverized Orris Root i drachm.
Water (warm) 4ounces.
Let stand 24 hours, strain through fine gauze, and add :
Glycerine }4 ounce.
Bay Rum 2 "
MtJtr, and apply often, thoroughly washing and drying before using.— (3). — Homeopathic.
DISEASES AND TREATMENTS. 69
G. Wash at night in corn meal water or bran water till soft: rub dry, then rub in Cosmoline thoroughly and sleep in old cleac gloves. Keep the hands out of water during day and repeat every night until well. — (13).
CHICKEN-POX.— (See under Eruptive Fevers).
CHILBLAINS. — Chilblains are inflammatory swellings affecting the hands and feet, and are produced by exposure to cold. The swellings are of a purplish or bluish color, and are accompanied by an unbearable itching. They may blister, or, in severe cases, be attended with ulceration and sloughing. Remedies. —
A. Twenty grains Carbolic Acid to one ounce Vaseline; apply to parts. — (14).
B. Rub every night with Turpentine, or get Citron ointment, one ounce, and apply to chilblains at night. — (13).
C. Keep feet dusted with Boracic Acid. It will relieve the most obstinate case. — (18). — Homeopathic.
D. Carbolic Acid i drachm.
Tincture Iodine 2 "
Tannic Acid i "
Simple Cerate 4 ounces.
Mi:v, and apply twice daily. — (46).
E. Hydrochloric Acid i drachm.
Rainwater 7 ounce.
Wash the feet two or three times daily, or wet the stockings with the preparation until relieved. — (81).
F. Tincture of Iodine i ounce.
Soap Iviniment i "
or,
Turpentine ^ ounce.
Ether i^ "
Oil of Thyme J^ "
Sometimes little water blisters form. These maj^ be painted over with Balsam Peru or Collodion, }4 drachm.
G. — Paint chilblains freely with Muriate Tincture of Iron.
CHILL. — A disagreeable sensation of coolness accompanied with shivering.
Treatments. —
A. — Immediate relief by surrounding patient with hot water bottles and giving internally from i to 2 ounces of Whiskey. Rectal injection of hot salt solution — 2 teaspoonfuls of salt to 2 quarts of water. — (60).
70 PA VORITB MEDICAL RECEIPTS.
B. Cover warmly, give warm drinks and get to sweating. After sweating is produced give, for an adult, 3 to 5 grains of Quinine every four or five hours.
C. Keep the surface of the body warm with hot blankets and hot drinks. Take Quinine after the chill to prevent a recur- rence.— (7).
D. Drink hot lemonade until chill passes off, and then take Quinine. — (17).
CHILLS AND FEVER.— (See Intermittejit Fever under Malarial Fevkrs).
CHLOROSIS.— (See under Women's Diseases).
CHOLERA. — This disease is characterized by vomiting and purging as the essential symptoms, also by griping, and spasms in the legs and arms. Asiatic Cholera is the more malignant form.
ASIATIC CHOLERA.— This form oi cholera is of oriental origin. Epidemics are known to have occurred for several cen- turies, but it was not until the early part of the nineteenth century that the attention of European physicians was generally directed to the disease. This was occasioned by a violent epidemic which broke out in India.
Cause. — Due to unhealthy surroundings, poor food, bad air. The eating of unripe fruits and indigestible foods and drinking of alcoholic liquors all predispose to an attack in time of an epi- demic. The statement has been made that ' ' With pure water, pure air, pure soil and pure habits, cholera need not be feared."
SymptoTits. — The beginning of this disease is marked by a derangement of the digestive organs, impaired appetite, thirst, lassitude, chilliness, and especially by a painless diarrhea ; there vi2iY also be twitchings of the calves of the legs. These indispo- sitions, which might easily be occasioned by other causes, con- tinue from a few hours to several days. Or the attack may be quite sudden and marked with profuse evacuations.
The characteristic feature which distinguishes cholera and marks the beginning of the disease itself, is the vomiting and purging of a colorless fluid which looks almost like rice water. This is accompanied with increasing thirst and with cramps of the calves of the legs and other muscles, but if the attack is not a severe one, it ma}^ be arrested at this stage. If not arrested, the cramps become severe and exceedingl}' painful, and soon attack the bowels and stomach. At this stage the breathing is hurried, with distress about the heart, and the secretion of urine is greatly diminished or entirely stopped.
DISEASES AND TREATMENTS, 71
The "discharges, which consist largely of serum ( the watery- portion of the blood) , leave the patient in a state of great pros- tration from which he seldom recovers. The pulse is hardly perceptible, skin cold and clammy, and the patient presents a frightful appearance of emaciation ; yet there is a sense of great heat in the stomach accompanied with intense thirst. The ema- ciation or shrinking of the tissues is the result of draining the water from the system through the digestive tract.
The foregoing symptoms represent a typical case of cholera. These cases are seldom met at the present. With attention to cleanliness cholera is fast becoming a disease of the past, and to-day we do not fear it.
Treatments. —
IVkat to Do Till the Doctor Comes. — Cholera proper is preceded by a relaxed state of the bowels, that is, by a mild diarrhea. In time of an epidemic, or in sections regularly visited by cholera, a looseness of the bowels, however mild, should not be neglected for a moment. An excellent remedy for the looseness is the following:
Capsicum (Cayenne Pepper) 20 grains.
Gum Camphor (powdered) 10 **
Put into a teacup, fill two-thirds full of hot water and stir thoroughly. Take a teaspoonful of the solution every hour, or oftener, if neces- sary, until the diarrhea is controlled. If this solution does not seem to have a controlling effect, secure medical aid without delay.
A. For Cholera, Cholera Morbus, Colic or Painful Diarrhea:
Oil of Cajeput i ounce.
Oil of Cloves I "
Oil of Peppermint i "
Oil of Anise i *<
Alcohol 4 «*
Dose. — From 10 to 15 drops every 30 min- utes; or %, teaspoonful every hour. It should be taken in simple syrup, mucilage of slippery elm bark, or hot brandy and water sweetened.
In epidemics of cholera, as much as a tea- spoonful of this mixture has been given every fifteen minutes, one or two such doses generally succeeding in relieving the pains and spasms. -(76).
B, Chloroform i drachm.
Tincture of Camphor i "
Tincture of Capsicum i ♦'
Tincture of Opium i "
Tincture of Ginger i "
MiXo
Dose. — Teaspoonful every hour.— (7),
^2 PA VORITB MUDICAL RBCBIPTS.
CHOLERA MORBUS.— C//^/^m Morbus, or Simple Cholera, is a disease that is prevalent in warm weather.
Cause. — This disease occurs in summer and fall. It is influenced by extreme heat, and perhaps by hard work which lowers physical power, or the power of resistance; also caused by eating unripe fruit and vegetables and by drinking cold water. In other words it is caused by acute indigestion when the system is relaxed.
Symptoms. — This form usually comes on suddenly, with retch- ing, distension and flatulency of the stomach, griping pain in the bowels, and vomiting and purging of irritating matter. The patient is tormented with thirst, but water is rejected by thr stomach as soon as swallowed. There is also heat, quick breath • ing, a frequent but weak and fluttering pulse, and, in very severer cases, cramps of the legs. When the disease is violent, there is great loss of vitality, with cold, clammy sweats and coldness of the extremities, sometimes ending in death. Usually the symp- toms, pretty severe for a few hours or for a day or two, gradually lessen, leaving the patient in a state of great debility. The features are sunken and the eyes look "hollow," due to th* amount of water that has been drained from the tissues.
Treatments. —
What to Do Before Calling a Doctor. — Usually due to over- loading the stomach. Give Brandy sling; or make a Camphor tea by dropping into hot water a few drops of the Spirits of Camphor and sweetening. Peppermint tea is also good. For griping add, for an adult, from 15 to 20 drops of I^audanum. Usually there are from three to six evacuations of the bowels and vomiting, and then the patient is entirely relieved, although left very weak; but if the attack is not controlled within a few hours, then call a doctor.
If a person is attacked violentl}^ in chis way, it is advisable to send for a physician at once. In the meantime, put hot applications over the abdomen — cloths wTung out of hot water or the hot decoction of some bitter herb — and give hot sling, or any of the simple remedies mentioned.
A. The one thought to bear in mind is to bring the blood abundantly to the surface. The vomiting and the continued evacuations of the bowels is the result of prostration brought on by the cause given above. The circulation near the surface of the body is feeble, while the internal organs are congested, the congestion being the result of the irritation produced by the acute indigestion. This is why the surface is pale, cold and clammy. If the blood can be drawn to the surface, immediate relief will follow. For this purpose apply external heat; and
DISEASES AND TREATMENTS. 73
give, for an adult, Atropine in y^^ -grain doses. If there is severe pain, add from 20 to 40 drops of I^audanum. Repeat the dose of Atropine every hour until the surface is flushed, which will mean that the circulation has been equalized and the internal organs relieved. Atropine internally and artificial heat externally are the best possible means of bringing about favorable results.
B. Paregoric i ounce.
Tincture of Capsicum 2 drachms.
Subnitrate of Bismuth 2 "
Simple Syrup 4 ounces.
Mi:v, and take teaspoonful every hour until relieved. — (46).
C. Wash out stomach with hot water. For adult 10 drops I^audanum in strong Peppermint water every hour till relieved. Children may take appropriate doses of Paregoric in strong Peppermint . — (13).
CHOLERA INFANTUM, or SUMMER COM- PLAINT OF INFANTS.— This is a disease to which children are subject during the summer months.
Cause. — The conditions are the same as those described imder Cholera Morbus.
Symptoms. — It begins with restlessness, pain, vomiting and diarrhea. The eliminations from the bowels are foul-smelling and often contain undigested food. The pulse is rapid and feeble and the surface cold. Sometimes there is but a limited amount of diarrhea, and at the same time the bowels are distended with their contents. More or less gas may be present, and in this case the abdomen is bloated and tender. In a well-developed state the child lies in a stupor, taking no notice of the surroundings. There is but little or no fever. Where the bowel eliminations are frequent, with abundant watery discharges, the features of the child look shrunken and wasted as a result of the water that has been drained away.
Treatments. —
What to Do Till the Doctor Cotnes. — This is a dangerous disease and a doctor should be called early. In the meantime, an excel- lent thing to give is the following:
Rhubarb (powdered) i teaspoonful.
Bicarbonate of Soda (baking soda) % "
White Sugar 2 tablespoonfuls.
Mix well and add twenty drops of Essence of Peppermint. Put this into a teacup and pour two-thirds full of boiling water, stirring at the same time you are pouring in the water. Set to one side and let settle. Dip from the surface. For a child one year old, half a tea-
74 FAVORITE MEDICAL RECEIPTS.
spoonful every hour; three years old, a tea- spoonful every half hour. A warm bath may be given, and injections of hot water aie also beneficial. If the child is very fretful and dis- tressed, a few drops (from five to ten) of Laud- anum may be added to the injection. Bitter herbs, as Hops, Smartweed, etc. , may be steeped up, enclosed in flannel and laid across the bowels. If there is nothing else to give before the doctor can arrive, teaspoonful doses of hot sling will not be out of place,
A. This trouble occurs from various causes and requires treatment accordingl}^ too grave for guess work. Send for your doctor at once; may give a few drops Paregoric pending his arrival. Salted water often stops vomiting. — (14).
B. Stop all food for twenty-four hours. Keep the child quiet. In some cases the movement of the bowels may be slight or absent. In any event it is a good plan to add one tablespoonful of warm water to an equal amount of Glycerine, mix well and inject into the bowels, and with a soft cloth hold the injection for five or ten minutes. Repeat the injection if results are not satis- factory. The discharges are usually offensive; for this, give the following:
Sulphocarbolate of Zinc 20 grains.
Glycerine 4 teaspoonfuls.
Water -.. 6
Dissolve the Sulphocarbolate in the Glycerine and water and give one teaspoonful every two hours.
The same amount of Salol may be given if the Sulphocarbo- late cannot be had. Place the Salol on the tongue dry, and give water with teaspoon. During the disease the drinking water should be boiled and cooled and given to the child freely. If the child is pale and cold, apply external heat. Equal parts of powdered wood charcoal and I^actopeptine should be mixed and 5 grains given every hour or two. — (74).
C. — Stop all feeding and give liberally of hot water into which a few live coals of wood have been dropped. Send for doctor.
D . Tincture Nux Vomica 2 drachms.
Dilute Nitro-Muriatic Aci d 2 "
Subnitrate of Bismuth 2 "
Lactopeptine 2 "
Tincture Red Pepper ^ teaspoonful.
Simple Syrup 4 ounces.
Sherry Wine 4
Mi:t: together and take one teaspoonful ic water three or four times a day.— (53).
No. 3.
I, Artery of Neck. 2, Large Muscles of Neck. 3, Large Nerve. 4, Upper End of Breast Bone. 5, Large Artery coming from Heart. 6, Heart (with sac partly removed). 7, Left Lung. 8, Right Lung.
DISEASES AND TREATMENTS. 75
CHOREA.— (See under Chii^dren's Diseases).
CHORDEE. — (See under Venerbai, Diseases).
CIRRHOSIS. — This means a hoxdening of the tissues of an organ, and follows a mild form of inflammation long -continued. The inflammation may be the result of syphilis or of irritating matter resulting from indigestion and constipation, but is more often the result of the continued use of alcoholic liquors. This inflammation always produces an overgrowth and shrinking of tissue as described under Alcohol. The new tissue contracts and hardens, destroying and replacing normal tissue in proportion. This change most often takes place in the liver or kidneys, and next most frequently in the spinal cord and lungs; however, it may occur anywhere in the body.
COLIC. — An attack of pain in the abdomen, of spasmodic character, usually attended with constipation of the bowels. There is no attendant fever, and the pain is relieved by pressure over the abdomen — points which are of importance in distinguish- ing it from inflammation.
There are several forms of Colic.
BILIOUS COLIC. — Strictly speaking Bilious Colic means Biliary Calculi or Gall-Sto7ies, but as the term is more or less commonly used, it is given here. As usually understood bilious colic, flatulent colic and wind colic are one and the same, and the cause is the same — undigested food. When the trouble has existed for some days and comes on in the form of an acute attack, there is nausea and vomiting of bilious matter, hence the term. Bilious Colic.
For treatment the reader is referred to the remedies under Flatulent^ or lVi?id, Colic.
FLATULENT, or WIND, COLIC— This form is due to indigestible matter in the intestines, which not only excites pain, but by beginning to undergo decomposition also gives rise to gases wh^ch cause a painful distension of the bowels.
Treatments. —
W/ial to do Before Calling a Doctor. — First give an active cathartic. Follow with hot applications over the abdomen and give hot drinks — hot sling, hot pepper tea. Camphor tea — or any -^f the remedies mentioned below.
A. Spirits of Chloroform i ounce.
Paregoric 2 "
Dose, — For an adult, take a teaspoonful in hot water every half hour, or, Morphine, ]/i grain every two hours, for adult.
76 FA VORITE MEDICAL RECEIPTS.
Apply hot flannels or hot bottles over bowels and stomach. If pain is in right side and there is tenderness over the appendix, it is best to^^have a doctor at once. — (13).
B. Laudanum 25 drops.
Pepper Sauce )4 teaspoonful.
Spirits of Camphor 5 drops.
Dose. — For an adult, the whole taken in a wineglassful of hot water. — (14).
C. Tincture of Cardamon Compound.... i ounce. Aromatic Spirits of Ammonia i "
Mtjr, and take one teaspoonful, for the adult, every hour more or less often as he need.
This prescription I have used in some most severe cases of colic of this country with the finest success. Give also a cathartic — a 5-grain dose of Calomel. The Salines or Castor Oil are not so good for bilious colic. The Calomel is better. — (77).
D. A friend who has suffered very much from colic recently obtained from a physician the following prescription, which afforded him such immediate and perfect relief that he desires to give it to the public. It is as follow^s:
Pulverized Opium i grain.
Sulphate of Morphia (Morphine) ..... i "
Pulverized Camphor 5 '*
Capsicum 5 **
Make into 10 pills with a thick solution of gum.
One pill will generally afford relief, but if not materially benefited after an hour or two, another may be taken. The remedy was accompanied by the following letter:
"Please find prescription, which I hope will alleviate the pains of some mortal as it has done for me. Hoping it may prove profitable to you, and, through your book, a blessing to man kind, I remain, 3^ours, etc.
We have not permission to publish the gentleman's name.
E. A Splendid remedy is the following:
Powdered Wood Charcoal i ounce.
Ivactopeptin i "
Dose for adult, j^ to % of a teaspoonful; for child one year old, one teaspoonful divided into ten powders and given with a little water.
F. For the wind colic of childroi, about the nicest thing that can be given them is a tea made of soot. Take some soot from the chimney, put into a dish, pour on some hot water, and drink of it. Or a tea may be made of red pepper, or even of black pepper
DISEASES AND TREATMENTS, ^y
— anything that is warming — but the soot tea is best as it starts the gas at once. If, however, the child is not relieved within a reasonable time, say within an hour or so, send for a doctor.
When babes are tongue-tied, they draw air into the stomach in nursing, and if a babe is constantly bothered with colic, the tongue should be examined to see if it needs cutting.
LEAD or PAINTER'S COLIC— (See Lead Poisoning).
RENAL COLIC— (See Gravel).
