w \ CORNELL UNIVERSITY THE Jfflompr If tprtnary ICtbrar^ FOUNDED BY ROSWELL P. FLOWER for the use of the N. Y. State Veterinary College 1897 CORNELL UNIVERSITY LIBRARY 04 227 727 The original of tiiis bool< is in tine Cornell University Library. There are no known copyright restrictions in the United States on the use of the text. http://www.archive.org/details/cu31924104227727 A TREATISE Materia Medica, Pharmacology, AND Therapeutics. JOHN V. SHOEMAKER, A.M., M.D., PROFESSOR OF MATERIA MEDICA, PHARMACOLOGY, AND THERAPEUTICS IN THE MEDICO-CHIRURGICAL COLLEGE OF PHILADELPHIA, AND MEMBER AMERICAN MEDICAL ASSOCIATION, AND JOHN AULDE, M.D., DEMONSTRATOR OF CLINICAL MEDICINE AND OF PHYSICAL DIAGNOSIS IN THE MEDICO-CHIRURGICAL COLLEGE OF PHILADELPHIA, AND MEMBER AMERICAN MEDICAL ASSOCIATION. XM T"«7"0 V"OLXJl! avoid impurities, and the most thorough antiseptic measures should be adopted witli a view to prevent contamination. More especially is tliis true in the preparation of distilled water, from the fact that natural water contains, besides carbonic acid, other volatile impurities, and a reasonable degree of care is required to avoid giving it an empyreumatic taste by too long continuing the process. With a view to avoid collect- ing ammonia, which is to be found in all natural water, the first products of distillation, to the extent of one-twentieth, are directed to be thrown out, and, should any ammonia be found, sulphate of potassium should be added and the product redistilled. Volatile nitrogenous matters remain- ing in the distillate may be destroyed by the addition of potassium per- manganate and caustic potash, when it is again passed through the still. As a rule, all alkaloids require the presence of distilled water for their solution, and when these are intended for use at infrequent intervals, or likely to be kept long on hand, a suitable antiseptic must be added to secure their preservation from the deleterious influences of micro- organisms. Dialysis is the name applied to a process introduced by Professor Graham, having for its object the separation of crystalloid from colloid substances. It depends for its successful application upon the princi- ples governing osmosis and the diflfusibility of liquids, and although not adopted ofl9jcially its value has already been fully demonstrated in the department of pharmacy. Crystalloids, it should be noted, are sub- 14 PHARMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. stances possessing ciystallizable properties, while colloids are substances lacking tliis property, but capable of forming with water a gelatinous mass ; and while the former are readily diffused, as in the case of sugar, the latter, of which gum is a pertinent example, diffuse themselves but slowly. The most simple dialyzep consists of a bladder containing the substance in solution to be dialyzed, which is suspended in a vessel con- taining the liquid intended to take up the diffused crystalloid. After exposure for a length of time, depending upon the character of the com- plex substance, it will be found that the crystalloid body has become separated from the colloid body,, and will be recovei-ed from the liquid in which the bladder was suspended, called the diffusate. Parchment paper or any similar material may be used as a septum, but dialysis is only applicable to substances held in watery solution. The following applications of the process have been recommended to the pharmacist : To facilitate the separation of the active matter of any artificial or natural mixture containing active crystalline and inert colloidal material ; to aid in the recovery of poisons from organic mixtures by re- moving them from a mass of inert material which interferes seriously with the use of reagents ; to recover salts and other crystallizable sub- stances used in the various pharmaceutical operations which would not repay more expensive methods of procedure ; to restore salted meat to the fresh state by inclosing it in a bag with a quantity of its brine, and immersing the whole in sea-water for several days, which causes the salt to disappear. Some j'ears ago a class of preparations was introduced to the profession known as Dialysates, said to contain the active constitu- ents of plants free from inert matter, but so far the effort has not met with general success. ELUTRIATION is a process somewhat resembling sifting, except that it is used with water for the removal of sand, gravel and other impu- rities. It includes also the method of powdering insoluble substances, mixing with water, so that the finer portion may be poured off, leaving the coarser particles at the bottom of the vessel. EVAPORATION is simply another name for concentration, by which the volume of a liquid is reduced and the volatile principles eliminated, and is used chiefly in the preparation of extracts, fluid and solid, and the crystallization of salts. The vessels used for this purpose should be shallow, and only moderate heat employed, not to exceed 140° F., and the nearer the liquid is maintained to the boiling-point the more rapid will be the progress of evaporation ; but on account of the disposition of vegetable substances to deteriorate from long-continued application of heat only small portions should be subjected to this process at a time. The use of a steam-, water-, or sand- bath enables the operator to regulate PHARMACY. 15 the heat, and constant stirring -will materially hasten the operation. Vacuum pans are employed in large laboratories, by means of which a much less degree of heat is requisite for evaporation. Spontaneous Evaporation is that form of concentration which takes place at ordinary temperatures, and is adapted to those cases in which the substance is liable to be injured by the application of heat. EXPRESSION, as its name implies, is an operation by which we obtain liquids, as juice or oil, from vegetable substances, or for the re- moval of the spirit or tincture from the marc after maceration or perco- lation. As contradistinguished from distilled products, oils so obtained are called expressed or fixed oils. FILTRATION is the most perfect mechanical method of separating an insoluble substance from a Squid. It is variously performed by caus- ing the liquid to pass through filter-paper, felt, linen, muslin, charcoal, sand, and other materials ; eolation or straining is a less perfect but more rapid method of accomplishing the same purpose. FUSION, LIQUEFACTION, OR MELTING have for their object the changing of solid substances into liquid by the application of heat with- out the use of a solvent, and are extensively emplo'yed by pharmacists in making ointments, plasters, caustic-stick, purifying resins, and for the purpose of decomposition. The degree of heat applied varies from a temperature of 90° to 800° F., and water-, steam-, and sand- baths are frequentljr employed to insure a more regular and constant supplj' of heat. GRANULATION is performed where it is necessary to reduce a crys- talline salt to a granular powder; this object is effected by dissolving the salt in water and" evaporating the solution, agitation or stirring being kept up until the product becomes dry. IGNITION is employed in pharmacy in quantitative analysis, and is performed by heating the substance as in the case of incineration, the residue being the desired product. INFUSION has already been referred to under the head of decoction, from which it varies but slightl.y. The substance to be acted upon is treated for a short time with water in a covered vessel. The temperature of the water for infusions will vary according to the character of the substance, certain bodies of vegetable origin yielding their virtues to cold water rather than hot water, and vice versa. Infusion of calumba is made with cold water, because hot water affects the starch it contains, and quassia also gives up its bitter principle readily to cold water. LEVIGATION is a name applied to a process similar to elutriation, except that the former is employed for the reduction of more expensive substances than is adapted to the latter, where the residue is thrown away. Insoluble substances to be submitted to this process are first 16 PHAEMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. ground into the form of powder, the finer portions being secured by the addition of water, and the coarser particles returned to be re-ground, and thus the process is repeated until the requisite degree of comminu- tion is secured. LIXIVIATION is practiced in order to dissolve out a soluble salt from a compound or mixed solid by the use of water and subsequent evapora- tion of the solution. MACERATION is sometimes practiced as a preliminary to the prepa- ration of infusions and decoctions, the liquid generally being alcohol, in which the comminuted substance is placed. The liquid used in macera- tion is called the menstruum ; the insoluble matter remaining after ex- pression is called the marc. Maceration differs from digestion in that it requires a longer time for its completion, and the use of an alcoholic menstruum, as in the prepa- ration of tinctures, instead of water. PERCOLATION OR DISPLACEMENT are names applied to the method by which, tlirough the agency of a suitable solvent, we obtain the soluble ingredients of a substance prepared in the form of powder, and is largely used in the preparation of tinctures. No little skill is required for conducting the process successfullj', and much depends upon the character of the substance to be acted upon. This is generally in the form of a flue powder, but the degree of comminution must be regu- lated by the character of the drug. If too fine it becomes impermeable to the menstruum, and prevents its descent; if the powder is too coarse the spirit fails to saturate the particles, and the active properties are not recovered. To overcome this objection the pharmacopoeia directs tlie degree of fineness requisite for the moi"e important tinctures bj' requir- ing the powder to be previously passed through sieves of definite dimen- sions. The process of percolation may be thus described : The substance, in the form of powder, which is to be subjected to the operation, is packed in a, short, wide tube, closed at one end by tying a piece of mus- lin or flannel over it and pouring into the tube the menstruum ; as the liquid gradually filters its way through the column of powder, the solu- ble ingredients are dissolved and drop into the receiver below. In some instances it is better to first combine the menstruum with the powder before placing in the percolator. The mixed form of first macerating and then percolating is preferable to either process used alone. To pre- vent closure of the pores in the column of powder, a layer of pebbles or fine sand may be placed at the bottom of the tube. The vessel holding the powdered drug is called the percolator ; the liquid used as a solvent is the menstruum until it reaches the receiver, when it is termed the percolate. Minute instructions for percolation will be found in the pharmacopceia. PHAEMACY. 17 PRECIPITATION consists in the separation of solids from their ac- companying solution, and may be accomplished by various processes, — by chemical reaction, by adding another liquid in which the substance is in- soluble, by heating albuminous solutions, and by exposing solutions of silver salts to the light. The separated substance is called the precipitate, which may either rise to the top, remain suspended, or it may fall to the bottom. The substance producing this effect is called the precipitant, and according to their appearance precipitates are spoken of as curdy, crystalline, flocculent, gelatinous, etc. PULVERIZATION is useful for reducing solids to the form of a powder. All vegetable products lose a large percentage in weight by drying and powdering, the result being a gain in strength over fresh herbs. These dried vegetable products are ground in a mortar or mill, after which the particles are passed through a sieve, the meshes of which are arranged in accordance with the fineness of the powder required ; that which fails to pass through the sieve at first trial may be again sub- jected to the grinding process. Camphor and spermaceti can only be powdered by adding a quantity of alcohol and triturating. Some sub- stances can be powdered only by levigation, others by granulation, and still others by chemical processes. SEPARATION is a mechanical process, and is accomplished by the use of pipettes, funnels with stop-cocks in their necks, by means of which the separatioii of liquids which do not mix with each other is effected. SIFTING has already been referred to. It is a simple mechanical procedure by which the coarser particles are separated from the fine by the use of sieves variously made of fine wire, horse-hair, or muslin. Sifting, when applied to fruit, is called " pulping," which differs from the former with respect to the method of conducting the operation ; in the latter force is necessary, while in the former it should be avoided. SOLUTION, as applied in pharmac3', may be either simple or chemi- cal ; in the former the substance dissolved may be recovered by evapora- tion, while in the latter recovery in its original form may be impossible. A solution is said to be saturated when a liquid ceases to dissolve ad- ditional portions of the substance after trituration and the application of heat. After cooling, a portion of the solution just described will be deposited in the form of crystals, when it is called a cold saturated solution. SUBLIMATION is a method of procedure by which arsenic is pre- pared. The solid from which it is obtained is reduced to a state of vapor when condensation takes place, and it is deposited on the surface of the receiver as a sublimate. In the preparation of sulphur the vapor 2 ; 18 PHARMACOLOGY AND THEEAPEUTICS. is condensed in a feathery condition called flowers. Sublimation differs therefore from destructive or dry distillation. TORREFACTION OR ROASTING is practiced fbr the purpose of modifying the character of organic substances, as in the roasting of coffee, the degree'of heat being less than that for carbonization. TRITURATION has of late become a very important branch of pharmacy; the large number of lemedies which are now used in the form of triturates requires that this process should be fully understood by the retail druggist, although he will be unable to prepare them in small quantity in such perfection and at the low prices which large manufacturers can offer. The pharmacopoeia directs for trituration that some inert or gritty powder be used, sugar of milk (saccharum lactis) being named, and that the substance to be acted upon shall be combined with this product in certain proportions, and the entire mass exposed to grinding or rubbing in a mortar until the requisite degree of comminution is secured. A more detailed description will be found under this heading in the section relating to preparations. Pulverization, levigation, and elutriation are all modified forms of trituration, and are useful according to the demands of the pharmacist and the physical character of the body to be acted upon. WASHING, as practiced in pharmacy, is sufBciently expressive in itself ; it is a mechanical operation, having for its object the separation of soluble from insoluble substances, and is sometimes referred to as ablution or affusion. The method varies according to the character of the body and the amount of work to be done, but it can usually be accom- plished by means of one or more wasli-bottles, so arranged that either a continuous or intermittent stream of water can be used. PREPAEATIONS. The different pharmacopoeia! preparations have been presented by various methods of classification. In the following summarj- it has been deemed advisable to consider them in alphabetical order. In a general way they are divisible into two classes, liquid and solid, a brief descrip- tion being appended herewith. Liquid preparations include those spoken of as acetous, alcoholic, aqueous, ethereal, and oleaginous — terms sufHcientl^' indicative of their methods of preparation. Solid preparations include all those ordered bj' the plij'sician other than those in the form of liquids. The authors at first favorably entertained the idea of adding to the following comments various details conceri^ing the composition and dosage, the .source from whence obtained, the materials and menstruum used; but as this informa- PHAEMACY. 