COLDS AND COUGHS.— Many people are troubled with
colds, influenza, sore throat, lame back, etc. Prevention is the best thing for colds, as for ever^^thing else. People need not be so sensitive to colds if they would gradually accustom themselves to cold baths or cold sponging, in either case bringing the tem- perature of the water down gradually; and mobt people would soon learn to appreciate them. Finish by drying thoroughly, rubbing the skin well but not enough to produce irritation. To practice deep breathing for several minutes at a time will also be found of great benefit. Even when out in the cold, deep breath- ing will increase the heart action and send the blood tingling and the chills flying. The feet should always be kept warm and dry. Shoes should be large enough to allow free circulation.
Another preventative may be had by drinking plenty of water. Water flushes the small vessels, aids in keeping the bowels active and in carrying away waste.
Treatments for Colds. —
A. To prevent — Out-door exercise and cold baths. To cure.— Hot baths, sweats and rubbing. — (5.)
B. To Prevent Taking. — Rub the entire surface of the body, in a warm room on retiring, with fresh hog's lard every night, followed by bath in the m.orning. Do not use sweet oil or any vegetable oil. Vigorous people may take a cold sponge bath with good rubbing after and will seldom take cold. — (8).
C If a person finds he has a cold, it is better to remain in for a day or two, take a hot foot bath, or better, an alcohol sweat ?.t night. Take 10 grains Quinine and 10 grains of Dover's Powder. This will be all that will be needed in any ordinary attack.
D. Lemo7is for Colds. — For a fresh cold a good cathartic fol- lowed by a bowl of hot lemonade on retiring will usually prove most effective. Roasted lemon is also an effective remedy, especi- ally in a cold of longer standing accompanied with cough. It should be roasted for thirty minutes in an oven not hot enough
78 FA VORITB MEDICAL RECBIPTS,
to blacken or dry it. V/licn it begins to crack open, take out, press out the juice, sweeten with loaf sugar, and take a little at a time, but take often.
E. For children make an onion syrup, and give in teaspoon- ful doses every hour or two. Grease the nose and around the throat and chest with lard containing a little Turpentine. — (67).
F. Hot foot bath and 10 drops Tincture of Gelsemium at Bedtime. Take Cathartic the following morning. — (46).
G. In case of an adult, take 6 grains Quinine, drink one pint of water, bathe feet in hot water and go to bed. From ten to twenty-four hours in bed after the above treatment will usually terminate any ordinary cold. A cold should not be regarded as a light matter as it may be the forerunner of serious troubles. — (9).
H. A good cathartic — tablespoonful of Salts. At night take a hot foot bath and a strong cup of hot Ginger tea, also a big dose of Quinine — from 6 to 10 grains — get into a w^arm bed and get up a good, heavy sweat. This will break up an ordinary cold.— (13).
Ancierit Method of Cure. — The Evening Post says the follow ing plan for the cure of Colds has been in use since 1340:
Put your feet in hot water,
As high as your thighes; Wrappe your head up in flannelle,
As low as your eyes; Take a quarte of rum'd gruelle,
When in bedde, as a dose; With a number four dippe,
Well tallow your nose.
This will be found as valuable and practical at the present time, except perhaps as to the depth of the foot bath and the amount of "rum'd gruelle." Perhaps a pint of that would be sufficient now-a-days, if made tolerably strong, repeating the treat- ment one or two nights until the cold is broken.
Remedies for Coughs. —
A. A most excellent and satisfactory cough mixture may be made as follows: —
Fluid Extract of Ipecac 1 ounce.
Chloroform % "
Tincture of White Pine 4 "
Water 14 "
Sugar..... 28 "
Tincture of Gelsemium Y^ "
First dissolve the sugar in the water, next add the Ipecac and the Gelsemium, and last the White Pine and Chloroform.
Dose: One teaspoonful every two or three hours, as needed.
DISBASBS AND TRBATMBNTS. 79
This prescription was used by an old physician who had practiced many years and had learned to depend upon it in all cases of ordinary coughs and colds. It will not disappoint any who use it.
B. Synip of Ipecac i ounce.
Syrup of Tolu ,
Syrup of Rhubarb
Spirits of Nitre
Paregoric
The dose for an adult is one teaspoonful every two to four hours; for a child one year old, give 5 drops. Dose may be increased, if necessary.
This is a very simple remedy and the results are satisfactory in nearly all cases. — (67).
C. Paregoric and Hive Syrup, one part of the former to two parts of the latter, taken in 30-drop doses every four hours. — (7).
D. Fluid Extract Tolu i ounce.
Wine Antimony , i "
Paregoric i "
Fluid Extract Grindelia Robusta i *'
3IiXy and take one teaspoonful three or four times a day,
or,
Dilute Hydrobromic Acid 3 drachms.
Fluid Extract Grindelia Robusta i ounce.
Paregoric i **
Syrup of Tolu lyi '<
Glycerine, add to make 6 *'
Mix, and take one teaspoonful every three or four hours.
E. For Cough a?id Sore Lungs. — To one quart of water add one large handful of strong hops. I^et the water boil till reduced to one pint, then thoroughly strain, rinse out kettle and replace hop water. Carefully stir in one pound of heavy brown sugar and bring to a simmering heat, then remove from the fire and, when cold, add from one-half to one pint of the best Jamaica rum.
Dose, from one to two teaspoonfuls as often as required.
F. We have used the following cough mixture for many years with the most satisfactory results. We have also given the formula to a number of physicians who have been equally successful.
No. I. Wild Cherry bark, cut fine 2% ounces.
No. 2. Ipecac Root, powdered 2% drachms.
Blood Root, powdered..., „. 3 <<
Sguills, powdered i^ "
Ivicorice Root, powdered 2 "
Anise Seed, ground „.,. ^ ounce.
Fennel Seed, powdered i drachm.
Sulphuric Acid 15 to 20 drops.
Fresh Orange Peel ]4 to i ounce„
Alcohol 4 piat.
8o PA VORITE MEDICAL RECEIPTS.
Put No. I into a large bottle and add one pint of water, allow- ing it to stand for one week. Of No. 2, first add the Sulphuric Acid to the Alcohol, then add the other ingredients. Also allow this mixture to stand one week, then mix No. i and No. 2 together and allow to stand for one week or ten days more. Each iDottle should be shaken before the mixtures are added together and the bottle containing the two should be shaken. At the end of ten days, after the two solutions are mixed, get several large sheets of filtering paper from the drug store, place two layers carefully in a funnel, set the funnel in a clean bottle and pour on the mix- ture, allowing it to strain through. While straining, keep well covered to prevent evaporation. By using filtering paper the solution will come out clear and bright. Now add 10 ounces of sugar and dissolve by shaking the bottle. More sugar may be added if desired. Three or four grains of Sulphate of Codeine should be added to each 4 ounces when it is used. This prepara- tion will keep for any length of time.
Dose, one teaspoonful. It is perfectly safe to give to children of any age as it contains neither Opium nor Morphine. For a child five years old the dose would be Yz teaspoonful. For adults where the cough is severe and there is a good deal of pain, if the mixture does not control the condition >^ of a grain of Morphine may be added to each dose for two or three doses.
Winter Cough Remedies. —
A. Zinc Sulphate, % grain dissolved in a teaspoonful of water. To be taken every one, two or three hours. Take no water or anything right after it as you want its local effecto
This is the best remedy on earth. Try it. — (30).
B. Ammoniated Tincture of Guiacum.
Dose. — 5 drops on a little sugar every half to one hour. L,et it slowly dissolve in the mouth and swallow it. Take nothing right away after it. This is a good one also. These cheap rem- edies are really superior to the expensive cough syrups.— (30).
C. Liquor Ammonia Acetatus 2 drachms.
Syrup of Squills Compound 2 "
Fluid Extract of Licorice 6 "
Syrup of Wild Cherry enough to
make 3 ounces.
Dose. — One teaspoonful every hour or two. — (34).
COLOR BLINDNESS.— (See under Eye, Diseases of).
CONGESTIVE CHILL— CONGESTIVE FEVER.—
(See Pernicious Fever under Malarial Fevers).
DISEASES AND TREATMENTS, 8l
CONSTIPATION, OR COSTIVENESS.— This is a
common disorder. It is due to a sluggish state of the liver and bowels, the bowels retaining the faeces longer than is warranted by a state of health. Constipation means the production of many poisons in the digestive tract which are absorbed into the system and produce a chronic state of disease.
Cause. —It may be due to the character of the food taken, or to the habits of the individual, especially habits of neglect. Some have held the theory that constipation is due to a lack of develop- ment in the thickness of the muscular walls of the digestive tract; others, that it is due to imperfect nerve supply and poor circulation; still others argue that it is congenital, that is, exists from birth. But such claims seem to be more a matter of theory than of practical demonstration.
Treatments. —
A. Try to overcome it by diet and habit. Eat graham mush and graham bread, corn bread, coarse food of all kinds, prunes, figs, baked apples, fruit, etc. Drink lots of water before bedtime — a pint every night^and a glass of hot water the first thing in the morning twenty or thirty minutes before break- fast. Have a regular time to have bowels move, say the first thing after breakfast.
If medicine is needed, take lo to 20 drops of Fluid Extract Cascara Sagrada once or twice a day. Massage over bowels will cure many cases. — (13).
B. The Aloin Strychnine, Belladonna and Cascara pills kept by druggists will give excellent satisfaction in relieving constipa- tion, taken one or two at bedtime, as needed. These pills are a tonic, and there is absolutely no danger in their continued use in chronic constipation. If used with judgment, and regular habits observed, they will result in a permanent cure. — (46).
C. Teaspoonful of Epsom Salts in a glassful of water the first thing in the morning. This treatment should be long con- tinued.— (11).
D. A teaspoonful of corn meal in a glass of cold water on getting out of bed in the morning. A teacupful of very hot water sipped from a teaspoon on sitting down to breakfast. Fruits usually good. Prolonged rubbing and kneading of the bowels, and especially the cultivation of a fixed time or habit in move- ment of bowels, — (8).
E. A fresh egg beaten in a gill of water and drank on rising in the morning, and at each meal, for a week or ten days, has cured obstinate cases. It might be increased to two or three at a time as the stomach will bear. — (68),
C.R.-6
82 FAVORITE MEDICAL RECEIPTS.
F, Drink liberally of cold water at bedtime and of hot water as soon as you arise. Then attend to nature's calls * 'religiously.** Let nothing hinder. — (17).
CONSUMPTION.— (See under Tuberculosis).
CONVULSIONS. — Convulsions are due to nervous mani- festations. The body is drawn into violent spasmodic contrac- tions, the spasm being confined to the external or voluntary muscles. There is usually loss of consciousness.
Cause. — Convulsions may result from different causes, as uraemic or puerperal convulsions, due to the retention of luea in the system. Infantile convulsions may be due to teething or to worms. With children convulsions are most often caused by indigestion; in this case the trouble is confined to the stomach, hence a dose of Ipecac is always in order. Convulsions also occur in Epilepsy. (See Epilepsy).
Convulsions in Children. —
A. Put babe in warm water — temperature of 105 — i. e. , com- fortably warm for hand. As soon as possible give him full dose of Castor Oil, and inject the bowels with warm water or soap suds. Keep body and extremities warm . — (13).
B. Give the patient a dose of Salts or Oil for laxative pur- poses. If necessary protect the tongue from the closure of the jaws by inserting a cork, piece of wood or knife-handle between the teeth. If severe, a doctor might administer a little Chloro- form.— (7).
C. In childien little to be done during the convulsion. As soon as possible give ^ to 2 teaspoonfuls of Castor Oil, according to age. The cathartic relieves the head and also the digestive apparatus, which is generally the locality at fault. If the head remains drawn back after the spasm, look out for spinal menin- gitis, which is very fatal. — (14).
CORN. — A hardening of the outer layer of cells of the skin of the toes or other portions of the foot. A kernel is developed in the calloused portion, about the size of a small pea and cone- shaped. At times it is soft instead of hard, forming what is called a soft corn. This occurs on the side of the foot or between the toes, and is caused by the part being continually moist with sweat.
Cause. — I^ng-continued pressure or friction caused by ill- fitting shoes.
A, Salicylic Acid 30 grains.
Extract Indian Hemp 20 '*
Collodion ^ ounce.
Mix, and apply with a soft brush once daily for six days, then soak com in warm water. Repeat the application if necessary. — (46).
DISEASES AND TREATMENTS. . 83
B.— Get felt corn plaster at drug store and place over com. Then apply on top of corn the following:
Salicylic Acid ^ ounce.
Collodion }4 *'
First soften corn, every night, with Glycerine or soaking in hot water, then make above ap- plication. Wear properly fitting shoes and corns will disappear. — (13).
C. — Remove the pressure by change of foot gear. Remove hard part of corn and cover with an ointment made by thoroughly mixing together equal parts of cooking Soda or Saleratus and Mutton Tallow or Vaseline. The corn will soon disappear. —
(14)-
D. Take Sheep Sorrel, mash, press out the juice, spread on a plate and dry down to a thick salve. Mix a little pulverized Pot- ash with this salve and bind on a very little of the mixture for two or three nights, or until the corn turns black, showing that it has been killed, then leave it to come out.
or,
Potash, powdered .»... i ounce.
Salt of I/emon, powdered J4 "
Mistr, and bind a little on corn for four or five nights, — (70).
E. Warm a stick of Lead Plaster and rub on to a bit of white silk, which bind on to corn and wear until kernel can be pulled or picked out.
F. Wet lint or batting with Spirits of Turpentine and bind over corn.
CRAMPS. — Cramps are caused by irritation of a nerve or nerves controlling one or more muscles. The irritation is the result of waste products in the system. All life's forces are kept up by irritation (see Ca^icer, cause of) , but when this irritation is carried too far, the condition is usually indicated by pains 01 cramps. Irritation is but another term for stimulation. At first over -stimulation increases the nerve forces with the result that one or more muscles become spasmodic. When these spasms relax and contract, it is called clonic; when the muscle remains rigid, it is called tonic spasm or cramp.
Trkatmbnt. —
Usually change of position and massage applied to the affected parts will relieve the trouble. Like other painful con- ditions, cramps are an indication that more careful diet and more thorough elimination are necessary. Cramps may be influenced by too much hard work, by a lack of exercise or a lack of fresh air. Cramps, pains in the stomach and bowels, rheumatism,
84 FAVORITB MEDICAL RBCBIPTS.
acute or chronic, lumbago, neuralgia in any form, sciatica, head- ache, and all other forms of aches and pain require the same general treatment, i. e. , diet, elimination and fresh air.
CROUP, SPASMODIC— This disease is a mild degree of catarrhal inflammation of the larynx associated with spasm. It does not often occur before the age of six months nor after the fifth year.
Causes. — It occurs in the otherwise healthy as well as the sickly. Some children seem predisposed to it, and those who have had it once are likely to have it again. Those who have large tonsils and catarrhal throats are more subject to it, the immediate cause being a cold or a fit of indigestion.
Symptoms. — The attack is usually preceded by cold or hoarse- ness. The child plays around by day and in the evening there is a hollow, barking cough. Towards midnight there is an increase in severity; the breathing becomes more difficult and may be heard in an adjoining room, the child struggles for breath and is in great distress, and the cough is hoarse and ringing. In a few hours the breathing becomes easier, the attack passes away and the child falls asleep. In the morning he is apparently well, but for some hoarseness, and plays as usual. Next night there is a fresh attack, usually little different from the first night. The third night it will be mild or absent. Many children have such attacks several times during the cold season. This disease is very alarming to parents until the child has come through two or more attacks, but is never dangerous.
A. For spasmodic croup keep child warm and hot flannels about neck and over chest. Give ^ teaspoonf ul Syrup of Ipecac every ten or fifteen minutes till child vomits freely. Give plenty of warm water to wash out stomach. If there is any diphtheria in country, look upon every croup case with suspicion. — (13).
B. For spasmodic croup, nothing is better or more prompt than flannels wrung out of cold water and applied to throat, and then covered with heavy dry flannel cloth. Renew every ten minutes. — (60).
C. Alum pulverized, }i teaspoonf ul in a little Molasses, is a simple remedy and one that is almost always at hand. One dose seldom fails to give relief, but if it should, it may be repeated ^ an hour.
D. Oil of Wintergreen 10 drops.
Oil of Lobelia 16 "
Dilute Alcohol i ounce.
Mix, and give from i to 10 drops every fifteen or twenty minutes tintil the paroxysm passes off, which it usually does in a very short time.— (82).
mSBASBS AND TRBATMBNTS. 2$
E. Inhale steam from lime while it is being slacked. Give }( grain of Calomel every two hours. — (9).
CROUP, MEMBRANOUS.— (See under Diphtheria).
DANDRUFF. — This affection is a disorder of the sebaceous glands, technically known as seborrhea. Seborrhea may affect the skin of any portion of the body, but the term dandfuff is understood to mean the scurfy deposit which forms on the scalp.
Cause. — Dandruff depends upon a diseased condition of the oil glands which open into the hair follicles. The glands become irritated and furnish too much oil, which dries on the surface and forms the crusts or scales commonly known as dandruff. The disease is constitutional, the same as eczema, and the irritation mentioned is caused by irritants in the blood.
Treatments. —
A. Put one tablespoonful Flour of Sulphur in a quart of rain water, and use once a day, after shaking well, as a wash to the scalp. Do not wet your hair with anything else and you will soon cure your dandruff. — (13).
B. — Wash scalp in salt water, use brush and avoid the use of fine combs. Do not use metallic combs. Apply Vaseline twice a week, rubbed well into scalp. — (9).