19 tion is appended under the appropriate heading in the body of the work, this plan was finally abandoned, as doubts are entertained as to the utility of such information in a book of this character. The conditions attending the exhibition of drugs are so variable that any set posological table must be comparatively worthless. ABSTRACTA. — Abstracts are of comparatively recent introduction in pharmacy. They have been prepared with a view to secure products which bear a definite relation to the drug, and are superior to powdered extracts, owing to the loss of strength attending their manufacture, and their disposition to absorb moisture with subsequent decomposition. The strength of abstracts is double that of the corresponding fluid ex- tract, and about ten tim^js the strength of the tincture. They are pre- pared by evaporation at a low heat (120° P.), the addition of sugar of milk and trituration, so that the finished product weighs one-half as much as the fluid extract. When prepared from an alcoholic fluid extract, free from glycerin, it will be found convenient to add about one-fourth its weight of powdered sugar of milk, then drying, and finally making up the quantity to one-half the weight of the fluid extract by the addition of more sugar of milk. The strength of this abstract when made from an assayed fluid extract, is definite and uniform, and, besides, it is not liable to be affiected by changes of clim.ite, but should be kept in well-stoppered bottles, anr', as far as possible, free from moisture. The number of abstracts recognized by the pharmacopoeia is eleven, viz : — Aconite. HyoseyamuB. Podophyllum. Belladonna. Ignatia. Senega. Conlum. Jalap. Valerian. Digitalis. Nux vomica. ACETA. — Vinegars are solutions of medicinal substances in vinegar or dilute acetic acid, but, as vinegar contains principles favorable to decomposition, the pharmacopoeia now directs the use of dilute acetic acid. Solutions prepared in this manner are liable to undergo destructive changes ; the addition of alcohol, while contributing to their preserva- tion, is liable to produce precipitation and the formation of acetic ether, and is otherwise injurious ; it is, therefore, advisable that vinegars should be prepared only in small quantities. They are of uniform strength and represent 10 per cent, of the crude drug, and, judging from the eflSciency of acetic alkaloidal preparations, vinegars are entitled to our favorable consideration. Tlie official number is four, viz : — Lobelia. r Sanguinarifti Opium. SciUa. 20 PHAEMACOLOGY AND THEKAPEUTICS. ALKALOIDEA. — Alkaloids are definite basic substances obtained from plants, and represent their active principles. They diflfer from glucosides by forming salts with acid radicals, and from certain neutral principles in being more reliable and certain in their physiological action. These substances occur in the form of crystalline bodies, or as oily liquids, and are found in the plants in combination with acids ; as a rule, they are not soluble in ordinary menstrua, but their salts are readily soluble in water or other media, and the smallness of the dose can thus be definitely apportioned, a feat which is difficult of accomplishment when an attempt is made to divide a minute portion into a limited number of pills or powders, as frequently happens in extemporaneous pharmacy. The certainty of their action, coupled with the fact that there are no impurities combined with them, such as is often met with in ordinary liquid preparations, would seem to favor their use instead of the more crude preparations, and to a certain extent this is true, but it is not altogether available for the whole number of alkaloids, as we know that some of the alkaloids do not fully represent the physiological action of the drug as generally applied. This latter observation will apply to ergot and to digitalis, neither of which are fully represented by the administration of their respective alkaloids ; but, on the other hand, the use of strychnine is generally conceded to be superior in its action to that of nux vomica. Until the physiological action of the alkaloids has been studied as thoroughly as the crude drugs in the treatment of disease, it will be within the discretion of the physician to make his own selection in those eases where any question is likely to arise. While the small size of the dose is suflacient to make these prepa- rations desirable to some physicians, there are others who may object to using such powerful remedies, especially in the treatment of children ; but this objection will vanish after a careful study of the remarks upon triturations, farther along in this section of the work. So general has become the use of quite a large number of alkaloids, glucosides, and neutral principles, such as resins, etc., that a limited number of prac- titioners have adopted a name to distinguish their special mode of practice, by announcing themselves as " Dosimetrists," but, of course, such a method is open to the severest censure. Deviations such as we see in the methods of homoeopathy, dosimetry, hydropathy, eclecticism, and other isms, do not demand attention at our hands ; whatever is found useful from the appropriate use of water, we shall not hesitate to recom- mend ; if alkaloidal therapy is preferable in certain instances, we have no objection to the method as such, but when small doses of alkaloids or other remedies are recommended, it does not follow that our faith is pinned to homoeopathy, as such methods of practice can be demonstrated PHARMACY. 21 as coming within the range of scientific medicine without recourse to the hallucinations of enthusiasts who would introduce a " System," with the discovery of every new remedy, but it would require a complete re-ad- justment at the end of each decade, in order to adapt it to the demands of the science. AQU^. — Medicated waters are simple solutions of volatile sub- stances obtained by distillation or other processes. Either' some part or the whole of a plant or a volatile oil, or a gas, may be used in addition to distillation. Medicated waters are also prepared by solution in cold or hot water, by filtration ai^d by percolation. Chloroform water and cherry-laurel water are not made from oil ; camphor water is a solution without distillation. Owing to the fact that all waters deteriorate with age, only such quantity should be prepared as is required for immediate use ; when they are to be kept for any length of time, a suitable antiseptic must be added to prevent the development of micro-organisms. The following waters are recognized by the pharmacopoeia : — Almond (bitter). Chlorine. Natural. Ammonia. Cinnamon. Orange-flower. Ammonia (fortior). Creasote. Rose. Anise. Distilled. Spearmint. Camplior. Fennel. CATAPLASMATA. — Poultices are well known domestic remedies, and generally contain linseed-meal as a basis. No oflScial directions are given for their preparation. When required by the physician they should be of such consistence as to accommodate themselves to the surface they are intended to cover without extension to adjacent tissues. They should be applied either warm or as hot as can be borne, and frequently changed, their value largely depending upon the heat which they supply to the affected tissues or organs. When too long continued, or allowed to re- main in situ after becoming cold, or when applied after the subsidence of acute symptoms, their use is always attended with deleterious effects. A faithful observance of the foregoing precepts will be of inestimable benefit to both physician and patient. In the treatment of various classes of skin-diseases, of which eczema is a type, where the applica- tion of water is contra-indicated, their alternate use with other local remedies is frequently of great benefit, but, as a general rule, their indiscriminate use is strongly to be condemned. The application of a properly selected quality of ordinary clay will often be found far superior to poultices in relieving pain, tension, and promoting suppuration. The following substances are used in the preparation of poultices : 22 PHAEMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. beer-yeast, chlorinated soda in solution, hemlock-juice, linseed-meal, and mustard. In addition to those just named, charcoal, powdered elm-btu'k and corn-meal, are all of value. CHARTA. — Papers coated with an active substance are applied ex- ternally as irritants or sedatives, and are similar in their operation and effect to plasters. The active principle in them may be mustard or can- tharides, and papers saturated with nitrate of potash are especially valuable for the relief of asthmatic attacks. It is used by burning, the patient in the meantime inhaling the fumes ; its efficiency may be in- creased by first saturating the paper with fluid extract of belladonna, but in such cases great caution is required to avoid producing poisonous effects from this combination. CERATA. — Cerates are unctuous preparations similar to ointments, but as they contain a considerable proportion of wax they are of a much firmer consistence. Like ointments, they are intended for external use, and, as they do not melt at ordinary temperatures, they may be spread upon linen, leather, or other substance, and applied to the skin. Simple cerate is prepared by fusing together thirty parts of white wax and seventy parts of lard ; care is necessary in the selection of oils or lard for these preparations, owing to the impurities found in them, although it is said the cerates made with yellow wax show less tendency to become rancid. They are prepared either by fusion or incorporation, and liquefaction should be effected by gentle heat, preferably by means of a water-bath. The product may be allowed to cool quickly without stirring, or agitation may be kept up. The pharmacopoeia recognizes the following, eight in number : — Camphor. Cerate (simple). Savine. Cantharldes. Lead subacetate. Spermaceti. Canthaiides extract. Resin. COLLODIUM. — Collodion is prepared by the use of pyroxylin as a base, to which alcohol in certain proportion is added, and after being allowed to stand for a period of fifteen minutes ether is added and the' mixture shaken until the pyroxylin is dissolved. It is then placed in a bottle and tightly corked, when the sediment can be removed by decan- tation. Collodion is a transparent, colorless liquid, of syrupy consist- ence, having an ethereal odor, and when applied to a dry surface like the skin evaporation takes place, leaving a transparent film which possesses adhesive and contractile properties. Flexible collodion contains 5 per cent, of Canada turpentine and 3 per cent, of castor-oil. Styptic collo- dion contains 20 per cent, of tannic acid. There are four preparations: Collodion. Collodion (flexible). Collodion (cantharidal). Collodion (styptic). PHAKMACT. 23 Iodized collodion has been suggested with a view to obtain the effect of iodine on tumors ; ferruginous collodion has also been proposed as a local remedy in erysipelas ; caustic collodion maj' be prepared by dis- solving in it corrosive sublimate, one part to seven ; iodoform collodion may be prepared in the strength of one in fifteen, \>y first reducing tlje iodoform to a fine powder. CONFECTIONES. — Confections include those preparations having a semi-solid form, in which drugs, generally dry, are incorporated witli syrup, sugar, or honey, either for preservation or for convenience in administration. The names conserves and electuaries have been aban- doned. Although a number of these preparations may be used, only two are recognized : — Confection of rose. Confection of senna. DECOCTA. — Decoctions are prepared by boiling vegetable sub- stances in water for the purpose of obtaining their active ingredients, but owing to the fact that very few such bodies can be safely exposed to this degree of heat, these preparations are now less popular than formerly. Ordinary decoctions, unless specially ordered by the physician, are pre- pared in the proportion of one part to nine of water. There are but two : — Cetrarla (Iceland moss). Sarsaparilla. Other decoctions may be mentioned as follows : Cinchona, pome- granate, logwood, barley, pai-eira, oak-bark, broom, taraxacum, digitalis, dulcamara (bitter-sweet). ELIXIRA. — Elixirs are palatable medicinal preparations containing the medicament for administration in small doses. The only oflScial elixir recognized is the elixir of orange (elixir aurantii), although a large num- ber of unofficial preparations, called elixirs, are emploj^ed in medicine. The elixir of orange is used principally as an acceptable excipient or menstruum for other drugs. EMPLASTRA. — Plasters are used either for sUpport, or for the pur- pose of local medication, or for their revulsive effect. The medicament is incorporated with a suitable adhesive base called the plaster mass, gen- erally a compound of fatty substances, the whole being spread upon linen, leather, or other material. Plasters maj' conveniently be permitted to supercede cerates, and their extensive use and general application war- rants a more extended notice of their therapeutics, which will be found elsewhere. ENEMATA. — Enemas, injections, clysters are names of preparations intended for introduction into the lower bowel, by which local or con- stitutional effects may be produced. Locally, enemata may act as a 24 PHAKMACOLOGY AND THEKAPETJTICS. sedative, as a purgative, either direct or from reflex influences ; large quantities of liquid so used may serve to cleanse the towel, by acting mechanically, or a similar saline solution may be substituted for trans- fusion in case of extraordinary hseraorrhage. Nutritive or stimulant enemata in the case of disordered digestion, in wasting diseases, and in depression from shock are invaluable, and will therefore consist of liquids, as peptonized food, alcoholic stimulants, or gases, as oxygen, or enemata may be adopted in a general way for the purpose of alimentation or medication. (See Alimentation.) EXTRACTA. — Extracts are preparations made from vegetable sub- stances, either by evaporating the expressed juice, or from the soluble constituents thereof. They are either solid or fluid ; the latter are pre- pared by maceration, percolation, and evaporation, but, in addition to this, for the solid extract evaporation must be continued to dryness. There are a large number of both classes recognized by the pharmaco- poeia, — too many, in fact, to warrant their reproduction in this section. The menstruum used in their preparation is determined by the char- acter of the drug itself; all of them require alcohol for their preserva- tion, although for securing these soluble constituents alcohol is not always necessarj^ Glycerin is also used, so is water and dilute alcohol, as well as the rectified spirit ; fluid extracts are practically concentrated tinctures, and should possess, in the finished state, a definite and uniform strength ; but this will vary from time to time, depending on the quality of the preparations used. The pharmacopoeia i^rovides that one minim of each fluid extract shall represent a definite portion of the active constituents of the drug. Extracts are of various kinds, to which brief reference is made as follows : Green extracts are prepared from the juice of the bruised plant heated to coagulate the coloring matter, and further heated to coagulate the albumin, when it is evaporated to the consistencj^ of a syrnp ; the coloring matter is then sifted and returned, and the product further con- centrated by evaporation until the requisite strength is obtained. Fresh extracts are prepared in a similar manner ; in the absence of any coloring matter the albumin is coagulated by heat, filtered out and evaporation conducted as before ; Aqueous extracts are prepared by the use of water and subsequent evaporation ; Alcoholic extracts are prepared by the use of dilute alcohol and water, by maceration, percolation of dry drugs, and subsequent evaporation. Ethereal extracts are variously prepared ; percolation may be conducted with ether as a menstruum ; by the use of ether upon an alcoholic extract ; by the use of ether before making an alcoholic or aqueous extract. Acetic extracts are prepared like fresh ex- tracts, acetic acid being added before expression, and evaporation arrested PHARMACY. 25 while the mass is soft. Liquid extracts are prepared by macerating in water, evaporation, and the addition of alcohol to prevent decomposition. Assayed extracts are prepared by determining the alkaloidal strength of the substance from which the fluid extract is to be made, as well as that of the finished product. The alloonful. 3 fluidrachms . . ,. . . = " 1 dessertspoonful. }4 fluidouuce = " 1 tablespoonful. 2 fluidounces = " 1 wine-glassful. 4 fluidounces . . * . . . = " 1 teacupful. Table for Apportioning Doses. 21 years of age, full dose. 14 " " % " 13 " " 1^ " 6 " " Vs " 1 year of age, A " 3 months of age, . . . A " French Weights and Measures. WEIGHT. 1 gramme . . . = 15.434 grains. 1 decigramme . . = 1.5434 grains. 1 centigramme . . = .15434 grain ; approximately, J^ grain. 1 milligramme . . = .015434 grain ; approximately, A grain. 1 decagramme . . = 154.340 grains. Ihectogramme . == 1,543.403 grains. PHARMACOLOGY. 37 LENGTH. 1 metre . = 39.368 inches. 1 decimetre = 3.9368 inches. 1 centimetre = .39368 of an inch. 1 millimetre = .039368 of an inch. 1 decametre = 393 .68 Inches. 1 hectometre "= 3,936.8 inches. 1 kilometre = 39,368. inches. 1 myriametre . = 393,680. inches. MEASURE. 1 litre . = 2.095 pints, or 15,434 grains. 1 decilitre . . = 3.315 fg, or 1,543.4 grains. 1 centilitre . = 2.573 f3, or 1.54.34 grains. 1 millilitre . = 16.331 m , or 15.434 grains. 1 decalitre . . = 2.641 C or 154.340 grains. 1 hectolitre . = 26.419 C , or 1,543,400 grains. 1 kilolitre . . . = 264.19 C 1 myrialitre . = 2,641.9 C PHAEMACOLOGY. GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS.— The magnitude of the task as- sumed in attempting to decide upon a Classification of Medicines can only be appreciated by those who have themselves essayed a lilse under- taking. Even the worli of classifying the phj'siological action and therapeutical indications of almost any common and well-known remedy is frequently attended with lapses and complications that are often exceedingly unsatisfactory. A drug which in one sense may be regarded as possessing restorative properties, when studied from some other stand- point furnishes the best evidence of its being well adapted to promote destructive metamorphosis. What, then, shall we accomplish in the effort to class a considerable number of preparations as belonging to the same group? The manifest inappropriateness of such methods is but too apparent to modern therapeutists, and the only excuse for such pro- cedure is advanced in the form of a reason, which has more or less force, depending upon the disposition of the writer to confine his investigations within self-constituted grooves of thought. This reason may be stated in a few words, viz : A classification Is practically a necessity, in order to advance our scientific knowledge, and, however artificial it may appear, no other method is so well calculated to further the object in view. In compliance with these premises, we have had a multitude of theories, covering every conceivable application of ancient and modern discovery^ and still the lack of completeness in respect to system is even more prominent than it was in the time of CuUen. By the adoption of an alphabetical nomenclatiire, all attempts at 38 PHARMACOLOGT AND THERAPEUTICS. classification must be discarded, but this method, while convenient for reference, is fatal to any advantages resulting from associating one drug with others of a like character, either with a view to their combination, or for the purpose of substituting one for the other, and is decidedly objectionable to those who may desire to conduct their inquiries in cer- tain channels. The physician, at a loss for remedies which act as evacu- ants, will naturally turn to laxatives, or purgatives, simple, hydragogue, cholagogue, or saline, and by a study of their different effects will be materially aided in selecting suitable measures for the relief of his patient. While recognizing, therefore, the artificial character of classi- fications in general, the following not excepted, the authors have en- deavored to so collate the information upon pharmacology in the body of the work that each observation will not only stand alone as an en- tirety, but will be in intimate relation with other investigations, and with therapeutics, the main object of the work. If the pictures of ten or one hundred persons were subjected to the process known as composite photography, each defect in the different faces, as well as individual characteristics, would be reproduced in pro- portion to their extent, and would be more or less apparent in accord- ance with the number included in the operation. Under the respective headings of the different drugs an attempt has been made to distribute accumulated knowledge and experience in such a manner that it will in a measure furnish a reflected picture of its therapy, substantially a com- posite mental photograph, and it is believed that those who honor this work by consulting it will not find this an impossible, or even diflScult, undertaking. The classification finally decided upon is largely that of Garrod, who has long occupied a foremost position as an autl*or and teacher, modified to some extent by the discoveries and teachings of Brunton, so well known as an indefatigable worker and faithful observer in pharmacology, and it is hoped that, in connection with the alphabetical arrangement that has been adopted, much benefit will be derived from its consultation and study. With a view to further simplify the study for beginners, a note has been added, covering the various subdivisions, in a general way referring to the pharmacological and therapeutical relations and appli- cations, without entering into details regarding the special drugs, which are more conveniently considered in their proper order. Medicines may be divided into three general classes; those for in- ternal administration, those for external application, and a third class, embracing antidotes, disinfectants, and antiseptics, the accompanying diagram indicating more particularly the plan of distribution of the various remedial agents : — PHARMACOLOGY. 39 Classification of Medicines. I Blood tonics (hsematinics). Acids and Astringents. Refrigerants. Antipyretics. Alteratives. inteknai/ j Bghledies. , Tbe Brain. Spinal Cord. Medicines Acting THROUGH THE Nervoits System. ' Exbilarants. Narcotics, Soporifics, and Anodynes. AnsBsthetics. 'Stimulants. Sedatives. Nerve-centres f ^Sj^Te'Sni^s and and Ganglionic System. | gS'Jper'iodlcs Heart and Circulatory System. ■ Vascular stimulants. Vascular sedatives. . Vascular tonics. '■ Special Organs. - Alimentary Canal, The Liver. Respiratory Apparatus. Cutaneous System. Urinary System. C Sialagogues. £metics. -< Purgatives. Anthelmintics. L Stomachics. S Hepatic stimulants. I Hepatic sedatives. ' Errhines. E xpec t o r a n'ts (pulm. stim.) Pulmonary s e d a - . tives. Generative System. The Eyes. Sudorifics and Diaphoretics. Diuretics. Lithontriptics. Mucous stimulants. Sedatives. r Emmenagogues, Ecbolics, J (Galactagogues.) Aphrodisiacs. I, Anaphrodisiacs. Mydriatics. Myotics. External Remedies. ' f Rubefacients. Irritants. ■{ Epispastics or blistering agents. L Pustulants. Sedatives. Emollients. Astringents and Styptics. Antiparasitics. Caustics and Escharotics. r*-^^-.^^^ » T r Antidotes. I.HEMICAI. J Disinfectants and AGENTS. [^ Antiseptics. 40 ■ PHARMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. MEDICINES AFFECTING NUTRITION.— The first group in the foregoing classification includes a series whose function is to act upon the blood, thus producing an efi'ect upon nutrition through the changes affected in its character or composition. Hsmajinics, or blood tonics, are remedies which are supposed to possess the power of improving the character of that fluid by restoring to it elements or principles which are lacking. The vitalitj^ and strength of the body depend upon the nutritive character of the red corpuscles and the presence of haemoglobin, and these again depend largely upon the kind and quantity of food, the condition of the digestion, and the facility with which the excrementitious products are eliminated from day to day. Anaemia is one of the most striking illustrations of deteriora- tion of the quality of the blood, but the anaemia of plethora, which is found in connection with deficient elimination of the products of tissue- change, instead of hsematinics, will most quickly respond to those meas- ures instituted for the purpose of overcoming suboxidation. In all cases which seem to demand the administration of blood tonics it is especially necessary that a suitable dietary should be adopted, that the patient should have as much exercise as his condition will warrant, with plenty of fresh air and sunlight. No treatment will be efficient without attention to these hygienic regulations. Hsematinics. Preparations of iron : — Oxide and salts of manganese. Metallic iron, Cod-liver oil and Compounds of iron with oxygen, Other animal oils. Compounds of iron with mineral acids, Vegetable oils. Compounds of iron with organic acids. Cinchona and its salts. ALKALIES AND ANTACID MEDICINES.— Alkalies are remedies which increase the normal alkalinity of the blood and affect the secre- tions ; those which are normally alkaline are rendered more so, and those normally acid are changed to alkaline. This change being more easily accomplished than the restoration of the normal condition, alkalies should ))e administered with caution, although they are essential in rheumatic affections, in gout, and may be depended upon to a certain extent in di- gestive troubles. These remedies affect nutrition by increasing secretion, a point which should be borne in mind in the treatment of pulmonary affections, although alkalies should not be continued too long, but should be supplemented within a few days by the uSe of acids and astringents. Rossbach's experiments do not confirm clinical observations in this re- spect, but the discrepancy may he accounted for by reason of the larger dose used in physiological experiments. Alkalies, therefore, should be given well diluted and in small doses. This suggestion is warranted by ALKALIES AND ANTACIDS. 