Those who object to Vaseline by reason of its being too greasy, may find a valuable substitute in Glycerine and Rose Water. The advantage of Glycerine lies in its easy removal. It readily unites with water, therefore may easily be washed off. The Vaseline would cover over and mask the symptoms and allow the condition to become worse. It is in cases like these that Coke Dandruff Cure, or any good antiseptic, is especially valuable. — (See under Patent Preparations).
C. Bay Rum and rain water, equal parts.
For shampoo use two or three fresh eggs. When the head is clean, apply the Bay Rum and rain water, rubbing into the scalp with the balls of the fingers. — (50).
D. Shampoo head with white of an egg^ and afterwards rub scalp thoroughly with Vaseline. — (46).
DEAFNESS. — There is so much of enjoyment and happi- ness dependent upon the ability to hear well, that a considerable anxiety arises at once on inability to hear the slightest sound ; and although there are but few who are entirely deaf as compared with the mass who can hear, yet there are quite a good many whose hearing is more or less affected.
86 PA VORITB MEDICAL RECEIPTS.
Cause. — Inflammation of the middle ear is the general cause of deafness. It may follow taking cold, or may follow the infectious diseases, especially scarlet fever.
Symptoms. — The symptoms, or sensations realized, on the approach of an inflammation and consequent deafness, if the inflammation is not subdued, will be a feeling of fullness of the parts, uneasiness, singing noises, and pain, more or less severe. If not relieved, ulceration may follow.
Treatments.—
A, I^et an active sweat be taken, and let this be repeated at least once a day in acute cases and once a week in chronic cases until relief is obtained. There is no plan quite equal to the spirit, or hot-air bath, but according to the choice of the patient or the conveniences at hand. In connection with the sweating process, a diaphoretic, or sweating medicine, must be given that will have a tendency to keep up a little perspiration, such as a tea of the Virginia Snake-Root and of Pleurisy- Root, equal parts, say }( ounce of each, to water, i pint, drank in the course of the day, and continued as needed. Active cathartics should also be given; this is of first importance.
Such active systemic treatment is particularly necessary when the inflammation is acute, the result of such treatment being to draw the blood away from the inflamed part, equalize the circu- lation, and thus prevent the danger of the formation of an abscess, which is liable to follow an acute attack of inflammation of any part.
B. Deafness is not infrequently caused, or at least a partial loss of hearing, by the accumulation of the natural secretions of the ear (ear wax). In some cases this secretion is excessive. In these cases there is a mild local inflammation from some cause, and the result is not only an increase in the secretion, but the moisture evaporates more rapidly, leaving the exudate (discharge) a dry and hardened mass. This is continually surrounded by a fresh supply, which keeps the surface unirritated and the condition unnoticed by the individual. This accumulation is in the external canal and can be easily removed. Lay the sound ear on the table, and with a small syringe fill the affected ear with the following solution:
Baking Soda i teaspoonful.
Glycerine 8 teaspoonfuls.
Water 8 teaspoonfuls.
Mix, allow the solution to remain in the ear ten or fifteen minutes, let it drain and plug with batting.
DISEASES AND TREATMENTS. 87
Repeat twice a day for two or three days, then syringe out with soap and warm water. This will remove any accumulations, and in cases where deafness is the result of such accumulations, hearing will be restored.
C. Hen's Oil, i gill ; and a single handful of the sweet clover raised in gardens stewed in the oil until the juice is all out; strain it and bottle for use.
Where deafness is recent, it will be cured by putting three or four drops daily into the ear; but if of long standing, much relief will be obtained if continued a sufficient length of time. Syringe out ears with warm soapsuds twice a day — morning and evening.
DELIRIUM. — The term delirium means a wandering of the mind dependent upon some disease, as a fever, and so distin- guished from insanity. In a delirious state the ideas of a person are wild, irregular and unconnected.
Treatments. —
What to Do Till the Doctor Comes. — Give a few drops of Pare- goric to quiet and produce sleep: If a child, from 15 to 20 drops; if an adult, a teaspoonful of the Paregoric, or from 15 to 20 drops of lyaudanum. As a general thing, delirium is produced by fever, and a doctor is visiting the patient every day; but sometimes ill- ness comes on in that way — a person may be taken delirious — and the above is the thing to do until the doctor comes. The feet may be immersed in warm water, as the object is to draw the excess of blood from the brain.
A. Reduce the fever with cold sponging and cold cloths to head. Keep feet warm. Keep quiet. Do not let in any com- pany. Give an adult 20 grains Bromide of Potash in water if there is no contra-indication. Always consult doctor. (13).
DELIRIUM TREMENS.— (See under Ai^coholism).
DIABETES. — There are two varieties of this disease, Diabetes Mellitus and Diabetes Insipidus.
DIABETES MELLITUS.— This is a disorder of nutrition in which fruit sugar accumulates in the blood and later is carried from the system with the urine, which is greatly increased.
During digestion the starch contained in the different food products is converted into glucose or grape sugar. This is absorbed and carried by the veins direct to the liver, where some of it is converted into a substance called glycogen. The glycogen is stored up by the liver cells and delivered to the circulation as the system requires. In health it unites with the oxygen from the air we breathe and is oxidized. This produces heat and aids iij
88 PA VORITE MEDICAL RECEIPTS.
maintaining the bodily temperature; but the system cannot oxidize the amount present in diabetes, hence its appearance through the kidneys.
Cause. — While there are a number of theories advanced regarding the cause of Diabetes Mellitus, all investigators are agreed that the disease is preceded by some disordered state of the nervous s^^stem. Undoudtedly the first cause is indigestion and constipation. Both are present. The return circulation from the digestive tract passes through the liver, the latter becomes unhealthy and unable to convert the glucose into glycogen, in which case more glucose is left in the circulation than the system can oxidize. Passing through the circulation, the glucose irritates and weakens the kidneys until some of it finds its way into the secreting tubes and is carried off with the urine. Primarily this is called Diabetes; later it causes Brigkfs Disease.
Symptoms. — The onset of this disease is nearly always stealthy, and is unnoticed by the patient. The first thing noticed in many cases is excessive thirst or a large increase in the amount of urine, or it may be unusual weakness. The urine is pale in color, very acid, the specific gravity is increased, and sugar is constantly present. At times the appetite is voracious, and at the same time there is a loss of flesh.
The normal amount of urine daily is about fifty ounces, or three pints. In this disease the amount varies from six or eight pints in mild cases to thirty or forty pints in severe ones. The tongue is usually dry, red and glazed. The skin is dry and harsh.
Tre;atme:nts. —
What to Do. — Keep the patient on a strict diet. Avoid all starchy foods, and also those that contain sugar.
Drink as small a quantity of fluids of all kinds as possible. A cold, weak infusion of common tea is the most harmless, and at the same time quite as efiicient in quenching thirst as any drink that can be taken. . Patients may be allowed to take a swallow of this every hour or two.
Attention to the skin is also a matter of importance. Frequent bathing is desirable. The warm alkaline and spirituous bath may be used before going to bed, and the cold sponge bath in the morning before dressing. Both should be followed with a brisk friction, especially on the spine. To prevent irritation apply Sweet Oil.
A compound Taraxacum and Podophyllin pill should be given every night and morning, or in such quantity as will at least secure one evacuation from the bowels every day. Other valuable remedies for the constipation which is always present
DISEASES AND TREATMENTS. 89
are: the well-known Aloin, Strychnine and Belladonna combina- tion in pill form; or the Fluid Extract of Cascara Sagrada in lo-drop doses morning and night, more or less, as needed.
As a tonic, a decoction of Ptelea and Wild Cherry may be given in wineglassful doses three times a day.
A. Milk diet. Avoid sugar or starchy foods.
Basham's Mixture in teaspoonful doses 3 or 4 times a day. —
(7).
B. Abstain from sugars and starch and reduce mental work and worry. — (3.)
C. Avoid sugars and starches in diet. Diet alone will some- times cure, but must be continued for a long time. — (50).
D. Dr. Kiyig makes tke following report: "I have treated four cases of Diabetes Mellitus successfully by the internal administra- tion of Nitrate of Ammonia in doses of from 10 to 20 grains repeated three times a day and given in solution. In conjunction with this agent I also employed the following pills, alternating them every four weeks:
"No, I. Citrate of Iron and Strychnia 45 grains.
Quinine Sulphate 45 *• ^
Opium 60 *'
Mix^ divide into 90 pills, and give one pill three or four times a day.
"No. 2. Bromide Potassium 270 grains.
Extract Conium Maculatum 90 **
Extract Aletris 90 "
Mix, divide into 90 pills and give same as above, giving No. i for four weeks and then giving No. 2 for the next four weeks, and so on."
Rennet wine was prescribed to be taken after the breakfast and dinner meals, and the usual attention bestowed upon the skin, kidneys, bowels, diet, etc.
E. Carbonate of Ammonia 90 grains.
Phosphate of Ammonia 90 "
Carbonate of Soda 2 drachms.
Tincture of Ginger Yz ounce.
Glycerine I^ **
Simple Elixir enough to make.. 4 "
Dose, a teaspoonful in water three times a day.
This mixture is very grateful to the patient. It relieves thirst and mitigates the morbid appetite. The tongue gradually becomes moist, and the urine diminishes in quantity and con- tains less sugar. — (74).
90 TAVORITB MEDICAL RECEIPTS.
DIABETES INSIPIDUS.— This disease usually comes on slowly. Increased secretion of urine and great thirst are the chief symptoms. The amount of urine may be from twenty to forty pints a day and even more. It is extremely pale and watery, and of low specific gravity. The low specific gravity and absence of sugar in the urine will distinguish this disease from Diabetes Mellitus.
In many instances Diabetes Insipidus does not interfere with the general health, the greatest inconvenience being frequent passing of water and constant thirst. If the primary cause of this trouble is some organic disease, the health may be much impaired. Where there is no other disease, the patient may have good health indefinitely, or nature may restore him to normal health.
Treatment. —
The treatment is the same as that for Diabetes Mellitus. True, sugar may not be present, but the danger is that this form will run into Diabetes Mellitus prcper; hence the advisability of following the treatments outlined above.
DIARRHEA. — The Alime?itary Canal is about 30 or 32 feet long and begins in the mouth. It is lined throughout with mucous membrane. The different portions of this tract have been given different names, as follows:
First, the mouth.
Second, the throat.
Third, the aesophagus, which leads from the throat to the stomach and which is about nine inches in length.
Fourth, the stomach, which is from 10 to 12 inches in length and is capable of holding from 3 to 8 pints, according to the amount of distension.
Fifth, the first part of the small bowel, called the duodenum, which is 10 to 12 inches in length.
Sixth, the small bowel, which is about 25 feet in length and is capable of holding about 15 pints.
Seventh, the large bowel, which is 5 or 6 feet in length and is capable of holding about 8 pints, but, moderately distended, will hold twice that amount.
The mouth is designed for the mechanical division of food and the first step in digestion, called ijisalivation. The aesophagus conveys the food to the stomach. The stomach is simply a dila- tation of the canal, being that part of the tract where some of the principal digestive changes are produced and in which the partial reduction and solution of the food takes place. In the small bowel the digestive changes are rendered more complete
DISBASBS AND TREATMENTS. 91
and the nutritive principles of the food are separated and absorbed into the circulation, the unused portion being passed on into the large bowel as waste material and, in health, eliminated from the system. Excessive and rapid eating, drinking of strong tea and coffee and the excessive use of the various alcoholic liquors, fol- lowed by indigestion and a lack of elimination together with con- sequent degenerative changes and the absorption of many poisons, are responsible for most of our ills.
The glands of the mouth furnish one kind of digestive fer- ment, those of the stomach three kinds, and those of the small bowel several other kinds. (See Digestion). There is little or no digestive fluid furnished by the glands of the large bowel.
The mucous membrane which lines the digestive tract and the various glands which it contains is a delicate structure, and was not designed by Nature to suffer the abuse and neglect to which it is often subjected. The coats of the small bowel are very thin. Commencing just below the duodenum, or about one foot below the stomach, the small bowel is so thin that a newspaper may be read through it.
The digestive tract is subject to many diseases, which are usually described under separate heads, but which for conveni- ence and clearness are here described together. Strictly speak- ing, they are not different diseases, but different stages of the same disease — different stages of the same inflammatory process — and that is why it seems advisable to group them together.
The following are some of the different terms applied to the different stages of the disease found in the digestive tract:
Diarrhea, — This is a morbid condition marked by frequent movements and an increased amount of fluid eliminated. The mucous membrane is congested and presents a catarrhal condi- tion.
Inflammation of the Bowels. — This is a catarrhal inflam- mation of the mucous membrane of the bowels accompanied with fever, soreness and frequent movement. It is sometimes called Catarrhal Diarrhea. It is said to be confined more to the large bowel, but, like dysentery, it includes more or less of the small bowel. The mucous membrane is swollen and presents a catar- rhal appearance. The swelling may be so great that vessels rupture and blood appears in the eliminations. The glands are swollen and elevated and show a strong tendency to ulcerate. The condition of the mucous membrane may be considered a stage between diarrhea and dysentery.
Dysentery. — This is an inflammation of the mucous mem- brane of the large bowel particularly, but also includes more or less of the small bowel. Dysentery is sometimes called Bloody
92 FAVORITE MEDICAL RECEIPTS.
Flux, because daring these attacks some small blood vessels in the mucous membrane may rupture and blood appear in the elimina- tions, but this same evidence of inflammation may and often does occur in bowel difficulties which are known by other names. This is only an aggravated case of diarrhea. The disease extends all the way from a mild form of inflammation to the more serious condition where the inflammation is so great that nutrition is shut off, ulcers form and parts of the mucous membrane slough away.
Cause. — The cause of diarrhea is indigestion, constipation, or both. Diarrhea usually occurs during the summer months because the system is w^eakened and relaxed by the heat. This is especially true of children as they have not sufficient vitality and physical strength to withstand its effects. Again, people drink more during the summer; this favors free action of the bowels, and may interfere wnth digestion, especially if taken soon aftet meals. Another important reason is found in the amount of unripe fruit that is eaten. Unripe fruit contains starch, which is converted into glucose or fruit sugar during the process of ripening. A considerable quantity of this sugar in some kinds of fruits is what gives them their sweet taste. Uncooked starch is not digestible and acts as an irritant in the digestive tract, thus stimulating increased activity. This form of diarrhea is usually acute, but the inflammation is mild and tends to early recovery. At other seasons of the year constipation is the rule, because the heat is replaced by a bracing atmosphere and the many varieties of green fruit are not indulged in.
The stages of diarrhea known as hiflammation of the Boweb and Dyse?ite?y are the result of unhealthy conditions tha\ have existed for some time. First, the morbid effects cause only congestion, and this passes unnoticed into a mild form of inflammation before the diarrhea begins. The mucous membrane has become unhealthy to the extent that degenerative changes have made their appearance. Distributed throughout the mucous membrane are little thimble-shaped depressions called glands, which open into the bow^el. Before dysentery begins these become swollen and choked with unhealthy secretions until they are ready to break down and ulcerate. With the increased inflammation there is increased distension of the blood vessels and increased exudate from the swollen glands. When the unhealthy secre- tions from the diseased glands and other products of inflammation reach a certain point, the irritation, acting as a stimulus, causes increased action, resulting in dysentery. These cases do not recover as rapidly as simple diarrhea because a greater derange- ment precedes the attack, yet, as stated, all of these so-called diseases are but different stages of the same inflammatory pro-
DISBASnS AND TREATMENTS. 93
cess. Following constipation, there is more pressure, hence more soreness, and the disease is of longer duration because it comes on gradually and the morbid changes in the mucous mem- brane reach greater proportions before giving evidence of the conditions present.
Symptoms, — The symptoms in a mild case of Diarrhea may be colicky pains and a little nausea, and there may also be some headache and a feeling of languor; the inflammation is slight as there has been no structural change in the mucous membrane, and the symptoms largely disappear with thorough elimination. With simple diarrhea there is no fever present in the beginning. This form of the disease usually lasts three or four days. The movements are frequent and include large quantities of water, showing the distension of the blood vessels from which the water was drained. The odor is bad. In many of these cases food, show- ing but little or no effects of digestion, is eliminated. This is due to the unhealthy condition of the bowel. The mucous membrane lining the bowel is swollen and presents a catarrhal condition. There is no rupture of small vessels and blood does not appear.
If there is a burning or scalding sensation, it shows that the inflammation has progressed a step further. The eliminations now present a greenish appearance, the odor is increased, and the mucous secretions thicken more or less as the disease advances.
This disease occurring in children makes them irritable; they cry a great deal, are peevish, fretful, and appear to suffer consid- erably. They vomit easily, and the eliminations contain undi- gested food, also curdy lumps if the child drinks milk. These lumps are formed of that part of the milk called caseine, or milk albumen.
Chro7iic Diarrhea may follow frequent attacks of acute. In chronic diarrhea the symptoms are all aggravated, and the change in the mucous membrane resembles that found in dysentery. Both the mucous membrane and the submucous or deeper tissues pre- sent a, catarrhal condition. There is an abundance of mucus furnished by the glands mentioned. Many of these glands break down and small ulcers form, hence pus may also appear. Chronic diarrhea, inflammation of the bowels and dysentery are most marked in the large bowel, although more or less of the small bowel is included.
As any of these forms of disease continue, the whole thick- ness of the mucous membrane becomes involved and the number of glands that are broken down and converted into ulcers are increased, and not only the mucous membrane, but the outei portion of the bowel may become involved and form adhesions to the surrounding structures.'