41 tlie observations of Brunton, who finds tliat both acids and 'allialies in dilute solution first increase protoplasmic movements, then arrest them, causing these bodies to swell with dilatation, until finally solution takes place; contractures of muscle are variously affected, increased hj some, and diminished by others, but these results are modified to some extent by the dose. Alkalies are direct and remote ; the former have an alkaline reaction, but the latter do . not. Soda preparations more especially affect the stomach, while potassium preparations act more noticeably upon the kidnc}^ and vesical mucous surfaces ; some seem to possess both proper- ties, while others, as the citrates, the tartrates and acetates have no ap- parent effect upon the stomach, but when talcen up by the blood are changed into carbonates, and lessen the acidity of the urine when excreted by the kidney. The indications for the use of ali INDIRECT ANTISPASMODICS. Spinal sedatives, as Stramonium. Conium. Henbane. Bromide of lithium. Indian hemp. Bromide of potassium. Opium. Bromide of ammouium. Chloroform. Bromide of nickel. Ether. Nervine tonics, as Acetic ether. Salts of zinc. Arsenic. Salts of silver. Lobelia. Salts of copper. Nitrites;— , Hydrocyanic acid. Nitroglycerin (Trinltrln), Belladonna. . Amyl nitrite. ANTIPERIODICS AND NERVINE TONICS.— In the trea,tment of certain classes of affections, of which intermittent fever and neuralgia may be accepted as illustrations, a number of remedies possessing in the main similar properties have been used to overcome them. These reme- dies are called b^' common consent antiperiodics ; and along with them 58 PHARMACOLOGY AND THEKAPEUTICS. Garrod has pointed out the value of other remedies, acting upon the nervous system, which he has very appropriately named nervine tonics. These latter differ from the former in not possessing antiperiodic proper- ties, but they are of decided value in overcoming the depression accom- panying intermittent fevers and like affections, and when judiciously employed will materially hasten recovery. It should be mentioned that antiperiodics are closely related to alteratives, through arsenic, whicii is one of the most valuable and generally useful of the remedies of both groups. Certain adjuncts to antiperiodics are almost of equal importance with the remedies themselves, and it has been suggested that mercurials, lilie the protiodide, accompanied by suitable hygienic rules, would be suffi- cient to eradicate attaclis of ague. In years gone by a high value was placed on the use of emetics and purgatives in connection with the administration of antiperiodics, but we can now see that these depressing methods produced an effect by relieving undue tension, by favoring increased activity of the liver, and by removing excrementitious products through increased functional activity of the skin, increased urinar3' flow, and profuse discharges from the bowels. It is plain, therefore, that our methods of treatment sliould conform to the principles just outlined, but the practice must be modified to accord with the advances in pathology and in pharmacology. The first point to be considered in 'the treatmenr of malarial affec- tions is the condition of the liver, and if one remedy is insufficient to secure the desired results, another should be selected which gives more promise of success. For many years it was assumed that podophyllum was as necessary to the successful treatment of ague as quinine, but the facts are that podophyllum affects this oi'gan when in a diseased condition favorably in almost all cases, hence the erroneous conclusion that quinine was more efficient when combined with podophyllum. Ipecac will often be of greater benefit than podophyllum, because it can be used in sub- stance in a much larger number of cases than can the latter, but the fact should not be overlooked that a purgative may be required in connection with ipecac. Quinine itself, or its salts, or, in fact any of the alkaloids of cin- chona, when given in sufficient quantity, will be found to act as decided purgatives through their influence upon the liver ; if continued, it will be found that within a few days the purgative effect of the medicine will disappear, and although the patient may feel the depressing effects of active purgation, he will gain strength, appetite will increase, and within a week all symptoms of malaria will have vanished. The foregoing is an illustration of mild cases, which frequently come under the observa- VASCULAR STIMULANTS. 59 tion of the practitioner ; those which have been longer in progress, where the patient has been under self-medication, other and more active measures wijl have to be adopted. Antiperiodica. Arsenic and its preparations. Berberlne sulphate. Cinchona barks and their alkaloids. Cinchonidlne and its salts. Cinchoniue and Its ealte. Nervine Tonics. Bruclne. Cusparla. Nitrate of silver. Nux vomica. Oxide of silver. Calumba (3). Chamomile (?). Podophyllum. Quassia (?). Eucalyptus globulus. Picrate of ammonia. Picric acid . Qulnldlne and its salts. Quinine and its salts. Oxide of zinc. Salts of Iron. Strychnine. Sulphate of copper. Sulphate of zinc. Action Uncertain. Salicin (?). Salicylates. Salicylic acid. VASCULAR STIMULANTS. — Vascular stimulants may conveniently be divided into two classes, — those which act upon the heart and large vessels, and those which act upon the smaller vessels. The former have already been considered under the head of exhilarants, and a few words will be sufficient to indicate the application of the latter. Vascular stimulants which act upon the smaller vessels are of especial value where it is desired to increase the activity of the local circulation, and their use can often be supplemented to advantage bj' the addition of suitable local measures. Therapy. — These remedies are useful in the treatment of diseased con- ditions characterized by depression, and are especially valuable in heart diseases, either acute or chronic, when their exhibition is not contra- indicated bj' tlie presence of valvular diseases or fatty degeneration. In the latter case, cardiac tonics should be combined with stimulants with a view to overcome the physical condition. In concluding this section it may be remarked that manj* of these remedies possess peculiar properties which are of great value to the pjij'- sician, owing to their influence upon the functions of various special organs, while others produce an effect which is more general in its nature. Chloroform, carbonate of ammonia, oil of turpentine, and guaiac furnish examples of tlie former, while camphor, asafoetida and valerian serve as illustrations of the latter class. 60 PHAKMACOLOGY AND THEEAPEUTICS. Vascular Stimulants. ACTING MORE ON THE HEART AND LARGER VESSELS. Alcohol in the foi-m of brandy. Ether. Aroraatics : Free ammonia as in the solu- Aromatie spirit of ammonia, tion of ammonia. Aromatic volatile oils. Oil of turpentine. Asafoetida. Spirit of ether. Camphor. Sumbul. Carbonate of ammonia. Valerian. Chloroform. Wine. ACTING MORE ON THE SMALLER VESSELS. Ammoniacum. Mezereum. Acetate of ammonia. Resin. Citrate of ammonia. Sassafras. Galbanum. Serpentary. Guaiacum. VASCULAR SEDATIVES. — Vascular sedatives are also conveniently divided into two general classes, — those which affect especially the heart, and those which act upon the smaller vessels and capillaries. They might also with propriety be further divided into those which affect the smaller vessels by contracting them, and those which affect the same class of vessels by increasing their calibre. When speaking of laboratory inves- tigations, experimental physiologists have often left us in the dark con- cerning what they mean by the word " blood-vessels," when used by them to denote the effect of remedies upon the tissues. We know from clini- cal experience that digitalis lessens the flow of blood by diminishing the calibre of the arterioles, but it does not cause blanching of the face, such as majr be seen after the exhibition of ergot. The effect of digitalis is therefore different from that of ergot ; the action of ergot upon the arte- ries is similar to that of digitalis, but after leaving the arterial system the ergot seems to act further upon the tissues by contracting them, — a property which digitalis does not possess. It appears, therefore, that digitalis and ergot are vascular sedatives by reason of their power over the arterioles by which the lumen of the vessels is diminished, and the slowing of the heart follows upon this increased resistance. On the other hand, amyl nitrite, and the nitrites generally, are vas- cular sedatives by reason of their power to lessen the resistance of tlie heai't's action, by increasing the calibre of the arterioles. The exhibition of these latter remedies is followed by flushing of the face, a condition the very opposite of that found after the exhibition of ergot. It appears reasonable to assume that the nitrites may be used as vascular sedatives as a means of effecting a redistribution of the circulating fluid, just as a person very much excited from undue exertion assumes the recumbent position , with a view to overcome a sense of nervousness and discomfort. VASCULAR TONICS. 61 Preparations of antimony, as also tobacco and conium, seem to act as sedatives in a revulsive manner, and depress the whole system. Aconite and geisemium appear to have special indications of their own, the former acting at first upon the smaller vessels, when given in small doses, and later upon the heart, while the latter possesses the property of affecting the heart from the beginning. Coiohioum is valuable in gouty inflammation. Ipecacuanha is often useful in lowering the circulation, while at the same time it relieves tension, but it is far less energetic than antimon3^ The foregoing remarks have been made from the stand-point of the clinician rather than from the strictly scientific point of view, but, from the fact that the subjects are fully considered in their scientific bearings under their respective headings, it was deemed advisable in this place to present the matter as viewed from bedside experience. Vascular Sedatives. ACTING ESPECIALLT ON THE EEABT, Aconite. Ergot. Strophanthus. Calabar bean. Geisemium. Tobacco. Colchicuiu. Green hellebore. Veratrine. Digitalis. Hydrocyanic acid. Cold. ACTING ON THE SMALLER VESSELS AND CAPILLARY SYSTEM. Acetate of lead. Ipecacuanha. Opium. Amyl nitrite. Nitrate of potash. Oxide of antimony. Ergot. Nitrites. Tartarated antimony. Hamamelis. Nitroglycerin. VASCULAR TONICS. — Vascular tonics, as their name indicates, include all those remedied which either directly or indirectly give tone to the vascular system. Whatever improves the nutrition is opposed to dis- ease, and all those remedies which increase nutrition improve the vascu- lar tone and increase the power of the heart. The representative of this class of preparations is iron in its various forms, but iron is less prompt in its action than preparations of nux vomica, but more especially the salts of strychnine. The value of these remedies depends largely upon their power to maintain blood-pressure and modify tissue-change, and, as a matter of course, they become of special importance in the treatment of low conditions of the system, brought about by acute disease or by long-continued illness. Their value is most noticeable in the treatment of dropsy, in which not onlj^ the lymph-spaces, but also the large serous cavities are surcharged with serous accumulations. (Edema, ascites, pleural and pericardial effusions are dependent upon functional inactivity of the tissues, to a limited extent by the condition of the blood, and paitlj' owing to derangements of the vasomotor system. It has been 62 PHARMACOLOGY AND THEEAPEUTICS. suggested that some alteration of the blood-vessels renders them more permeable, with the result of imperfect oxidation and the formation of sarco-lactic instead of carbonic acid, and that the tendency of arsenic to produce oedema of the eyelids may be due to its action in lessening oxi- dation. For immediate effect, in cases of emergency, with derangement of the vasomotor system, as shown by a tendenc3- to coma, it is doubtful if we have anjr remedy more potent than oxygen inhalations. From an examination of the following list it will be seen that, in addition to iron preparations, nux vomica and its preparations, we have also included those drugs properly coming under sub-heads which have already been considered, which goes to show the value of nutrition in securing and maintaining a healthy tone in the blood-vascular system. Acids and Astringents. Caffeine. Nux vomica and its Adonidin. Convallaria. preparations. Alcohol. Digitalis. Oxygen inhalations. Ammonia. Ergot. Sparteine. Blood tonics. Iron preparations. Stomachic tonics. Cactus grandiflora. Nervine tonics. Strophanthus. General Observations. — We have elsewhere referred to the im- portance of vascular tension. Tlie treatment of disease is not infre- quently hedged about with difficulties, and at times they are apparently insuperable ; hence, a consideration of one of the most important con- ditions met with, and one, too, which has been unfortunately relegated to a secondary place, deserves respectful attention. The importance of maintaining vascular tension in disease is a matter which can scarcely be overestimated, and altliough it is not often referred to in the course of consultations, nor in papers which are presented to societies, it is a con- stantly-recurring factor of variable character, and therefore requires the more careful attention on the part of the prescriber. True, many of the remedies used in the treatment of the sick are possessed of their greatest utility bj-^ reason of their action in this particular direction, but they are nsed, not for this reason, but for their general therapeutic effect. Thus, in ordinary affections characterized by debility, there is a general con- sensus of opinion as to the demand of the economy for strychnine in some of its forms, and it is a well-known fact that, next to digitalis, strychnine is one of the first remedies which can be depended upon for this purpose, while it is free from the objections attached to the former drug. In the treatment of paralysis, the use of strychnine is the first remedy to be selected because of its known action in enabling the system to correct any fault in the compensation, for by this process we secure a more perfect supply of blood to the affected part. And while the supply VASCULAR TONICS. 63 of blood is regulated as well as augmented, the action of this drug is manifested in another way,_the strychnine playing also the partof a nerve tonic. It should be noted here, however, that this method may work to our disadvantage, and will certainly do so if our nerve tonic is pushed to near its physiological limit. A. hint here will be all that is needed to illustrate the idea we wish to convey. In a case stated, as the lawyers say, we have clearly paralj'sis to deal with, and it becomes a question as to what is the most appropriate remedy. Suppose, for instance, that, in- stead of using strychnine, we select gelsemium, because we know that gelsemium is a paralyzing agent, and if continued long enough in mod- erate doses we shall find that in time the whole system will be affected, although ill the meantime the muscles originally paralyzed will show a tendency to improve. Here we have apparently one of the unsolved problems in medicine, and one, too, which has proved a stumbling-block for several generations, but it can be explained to the satisfaction of the practical phj^sician on the basis of vascular tension, — a platform suffi- ciently extensive to accommodate all scientific physicians. It rests upon the bed-rock of truth, and is governed by the immutable laws which teach us the principles of physiology and pathology. The two methods of treatment here outlined will suggest themselves according to the de- mands of the case, the reasons therefor appearing later on as we proceed with the study. Pneumonia is a disease in which the value of vascular tension is fully seen, and, aside from the microphytic influences which of late have been supposed to act as a factor in its causation, there is no denying the fact that remedies exhibited with a view to maintain a healthful condition of the circulation have a material effect upon the malady, and more espe- cially is this the case when the disease is early recognized, as it may then be modified, if not brought fully under control. Here we have dilatation of the capillaries, with active or passive congestion, or both, and along with the local affection we have an elevated temperature. Now, digitalis will act as a constrictor of the terminal arteries, and it will also lower the temperature ; by the use of this remedy we lessen the frequency of the heart-beats, and the secretion from the kidneys is sensibly augmented, but yet it is not a drug .which has attained any prominence in the treat- ment of this disease, simply because it will defeat the purpose for which it was originall}' given if long enough continued. We have recourse, therefore, to other remedies which will serve our purpose better. We want a remedy which will act in some respects like digitalis, that will cause contraction of the capillaries, that will lower the temperature and increase the urinary secretion, and one that will lessen the frequency of the car- diac action, not by increasing its force, but rather by decreasing it, and 64 PHARMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. we naturally look to aconite for this purpose. With the advantage gained from aconite, we may, if the case is severe or threatening, add the influ- ence of gelsemium, using for this purpose the fluid extract, either alone or in comhination with aconite. When the patient is sufficiently under the influence of this treatment, and it is desirable to await the results of medication, it would seem probable that here again digitalis would step in to assist in maintaining for the time the compensation, but we venture to recommend that much-abased drug — quinine — in its stead. Quinine not onljf maintains the vascular tension, but it materially interferes with the spread of the disease by continuity to adjoining tissues, and in this manner it becomes a germicide of no mean proportions. If pneumonia is of parasitic origin, few remedies can have a more decided influence upon its progress than quinine, but it should be given at the proper time and in suitable doses. When the arterial tension has been sufficiently re- laxed by the treatment recommended, quinine will be useful, but in the stage of active congestion it is, in our opinion, worse than useless, it is positively harmful. The dose should always be a .substantial one, but adapted to the physical condition of the patient and the period of the disease ; five, ten, or even fifteen grains at one time, or within, say, two hours, and this need not be repeated for the space of twenty-four hours, the vascular tension in the interval being kept at as low a level as is consistent with safety. Typhoid fever will be managed best in this respect by the judicious administration of strychnine in fractional doses ; and when there are signs of cardiac depression, in addition to the use of diffusible stimulants, strophanthus is demanded. The treatment in remittents and intermit- tents will be favorably modified by observing the points given in re«ard to the administration of quinine in pneumonia, but it is not at all times practical to have the vascular tension so modified in these afI'ections,aud we are, therefore, compelled to depend largely on the use of quinine itself for this effect. In consumption, catarrhal pneumonia, and chronic bron- chitis another remedy suggests itself by reason of its action in lessening the arterial tension by dilating the capillaries, and this may be accom- plished by the exhibition of nitroglycerin. No drug possesses the power to give immediate relief such as this. Murrell discovered its wonderful effects in the treatment of angina pectoris, and it may be used with ad- vantage in all cases where there is undue tension of the capillaries or of the terminal arteries. Aconite, on the other hand, is more valuable where we suspect dilatation of the capillaries, but more especially those of mucous surfaces. Gelsemium is valuable on account of its general para lyzing action, and will be found useful in many diseases which have hitherto baffled the most skillful practitioners. SIALAGOGUES. 65 The following extract from a paper by "Webber, of Boston, will be ct interest : — " He concludes that neurasthenic patients may be divided into sev- eral classes : 1. Those in whom tlie vascular tension is nearly or quite normal. These patients are only temporarily run down, and soon recover. 2. Those who at first show a decided loss of vascular tone, but who re- gain a normal tension after a course of treatment. These patients usually recover after a longer or shorter ti^e. 3. Those whose Avascular tone is very much below normal, and whose tension sometimes apparently in- creases, and then, again, loses ground. These cases do not improve much, and whatever is gain is of doubtful permanency, owing to a laclt of vascular stability. In a few cases the early tracings showed a nearlj^ normal condition of the blood-vessels, but later ones were less favorable ; there bejng always some cause to which the change could be ascribed. Some of the worst cases exhibited a great variation of tension within a few minutes. The author concludes, further, that the sphygmograph is an aid in determining the amount of exhaustion ; and by comparing tracings indicates the progress toward recovery. A fictitious gain may be distinguished from a real one, since none is genuine unless the tension of the arteries is permanently restored. Tracings should be taken once in two or three weeks." SIALAGOGUES. — Sialagognes are remedies which increase the sali- vary secretion, and may be used to advantage for the relief of various classes of morbid conditions. The influence of the nervous system must be taken into consideration in deciding upen the indications for tiie use of sialagogues. It is well known that sudden emotion will stop the flow of saliva, and at the same time we recognize that mental influences may cause a profuse outpouring of the salivary secretion, and that it may be affiected through the sight, or through the medium of the olfactory organs, or it may be produced without either. Garrod divides sialagogues into topical and remote, the former in- cluding such substances as pyrethrum and horse-radish, the latter mer- curial salts and the iodides ; but the suggestion of Brunton that these remedies should be classed as reflex and specific sialagogues appears to be more appropriate, although tobacco and iodide of potassium act both specifically and reflexly. The presence of tobacco in the mouth causes a flow of saliva, and thus acts in a reflex manner; potassium iodide, taken into the system, is rapidly eliminated by the salivary glands, and is thus made to do service lilve tobacco. These two remedies, therefore, and mercury, may be properly classed as mixed sialagogues. It is doubtful if much benefit follows the use of acids, alkalies, or such pungent substances as mustard and the like, when used solely for B 66 PHARMACOLOGY AND THEEAPEUTICS. their effect upon the salivary glands, and the value of nauseants, such as tartar emetic, has always seemed questionable. Our interest in the matter of sialagogues, however, centres in the use of pilocarpus, which not only serves in a remarkable manner to increase the salivar}' secretion, but also the secretions of the entire alimentary tract and that of the cutaneous system as well, and the numerous applications that have been discovered for it attest its popularity, which promises to increase with better ac- quaintance. As contradistinguished from sialagogues, antisiallcs may be men- tioned, remedies which lessen the flow of saliva, the principal remedies of this class being potassium chlorate, pliysostigmine, and atropine. Refiex Sialagogues. Acids, mineral and vegetable. Pungent substances : — Alkalies. Ginger, Chloroform and Ether. Horse-radish, Cubebs. "Mustard, Nauseants: — Pellitory root (Pyrethrum), Tartar emetic, etc. Tobacco when masticated. Rhubarb. Specific Sialagogues. Iodine preparations. Physostigmine. Mercurial preparations. Pilocarpus (Jaborandl). Muscai'ine. Tobacco. Mixed Sialagogues. Iodide of potfesium. Mercury. Tobacco. EMETICS.— Emetics are remedies which cause vomiting, and are supposed to produce their characteristic effect through the influence they have upon the nerve-centre in the medulla regulating this spasmodic action. There is a diversitj'^ of opinion as to the exact method by which tli6se remedies produce results, but there is reason to believe that tiiey differ materially from each other. Thus, alum and the sulphate of zinc, from their action upon the tissues with which they come in contact, will cause vomiting; tartar emetic, if introduced into the circulation, causes vomiting without entering the stomach. The natural division, therefore, would be those which are local and those which are general in their action. The indications for emetics are numerous, but they are less popular than formerly, except in domestic use. Emetics are always indicated after the ingestion of poisonous substances, if too long a time has not elapsed, so that they have been absorbed from the stomach ; also where there is reason to believe that the stomach contains indigestible food, and, in case of bronchitis and croup, where the mechanical effects of vomiting are desired ; but it is believed that with the timely use of calcium sulphide the demand for emetics for the relief of this latter class of affections will ANTI-EMETICS. 67 gradually disappear. Mustard-water or a solution of common salt are always readily obtained. The sulphate of zinc is less objectionable than the sulphate of copper. Carbonate of ammonia is especially indicated as an emetic where there is an enfeebled condition of the heart and circula- tion. Tartar emetic should always be given with caution, and apomor- phine will be found an excellent remedy when it becomes necessary to administer an emetic hypodermatically. Of all the emetic substances, however, there is probably none which is of more general value than ipecac, this property being due principally to the presence of an active principle called emetine. Ipecac is always safe, and, instead of being followed by injurious effects, it is doubtful if very large doses would be other than beneficial in the general class of cases demanding the use of emetics. A substitute for ipecac, it is claimed, has been found in cocillana, a South American remedy, introduced to the notice of the profession by Rusby. With the advances in therapeutics, it is doubtful if the use of emetics is as general in the treatment of inflammatory diseases affecting the chest as was the custom ten or fifteen years ago, but in so-called biliousness and fevers, in the early stages, and in ague, with a bad condition of the stomach, coated tongue, foul breath, an active emetic will prove of signal service. Tliese remedies should be avoided, however, in persons who have reached advanced age, and in those with a tendency to pulmonary haemor- rhage, and should alwaj's be given with extreme caution when hernia is present and when there is prolapsus uteri. Local Emetics. Alum (powdered). Infusion of vegetable Mustard. • Ammonium carbonate. bitters. Water (lukewarm). Copper sulphate. Mercury subsulphate. Zinc sulphate. General Emetics. Apomorphine. Ipecacuanha and Sanguinaria. Cocillana. Emetine. Squill. Senega. Tartar emetic. ANTI- EMETICS. — Anti-emetics include all those remedies which act as sedatives to the stomach and to the general system. They may be used in case of persistent vomiting, to diminish pain from ulcer or cancer of the stomach, and to relieve the nausea of indigestion. Gastric sedatives include such remedies as bismuth and its salts, carbolic acid, cerium oxalate, and chloroform. Ordinarily, we should expect cocaine to be of special value in relieving nausea and vomiting, as well as an efficient pain-reliever, but its use has not been attended with very 68 PHAKMACOLOGY AND THEEAPEUTIC8. encouraging results. The strength of a solution which is eflBcient causes untoward constitutional symptoms. Opium in small doses is a useful remedy, but no drug or combination of drugs will be found superior to arsenite of copper for the relief of the more common class of ailments of the stomach, characterized by irritabilitj' and vomiting. In the gastric ■ disturbances of drunkards, and in that of the early stages of delirium tremens, a combination of cannabis indica with nux vomica, in small doses, has often shown remarkable power in controlling the