94 P^ VORITB MEDICAL RECEIPTS.
First the mucx)us membrane, and the connective tissue beneath which joins it to the muscular layer, slough away in large patches, and the whole thickness of the bowel becomes infiltrated with blood and serum, which presents more or less a dark hue by reason of the continued congestion and inflammation. The bowel is swollen and thickened as the result of new tissue growth. Later the contraction of this tissue tends to close the ulcers, thus permanently destroying many of the glands, and the walls of the bowels are more or less thinned as a result of the contraction of the new tissue and the destruction of the natural. The contraction is not uniform, hence the bowel presents an unequal diameter; in some places it is narrowed, and in others, dilated. It contains mucus, pus, and other products of inflam- mation.
Treatment. —
The treatment of any and all forms of diarrhea or dysentery is not difficult, and is practically the same, because all forms pre- sent characteristics more or less in common. Dosage should be regulated according to age, but otherwise the treatment for infant, child or adult is the same.
First, secure thorough elimination. For this purpose Castor Oil, Epsom Salts or Rochelle Salts are most frequently used, and their frequency is in the order named. One large dose of either may be given, although several small doses of the Salts frequently repeated will perhaps act more thoroughly. The Castor Oil is most rapid and certain in its action, therefore would be preferable if the case was urgent. Castor Oil, however, is very nauseating to many, hence we recommend in its stead Laxol (see Index), which is nearly lOO per cent, pure Castor Oil, with the taste of the Oil disguised. Those who prefer to buy it will find it at any drug store.
With the Salts the action depends more upon the large amount of water they attract into the bowel from the congested or inflamed mucous membrane, hence their effects are Mcre cool- ing, and for this reason they would be the better remedy in inflammation. The Salts also produce more or less nausea. For some years past we have used in their place the Seidlitz Salts manufactured by the Abbott Alkaloidal Co. of Ravenswood, Chicago, Illinois. This preparation is 98 per cent. Epsom Salts, the other two per cent, being of such a nature as to render the compound effervescing and pleasant to take. From a teaspoonful to a tablespoonful of the Salts may be taken every morning, or as needed.
DISEASES AND TREATMENTS, 95
Calomel is another excellent remedy. In making this state- ment we realize that there is much prejudice against this drug. It may be taken in one dose of 5 to 10 grains, or 14^-grain doses may be taken one hour apart until the bowel? move freely.
The laxatives mentioned are for the purpose of freeing the digestive tract of irritating substances, and should be followed by antiseptics. For this purpose we especially recommend the following:
Ten grains of Salol every three hours, or the same amount of the Sulphocarbolates of Lime, Zinc and Soda combined; or if the movements are very frequent and it is desired to control this particular feature, give Sulphocarbolate of Zinc alone — 5 grains every two hours. The preparation of Zinc is astringent while the combination or Salol is not; otherwise there is no difference. In either case the purpose is to render the digestive tract clean and healthy. These remedies stop fermentation and render ulcers and other unhealthy surfaces clean and wholesome. As soon as there is improvement, give less often — perhaps two or three times a day.
The main thought to keep in mind is cleanliness. Ulcers or any degenerative changes in the digestive tract should be treated the same as on the surface. For this purpose, the Sulpho- carbolates of Lime, Zinc and Soda combined, or Salol, are the best remedies. Regulate the dose and the treatment for infants, children and adults is the same.
Arsenite of Copper is another remedy of value and may be given in doses of y^^ of a grain every two to four hours. Half this amount, ^^0^ of a grain, may be given either with the Sulpho- carbolates or the Salol. The tablets are most convenient.
The following remedy will check fermentation, relieve the congestion of the mucous membrane and free its surface of unhealthy secretions, stimulate digestion and regulate movement. It is a valuable remedy for many cases of bowel troubles tliat occur in summer, and especially so with children:
Carbonate of Soda i drachm
Wine of Ipecac i **
Fluid Hydras tus 6 **
Syrup of Rhubarb sufficient to make 4 ounces.
Dose. — One teaspoonful every 2 to 4 hours, as indicated by the condition of the bowels. Give a dose of Laxol before commencing this remedy.
Fever may be present with both inflammation of the bowels and dysentery. If it is, the foregoing treatment will be ideal, as it is aimed directly at the cause, i. e. , the unhealthy condition of the bowels. Additional treatment for the fever consists of Aco-
96 FAVORITB MEDICAL RECEIPTS,
nite and Veratrum in one-drop doses every hour or two. A better remedy for fever resulting from inflammation of the bowels is ine following:
Fluid Extract of Ipecac lo drops.
Tincture of Aconite lo "
Glycerine )4 ounce.
Water enough to make 4 "
Dose: — i teaspoonful every hour.
If there is much pain and restlessness with children, give Codeine. For a child one year old, -gV of a grain two or three times a day is usually sufficient. For adults where there is pain and soreness due to inflammation or dysentery, give one grain of Opium, One or two doses a day are usually sufficient. Opium is constipating and this effect must be overcome by Laxol, Seidlitz Salts, or some other remedy. It is generally understood that in inflammation of the bowels and dysentery the pain and soreness are marked. We have seen many cases where the pain and sore- ness were severe in an ordinary case of diarrhea, and have seen chronic cases free from both.
In many cases of bowel trouble there is rapid emaciation, because digestion and assimilation are interfered with to such an extent that the patient receives but little nourishment; hence the question of diet is an important one. In simple diarrhea, if all food is stopped for 24 hours it will! be of great benefit to the patient, and then only such food should be allowed as is easily digested, and should be taken in rather small amounts for a few days. Milk, or milk and lime water, equal parts, is perhaps best of all. Next are toast, boiled rice and meat broths. The less solid food taken the better. In chronic cases, toast, meat broths, soft cooked eggs and other concentrated foods that are easily digested should be taken.
Diarrhea.— Rbmedies Recommended. —
A. Give a little hot brandy sling. Take the bark of Black- berry roots and leaves and steep up and make a strong decoction. Drink this freely, but avoid other drinks as much as possible, especially cold water. A little grated nutmeg may be put into the tea, and it may be sweetened with loaf sugar if desired.
B. Paregoric 4 drachms.
Aromatic Syrup of Rhubarb 3 **
Aromatic Spirits of Ammonia 2 '*
Subnitrate of Bismuth 2 "
Blackberry Wine enough to make.. 4 ounces.
Dose; 2 teaspoonfuls (bottle well shaken) in a little water every three hours. — (22).
C. Arsenate of Copper j^ grain.
Water 8 ounces.
DISEASES AND TREATMENTS. qj
Dose: i teaspoonful every ten to twenty minutes till relieved,
or,
Paregoric i ounce.
Tincture Red Pepper. .0 i drachm.
Subnitrate of Bismuth ]4. **
Syrup 4 ounces.
Mix, and take teaspoonful every half hour until reliex-ed. — (46).
D, Tincture of Rhubarb I ounce.
Spirits of Camphor %
Laudanum %
Tincture of Ginger }4.
Essence of Cinnamon o ^
Tincture of Capsicum 3^
Mix, and shake when using.
Dose: One-half teaspoonful, on sugar or in a little sweetened water. In severe cases repeat every 30 minutes until relief from pain is ob- tained, then every hour or two as needed until the evacuations are lessened and improved in appearance.
E. Tincture of Aconite 5 to 10 drops.
Tincture of Ipecac 15 drops.
Water..... 4 ounces. »
Dose: i teaspoonful every hour. — (77).
F. Dr. Owen reports a case of a friend of his who cured himself of a most obstinate diarrhea of several months standing, after trying everything else he could hear of, simply by eating once a day, as his dinner, a slice of raw bacon, a raw onion and plenty of salt, and bread. It required only two weeks to effect the cure. The doctor adds: ''The remedy is not bad to take if one is hungry."
Diarrhea of Old Age. — Sometimes with old people there is a relaxed condition of the bowels that causes diarrhea. These cases are not frequent, but are occasionally met, and the treat- ment especially recommended for them is as follows:
Sulphate of Strychnine ^ grain.
Kyoscyamine i-io "
Sulphocarbolate of Zinc ^4 "
Glycerine 2 ounces.
Simple Elixir 2 **
Mix, and take one teaspoonful every two or three hours until there m improvement, then less often.
Inflammation of the Bowels.- Remkdies Rkcommkndkd.
What to Do Till the Doctor Comes. — Evacuate the bowels, if possible, with an injection of soapsuds, as hot as can be borne. Put the patient to bed and cover the bowels either with dotha
C.R.-7
98 FAVORITE MEDICAL RECEIPTS.
wrung out of the hot decoction of some bitter herb, such as May- weed or Smartweed steeped up, or with a poultice made of Flax- seed meal. Or cloths may be wrung out of hot water alone. The hot applications afford relief, but if the pain is very severe and there is any Laudanum in the house, from 8 to 12 drops may be given, if an adult.
A. Warm poultices to the abdomen. Half teaspoonful doses of Kpsom Salts ever}^ two hours till the discharges are frequent. Milk diet. L^audanum or Paregoric to relieve pain. — (9).
B. Keep the bowels moving, and apply hot flannel cloths with flannel binder around the abdomen. — (17).
C. Give tablespoonful of Epsom Salts in goblet of hot water. Apply hot fomentations. Insure absolute rest in bed and send for a doctor. — (14).
Dysentery. — Rkmkdies Recommended.
What to Do Before Calling a Doctor. — In the first place give Castor Oil according to age: for a child, a teaspoonful with i to 2 drops of Laudanum; for an adult, a tablespoonful of the Oil with from 10 to 15 drops of Laudanum » Hot brandy sling is good, A most excellent remedy is a tea made from Blackberry roots: Take a small handful of the roots, put into a dish and steep, and let the patient drink freely of it. If for a child, it may be sweetened by adding loaf or white sugar.
In country districts remote from a physician the physic may be followed with a tea made of the bark of White Oak — the young growth, or saplings. Steep it, add a few drops of the Spirits of Camphor, and give a teaspoonful to a dose, repeating every three or four hours. The Oak tea should not be given until the physic has operated. The Blackberry tea may be given from the start.
The diet should be of the mildest and most nourishing kind, as boiled milk with a bit of flour thickening, making a kind of porridge, or thickened milk, rice boiled in milk, or rice flour, if it can be obtained, scalded with water then boiled in milk, or boiled milk with bread crumbled in it, until the strength begins to mend, then avoid everything likely to produce a relapse, which is almost always worse than the first attack.
A. Dover's Powder Yz dracmn.
Subnitrate of Bismuth >^ ounce.
Salol Yz drachm.
Mix, divide into twelve powders and take one every hour or two. — (46).
B. Empty bowels by Oil or Salts in small doses. Give adult 5 to 10 drops of Laudanum in one teaspoonful of Castor Oil every two to four hours. — (13).
iSla 4.
I, Arteries supplying Neck and Brain. 2, Large Artery .irising from Heart (which is removed). 3, Nerves. 4, Bronchial Tubes (cut jff). 5, L-ft Kidney 6, Left Ureter. 7, Bladder 8, Left Lung.
DISBASBS AND TRBATMENTS. 99
C. Give hot starch injections and encourage free perspira- tion.-(5).
D. 10 drops of Laudanum in a tablespoonful of Castor Oil. Very plain diet. Drink hot salt water (teaspoonful to the pint). Wash the bowels out with hot soapsuds. — (7).
E. Dysentery of Small Children, — Dr. Hall reports his success with dysentery of small children. His treatment is so uniform that it is only necessary to give one case to have a general under- standing of it. "A child of eight months had diarrhea, com- mencing in the morning, but in the evening the stools became small and bloody, attended with tenesmus (straining). Pulse 130 and hard, surface hot, very restless, nausea with occasional retching. Discharges about every ten minutes. Child regarded by the parents as in a dangerous condition, one having died in the same house from the same disease the week previous.
" Prescribed at 11 p. m. :
Tincture of Aconite 5 drops.
Tincture of Ipecac 15 "
Water 4 ounces.
Dose. — A teaspoonful every hour,
** No dysenteric discharges after 4 a. m. next morning, and the child was well the second day."
The Ipecac is believed to be certain, or specific, in its action upon mucous surfaces — the internal surface of the intestines is mucus — and the Aconite lowers the circulation and thus reduces fever. A child 2 to 4 years old might be given twice the amount. An adult might take a tablespoonful as a dose.
DIPHTHERIA. — Diphtheria is an acute communicable disease characterized by the formation of a false membrane upon certain mucous surfaces, especially of the tonsils and throat. Like other inflammations it varies in severity, ranging from a mild to a severe form. In the mild forms there is little constitutional disturbances; in the severe forms there is great prostration and heart weakness. It is often followed by paralysis of the throat. A severe case is one of the most dreaded diseases of childhood. Though often epidemic, it is always present in large citieSo
Cause. — Diphtheria is due to a certain specific poison. Some claim this poison is '.the result of germ action, and others cb^m that it is a constitutional disease.
The period of inoculation is from two to five days. Sec ,ad attacks are very common.
Symptoms. — There is considerable variance in the intensity of the symptoms and the development of the disease. It may begin mildly with a sensation of chilliness followed by slight
100 PA VORITE MEDICAL RECEIPTS.
fever, indisposition, and some uneasiness in swallowing. Or the onset may be severe, a chill being followed with great febrile reaction, swallowing becoming painful, the limbs aching and the prostration being marked.
The first local S5^mptom is a redness of one or both tonsils, accompanied with a swelling of the glands at the angle of the jaw. After this redness comes an exudation which gradually forms a membranous tissue covering more or less the surface of the tonsils. The membrane may extend to the nasal passages, gi\ang rise to an offensive discharge from the nose of a thin, serous fluid, slightly tinged with blood. The disease may also extend from the throat along the Kustacian tubes to the middle ear and cause deafness. In such cases the tympanum, or outer membrane, may be perforated, and there may be caries (death) of the bones of the ear. The membrane formed in the throat is usually of a grayish or leathery color, which, if removed, leaves a raw and bleedi7ig surface — a character istic featu?'e of a diphtheritic membrane as distinguished from whitish patches that may form iri the throat in other affections. Not infrequently portions of this membrane are expectorated, and in severe cases ulceration and sloughing also occur. The odor arising from the putrid secre- tions in diphtheria is exceedingly offensive.
Nausea, vomiting or bleeding at the nose, when occurring late in the disease, paralysis before the exudate (membrane) disappears, subnormal temperature and all complications are unfavorable. Also convulsions occurring late are unfavorable, while as ushering-in symptoms they are of no especial significance. Diphtheria paralysis is usually recovered from, though paralysis of the heart may occur when least expected. Even after the danger seems past, the child while at play may by reason of sudden effort topple over dead, and for this reason should be kept quiet during convalescence. Paralysis of the muscles of respira- tion or of the diaphragm give rise to grave symptoms. Complica- tions may prove fatal by their attack upon other organs, as the kidneys, liver or brain. Paralysis of the muscles of the throat may cause fluids to pass out through the nose. Imperfect closure of the epiglottis may allow food to enter the trachea (windpipe) .
Treatments.—
What to Do Till the Doctor Comes. — Diphtheria is generally coafined to childhood. If the disease is prevalent and any mem- ber of the family complains of "sore throat," be on guard. It may prove to be only a sore throat from taking cold, bui diphtheria generally commences in that way. The first thing the child com- Dlains of is that his throat feels sore, that it hurts him to swallow, ^ perhaps that his throat pains him. First give a cathartic.
DiSBASBS AND TRBATMBNTS, loi
Squeeze out the juice from lemons and stir in sulphur until you have it about the consistency of thick cream. Give the child a little 'in his mouth every half hour and have him swallow it. Keep watch of the throat, and if the lining membrane, that is, the inside of the throat, assumes an ash -colored hue, put him to bed, in a room by himself, and keep others away; keep him warm and send immediately for your doctor. Bathe the throat with Cam- phorated Oil, putting on the Oil pretty freely and afterwards wrapping with a flannel cloth. Give all the lemonade he can drink.
An excellent gargle for diphtheric sore throat is made of the Chlorate of Potash and the Sulphite of Soda, put up in powders of tv/enty grains of the Potash to ten grains of the Soda. Put one of these powders into a common goblet, fill two- thirds full of hot water, so as to dissolve it, and gargle the throat every two or three hours. Have the child gargle as low down as possible, and occasionally let him swallow a quarter of a teaspoonful — just enough to moisten the membranes of the throat — especially if he cannot gargle well. If he cannot gargle and it is necessary to use a swab, take Glycerine and Carbolic Acid, 15 parts Glycerine to one part Carbolic Acid, or say 15 drops of Carbolic Acid to one ounce of Glycerine, and swab the throat with that.
A. Carbolic Acid, full strength 15 drops.
Chlorate of Potash 5 drachttto
Tincture of Myrrh i "
Oil of Wmtergreen 5 drops.
Mt:r, and add slowly by trituration (stirring rapidly) four ounces of honey.
Dose. — Give child one tablespoonful every half hour, if the case is severe. This remedy has proven very successful in the treatment of diphtheria and those who use it will find the results most satisfactory.
fhe food should be of the most nourishing kind^ milk, eggs, beef, broths, toast, etc. Small amounts must be given at frequent intervals day and night.
If there is discharge from the nose, spray the cavities with Peroxide of Hydrogen, and spray the throat with the same remedy. Sleep should not interfere with treatment, either medicinal or feeding.
Antitoxin is considered by many a specific for diphtheria, and is quite generally used, but can be administered only by a physician.
E. Bathe the throat internally and externally with ordinary coal oil. Give Sulphur mixed in molasses, and if improvement is not soon apparent, send for your doctor. — (17).