disease. PURGATIVES. — Purgatives are remedies which act upon various portions of the alimentary tract, causing increased peristalsis, and, along with it, increased discharge of exerementitious material. According to the effects produced, they are divided into different classes, as indicated below, and will be discussed in their order, although the subject will be considered briefly, and merely as a guide to the selection of remedies. The effect of this class of remedies is due largely to their dynamical action, and our remarks would properly be classed as a contribution to pharmacodynamics. The action of purgatives, however, is not due altogether to the in- creased peristalsis, as from their irritant character secretion is increased, and, to a certain extent, absorption is promoted, although this feature will appear more fully later on. The theory of Thiry and Radziejewski, that purgative effects were due solely to increased peristalsis, is scarcely to be accepted when we consider that, practically, all purgatives act as irritants, and as such increase the intestinal secretions. Names have been given to the different classes which are sufficiently characteristic to indi- cate the results which may be anticipated when administered in the usual doses. The method of isolating loops of intestihe, for the purpose of study- ing the action of medicines, is open to serious objection, because by this means an extraneous factor has been introduced, the effect of which is to destroy substantially the value of the experiment. No further evidence is required as a demonstration of this proposition than the use of small doses of laudanum as a purgative in the case of ovarian irritation. Under these conditions, a single drop taken with a little water at bed-hour will act as a brisk purgative. It shows that we are warranted in assuming the reflex irritation to have been the cause of lessening the secretion and peristalsis, and as soon as this has been subdued or modified by an ano- dyne the normal condition is re-established ; and, whether peristalsis is or is not increased by this means, increased secretion follows, just as in- creased secretion follows after the discontinuance of belladonna. That leads us to remark that small doses of belladonna will, in many cases, accomplish the same results as the use of laudanum. Another factor, PURGATIVES. 69 however, should not be overlooked in this connection, namely, that small doses of opium not only act as anodynes, but as essential stimulants of mucous tissues at the same time. The subject of purgatives has long been a disputed one in respect to their action from a physiological stand-point, but we can only hint at the question in these pages. Matthew Hay has given the subject of saline cathartics careful .investigation, and to his conclusions the student is referr^ Therapy. — For the removal from the lower bowel of faecal accu- mulations as well as poisonous products due to the decomposition of food, laxatives or simple purgatives are always in order, but due regard should be had for the general condition of the patient, and if tamarinds and figs are deemed suflicient, castor-oil and rhubarb deserve no consid- eration. A' costive habit forms gradually in the case of sedentarj' per- sons, and some of the most simple remedies are often the most useful. The value of purgative medicines has been demonstrated bj^ the successful floating of patent nostrums in this country now for more than a quarter of a century, and the physician who fails to relieve his patient's mental condition by appealing to an impacted colon has yet to learn the first principles of our noble science. That the physicians who practiced twenty-five j-ears ago understood the means of securing the approval of patients by the use of purgative medicine we shall not attempt to deny, but improved methods have given place to elaterium as well as to " 10 , and 10." To remove liquids from the body in the case of dropsy, the saline cathartics should be given in concentrated solution, when active purga- tive effects are desired ; when given in dilute form the diuretic action is likely to be more appreciable than the purgative effects. Salines are not only valuable in dropsy, but by reducing the amount of water in the blood the absorption of inflammatory products is more actively carried on, and hence in pleurisy with effusion, when not contra-indicated by the condition of the patient, their judicious employment may be expected to hasten recovery. Within the past few years salines " have been found efficient for the relief of peritonitis by reason of their power to remove accumulations and waste products, thus lowering temperature and blood- pressure and exerting a salutary influence upon the progress of this disease. Certain mineral springs have attained wide celebrity owing to the properties they possess of increasing the activity of the bowels, and their successful use teaelies us a lesson which should not go unheeded, namely, that the amount of the purgative ingredients in these waters is comparatively small, a fact which must be borne in mind in the adminis- 70 PHAKMACOLOGX AND THERAPEUTICS. tration of this class of remedies generally. The water itself is often a valuable adjunct to the use of purgatives, and persons visiting springs for health and for pleasure are advised to drink largely of the water as soon as their system has become accustomed to its effect, aiid as a con- sequence much improvement follows the visit. Large doses are to be avoided, because of the irritation set up in the alimentary canal, and the use of glycerin enemata will be found excep- tionally advantageous in many cases where the use of purgatives is strictly contra-indicated. Purgatives are alwa3-s to be avoided in ileus, as well as in occult cases of obstruction of the bowel, and it will be found safer to administer an enema of iced carbonic acid water instead of some drug which will only increase the difficulty in overcoming such obstruc- tion. Purgatives or Cathartics. LAXATIVE PURGATIVES. Carbonate of Cassia. Castor-oil. Pigs. magnesia. Honey. Magnesia. Manna. Olive-oil. SIMPLE PUKGATIVES. Prunes. Sulphur. Tamarinds. Treacle. Aloes. BuckUiom-j oice. Cascara sagrada. Jalap. Rhubarb. Senna. DRASTIC PURGATIVES. Colocynth. Croton-oil. Gamboge. Jalap. Podophyllin resin. Scammony. HTDRAGOGUE PURGATIVES. Creamof tartar(inlarge Elaterium. doses). Citrate of magnesia. Cream of tartar (in moderate doses) . Phosphate of soda. Aloes. Blue pill. Calomel. Colchicum ? SALINE PURGATIVES. Sulphate of magnesia. Sulphate of potash. Sulphate of soda. Tartrate of potash. CHOLAGOGtTE PURGATIVES. Euonymin. Gray powder. Irldin. Gamboge. Tartrated soda (tar- trate of soda and potash) . Podophyllum resin or podophyllin. Taraxacum ( in large ANTHELMINTICS. — Anthelmintics include a class of remedies used to remove or kill intestinal worms. They are conveniently divided into two classes : direct anthelmintics are those which kill the p.irasite, or vermicides ; indirect anthelmintics are remedies which dislodge the worm, ANTHELMINTICS. 71 called vermifuges, and the method of treatment will vary according to the object desired. The presence of thread-worms in the rectum demands the local use of astringent applications in the form of enema, common salt, or an in- fusion of quassia being generally sufficient, but it will be necessary to repeat tlie operation several times at intervals of a few days, as the pres- ence of mucus forms a suitable nidus for their growth, so that a single application will rarely be sufficient to dislodge them. For the removal of round-worms santonin is probably the most effi- cient remedy of any that we possess, and its value may be increased b}' the addition of calomel or some other simple purgative. It should be mentioned that the successful treatment of these cases frequently depends upon the ability of the physician to re-establish a healthy condition of the alimentary tract, the presence of mucus being especially favorable to the development of these parasites. Witli a view to indicate suitable prophylactic measures, a list of remedies has been added which act as astringents and in this way prevent the formation of an excess of mucus. The diffei'ent methods adopted for the removal of tape-worm have each their advocates, but for the present the consensus of opinion seems to be in favor of pomegranate, or the preparation made from it called pelletierinc, which was discovered some years ago by Tanret. Prelimi- nary treatment should always be instituted for the purpose of removing objectionable material from the bowel, and with the expectation of lessen- ing the tenacity of the parasite. Fasting for twenty-four or forty-eight ■ hours should be insisted upon, and if there is a bilious condition a simple purgative will be of advantage. The remedy should be given in the morning on an empty stomach, and within two or three hours this may be followed by an ordinary purgative like castor-oil. The authors have witnessed most satisfactory results by careful attention to these details. Anthelmintics. DIRECT ANTHELMINTICS OK VERMICIDES. Areca. Oil of male fern (Filix Pomegranate (bark Chloroform. mas). of root). Cowhage (Mucuna). Oil of turpentine. Santonin. Kamala. Pelletierine. Tin in fine powder. Kousso. Wormseed. INDIRECT ANTHELMINTICS OR VERMIFUGES. Calomel. Cocoa-nut. Jalap. Castor-oil. Gamboge. Scammony. WORM PREVENTIVES, Nux vomica. Sulphate of iron. Quassia. Perchloride of iron. Other ferruginous salts. 72 PHARMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. STOMACHICS. — Stomachics, as their name implies, are remedies ■which affect the stomach, and for convenience of study they may be divided into three groups, the first group including those which are classed as tonics, the second those which are referred to as stimulants or carminatives, and the third a number of drugs which are generally accepted as sedatives. Tlie division which has just been outlined is not a natural one, because it frequently falls to our lot to prescribe a remedy from each section in order to meet the indications which are presented at the bedside. A patient suffering from long-continued illness needs at the same time a tonic as an aid to digestion, which may be found in a small quantitj' of pepsin, but in addition to this there may be a condition of the stomach which calls for a carminative, and thus we have to select one or more remedies from each group ; and if a sedative in the shape of bismuth is further required, we have one from each of the three groups. It is of advantage, however, to know that these three different classes of drugs can be combined to serve our purpose, and it will be the object of the present resume to point out the conditions which conduce to the proper application of these remedies. A glance at the different lists of remedies accompanying this section will indicate that the first two are mainly intended to assist digestion by acting as stimulants, while the third group are especially indicated for the purpose of overcoming any irritability of the organ under con- sideration, — a subject which it is believed is often overlooked in pre- scribing, and wliich is so often dependent upon the condition of the liver that we have deemed the subject of sufficient importance to give the same attention in this connection. "When our whole attention is given to drags wiiich influence the stomach, it frequently occurs that Our efforts to improve the pliysical condition of the patient are rendered futile by the disorganization or functional inactivity of the liver. This subject, however, will be better understood if we take a glance at the factors entering into the complex process known as digestion, namely, secretion , peristalsis, and absorption. Secretion implies a healthy activity of the mucous membrane of the stomach, by or through which, at periodical intervals, there is a flow of liquid into the i)rgan, which is an active agent in the manipulation of the various kinds of food coming into contact with it, and after a time the food thus acted upon is so changed that absorption readily takes place through the regular cliannels. During the time the food remains in the stomach tliere is constant motion of the organ, the same being referred to as peristaltic movements, and it is sup- posed that tliese movements materially assist in converting the albumi- nous portion of the food into peptones, and at the same time increase tlie secretions. The latter proposition is warranted by the fact that solid STOMACHICS. 