I02 PA VORITB MEDICAL RBCBIPTS.
C. Iodide of Potash 2 drachms.
Whiskey 4 ounces.
Mix, and give teaspoonful every four hours.
Give Antitoxin as soon as the disease is diagnosed.
Give teaspoonful of Salt in }^ glass of warm water every three to four hours, and at the same time give 3 to lo drops of the Tincture of Digitalis in water three times daily, according to age.— (46).
Note. — If the salt solution causes nausea, lessen or omit that part of the treatment.
D. Diphtheria Antitoxin, first and last. Throat disinfected with Hydrogen Peroxide sprayed, full strength. — (60).
E. Antitoxin. Calomel cathartic — from i to 5 grains of Calomel, according to age. Use disinfectant gargle. Patient ordinarily well in four or five days. — (54)0
F. Iodide of Mercurj^ first dilution. Give 2 tablets every two hours. Chlorinated Lime Water, give 2 drops in water every two hours. Alternate the two remedies. Use Alcohol for gar- gling, and as strong as possible. Make patient eat the most nourishing foods. Do not use Antitoxin unless it is known to be fresh and pure. — (18) — Homeopathic.
Go Report of two cases where Phytolacca was used as treat- ment:
1. "Mrs. B., 31. Nov. i6th. Throat commenced to feel sore in morning, followed by high fever all day, right tonsil very much swollen; at noon commenced to see substance forming on the tonsil. Was called 10 p. m., found right tonsil covered com- pletely with pseudo-membrane, fauces and soft palate very much inflamed, deglutition almost impossible, loss of appetite, great frontal headache, bowels moved every two hours, with severe pain in umbilical regions, great prostration, vertigo" (dizziness) "so great she could not walk. Pulse 127, soft. Gave Phytolacca 4 drops every hour, and a gargle of same every hour, consisting of 50 drops in tumbler water. i8th, very much better; pulse, 100, throat did not feel near so sore, false membrane began to come off, back and limbs ached but slightly, headache nearly gone; continued same treatment three days. Discharged her cured. Diarrhea stopped second day."
2. "Mrs. G., 21, nursing a babe. Dec. nth, throat com- menced to feel sore, very restless night. 12th, slight headache with severe pain in back and legs, very chilly all the time, throat very sore, both tonsils very much swollen and covered in patches with dark-colored pseudo-membrane, deglutition" (swallowing) "very difficult, face very much flushed, great prostration, could not Bit up any, so faint and weak, bowels regular. Gave Phytolacca
DISBASBS AND TREATMENTS. 103
4 drops every % hour, with gargle of same. 13th, felt very much better; fever all gone, back and legs did not ache any, throat felt very sore, tonsils very red and swollen, covered in patches with the pseudo-exudation, deglutition very painful. Continued same treatment once an hour. 14th, felt quite w^ell; pseudo-membrane off from both tonsils, large holes eaten into tonsils, could swallow quite well. Continued same treatment every two hours, discharged her cured next day. Babe nursed her throughout, did not take disease."
LARYNGEAL DIPHTHERIA— CROUP, TRUE OR MEMBRANOUS. — For many years the medical fraternity has been divided as to the identity of membranous croup and diph- theria, but to-day most physicians consider them one and the same.
The treatment and general care of the child is the same as that already given under Diphtheria.
DROPSY. — Dropsy is not a disease, but a symptom. It is a result of disease and indicates a serious condition of the health. It consists of an effusion of the watery part of the blood into a cavity, or into the loose connective tissue which envelops the body and lies just beneath the skin. In the latter case it is called A7iasarca. Occurring in the abdominal cavity, it is called Ascites; in the chest cavity, Hydrothorax; in the brain, Hydrocephalus ; in the sac which surrounds the heart, Hydro- Pericardium. The two latter seldom occur. Hydrocephalus, or Water on the Brain, is a disease of infancy. Swelling is the universal evidence of dropsy. Dropsy always depends upon obstruction of the return circulation. The obstruction may be due to tumors, inflammation acute or chronic, or may be due to a weak heart. When due to tumor or inflammation, it is localized, that is, the return circulation being blocked, the blood is forced back, oozes out through the veins, and is found in the nearest cavity or tissue. Dropsy may result from Bright' s dis- ease. In health the kidneys contain a large amount of blood. During inflammation the blood cannot circulate through them, but is forced back toward the heart. At first the force of the heart beat is increased to overcome the extra demands made upon it, but later the heart may become diseased and weakened, when the return circulation will be correspondingly slow. Oederna is a term often applied to swelling or localized dropsy occurring just beneath the skin. Inflammatory swellings are sometimes spoken of as oedematous.
Dropsy may also affect other smaller cavities of the body, deriving its name therefrom, as Dropsy of the Testicle ,callQd Hydrocele.
104 FAVORITE MEDICAL RECEIPTS.
Treatments. —
Ao If due to tumor, remove the growth; if due to inflamma- tion, weak heart or Bright' s disease, see treatment under those heads. In all cases relieve as far as possible by keeping the bowels active. Water may be drawn from the abdomen, chest or any other cavity by inserting a trocar. This is a hollow needle and the water drains through it. It will be understood, of cotirse, that this simplj^ relieves the patient but does not cure. The only cure is removal of the cause, and this may be difficult or impossible.
B. One of the best remedies for any form of dropsy is Dwarf Elder (see chapter on herbs for description and directions). Of course, when dropsical symptoms appear, consult a doctor as to their nature and cause.
In the chapter on Hkrb Remedies will be found many herbs that produce a free discharge of urine, and thus help to relieve, and in many cases have cured dropsy in some of its forms.
C. Jalap Yz ounce.
Cream of Tartar i "
Blaterium, powdered 4 grains.
Capsicum i drachm.
Mix^ and divide into 20 powders.
Dose. — Take one powder in a little syrup or molasses, morning, noon and night, and if this does not cause as free a cathartic action as the patient can well bear, take another at late bed- time, until a free and full cathartic action has been brought about, which may be repeated every three or four days, as needed.
D. Is only a symptom of some diseased condition, which, if it be possible to remove, the dropsy will disappear. — (14).
E. Purgative doses of Salts and a purely milk diet. No liquor or stimulant drinks. — (7).
F. Hydrocele. — Draw off the water and inject into the sac Tincture of Iodine, diluted one-half with water. — (10).
G. Hydrocele. — Rest in bed, with support of the parts, and cathartic doses of Epsom Salts. — (7).
H. Hydrocephalus. — For a child a year old, one grain Iodide Potassium in a tablespoonf ul of water, three times a day, between meals. — (14).
DYSENTERY.— (See under Diarrhea). DYSMENORRHEA.— (See under Diseases of Women). DYSPEPSIA. (See under Stomach Diseases). DYSURIA. — (See under Bi^adder Diseases).
THE EAR AND ITS DISEASES.
The ear consists of three parts — the external, middle and internal.
The External Ear. — The external ear is formed of cartilage and bone and is covered with skin; the expanded portion is formed of cartilage without bone and is popularly recognized as ' 'the ear." The border of the external ear gradually verges or approaches towards the opening which leads to the middle ear. This opening, called the external auditory canal, is about i V2 inches in length. The first half inch is formed of cartilage; the remaining portion is situated in bone, and all is covered or lined with skin which becomes more modified as it extends inward. It is supplied with numerous glands which secrete or furnish an adhesive yellow and bitter substance, the purpose of which is supposed to be the entanglement of insects, dust and other foreign bodies. The direction of the external canal is inward, forward and a little downward. It is narrower in the center than at either end, which makes it difficult to remove foreign bodies that may become lodged in it. It is separated from the middle ear by a membrane called the tympanic membrane. This membrane is composed of three layers : The outer layer is skin, the middle layer is connective tissue and forms the framework, and the internal layer is mucous membrane.
The Middle Ear. — The middle portion of the ear is hollow and is called the tyvipanuvi, meaning a drum. As stated, it is separated from the external ear by the tympanic membrane; it is separated from the internal ear by a bony partition. This par- tition is covered with mucous membrane and contains two open- ings, one round and the other oval, and these openings are lined with a delicate membrane. Extending across the middle ear is a chain of three very small bones held together by a delicate struc- ture of cartilage. The inner end of this chain fits into one of the openings in the bony partition, and the cartilage blends with that lining the openings The mucous membrane which covers the partition is reflected over and covers the entire chain, and blends at the outer end of the chain with the tympanic membrane. By means of the mucous membrane and the cartilage which sup- ports it, the chain is allowed to vibrate back and forth, thus when wave sounds are received any jarring of the delicate structures of the internal ear is prevented.
105
I06 FA VORITB MEDICAL RECBIPTS.
lycading from the middle ear to the throat is a small tube or canal called the Eiistachian tube after its discoverer. This tube is formed of connective tissue and cartilage, and is lined with mucous membrane which is continuous with the mucous mem- brane of the throat.
The Internal Ear. — This portion of the ear is sometimes called the labyrinth, meaning a winding passage. It is divided into three parts: first, the vestibule, or common opening, situated next to the middle ear; second, three small canals, each forming a half circle with both ends opening into the vestibule; third, the cochlea — so-called from its resemblance to a snail shell — which also opens into the vestibule. The cochlea is about ^ of an inch in length and consists of a central column of bone. This column tapers from base to top and is surrounded by a spiral canal which makes 2^ turns. The canal, which is divided lengthwise into two parts by a thin layer of bone and delicate membrane, is about i^ inches in length. Its termination resembles the half of an inverted funnel cut in two lengthwise. The two parts commu- nicate at the top. The lower end of one opens into the vestibule, and the lower end of the other extends to the round window in the bony partition between the internal and middle ear, but is prevented from opening into the middle ear by reason of the mucous membrane which covers the window. The vestibule, the three half circular canals and the spiral canals of the cochlea, are lined with mucous membrane.
Each of the spiral canals contains a closed membrane in the form of a tube. This tube about one-third fills the space. Sur- rounding it and filling the balance of the space in the canals is a fluid QoXl^d pe}ily7nph. The same kind of fluid fills the tube, and is here called endolymph. Covering the outer surface of the wall of the cochlea or snail shell is a delicate membrane which follows the whole length of the spiral canal. It is composed of cells whose arrangement somewhat resembles the key-board of a piano. These cells are supplied with delicate hair-like processes. The base of the cochlea is about i inch in breadth and contains numer- ous openings for the passage of the branches of the auditory nerve, or nerve of hearing. Upon entering, one-half of this nerve goes to supply the vestibule and half-circular canals, and the other half ascends the spiral canal in the cochlea and divides into delicate filaments or fibers which join the hair-like processes of the cells. The different sound waves traveling along the external canal are transmitted across the middle ear by the chain of bones, communicate with the internal ear and are received by the cells forming the key-board. This produces the different tones, and the various impressions are conveyed to the brain.
DISEASES AND TREATMENTS. I07
EARACHE. — Earache is a trouble usually met with in children. It may follow taking cold, and is one of the symptoms in congestion, inflammation, or suppuration of the middle ear. As usually met with, earache is not a serious condition. How- ever, it should be remembered that the ear is a very sensitive organ, and it requires but very slight pressure to cause pain. As stated in the foregoing, the middle ear is lined with mucous mem- brane which is continuous from the throat, passing along the Eustachian tube, therefore inflammation of the throat may and often does extend to the middle ear and cause earache. Inflam- mation or abscess in one of the cavities of the mastoid process (see Abscess of the Mastoid Process) may cause earache.
Treatments. —
A. Earache as ordinarily met should be treated with hot applications; hot cloths should be applied to the side of the head, or better, cloths wrung out of hot water, or apply hot poultices, because moist heat can be applied at a higher temperature than dry heat.
Give internally 5 grains of Bromide of Potash and ^^^ of ^ grain of Atropine every one or two hours. This dose is suitable for a child five years of age. Children are usually restless and worry a great deal with this trouble, therefore y^ of a grain of Codeine should be added to the Atropine and Bromide. In the proper dose these remedies are perfectly harmless for small chil- dren and even babies. If the child is quiet, omit the Codeine; if the face flushes or the pupil of the eye dilates, stop the Atropine.
If there is evidence of pus, the abscess should be opened at once and thoroughly washed out. It will require washing two or three times a day with water containing a few drops of Carbolic Acid, or some other antiseptic. While opening an abscess in the middle ear is a very simple procedure, it requires the services of a physician, and he would instruct regarding the antiseptics and the after treatment.
B. I^audanum poured into the ear. A drop is sufficient. — (7) .
C. Equal parts of Tincture of Opium and Tincture of Bella- donna. Drop 5 drops warm into the ear every hour or tw^o if necessary. For infant, 2 drops will be sufficient. — (45).
D. I^audanum and Sweet Oil, equal parts, warm, dropped into the ear. Hen's Oil or Glycerine will do equally as well in place of the Sweet Oil. Apply hot salt bag, or bag of hops very hot.-(9).
E. Hydrochlorate of Pilocarpine ^ grain. To be given by the mouth. Repeat every hour until there is an increased flow of saliva. This is evidence that the child is under the effects.
I08 PA VORITB MEDICAL RECEIPTS,
Note. — Pilocarpine is preferable to Laudanum, or Opium in any form, in treating children, because it does not produce convulsions, and sometimes Opium, even in small doses, does produce this trouble. It should be remem- bered that Opium is not a suitable remedy for small children.
F. Mix equal parts of Glycerine and Laudanum, warm, drop 3 or 4 drops into the ear and apply local heat.
If child is very restless and there is much pain, give 5 drops of Paregoric, or 4^ of a grain of Codeine.
CATARRH OF THE EAR.— In health the middle ear is filled with air, which is received through the Eustachian tube. Respiration creates a constant change of this air. During an attack of catarrh the mucous membrane lining the Eustachian tube may become so swollen as to completely close the opening. Should this occur, the air in the middle ear is sometimes absorbed, producing the condition known as Dry Catarrh of the middle ear. Or, when the tube is closed and swollen, the membrane lining the middle ear may continue to pour out a catarrhal exudate which is sometimes converted into pus. This would constitute an abscess. This may be absorbed or may break through the external membrane and discharge through the external canal. This is the condition present when people tell you that "the ear runs." See treatment "A" under Earache.
ABSCESS OF THE MASTOID PROCESS.— Situ- ated just behind the middle ear is a prominent bone, called the mastoid process. This is filled with large spaces which open into and communicate with the middle ear. Eustachian tube and throat. Sometimes the catarrhal conditions extend from the middle ear into one or more of the large cavities of this bone and form an abscess. This would call for the assistance of a surgeon, who may find it necessary to make an incision behind the ear, drill through the bone and allow the pus to escape. The danger of an abscess at this point is that the internal bony partition might be destroyed and the inflammation and suppuration pene- trate to the brain.
ECZEMA.— (See under Skin Diseases).
ENDOCARDITIS.— (See under Heart, Diseases of).
ENTERIC FEVER. — Enteric Fever means fever catised by diseases of the digestive tract. The term may be applied to any of the inflammatory processes where fever is present. Typhoid Fever is sometimes spoken of as Enteric Fever,
EPILEPSY. — Epilepsy, often called Falling Sickness, is a disease of the nervous system, characterized by attacks of uncon- sciousness with or without convulsions, usually with.
DISEASES AND TREATMENTS. IO9
Cause. — A large per cent of the cases begin in childhood, and many are of hereditary origin. Chronic alcoholism in the parent is believed to be an important factor in producing this disease.
Disorders of digestion, depression of spirits, loss of vigor, a feeling of languor, an unhealthy system and cloudy brain, are common in epileptics, thus giving evidence of a lack of nourish- ment. Occurring in children and infants, this lack of nourishment may be the result of indigestion from improper feeding; or it may be the result of hereditar>^ taint — the vitality of the child may never have been quite up to the normal. In the latter case diges- tion and assimilation would be lowered, and the nervous sj^stem would be still less able to withstand a faulty diet and the irritat- ing effects of retained waste. Lack of nutrition robs the blood of its natural elements. The higher forms of digestion are carried on in the circulation, and when the blood is improperly nourished, poisons in the form of uric acid, lactic acid, etc., remain in the system and produce irritation.
Especially does this affect the brain as one-fifth of all the blood in the body goes to nourish that organ. Receiving five times as much blood as any other organ of its size, it must follow that any habit or indulgence which impairs digestion and causes unhealthy blood must produce a morbid influence upon the brain and nervous system, hence the enormous production of nervous debility, monomania, hypochondria, insanity, idiocy, and many minor ailments, such as rheumatism, neuralgia, headache, mental stupor, lack of resolution, etc. Indigestion and retained waste irritate the nervous system and produce the different mental, nervous and emotional states known as hysteria, nervousness, melancholia, and other depressions and hallucinations. This is the foundation upon which epilepsy stands. Dynamite may be struck once or a thousand times if the blows are light enough, but sooner or later it will explode: The irritation produced by dyspepsia may be stored up for a time, but sooner or later it too will explode. It will accumulate in the central nervous system, the brain and spinal cord until they are surcharged, and at the first opportunity it will break forth and its power for a time be irre- sistible, as in an epileptic fit.
Symptoms. — As a rule epileptic fits come on without warning symptoms. In some cases, however, they are preceded, perhaps for a day or two, with a feeling of fullness in the head, giddiness, and specks floating before the eyes; in other cases the attack is preceded by a voracious appetite. There may be no immediate warning, or there may be a sharp cry or an unusual, animal-like sound. The patient falls unconscious and sometimes writhes in convulsions. In some cases the patient is conscious of a ting- ling sensation, or a feeling like a cold draught, which seems to
I lo PA VORITE MEDICAL RECEIPTS.
Start in the fingers or toes and works its way rapidly upward, unconsciousness coming on as it reaches the throat or head. The countenance is livid, swollen and distorted; the tongue is often thrust from the mouth, and not infrequently lacerated with the teeth; respiration is impeded; foam issues from the mouth; the eyelids are partly open, the eyeballs starting out, and the pupil is fixed and insensible to the stimulus of light.
These symptoms, which indicate a severe attack, remit pres- ently, but may be followed with another and perhaps severer fit, or with a succession of fits; or the convulsions and other symp- toms may gradually diminish after the first fit, leaving the patient in a state of stupor from which he sinks into a deep sleep, awaken- ing as from ordinary slumber and without consciousness of what has occurred.
There is little probability of a cure if the disease has run for a number of years, or if the patient has been afflicted since birth; but the attempt should be made in all cases.
Treatments. —
A. Take a solution of the following:
Bromide of Potash 2 grains.
Bromide of Ammonia 2 ''
Dissolve in a tablespoonful of water and repeat three times a day. Or, take an ounce of each of the above, put into a dish that will hold a quart, pour in warm water and dissolve, and give a tablespoonful three times a day, which will be about two grains of each to the dose.
B. The bromides and other sedatives may be valuable in many cases of epilepsy, and undoubtedly exert a temporary benefit upon all cases, yet it is doubtful if their continued use is helpful. They cover over, but do not remove the cause; their use produces a temporary effect only. Taken habitually, they slowly, but surely, weaken the nervous system., lower vitality, and aid in reducing physical strength.
Those who have studied the question of epilepsy believe that with attention to diet and elimination a cure may be effected. We all know that drug medication is disappointing and that operations are useless. All forms have been tried. If injury- should drive a sliver or bone into the skull, or cause other brain pressure, an operation might relieve and effect a cure; but epilepsy IS seldom caused by injury.
ERUCTATIONS.— Eructations are the result of gases formed in the stomach and indicate that there is undigested food present, which means dyspepsia. The gas, not being able
DISEA SBS A ND TRBA TMBNTS. 1 1 1
to escape along the digestive tract, is expelled by the mouth. Those troubled with eructations should pay close attention to diet and, if needed, some artificial digestant may be taken for a short time. Regarding diet, if the eructations are sour, avoid starchy foods as they produce acids; if there is a greasy taste in the mouth, avoid fats; if there is an odor indicating any article of food eaten or drank, such articles should be avoided.
Treatment. —
ror the indigestion we recommend the following :
Scale Pepsin (i to 3000) 2 drachms.
Hydrochloric (Muriatic) Acid 15 drops.
Glycerine i ounce.
Simple Elixir 2 ounces.
Mix, and take one teaspoonful after each meal.
ERYSIPELAS. — Erysipelas is an acute inflammatory disease, usuall}^ confined to the skin, but may affect the deeper tissues. When extending to the deeper structures, it is called phlegmojwus .
Cause. — Due to a specific ferment. See cause of Small-Pox. The disease is not contagious.
Sympto7ns. — The disease usually comes on with a chill, though in many cases the chill is absent. There is moderate fever, full pulse, and there may be headache. The affected part becomes red and swollen. The swelling may be smooth, tense and glis- tening, or may begin as bright red spots which join as the swelling increases. The swelling is so great and the circulation is interfered with to such an extent that it has a peculiar dark hue. The face is quite a usual seat of the disease, and when occurring there the swelling frequently closes the eyes. The inflamed surface may be covered w^ith a rash; vesicles of quite large size may appear and become filled with a watery fluid; the urine may contain albumen. The disease usually lasts about one week.
Treatments. —
What to Do. — If it is a bad case, send for a doctor. In the meantime, wring cloths out of sour buttermilk, or, what is still better, make a cranberry poultice and bind on. To do this, simply crush the cranberries and bind on with cloths. Paint around the outside of the eruption with Tincture of Iodine.
A. Painting the surface with Tincture of Iodine is said to check the spread of the disease in some cases. Some claim that active cathartics followed by Pilocarpine in yi grain doses every hour until there is free perspiration, is a specific treatment. The
112 FAVORITE MEDICAL RECEIPTS.
Pilocarpine should be continued until the symptoms disappear, the dose being lessened as the disease subsides. Pilocarpine should only be given when the patient is strong a?id robust.
B. We believe the best treatment for Erysipelas is the follow- ing: First wash the inflamed surface with soap and water, then with Boric Acid and water — 25 grains of Boric Acid to the ounce of water. Wipe dry and apply equal parts of Ichthyol and Glycerine, and cover with a light bandage. Dress twice a day, washing the surface clean each time before making the application of Ichthyol. Internally, give 5 drops Fowler's Solution four times a day. The advantage of using the Glycerine and Ichthyol is that both are easily removed before making a new application. Ichthyol and Vaseline, or other excipient, ma}^ be used if desired. If there is sleeplessness, Sulfonal in from 5 to 10 grain doses, Phen- acetine in from 5 to 10 grain doses, Chloral in from 10 to 20 grain doses, or the Bromides in from 20 to 40 grain doses, may be given. The Chloral or Bromides should be given in plenty of water. If Glycerine or Sugar is added to the water, it will improve the taste. In the strong a low diet is advised. Some- times erysipelas attacks the weak and emaciated, those suffering from chronic disease. In this case the eruptions are pale, tem- perature low and vitality depressed. These cases need stimulants and tonics. Give 20 to 30 drops of Tincture of Chloride of Iron after meals. The diet should be nutritious. Ichthyol and Fowler's Solution may be used in all cases.
C. Ichthyol Ointment i ounce.
Vaseline i "
Mix, and apply locally.
Give 10 drops Tincture of Iron internally every two hours. Keep bowels open with Salts.— (46).
D. Ichthyol 2% ounces.
Colodion, flexible 2 drachms.
Mix, and apply every three or four hours. Be sure to have application extend one inch beyond the inflammation.
Tincture of Chloride of Iron 2 ounces.
Tincture Poison Oak (Rhus Tox- icodendron) 2 drachms.
Mix, and take 35 drops in water every two hours. Keep bowels regular, and give milk, beef tea and e^gs. — (53).
ERYSIPELAS, PHLEGMONOUS.— When erysipelas attacks the deeper structures, the disease assumes altogether a different form; the swelling is much greater and the discoloration is of a deeper and darker hue. This is accompanied with high
DISEASES AND TRBATMBNTS. 113
fever, rapid pulse, throbbing pain and prostration. There are irregular chills, followed by sweating, the result of poisons absorbed. The swelling maybe so great that the circulation may be entirely shut off and gangrene result. By extension through the loose connective tissue just beneath the skin this form of erysipelas may include or cover a large surface, as a whole arm or leg.
Treatment. —
Keep the bowels and skin active and healthy. Give 10 grains Salol every three hours and the most nourishing diet. Give from a teaspoonful to a tablespoonful of Bovinine in a glass of milk every four hours. Put two ounces of rice in one pint of water, boil for three hours, adding sufficient water to maintain the original pint, mix two eggs and a half pint of cream and add to the boiled rice, then add all to one pint of hot beef tea, (see Beef Tea under Miscellaneous Medical Receipts), and feed to the patient every one, two or three hours, according to the severity of the case. Should there be danger of suppuration or gangrene, incise at once. Cut deep enough to allow free drain- age. This will reduce the swelling and relieve the circulation. It maj^ be necessary to make frequent incisions. Wash the wounds with Peroxide of Hydrogen, full strength, Carbolic Acid water, or other antiseptics. Allow free drainage and dress with gauze soaked in antiseptics. Give abundance of fresh air.
EXCORIATION.— (See under Children's Diseases).
THE EYE AND ITS DISEASES,
The eye rests in a bony cavity or socket and is embedded in fat. The fat protects it from jarring, while the surrounding wall of bone protects it from injury.
The eyeball consists of two parts, which may be compared to a large and a small marble — the large one about one inch in diameter and the small one about one-sixth as large. Sinking the small marble about two-thirds of its diameter into the larger would give a general outline of the eyeball. The small marble would represent one-sixth, and is called the cornea. It is placed in front. Its size compares to that portion of the eye that gives color — black, blue or gray. The larger part would represent the five-sixths and is placed in the orbital cavity. It is the portion that we can see but partially. It constitutes the white of the eye and meets the cornea at the border of the color line. C.R.-8
1 14 FA VORITE MEDICAL RECEIPTS.
The muscles which move the eye are attached by their inner ends to the apex or inner point of the orbital cavity, and the front or outer ends are attached to the outer surface of the eyeball a little back of the cornea and a little behind the circle where the large and small marbles join. The muscles are placed above, below, on either side and obliquely, so that the eye may roll in all directions.
The eyeball is composed of three coats — the inner, middle and outer. The inner coat of the eyeball is called the retina, meaning a network. It is formed by the expanded fibers of the optic nerve, or nerve of sight. This nerve has its origin in the brain. It passes out of the skull through a little opening in the apex or orbital cavity, and immediately its fibers divide and radiate in all directions, forming a thin membrane. The fibers are held in position by a delicate connective tissue framework. These fibers terminate at the junction of the cornea with the large part of the eye, as represented by the junction of the large and small marble. The artery which supplies the eye rests within the substance of the optic nerve at its point of entrance into the orbital cavity, and, like the nerve, branches of this artery expand in a radiating manner, forming a close network of vessels which are held together by delicate fibers of connective tissue. This constitutes the middle coat and is called the choroid, meaning a membrane of vessels. On the inner surface of this membrane, lying next to the expanded nerve fibers, is a layer of dark cells. These cells absorb the light, which otherwise would be reflected from side to side and cause confusion. This dark layer corresponds to the black lining of the photographer' s camera. The outer coat or membrane is called the sclerotic, meaning hard. Covering the brain and lying next to the inner surface of the skull is a firm membrane of connective tissue, called the dura-7?iater. When the optic nerve leaves the brain, a sheath of this dura-mater goes with it, and when the optic nerve expaxids and forms the inner mem- brane of the eyeball, the sheath of dura-mater also expands and forms the outer membrane. The outer membrane or coat com- pletely surrounds the eyeball in front and, being hard and fibrous, aids in maintaining the e3^e in the form of a globe. It is white and glistening and forms the white of the eye. In front it is somewhat modified and forms the cornea.
At the junction of the cornea with the larger part of the eye- ball, the choroid, or middle coat, somewhat modified, makes a sharp bend inward and forms the iris, which is a thin curtain stretched vertically across, near the front of the e3'e, at the junction of the large and small marbles. Iris means many colors, hence the term. The colors — blue, black, gray, etc. — are caused by the various shades of coloring matter found in the layer of cells which
DISBASBS AND TRBATMENTS. II5
covers the back part of the iris. With the Albino race there is little or no coloring in this layer of cells, hence the light color of their eyes. The iris contains two sets of muscle fibers: One set radiates from the center to the surface like the spokes in a wagon wheel; the other set is circular. This gives it the power to contract and dilate, thus changing the size of the pupil. The pupil is simply an opening in the center of the iris for the admission of rays of light. When light is very bright, the pupil contracts, shutting out some of the rays; when light is dim, the pupil dilates, allowing more light to enter. The lids also aid in con- trolling the amount of light that enters the eye.
As stated, the choroid or middle coat makes a sharp bend inward at the point indicated by the junction of the two marbles, and being here supplied with circular and radiating fibers, forms the iris. The iris is flat, the cornea is oval, hence between the cornea and iris is a space, called the anterior chamber. Behind the iris and close to the pupil is the lens. This is a transparent double-convex body which aids in focusing the rays of light. The lens is about one-third of an inch in diameter from side to side, and one-quarter of an inch in diameter from before back- wards. The lens is oval, the iris is flat, hence the iris recedes from the lens towards its circumference, leaving a space. This space is called the posterior chamber. The two chambers or spaces communicate through the pupil, or opening in the iris.
Both the front and back chambers are filled with a liquid called aqueous humor. This is composed of about five or six drops of water, holding in solution a trace of alkaline salts. Within the walls of the retina or inner membrane, and filling the whole of the space behind the lens, is a jelly-like substance called vitreous humor, so named because it resembles melted glass. The vitreous humor aids in focusing the rays of light. Surrounding the vitreous humor is a thin, transparent membrane called the hyaline mem- branCy meaning transparent. In front it encloses the lens, form- ing a capsule around it. This capsule is attached to the sur- rounding structures and aids in holding the lens in position.
Light enters the eye through the cornea, aqueous humor, pupil, lens and vitreous humor in the order named, and is focused on the retina or inner membrane of nerve fibers, the impression or picture made on the retina being conveyed by the optic nerve to the brain.
The Lachrymal, or Tear, Apparatus.— The junction of the upper and lower eyelids is called the canthi, meaning comers of the eye. The inner canthus is somewhat prolonged inward, forming a triangular space. This space contains what is called the ca? uncle y meaning a fleshy elevation. On the apex or highest point of this elevation is a small opening. This is the com-
1 16 FA VORITE MEDICAL RECEIPTS.
mencement of the lachryinal, or tear, duct. This opening extends inward towards the nose for a short distance and terminates in what is called the lachrymal sac. This sac is the dilated upper portion of the lachrymal duct. It is called the nasal duct because it opens into the nose. From the inner canthus or inner angle of the eye, this duct, which is about three-fourths of an inch in length, passes inward, backward and downward and terminates in the nasal cavity. Situated at the inner angle of the eye, and on the margin of the lid, is a slight elevation called the lachrymal papilla. The apex or highest point of this papilla is also pierced by a small opening. The glands which furnish the tears are situated just outside the orbital cavity and above the outer canthus or junction of the eyelids. The under surface of the glands rest upon the convexity of the eyeball. Each gland is supplied with from ten to twelve ducts, which convey the tears over the surface of the eye. The tears pass along these ducts, which converge to the single opening in the papilla already described, and next enter the canal which leads to the nose. That is why the latter needs frequent wipings during the act of crying. If the tears flow too fast, they do not all enter or pass through the nasal duct, but overflow and run down the cheek.
Each eyelid contains a thin piece of cartilage about one inch in length. This aids in maintaining form. Between the cartil- age and the mucous membrane which lines the lids are a number of small glands, about forty in the upper lid and thirty in the lower lid. They are embedded in grooves on the under surface of the cartilage, and by means of straight tubes or ducts each gland opens upon the margin of the lid. These glands secrete a seba- fceous or oily substance which prevents the lids from adhering together. Sometimes the opening of a gland becomes closed, and, the gland continuing to secrete, quite a large tumor may form. It is sometimes necessary to remove this with a knife.
DEFECTS OF VISION.
Hyperopia — Far-Sightedness. — Rays of light should focus exactly on the retina, that is, meet at the same point on the inner membrane that is formed by the expanded fibers of the optic nerve. This is called perfect vision or stigmatism. But the eye is subject to deformities the same as other parts of the body. Sometimes the globe of the eye (eyeball) is too short, so that the rays of light from an object held at an ordinary distance do not focus on the retina, and this results in confusion; if the rays could continue backward, they would meet behind the retina. This is called hyperopia, or far-sightedness, because it is necessary that the rays of light should come from an object held at some distance. These enter the eye more on a straight
DISBASBS AND TRBA TMBNTS. 1 1 7
line and do not need so much power to concentrate, hence may focus on the retina or inner membrane. Hyperopia is congenital, that is, exists from birth. Convex glasses correct this trouble because they aid in bringing the rays of light together at the proper point.
Myopia — Near-Sightedness. — Sometimes the globe of the eye is too long, and the rays of light focus in front of the retina. This is called myopia, or near-sightedness, because it is necessary that the object should be held near the eyes. This causes the rays of light first to diverge, or enter the eye more at an angle, and this brings their point of meeting farther back. The cause of myopia is not known. Concave glasses will correct this trouble because they aid in diverging the rays and bring their point of meeting farther back where they may reach the retina.
Presbyopia— Far-Sightedness of Old Age. — In middle life and old age the lens becomes slightly opaque — less transpar- ent— the density is increased, elasticity is diminished and the power of accommodation is correspondingly lessened. This is QsXi.^^ presbyopia, or far-sightedness of old age. This trouble may be corrected by artificial lenses of su£5cient strength to serv^e as an equivalent or substitute for the loss of the natural lens.
Color Blindness is due to lack of development or paralysis of some of the fibers of the optic nerve. The defect may include one or both eyes.
Strabismus means cross-eyed. When the eyes turn in, it is called convergejit; when they turn out, divergent. One or both eyes may be affected. The cause is unequal strength of the muscles controlling the eyes, the stronger overcoming the weaker. By over-exertion the weak muscles may be able to hold the eye in position, yet this constant strain causes headache. This con- dition is frequently met with in school children and may be wholly corrected by glasses.
Trejatmknt. —
A. Defects of vision which are not produced by disease of the eye are remedied by having the eyes fitted with suitable glasses. A competent oculist should be consulted. For those who are unable to pay there are free clinics connected with all medical colleges. — (48).
DISEASES OF THE EYE.
OPHTHALMIA.— This is a term somewhat loosely applied to any and all forms of inflammation of the eye, but more espec- iall3^ to those forms which attack the mucous membrane lining the lids.
1 18 PA VORITB MEDICAL RBCEIPTS,
Trkatmbnts.—
A. Bathe the eye with warm water containing lo or 15 grains of Boracic Acid to an ounce, protect the eyes from light, if very painful remain indoors for a few days, and drop the following mixture in the eye four or five times a day:
Sulphate of Ziiic i grain.