73 materials taken into the stomach cause greater activity in the movements as well as increased secretion, but in disease tliis practical fact cannot be taken advantage of owing to the irritation which is set up by the solid substances. As a preliminary, therefore, to the study of stomachics in their general relations, it will be well to examine briefly the influence which the liver exerts upon this important function, and we shall therebj^ familiarize ourselves with the needs of those suffering from dyspepsia and indi- gestion who seek our services. It will be necessary to recall the fact that the blood which supplies the stomach is carried to the liver by the portal vein, and that by the same route the blood-supply of the intestines also reaches that organ. Whatever diseased conditions of the liver inter- fere with the circulation in both stomach and intestines, has the effect of interrupting their functions just the same as the failure in the blood- supply of- the brain. The portal circulation being inactive, venous con- gestion follows in the stomach, and, as a consequence, digestion goes on but slowly. The old method of giving purgatives was generally attended with good results temporarily, because, by increasing the secretions of the stomach and intestines by the exhibition of irritants, a considerable portion of the water of the blood was carried off, and this being replaced by a better quality, the patient imagined that he had obtained relief. In cases of portal congestion it would be well to study the condition of the liver, and, if possible, create a more active circulation of that organ, and it is not too much to anticipate that, with this adopted as a rule of practice, the seeming demand for stomacliics would gradually disappear. There ought to be a more phj'siological method of regulating the portal circulation than by the indiscriminate use of purgatives. In connection with the administration of stomachics, the function of the liver should be studied, and we should not omit the use of appropriate hepatic stimulants, giving suitable cholagogues or laxatives when required to aid in removing the accumulations of bile from the intestine. Hepatic stimulants are remedies which increase the power of the liver to secrete bile, but they do not increase at the same time its power to discharge the same, and, as a consequence, it may be re-absorbed, and this process being continued, the organ becomes exkausted, as it cannot well continue to secrete the bile which ordinarily occurs, and do double duty in re-excreting from the blood the bile which may have passed through it several times already. One of the functions of the liver is to remove from the blood daily a large quantity of bile, the greater part of which ought to find its way into tlie intestine. A part of this excretion will be diverted by intestinal digestion ; another portion will be required to combine with the discharges from the bowel, and will modify peristalsis ; but a third 74 PHARMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. portion remains to be carried bacli to tlie liver, to be again excreted, and again pass tlirough the same process. Tills covers tlie excretory func- tion of the liver simply, and it is not deemed necessary here to enter upon a discussion of the glycogenic function of the organ, as, with proper attention to excretion, that will generally require little attention. Having now considered the influence exerted upon the functions of the stomach by the condition of the liver, and the advisability of taking that organ into consideration when deciding upon the selection of suita- ble stomachics, it will be appropriate to discuss the general application of the class of remedies which heads this chapter. Bearing in mind that the secretions are of the utmost importance, in the administration of drugs it should be the first consideration, as under no circumstances would it be advisable to give remedies to a sick person which would in- terfere with the normal secretion of gastric juice. This matter is of special value in the case of elderly people, and in those who have been complaining for some time, and whose stomachs we may assume are lined with an impervious coating of mucus. Of course this does not apply to those cases in which, the secretion is enormous, but where digestion is still below par. In such instances it is our duty to overcome this tend- ency by the exhibition of astringents and by regulating the diet of the patient, with a view to increase the nutrition. To establish a healthy condition in respect to secretion, there can be no doubt of the value of the class of remedies known as the simple bitters. Where we desire to obtain an effect uf>on the nervous system, it will be appropriate to add nux vomica or its salt, strychnine ; and when there are evidences of lack of a proper secretion, pepsin ma}^ be added with the expectation that at least temporary benefit will follow. A convenient combination of this character will not only include the various prepara- tions which have been mentioned, but will also cover the use of hydro- chloric acid. The popular errors as to the appropriate time for the exhibition of acids and alkalies require some attention in this connection, and as a pre- liminary step it should be understood that the choice of either does not depend upon the caprice of the phj^sician, but upon the physical condi- tion of the patient. Doubtless the inefficiency of many remedies can be traced to their inappropriate use, but of none is this more true than with acids and alkalies. Some writers and teachers would have us believe that their administration was simply' a matter of taste, but the fact re- mains that many patients will fare much better and recover more rapidly without the use of either acids or alkalies, when there is no positive indication for them. In deciding upon this question, therefore, the physician should ask himself if he can by any means increase the acid STOMACHICS. 75 condition of tlie system by the exhibition of alkalies before meals. Ad- mitting that for once, or for several times, this method will be attended with good results, is it reasonable to suppose that the constant use of alkalies will conduce to establish an acid condition ? To this question the reply must be negative ; and, however much we may admire the theory of osmosis, we cannot gainsay the fact that the continued use of either of tliese remedies tends to the perpetuation of the very disease they were intended to eradicate. The use of alkalies has been so general amongst the profession that the laity has taken up the strain, and when the stomach has been exhausted the physician tells them kindly, but firmly, that too much alkalies has led to their discomfiture. On the other hand, the popular use of acids in the form of proprietary and other preparations may possibly liave something to do with the numerous cases of dyspepsia that come into our hands for treatment, besides the great army of fault finders wlio contribute to enrich the coffers of liberal advertisers of nostrums. Sufficient has been said to indicate to the student that these reme- dies possess a value which is to some extent dependent upon conditions inherent in the changeable relations of the human system, and if the matter has been impressed upon the mind of the reader that these func- tional disturbances must be taken account of, the authors will feel that their task has not been undertaken in vain. Absinthe. Calumba. Cascarilla. Chlretta. Cinchona bark. Nux vomica. Pancreatin. Papain, or Papayotin. Aloes. Stomachics. — Tonics. Cusparia. Gentian. Hops- Hydrochloric acid. Salts of iron. Strychnine. Pepsin. Rhubarb. Nitric acid. Nitro-hydrochloric acid. Quassia. Sulphate of beberine. Sulphate of quinine. Ox-gall. Taraxacum. Stomachics. — Stimulants or Carminatives. Allspice and oil. Anise and oil. Asafoetida. Capsicum and chillies. Caraway and oil. Cardamoms. Chloroform ^nd Camphor. Cinnamon and oil. Cloves and oil. Coriander and oil. Dill and oil. Ether and Acetic ether. Fennel. Ginger. Horse-radish. Mace. Mustard. Nutmeg and oil. Oil of cajuput. Pepper. Peppermint-oil. Spearmint-oil. Valerian and oil. 76 PHAKMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. Stomachics. — Sedatives. Arsenic in small doses. Citrate of ammonia and Opium and its prepara- Arsenite of copper in Bismuth. tions. small doses. Creasote.' Oxalate of cerium. Belladonna. Henbane. Oxide of silver. Bicarbonate of potash. Hydrocyanic acid (dilute). Solution of potash. Bicarbonate of soda. Mercury bichloride. Solution of soda. Carbolic acid, Naphthol. Stramonium. Carbonate, Subnitrate, Nitrate of silver. Sulphocarbolates. and Oxide of bismuth. HEPATIC STIMULANTS AND SEDATIVES.— Not a little contro- versy has taken place regarding the effect of different drugs upon tlie liver. Certain remedies which have been vaunted as active hepatic stimulants by the clinician have been shown by the experiments of physi- ologists to act as sedatives. The action of calomel has always been a contested point, and, as tills drug has been largely used by the partici- pants on both sides of the subject, and with satisfactory results, each appears to have a valid claim for precedence. We cannot enter upon this discussion further than to say that there is a strong probability that the contestants do not take into consideration all the bearings in the case, as it is now admitted on the authority of Michda, and confirmed by Golding Bird and Simon, that the coloring of the stools after the administration of calomel is due to the presence of biliary pigment, although it was claimed by Stilld that this coloration resulted from the formation of the subsulphuret of mercury. But even then the evidence is inconclusive, from the fact that the liver discharges daily into the bowel not less than a quart of bile, and calomel taken b}' the stomach must therefore come into contact with it. As a simple purgative, then, calomel may favor the excretion of bile^ and in this manner the action of the liver may be in- creased. It may also be increased through the presence of the drug in the hepatic circulation, and, while calomel may have a sedative effect from its mere presence in the organ, its function in respect to the secre- tion of bile may be increased, and, with the added purgative effects which are admitted, calomel becomes an active agent in the removal of bile from the system. Corrosive sublimate is an agent which increases the secretion of bile, and calomel may possess some of its properties by reason of its passing through the acid juices of the stomach, and probably on this account Dujardin-Beaumetz has suggested a combination of the two. From a clinical stand-point, ipecacuanha is one of our best hepatic stimulants, but without due attention to the condition of the bowels it will not show as good results as many other drugs which possess purga- tive properties. The custom of the late Milner Fothergill was in keeping HEPATIC STIMULANTS AND SEDATIVES. 77 Tvith this suggestion, and liis liigh opinion of this drug was doubtless due to the fact that along with its exhibition he invariably made it a practice to keep the bowels in a good condition by the administration of suitable doses of aloin. Ipecacuanha has a sedative action upon the liver similar to that which it has upon the general system, as those who have taken it know to their sorrow, but the fact is incontrovertible that its appropriate use will often have the best effect upon the general sj'stem, and this may be secured without the use of massive doses. The cumulative action of drugs is often due to their tardy elimina- tion by the liver. When to the nornial functions of the liver there is added the conversion of ptomaines and leucomaines and extractives, the activity of the hepatic cell is exhausted, so that, when sickness comes and additional work is imposed upon it by the administration of all^loids and other medicines, the whole organism is depressed, and caution is necessary in the administration of remedies under such conditions. Especially is this true with respect to such drugs as acetanilid, which de- stroys the integrity of the red blood-corpuscles. The eminent success of physicians in days gone by was due to their timely use of purgatives, and thus the accumulation of poisonous products in the alimentary canal was avoided ; and it would be far better to-day if, instead of giving many dj'ugs, which we do, that we should remember the function of the liver, and relieve that organ from the performance of unnecessary work. Concerning the effect of alicaloids upon the liver, it should be noted that those of the solanacese, which include dulcamara and capsicum, and possibly others, are but tardily eliminated. The untoward symptoms following the administration of atropine and duboisine, even in moderate doses, indicate that these alkaloids may also be included in this categor}'. A similar condition of affairs occurs when other drugs accumulate in the liver, but it should be mentioned that the method of administration has something to do with this matter. The experiments of Paganuzzi, of Padua, confirmed as a fact what had long been entertained as a sus- picion in regard to the elimination of iron preparations. When introduced ^ into the economy by intravenous injection iron is wholly eliminated by the kidneys, but when taken into the stomach excretion takes place through the liver. It is in this organ, therefore, that we may expect to find evidences of poison which has been swallowed, such as lead, arsenic, or other substances, and doubtless it is often the case that a "torpid liver" may be due to the innocent administration of drugs which have interfered with the normal functions of the hepatic cell. A word may be added to show the value of the liver as an active agent for the destruction of poisons which may be introduced into the system. 78 PHARMACOLOGY AND THEEAPEUTICS. Certain alkaloids, wlien administered hypodermatically are very active poisons, but when talten into the stomach they are carried to the liver, and apparently lose their virulence. Cadaveric alkaloids, or ptomaines, are not only found in those who have died from various diseases, but they may be formed in the intestine from the decomposition of the refuse matter which should have been carried off b}-^ the bowel; but by a wise provision of nature, when carried to the liver, they are destroyed, and the products thus formed are excreted through the kidneys. Knowing, then, that this function of the liver exists, we are prepared to understand that it can be overworked, and that fliere will be a time in the period of grave affections, like cholera, yellow fever, and typhoid, when this func- tion will be suspended for a time, and it is then that the depressing effects of these poisons are seen. For a long time this property of the liver was not understood, but it is now too well known to be overlooked in the treatment of such diseases as have been mentioned, as well as others of like character, and it should not be forgotten in the adminis- tration of alkaloids hypodermaticall}-. In the course of a clinical lecture upon the Philosophy of Heyjatic Affections,* Aulde has advanced the following suggestions : Wliat the kitchen is to the hotel the liver is to the body. If the food is improperly cooked the guests make serious complaint to the landlord, and he in turn enters complaint against the superintendent of the culinary department. You can well understand how this state of affairs comes about. One says the meat is underdone, another that it is overdone, while a third com- plains about the quality of the pastry ; a fourth suggests an improve- ment in the hash, so that the entire sj'stem is threatened by the friction set up in tliis particular department. The liver is possessed of a double function : It is a secreting gland, but it also performs a function which is in the nature of excretion. If these different functions are not properly and promptly attended to, there will be friction. The complaints will manifest themselves in various ways and at various times. Probably the first to complain will be the digestive system. Intestinal dyspepsia is set up, and immediately there follows headache and languor, lack of ambition, and unwillingness to long continue at any particular piece of work. The demon of unrest takes possession of the mental faculties, and, as a compromise, the phy- sician at once advises his patient to recuperate by taking a trip to the sea-shore or the mountains, believing that good will be accomplished by a change of scene, new friends, and new surroundings. Freedom from care and a change of diet will often work wo'nders. The exhausted nervous system takes a new lease, and the functions of the liver are » Medical Bulletin, vol. x, 1888, p. S12. HEPATIC STIMULANTS AND SEDATIVES. 