Morphiue 2 "
Camphor Water 2 drachms.
Boracic Acid 10 grains.
Water sufficient to make i ounce.
-(81).
B. Put one teaspoonful of clean, whole Flax seed into i ounce of water. Stir frequently and allow to stand until a mucilage is formed. To relieve painful inflammation, drop 2 or 3 drops into the eye every twenty to thirty minutes. The pain is relieved by the mechanical protection afforded the inflamed surfaces.
C. Boracic Acid powder, i ounce. Dissolve }4 teaspoonful of the powder in a glass of hot water, allow it to cool and bathe the eye several times a day by dipping absorbent cotton into the solution and squeezing solution from it into the eye. — (48).
D. Blue Vitriol
White Vitriol
Fine Table Salt ,
Loaf Sugar
Morphine
Soft or Distilled Water.
gram.
ounce.
Mi:v, and when all is dissolved, strain through fine nmslin. Apply three to five times daily, according to the severity of the case.
E. Common table salt, 2 to 5 grains to an ounce of water. This makes a good wash for weak and inflamed eyes.
F. Sulphate of Zinc X grain.
Muriate Cocaine % "
Sulphate Morphine }i "
Water i ounce.
Mix. Drop in the eye every two hours more or less often according to pain. — (47).
G. Boracic Acid 10 grains.
Muriate Cocaine 4 "
Rosewater i ounce.
Mix. Drop in the eyes every two hours. — (S4).
H. Pith of Sassafras i drachm.
Soft Water i ounce.
This is a soothing preparation to inflamed eyes.
DISEASES AND TREATMENTS, 119
I. Hops and Poppy heads thoroughly mashed and boiled in water make a good poultice in inflammation, and the water in which they have been boiled is also useful as a wash for the eyes.
J. White Vitriol 5 grains.
Table Salt 5 "
Morphine 2 "
Lard, unsalted i ounce.
MiXj and apply by rubbing a little between and upon the lids. Freshly churned and un- salted butter may be used in place of the lard.
INFLAMMATION OF THE LIDS.— CONJUNCTIV- ITIS.— The mucous membrane which lines the eyelids is reflected over the front of the eyeball as far as the cornea. This mem- brane is called the conjuiictiva. Inflammation of the conjunctiva is called Conjunctivitis. If there is much watery discharge, it is called Catarrhal Conju7ictivitis . Sometimes the discharge becomes thick and contains a little pus; this is called Muco- Purulent Conjunctivitis. If the inflammation is the result of gonorrheal infection, it is called Purulent Conjunctivitis. If the inflammation is the result of injury, or of a foreign body, it is called traumatic, meaning the result of injury. (See under Accidknts and Emkrgknciks). Sometimes there is a formation of small hard elevations which cause friction and give the sensation of a foreign body in the eye, the eye becoming bloodshot as the result of the irritation; this is called Gra?mlar Conjunctivitis, Trauckoma or Granulated Lids. Sometimes during an attack of diphtheria when the disease affects the nasal cavities, it also extends to the mucous membrane lining the eyelids and a false membrane appears on the lids the same as in the nose and throat. This is called Diphtheritic Conjuiictivitis . Diphtheria may make its first appearance in the eyes.
It will be noticed that each of the foregoing forms of inflam- mation is confined to the mucous membrane lining the lids and does not affect the eye proper. Some of these inflammations, if allowed to continue, may by extension invade the eyeball and become more serious, affecting and even destroying the sight. This is particularly true of purulent conjunctivitis.
Conjunctivitis, Simple. — The most common disease of the eye is inflammation of the conjunctiva. Usually it is of a mild nature and soon recovered from.
Catarrhal Conjunctivitis and Muco-Purulent Conjunc- tivitis are only different manifestations of Simple Conjunctivitis, The same treatment is applicable to all.
Causes. — Such inflammation may result from the same condi- tions which cause rheumatism, i. e., acids and other irritating substances in the blood. It may result from injury or from
120 FAVORITE MEDICAL RECEIPTS.
foreign bodies in the eye, or from the infection of diphtheria or gonorrhea. It precedes an attack of measles. It more frequently results from atmospheric changes that produce influenza, colds and catarrh of the nasal passages.
Symptoms. — Usually, the symptoms are not marked. The mucous membrane may be slightly swollen and thickened; the eyes look red, there is a slight catarrhal condition, and the indi- vidual may not be able to bear strong light. Treatment. —
See washes and applications under Ophthalmia.
Conjunctivitis, Granular — Granulated Lids. — This is inflammation of the conjunctiva in which the membrane becomes studded with small elevations, some of which later join together and become larger and more resistant. The roughened lids produce irritation, the cornea becomes vascular, that is, blood vessels form in that portion of the mucous membrane covering the eyeball, the eye becomes bloodshot, and the cornea loses its luster and becomes more or less opaque, or non-transparent. The disease tends to run a chronic course.
Symptoms. — If the disease comes on in acute form, there is first redness and swelling with profuse discharge of thick secre- tions. At first the swelling may completely hide the granula- tions, but later it diminishes and the elevations are visible. Usually the disease comes on more mildly and may be unnoticed until the granulations are quite large. In either case the granulations produce a sensation of a foreign body in the eye, due to irritation. There is fear of hght, as in other diseases of the eye.
Treatment. —
If the eye is very sensitive, dissolve 2 grains of Cocaine in }i ounce of water and drop into the eye every three to five minutes until the pain ceases, then take the margin of the lid between the thumb and finger, carefully lift it up and apply a pointed crystal of Sulphate of Copper — Blue Vitriol. Pass the crystal quickly and gently over the granulated surface and imme- diately wash out with Boric Acid solution — 20 grains of Boric Acid to I ounce of water. Apply this treatment twice a week, and apply a crystal of Alum in the same manner every second day. If this does not destroy the granulations, applj^ the Sulphate of Copper crystal every other day for a few days. A convenient piece of either the Sulphate of Copper or Alum may be obtained at any drug store. With a sharp knife shave one end down to a point, and finish by dipping into water and rubbing the surface until perfectly smooth. These crystals can be obtained properly shaped for this purpose and fitted with handles.
DISBASBS AND TRBATMBNTS, I2I
Granulated lids may also be successfully treated with elec- tricity.
Any form of treatment will be more successful if the eyes are protected from light. When out of doors, colored glasses should be worn.
Conjunctivitis, Purulent. — This inflammation is much more dangerous, and is also contagious. It usually affects the new-bom, though adults sometimes have it. It is met with most frequently in cities. The disease commences from thirty-six to forty-eight hours after infection, runs a long and tedious course, and may affect the cornea (eyeball) and destroy the sight.
Cause. — This disease is caused by a specific poison. It is the result of gonorrheal infection, and in the new-bom is con- tracted during birth.
Symptoms .—Thoi disease may not be noticed sometimes for two or three days atter birth, when the lids will appear red, somewhat swollen and glued together. Examination shows a thick, purulent secretion, which escapes when the lids are raised. There may be but little pain at first, but later the lids become more swollen and the discharge thinner and more abundant. There is loss of appetite, restlessness from increased pain, the cornea or ej^eball may become ulcerated, and perforation may fol- low. In this case the lens escapes, and when the inflammation subsides the eyeball shrinks and the child is blind. If the eye- ball remains sound, the eye gradually returns to the normal and sight is restored.
Treatment: —
Cleanse the eyes thoroughly with a saturated solution of Boric Acid and water — 25 grains of the acid to an ounce of water. If discovered early, keep cold compresses on the eyes, being care- ful not to press the lids against the eyeball. Keep the eyes as free from the discharge as possible with bits of absorbent cotton wet in the Boric Acid solution. If the disease does not respond to treatment, turn the lids outward, hold them firmly, and brush them with a 4 per cent, solution of Nitrate of Silver — 20 grains to the ounce — once a day, and wash off at once with warm Boric Acid solution, or warm solution of salt and water followed with the Boric Acid solution. When using the Silver solution, be careful to apply to the lids only and do not touch the eyeball, and wash off at once. Should the eyeball become involved, add 3 grains of Atropine to one ounce of water and drop in the eye three or four times a day, or often enough to keep the pupil well dilated.
122 FAVORITE MEDICAL RECEIPTS.
Note. — In using Atropine, allow excess of the solution to drain from tlie outer angle of the eye so as to avoid its passage through the tear duct into the nose and throat.
Conjunctivitis, Diphtheritic. — This is diphtheria of the eyes. The tissue affected is the mucous membrane lining the lids. A false membrane forms and constitutional symptoms are present, the same as in diphtheria of the throat. The disease may be the result of diphtheria in the nasal cavities, having traveled through the tear ducts, or it may make its first appearance in the eyes.
Cause. — The same as that which causes diphtheria in the throat.
Symptoms. — The mucous membrane of the lids becomes swollen and painful. At first there is an increase in the secre- tions, or tears, and within twenty-four to thirty-six hours the false membrane makes its appearance. This membrane is the same as that which appears in the throat. The color is the same — dark and leathery — with a well defined border, that is, the junction of the false membrane and mucous membrane is distinct. As the disease progresses the lids become greatly swollen, and may become purplish in color by reason of interference with the circulation. The skin is tense and glistening. The pressure of the swollen lids upon the cornea may cause the latter to lose its luster and become hazy in appearance. Constitutional symptoms are also present.
Treatment. —
If seen early, keep cold packs over the eyes. Dissolve 20 grains of Boric Acid in i ounce of water. Keep small pieces of cloth or cotton saturated with this constantly applied. If the lids are already greatly swollen, the application should be hot instead of cold. The solution should also be dropped into the eyes several times a day. The constitutional treatment is the same as that given under Diphtheria.
INFLAMMATION OF THE MARGIN OF THE LIDS— BLEPHARITIS.— Blepharitis is an inflammation of the border or margin of the eyelid. The disease is due to block- ing up of the hair follicles and the small glands connected with them. The inflammation may also extend to the lids.
Symptoms. — The symptoms of blepharitis are irritation and redness along the margin of the lids, and usually the formation of scales or crusts. The natural secretions produced by the hair follicles and associate glands are increased by the irritation. These dry on the margin of the lids and produce the scales mentioned.
No. 5.
I, Large Arteries of the Neck. 2, Large Artery of Side and Arm. 3, Bronchial Tubes (cut off). 4, Descending l.irge Artery. 5, Lung Cavity. 6, Termination of the Gullet (Stomach removed). 7, Diaphragm. 8, 9, Liver. 10, Gall-BIadder, 11, Spleen. 12, Pancreas. 13, Blood Vessels from the Membranous Covering of the Bowels. 14, Large and small Intestines. 15, Appendl.x. 16, Kidney. 17, Artery cut off at Junction of the Heart. 18, Arch of the Aorta.
DISEAS'BS AND TREATMENTS. 123
Treatment. —
Cleanse the lids thoroughly, washing with hot water and Castile soap. If the surface is inflamed, mix Yellow Oxide of Mercury, 3 grains, with 2 drachms of Vaseline, and apply twice a day. Maintain thorough cleanliness and the disease will soon disappear.
INFLAMMATION OF THE IRIS — IRITIS.— There
are several causes for Iritis. It may be caused by syphilis, may result from injury, or it may be caased by the same conditions which produce rheumatism, that is, acids and other irritating substances in the blood. It is well to remember that inflamma- tion always depends upon an irritant in some form. This is true of inflammation everywhere. Suppurative iritis is so called when the products of inflammation turn to pus. This form is most apt to occur in those who are poorly nourished.
Symptoms. — Pain, which is usually severe. The iris looks cloudy. The fluid in front of the iris is changed as a result of its contamination with inflammatory products, and this interferes with sight. It will be remembered that the iris is stretched across just in front of the lens; during inflammation it may grow fast to the lens. This would cause unequal dilatation and interfere with light entering the eye. The mucous membrane that is reflected over the front of the eyeball may become con- gested and more or less inflamed, and surrounding the cornea may be seen dark red lines, the result of distended vessels.
Treatment. —
One danger in iritis is that the iris may grow fast to the lens, in which case, even if no other damage results, there will remain unequal dilatation of the pupil and permanent interference of sight. To prevent this, dissolve 4 grains of Atropine in an ounce of water and drop a little in the eye every thirty minutes until the pupil dilates. After that perhaps three times a day will be sufficient. (See note under Piiyulent Conjunctivitis for use of Atropine.) When the pupil is widely dilated, its inner border surrounds the lens and there is no danger of contact or adhesion. The bowels should be kept active, and in those usually healthy a low diet should be maintained. Also take i teaspoonful of Syrup of Hydriodic Acid three times a day, between meals. The patient should be kept in a dark room, as bright light irritates the iris and increases the trouble. After improvement the patient should wear colored glasses for a time to prevent, if possible, a return of the trouble. It is also good practice to give 2-drop doses of Tincture of Aconite or Fluid Extract of Veratrum every hour for a day or two. This has a tendency to equalize the circulation
124 FAVORITE MEDICAL RECEIPTS,
and relieve the congested vessels about the eye. Sometimes pain is relieved by keeping hot applications on the eyes. This may consist of small pieces of cotton wet in hot Boric Acid water, lo or 20 grains of the acid to the ounce, changed every five or ten minutes. Any case of iritis that does not respond readily to treatment should receive the most skilled attention, for if not relieved, serious consequences may follow.
CATARACT. — A cataract is an opacity or non-trans- parency of the lens of the eye. It frequently occurs as the result of old age, but sometimes occurs in the young, and is also sometimes present even in infants.
Cause. — When not resulting from injury, inflammation or suppuration, cataract results from a lack of nourishment. Usually the cataract includes the whole lens. This is generally true in the form met with in old age. Sometimes, however, and more especially in the j^oung, the opacity is confined to the central part of the lens and the outer surface remains normal. This is called nuclear cataract.
Symptoms. — The first symptom of cataract is a gradual dim- ness of vision. The patient can see better on a dark day or in the twilight. The reason is that the pupil dilates and admits more light. There is no pain or evidence of trouble in any way except the interference with sight. When the patient tries to read, it is found necessary to hold the book very close to the eyes. This causes the rays of light to radiate and enter the eye more on an angle, and by this means they find their way into the eye by passing around the border of the lens. By dilating the pupils with Atropine, the opacity of the lens may be plainly seen. It looks white or very light in color. This is seen by looking through the pupil. It will be remembered that the lens is situated directly behind the pupil, enclosed and supported by a little trans* parent membrane.
Treatment. —
The treatment is removal of the lens and fitting the eyes with artificial glasses. This is an operation of considerable deli- cacy. For nuclear cataract enlarging of the pupils is advised. In this form the outer border of the lens remxains natural, and by enlarging the pupils the light may be readily transmitted. The opaque center does not extend or become larger, but remains stationary throughout life. Soft cataract is so-called because the lens is soft, opaque and non-transparent to light. This form is usually met with in the young — children and infants.
Secondary Cataract is where the capsule in which the lens was enclosed becomes opaque or non-transparent after the removal of the lens.
DISEASES AND TREATMENTS. 125
STY, or HORDEOLUM.— Under the description of the eye it was stated that the Hds were suppHed with a flat layer of cartilage or dense connective tissue to aid in maintaining their form, and that on the under side of each plate of dense tissue were a number of glands. A duct leads from each gland to the free margin of the lid. Sometimes one of these ducts or openings becomes closed, and as the secretions of the gland continue, a bulging is caused. This is called a Sfy.
Cause. — Irritation from unhealthy blood; in other words, the cause is constitutional. This is why there are usually a number of these affections. The irritation causes an increase in the secre- tions of the glands with the result that one of the ducts becomes closed, and as the gland continues to secrete, the part swells, bulges forward, and becomes inflamed and painful.
Treatment. —
As a rule these affections are stubborn, the same as eczema and dandruff, and do not respond readily to treatment. This shows that the cause is not local, but constitutional. Usually the inflammation continues three or four days, pus forms, the tumor ruptures, the contents are discharged and the part heals. The treatment consists in trying to prevent pus formation, and also to prevent other tumors and swellings of a like nature. Small hot poultices may be laid over the lids, or a solution of hot Boric Acid may be applied on a soft cloth or small piece of cotton and changed frequently. If there is evidence of pus, the tumor should be opened at once. In place of the poultices or hot applications the following ointment is sometimes used:
Yellow Oxide of Mercury 3 grains.
Vaseline I drachm.
Mix thoroughly and apply to the affected lid two or three times a day. If this ointment is found irritating in any case, add more Vaseline.
With the first appearance of a sty, an active cathartic should be given and the patient should be careful about the diet.
PTERYGIUM (Terigium).— Thisis a thickening of the mucous membrane which commences at the inner angle or junc- tion of the lid and extends over the eyeball. It is a fleshy, wedge-shaped growth. The apex or point is directed toward the pupil, while the base remains at the point of origin, that is, corresponds to the fleshy eminence at the inner angle of the lids. In the description of the eye this eminence is described as the cayuTicU^
126 PA VORITB MEDICAL RECEIPTS.
Cause. — Long-continued irritation, the result of irritants in the blood. This results first in congestion, second in inflamma- tion, and third in overgrowth of the membrane, the result of increased blood supply.
Symptoms. — A fleshy growth commencing at the inner angle of the eye, the outer end pointed and extending tow^aid the pupil. If allowed to continue, it reaches and may nearly cover the pupil. Treatment. —
Removal with a knife.
FAINTING. — A temporary suspension of the vital func- tions and mental powers, in some cases occurring suddenly, and in others preceded by a distress about the heart, a swimming of the head and a sense of general helplessness; also sometimes pre- ceded by sickness at the stomach and coldness of the feet and hands.
Causes. — The causes of fainting are many: Pain, injuries, loss of blood, fatigue and weakness, fright, confinement in crowded places where the heat is great and ventilation poor, tight lacing and distressing sights. Organic diseases of the heart may occasion fainting in those who are afflicted with them.
Trkatmknts. —
A. Bathe the temples and around the nostrils with Camphor; sprinkle a little cold water in the face; get the patient into fresh air; give a little sling.
B. Lay the patient on the back on a bed, the floor, or the ground. Compel bystanders to keep away so that fresh air can be obtained. Never raise the patient up to a sitting or standing position. — (8).
C. Assume horizontal position; head a little lower .than body.— (54).
D. Horizontal position on back. Cold to the head. Aromatic Spirits of Ammonia to nose for inhalation. — (10).
Faintness. — Give patient plenty of fresh air and also give brandy sling. Rub arms and limbs thoroughly. Wet cloth in Aqua Ammonia and let patient inhale it, being careful not to hold it close enough to strangle.
FATTY DEGENERATION. — (See under Hkart, Diseases of) .
FELON. — An abscess on a finger or thumb is termed 2l felon, but a felon proper is an inflammation of the membrane covering the bone. It occurs usually in the last joint of either a thumb or finger.
DISEASES AND TREATMENTS. 12J
Symptoms. — The pain, at first deep and throbbing, soon becomes excruciating in the extreme, and the joint affected presents a swollen and inflamed appearance.
Trkatmknts. —
A. The usual method of relief, and the safest, is to have the finger lanced freely, the incision reaching to the bone. If this is not done, the ulcerating process goes on within the mem- brane until the bone itself is very likely to be destroyed. If the felon is not lanced, the application of poultices not only affords some degree of relief and comfort, but hastens suppuration.
B. Poultice with bread and milk or Flaxseed. Lance it as soon as possible. After it is lanced use a Slippery Elm poultice.
C. Take a handful each of the roots of Indian Turnip and of Blue Flag, and stew them in hog's lard sufficient to stew well. When done, strain and press out, and add Tar, 4 tablespoonfuls, and Castile soap half as much; simmer together, and apply this until the felon breaks.
D. Venice Turpentine, i ounce. Put into ^ teaspoonful of water and stir with a rough stick until the mass looks like candied honey, then spread a good coat on a cloth and wrap around the finger. If the case is only recent, it will remove the pain in a few hours.
E. A Poke Root poultice on a felon cures by absorption, unless matter is already formed; if matter has already formed, it soon brings it to a head and thus saves much pain and suffering.
F. Blue Flag and Hellebore roots, equal parts. Boil in milk and water, then soak the felon in it for twenty minutes, as hot as can be borne, and bind the roots on the parts for one hour. This has cured many felons when commenced in time.
G. Felon Ointment. — Take sweet Oil, % pint, and stew a small plug of tobacco in it until the tobacco is crisped; then squeeze it out and add Red Lead, i ounce, and boil until black; when a little cool, add pulverized Camphor Gum, i ounce. — (79).
H. Felon Salve. — A salve made by burning i tablespoonful of Copperas, then pulverizing it and mixing with the yolk of an ^gg, is said to relieve the pain and cure the felon in twenty-four hours; then heal with cream two parts and soft soap one part. Apply the healing salve daily after soaking the part in warm water. — (79),
FEVERS.
Fever is evidence of a disordered system — evidence of sys- temic disease. Its chief symptom is elevation of temperature. The cause may be local or general. The name corresponds to the location and conditions which cause it and to the characteristic symptoms, as typhoid where there is stupor, scarlet meaning a flush, i7itermittent, or fever and ague, etc.
Fever is divided into three stages: first, that of chills or chill- iness ; second, heat and elevation of temperature ; third, the sweating stage. It is also divided into two groups, idiopathic and symptomatic. Where the fever is self -generating, as in small-pox or scarlet fever, it is termed idiopathic; but where it is dependent upon local conditions, as absorption from an infected wound, it is called symptomatic.
Cause. — The arteries are controlled by two sets of nerve fibers, one set tending to dilate and make them larger, and the other set tending to contract and make them smaller. This opposite effect during health keeps the arteries a natural size. Poisons paralyze more or less the nerve fibers which control the arteries and allow them to dilate. The large arteries are affected but little; the small ones may be greatly enlarged. Just beneath the skin is a vast network of vessels which are estimated to be capable of holding one-half the blood in the body. These vessels become dilated, and an unusual amount of blood is brought to the surface. This is why the face is red during a fever. Every chemical change produces a certain amount of heat ; this is a universal law. The tissue change, repair and waste, which is constantly taking place in the body, is a chemical change, and the heat thus produced maintains bodily temperature. The change depends upon the circulation; the blood furnishes the repair in the form of nourishment, and carries away the w^aste. During health the two sets of nerve fibers control the circulation so nicely and the tissue change is so well governed that an even tempera- ture is maintained. When poison is present from any cause, it first paralyzes the nerves which contract the arteries and allows them to dilate ; this brings a large amount of blood to the surface and tissue change is increased, hence an increase in tem- perature, or fever. We can see the wisdom of this when w^e remember that it causes the patient to sweat, as elimination through the pores of the skin aids materially in giving relief.
128
DISEASES AND TREATMENTS. i2g
This is Nature's plan. This is why the nerves that dilate are allowed to control, and this is why the blood is brought to the surface. Whether the poison is generated in the system, as in scarlet fever, or whether it is absorbed from a poisoned wound, makes no difference; the results are the same. The poison may also be absorbed from bad air, poisonous gases or bad water ; or fever may result from nervous conditions, without poison.
Symptoms of Gerieral Fever. — After languor, weakness and restlessness for a day or two, or more, as the case may be, the first striking symptom of an approaching fever will be a chill of greater or less severity and continuance according to the greater or less disturbance of the system. The chill will to a certain extent indicate the severity of the oncoming disease. If nothing is done to relieve the attack and the chills continue, the skin becomes pale, the features shrunken and haggard, and the patient is led to think that streams of cold water are being poured down his back. As soon as this chilliness begins to subside, the circulation begins to increase ; greater or less heat of the surface is produced, the strength is gradually diminished, and consider- able thirst is manifested, the pulse also being increased in fre- quency and hardness. By a frequent pulse is meant one faster than in health, which is from sixty -five to seventy -five; and by a hard pulse, one that resists the examiner, as though it was bound to pass under the finger no matter how hard the pressure. There may be considerable distress about the stomach and other internal organs, also great aversion to making the least exertion of body or mind. The patient is willing to lie down, and seems to care but little whether anything is done for his relief or not; but it should be remembered that the greater his indijfere?ice , the greater the necessity for immediate attention to the case. Treatments. —
What to Do. — The treatment should be directed to the removal of the cause, if possible. If an infected wound, first cleanse thoroughly with soap and water, then use antiseptics — shut off the supply of poison from this source, and then the patient has only to get rid of the amount in the system. If from bad air or foul gases, secure a change of surroundings, and in all cases keep the eliminative organs active — a dose of Castor Oil or Salts taken internally, and frequent bathing to keep the skin active. If the surface is dry and hot, sweat the patient. Aconite and other fever remedies may be useful. If the patient is weak, give stimulants. For typhoid fever, give antiseptics internally. A Ught diet is usually of advantage for the first day or two, but give an abundance of pure water. A thorough action of the bowels will cure many cases of fever. If this does not succeed, and the patient grows worse, send for the doctor.
C.R.-9
I30 FA VORITB MEDICAL RBCBIPTS.
TYPHOID FEVER.— While this disease may occur at any season of the year, it is most common in the autimin, especi- ally at the close of a hot, dry summer.
Cause. — Typhoid fever is the result of an unhealthy digestive tract which is brought about by a long train of conditions, hence the great number of sj^mptoms. First there is indigestion and lack of elimination from some cause, and this is followed by degenerative changes and the production of many poisons. Some of these poisons are absorbed, and gradually the system is brought under their morbid influence, vitality is lowered and resistance lessened. This accounts for the languor, headache, fever, loss of appetite, etc., which precede the disease. The condition of the bowels causes congestion of the lining mucous membrane, and this congestion extends to all mucous surfaces, hence there may be nosebleed. At the lips the mucous membrane is continuous with the deeper layer of the skin, and there is congestion of this layer also, so that hemorrhage may, and in many cases does occur on the surface of the body. This hemorrhage is more apt to occur over the abdominal cavity, and those seeing it for the first time are, of course, frightened. The various glands situated in the mucous membrane of the bowel are abundantly supplied with blood vessels, hence the congestion, which gradually increases to inflammation, is greatest at these points. The swelling and pressure continue until nutrition is shut off or reduced to such a low ebb that ulceration takes place, the same as in dysentery. The changes in the mucous membrane are: first, congestion; second, inflammation; third, ulceration. If allowed to go on, ulceration will continue until all of the glands have been invaded. That is why the disease used to last from four to eight weeks. To-day there seems no excuse for such duration.
Symptoms. — The disease is developed insidiously. The patient does not feel well, but does not know to what to ascribe his bad feelings. He tires easily, is perhaps dizzy at times, may bleed at the nose, and suffers from headache, particularly pain in the back part of the head. His digestion is disordered, his sleep dis- turbed, his spirits depressed, his intellect dulled; and while he usually continues about his work, his weakness grows upon him until he is attacked with slight chills or shiverings. As the onset of this disease is so insidious in character, it is difficult to deter- mine the time when fever develops.
During the first five days after the onset of the fever the temperature increases in a characteristic manner, being about two degrees higher in the evening than in the morning, and increas- ing one degree each day. During this time, in fact, during the whole of the first week, the patient complains of pain in the head and nausea, although the greater portion of the time
DISEASES AND TREATMENTS. 131
he is listless and indifferent, lying with his eyes closed as if asleep. The tongue is heavily coated. Diarrhea is believed by some to be a characteristic symptom of this disease, but in many cases the bowels are constipated. The discharge is at first of a dark color, but during the second week becomes yellowish and more fluid and ill-smelling. The abdomen is somewhat distended, and upon pressure over the right groin gives a gurgling sound. In some cases between the seventh and ninth days an eruption of rose-colored spots occurs in clusters upon the abdomen, chest or back. They disappear on pressure (returning, of course, when the pressure is removed) and last for several days.
During the second week all the symptoms of the first week are exaggerated; the former listlessness of the patient gradually changes to stupor, interrupted by delirium; deafness is developed; also the teeth become coated with an unhealthy accumulation.
Towards the end of the second week, or some time during the third week, in the majority of cases the patient grows worse; his prostration is extreme, and his stupor so great that he is roused with difl&culty; the tongue is covered wdth a dark- colored crust and is dry and cracked. Hemorrhage of the bowels may also occur at this time.
If the patient survives the period just mentioned, during the fourth week the symptoms remit and, greatly emaciated and debilitated, he passes into a slow convalescence.
Variations in Symptoms. — In the strong and robust, mor- bid conditions of the digestive tract which cause typhoid fever may be held in check until the system is so overwhelmed with poison that the disease breaks forth suddenly and with great force. These cases present none of the symptoms mentioned. We have seen a few cases of this kind.
The reader should remember that in typhoid fever, as in all other diseases, the symptoms vary greatly. Many of the symp- toms may be absent, or so modified as to attract but little atten- tion. It is seldom that the symptoms are all present or occur in regular order as usually given by medical writers. Those who care for the sick must exercise a reasonable amount of judgment independent of what are usually called symptoms. An unhealthy condition of the digestive tract may give all the symptoms of typhoid fever, yet the disease may not be present. Fever, headache, loss of appetite, nausea, coated tongue, pains in different parts of the body, dull feeling, loss of vigor extending all the way from slight indisposition to inability to perform manual labor, bloating and soreness along the digestive tract, and many other symptoms and conditions may be present, and yet there may be no typhoid fever. Thorough elimination and internal antiseptics
132 FAVORITE MEDICAL RECEIPTS.
for a day or two, with a restricted diet, will clear up the great majority of these cases, and the individual feel as well as ever.
An error that is constantly being made is that of confounding typhoid fever with other typhoid (depressing) symptoms. The word typhoid means stupor, therefore, strictly speaking, any con- dition of stupor where fever is present may be called typhoid fever, and some doctors do apply the term to many low conditions accompanied by fever.
The very nature of typhoid fever renders diagnosis extremely difl&cult. If a typhoid patient lives until the end of the second week, there will be ulcers along the digestive tract. The evi- dence of this condition may easily be detected by the stools, as they will contain both mucus and pus. Ulcers may occur with- out typhoid; in fact, any and all the symptoms of typhoid may and undoubtedly do occur many times when the disease is not present.
Scattered throughout the small bowel are numerous small glands. These are placed in the mucous membrane and have no excretory ducts. Their use is said to be unknown, yet they undoubtedly aid in digestion, as they are the largest, or most developed, during the digestive period. In places these glands are clustered together, forming little groups. These groups are called " Peyer's patches" because first described by Dr. Peyer. There are from twenty to thirty of these groups in the small bowel, varying from one-half an inch in width to three, four or more inches in length. The mucous membrane surronding them is highly vascular, that is, abundantly supplied with blood vessels. The normal blood supply being greater than in the surrounding mucous membrane, inflammation is more intense, therefore they are a good field for degenerative changes, ulceration, etc., and that is the reason ulceration occurs at these particular points.
Typhoid Fever, To Prevent — Great Value of Lemon Juice. — Lemon juice will destroy typhoid fever germs in water. This important discovery is the result of recent experiments made in bacteriological bureaus in European capitals. One experi- menter recently dropped a little lemon juice into a culture tube containing typhoid germs. To his amazement he found the acid shriveled up and killed the germs. This discovery is timely and valuable, especially for localities where typhoid fever is prevalent.
Dr. Asa Ferguson, a practitioner of London, has just published an article in which he gives the results of experiments made by European scientists. Commenting upon the lemon juice test, Dr. Ferguson says: "Typhoid germs must be taken into the stomach in order to cause typhoid fever. If, therefore, people will put a teaspoonful of lemon juice into the water they drink, they will avoid typhoid fever. ' '
DISEASES AND TREATMENTS. 133
Treatments.—
IVkaf To Do Till the Doctor Comes .—Qi\v^ an active cath- artic. Put the patient to bed, keep him warm and give him warm drinks. Get him to sweating, if possible. After thorough elimination give lo-grain doses either of Salol or the Sulphocar- bolates,- as directed under Internal Antiseptics following. If no improvement within a day or two, send for a doctor.
Hoiv to Help the Doctor. — An important part of the treatment of typhoid fever consists of nourishment and cleanliness, and especially should the latter be applied to the digestive tract. All eliminations, even the sputum, should be deposited in a solution of Carbolic Acid or a solution of lime in water of the consistency of whitewash, and allowed to stand for one or two hours. It should then be emptied at a good distance from the house and well and always in the same place, and occasionally a quantity of lime thrown over this.
The drinking water should be pure.
Good ventilation should be secured at all times; it is neces- sary to pay particular attention to this feature.
Daily baths should be given, even if the temperature is not high, as they will aid in elimination and give a sense of relief and general improvement.
Typhoid fever patients should be fed every one, two or three hours, depending upon the amount taken. Sleep should not interfere with feeding if the patient is low; this is important.
The food should consist of milk, soft cooked eggs, beef tea made at home, meat broths, rice boiled for three hours, vegetable soups strained and the liquid only given (nearly all patients like soups made in this way), etc. Boil two ounces of rice in one pint of water for three hours, adding water sufficient to maintain the original amount; mix two eggs with one-half pint of cream, add to the rice, and add this to one pint of hot beef tea. No patient should be compelled to take food that is not agreeable. Fruit juices are excellent in all stages of this disease.
If the food is not well digested, artificial digestants should be given, but the doctor will attend to this.
A. Initial dose of Calomel, followed by frequent small doses of same combined with intestinal antiseptics, will greatly modify and cut short the disease. — (31).
Internal Antiseptics for Typhoid Fever. — First, secure thoictigh elimination by means of Calomel, Castor Oil or Salts. Ten grains of Calomel, followed in six or eight hours by 2 tablespoonfuls of Epsom Salts or of Seidlitz Salts, is best. Enough of the Salts should be taken every morning to cause at ^ast one mov^ement dtiring the day, The Calomel should not be
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continued for fear of salivation. Salol or the Sulphocarbolates of Zinc, Lime and Soda combined are the best antiseptics for the digestive tract, and should be given from the first, commencing as soon as the laxatives have operated. The dose of either is from 5 to lo grains every two hours. When the eliminations improve, the amount should be lessened. Salol and the Sulpho- carbolates possess marked advantages over other preparations of this kind because their antiseptic influence extends for a greater distance along the digestive tract.
In some cases diarrhea is troublesome. Where this condition is present, Sulphocarbolate of Zinc alone is the best remedy because of its astringent properties. Otherwise, it does not differ from the others. The Sulphocarbolates may be given in tablet or solution, as desired by the patient. The taste is not pleasant, hence tablets are often preferred. There is no taste to Salol, therefore it may be given in tablet or powder. It will not dissolve in water; the Sulphocarbolates will. If the Sulphocarbolates are dissolved, a little Glycerine may be added. This will help to cover the taste and the Glycerine itself is a good antiseptic. But its influence does not reach far beyond the stomach. If there is much pain with diarrhea, a pill containing one grain of Opium and one grain of Acetate of Lead may be given once or twice a day.
A weak heart, high temperature, stupor, delirium,