79 performed more nearly perfect than when the patient was suffering from the etfects of general depression, sometimes called neurasthenia, although better known as nervous prostration. Derangement of the function of the liver is frequently responsible for this new disease, which has lately been injected into our modern nomenclature, and the distressing mental condition of the hotel-keeper corresponds very well witli the situation of a patient who unfortunately becomes the victim of liver troubles. After dyspepsia comes melancholia, and even mania ; then follow heart and*kidney disease, often as a result of impurities in the blood, and the sufferer becomes a burden to himself and friends. From what has been said, it will be apparent that we should have reme- dies which increase the secretion, as well as remedies which increase the excretion of bile; but, with our present knowledge of pathology and pharmaoology, it is impossible to determine with any degree of certainty the true position of many drugs which affect the function of the liver, and this difficulty is not diminished when we remember that many, or, in fact, most of them, cannot be used during a course of illness without setting up irritation. This is an objection which must alwa3's be considered, but by diminishing the dose, as, for instance, in the use of podophyllum, that difficulty may be measurably overcome. In experimental Investigations the liver has received a degree of at- tention to which its importance entitles it, but, notwithstanding these observations, it is a fact that the deductions of physiologists do not cor- roborate the observations of the clinician, and due allowance must be made for errors connected with experimental methods. The observers themselves are often at variance with each other. Thus, according to Rolirig, the cholagogues, in the order of their excellence, are as follow : Colocynth, jalap, aloes, senna, and rhubarb. On the other hand, Ruther- ford and Vignal estimate the excellence of cholagogues in the following order : Podophyllin, rhubarb, aloes, colchicum, and senna. As the char- acter of the work will not permit a full and complete consideration of the subject, it has been deemed advisable to present several tables, the headings of which will fully explain themselves. With the exception of tlie first table, which has been adapted from the excellent work of Dujardin- Beaumetz on " Diseases of the Liver," these lists have been prepared more for the purpose of indicating, to a limited extent, the various drugs which may be used in the treatment of affections of the liver, with a view to increase or diminish functional activity. Co-efflcients expressing the absolute quantity of bile obtained in each experiment during one hour per kilogramme of the weight of the animal : — 80 PHABMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. Aloes, 0.69, 0.93 ; without bile, 0.69. Baptisin, 0.39, 0.39. Benzoate of ammonium, 0.54. Benzoate of sodium, 0.64. Colchlcum, 0.20, 0.45. Colocynth, 0.27, 0.45. Corrosive sublimate, 0.47, 0.55, 0.78, 0.85. Euonymln, 0;46 ; without bile, 0.47. Hydrastln, 0.28, 0.33, 0.38. Ipecacuanha, 0.38, 0.55. Iriain,0.63. Jalap, 0.29, 0.35. Juglandln,0.33. Leptandrin, 0.27, 0.31. ' Nltro-hydrochloric acid, 0.39. Physostlgma (ext.), 0.36, 0.75. Phytolaccln, 0.29, 0.47. Podophyllln, with bile, 0.01; without bile, 0.47. Potassium sulphate, 0.47. Rhubarb, 0.33. Rochelle salt, 0.33. Salicylate of sodium, 0.56, 0.66, 0.89. Sangulnarin, 0.30, 0.40, 0.46. Sodium sulphate, 0.35, 0.38. The following two lists are added of remedies which are regarded as hepatic stimulants, those in the first column being considered the more acti^'e from the stand-point of the experimental physiologist : — Acid, dilute nltro-hydrochlorlc. Aloes. Benzoate of soda, Colchicin. Colocynth. Euonymin. Mercury bichloride. Ipecacuanha. Irldln. Phosphate of soda. Phytolatcin. Podophyllln . Salicylate of soda. Sanguinarin. Baptisin. Benzoate of ammonium. Hydrastln. Jalap. Juglandlii. Leptandrin. Rhubarb. Rochelle salt. Sulphate of potassium. Sulphate of soda. Medicines which modify the glycogenic flinction of the liver: — INOBEASE : Amyl nitrite. Nltro-hydrochlorlc acid. Sodium bicarbonate. DIMINISH : Antimony. Arsenic. Opium and Its alkaloids, Morphine and Codeine. Phosphorus. Medicines which affect the liver, and thereby increase or diminish the formation of urea : — INCBEASE : Ammonium chloride. Antimony. Areenie. Iron preparations. Phosphorus. DIMINISH : Alcohol. Colohicum. Opium (Morphine), Quinine. 81 ERRHINES, OR STERNUTATORIES.— These are remedies intro- duced into the nasal cavity for the purpose of causing sneezing, but at the present time they have but a limited use, as their action does not accord with the methods of treatment now in vogue. In addition to tlio list of remedies given below, there are numerous drugs in the form of powder which, when allowed to float in the atmosphere, will produce this effect. Their general action is that of a cerebral stimulant, and with a view to increase mental activity they were formerly much used, snuff being the representative of the class. The rise of blood-pressure which they occasion renders them unsafe in the case of elderly persons, and in those who are subject to haemorrhage, and prolapsus uteri or hernia distinctly contra-indicates their application. The indications for sternutatories may be summed up in a few words as follows : In the case of deafness due to a catarrhal condition of the Eustachian tubes, and in persistent headache accompanied by dryness of the mucous membranes, and also in the case of obstinate hiccough, but experiments of this nature should always be conducted with caution. Years ago it was considered good practice in obstetrics, when there was a lack of uterine activity, to administer to the patient by means of a quill a large dose of snuff, which produced violent sneezing with expulsive efibrts, and thus hastened delivery, but of course such cases should be confined to those in which tliere is no obstruction to the delivery, the «ole cause being uterine inertia. It may be mentioned in passing that the principle upon which these agents were formerly given is an important one, from the fact tliat b}' their use we are enabled to secure increased secretion of the mucous membranes, and are thus able to relieve conditions which are difficult bj' other local measures, but in pilocarpus we have a valuable substitute, and it may be given internallv in such a manner that the results will be appa- rent within twenty-four hours. This class of remedies is therefore closely allied to sialagogues, and should be brought to our aid for the relief of catarrhal conditions affecting the upper air-passages. By combining them with suitable antiseptics and with cocaine the action can be had upon the tissues without the objectionable feature of sneezing, which is their char- acteristic. Sternutatories should be used in the form of powder. Euphorblum. Sassy-bark. Veratrum album in Ipecacuanha. Subsulphate of mercury. powder. Saponine. Tobacco (Snuff). PULMONARY STIMULANTS OR EXPECTORANTS, AND PUL- MONARY SEDATIVES. — These are two distinct classes of remedies which affect the pulmonary mucous membranes. The properties they 82 PHAEMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. possess and the objects for which they are administered may be stated as follows : Pulmonary stimulants or expectorants are remedies which affect the mucous membrane of the respiratory tract and as a rule increase the secretion thereof. A subdivision has been made in order to separate those which are stimulant in their action from those which are depressant or sedative in their action upon the general system. Pulmonary sedatives are also remedies which affect the mucous membranes of the respiratory passages, but tlieir tendency is to diminish the secretion, and, as a matter of course, they are for the most part anodynes, or remedies which produce a narcotic effect, or they may act through their influence upon the respi- ratory centres. In view of the intimate relations existing between the two classes of drugs belonging to this series, it has been deemed best to consider the subject in a general way, but as a preliminary to this study it should be stated that the value of expectorants as such has been largely overesti- mated, and it would be well before taking up these drugs seriatim to inquire if this method of treatment has not been overdone in the past. Certainly the number of people who are familiar with the best cough- drops and cough-mixtures would indicate that every man is his own doctor, and the result is that these knowing ones are the first to experi- ence the lack of appropriate treatment, and many of the cases of sudden death have been due to the disposition of the laity to take kindly to their neighbors' prescriptions for a " cough." Cough furnishes the first indication of the need for an expectorant, but when we remember that cough may be due to an acid condition of the stomach, or to engorgement of the liver, or to some obscure heart complication, to congestion from exposure to cold, or to local irritation of the pharynx, larynx, trachea, or bronchi, or that night-cough may be due to an elongated uvula, or to the presence of a circumscribed chronic pneumonia, or to other causes, such as nervous cough, which need not be referred to, it will be apparent that discretion must be exercised in the selection of the combination wliich is best calculated to relieve the path- ological condition. But this does not cover the principal objection to the use of cough-mixtures, which in tlie main, as a general rule, are calculated to do more harm than good. Alkalies are usually selected for the active ingredient, and as soon as the pliysiological effect is shown by the pres- ence of a profuse secretion, the patient is encumbered with the necessity for giving that condition of the system the most careful attention. What physician would think of giving his patient a sufficient amount of pilocarpus to cause profuse diaphoresis, and send him immediately out into the wintry air ? And yet the same principle is carried out daily during the winter time, in all temperate climates, in the treatment of coughs and PULMONARY STIMULANTS AND SEDATIVES. 83 colds. The vitality of the whole system is depressed, but more especially that of the affected tissues, and unless the patient is possessed of unusual physical strength an attack of illness will naturally follow this method of treatment. Delays may occur to prevent, or a trip for the general health may aid, nature in throwing off the morbid condition, but unless this is effected the time will come when the patient must pay the penalty. These remarks, however, are not intended to apply to those cases which have passed the acute stage, in which the secretions have become tenacious, but to those cases which are in the formative period, and which can be aborted. The abortive treatment of colds consists in first removing all extraneous causes which may combine to continue their deleterious influences, such as exposure, lack of suitable clothing, and the want of proper food. Medicinal treatment will include attention to the condition of the skin, the kidneys, and the bowels, with the use of aconite, gelsemium, veratrum, or other suitable remedy to reduce the activity of the circulation and overcome any tendency to fever. As soon as that has been properly effected the patient should be placed under the influence of quinine and the sulphide of calcium, so that within twenty- four hours he will be fullj' charged with both remedies. When there is cough, it may be met by the frequent administration of morphine in small doses, not more than one-fiftieth of a grain, at intervals of an hour, or even less for a few hours. The secretions of the bronchial tubes are modified by cold, and cough in the first place is due to passive congestion in the venous capillaries, — a condition which will right itself as soon as the active circulation is brought under control. This latter will be accomplished by the measures just indicated, and the exhibition of quinine will prevent the further extension of the inflammatory process, while the sulphide of calcium acts to prevent the inspissation of the mucus thrown off after the subsidence of the more acute sj'mptoms. When it is desired to increase the secretion of the pulmonary mucous membrane the alkalies are excellent, but they should not be too long continued, owing to the depressing eflfects which have just been mentioned. As soon as the secretion is freely loosened, acids should be permitted to take their place, and the use of antiseptics in the form of vapors of different substances will be found efficient, whether we accept the germ theory and the contagious character of pneumonia or not. Numerous remedies are of value, according to the special indications, as the carbonate of ammonia when the heart Is weak, turpentine or terebene if the secretions are especially tenacious, and the stimulating action of these remedies is also desired upon the kidneys. For children, some saccharine substance in the form of syrup must be added, and its value 84 PHARMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. is likewise apparent in the treatment of adults, while the use of the balsams will materially add to the efficiency of various cough-mixtures. Occasionally it will be found that tar, either in the form of pill or as the wine of tar, will' exercise a favorable influence upon the secretion without causing much depression ; and wher4 there are indications of a spasmodic " condition in respect to the cough, or as manifested in attacks of shortness of breath, a small quantity of nitroglycerin added to the tar preparation will prove acceptable. Some of the remedies which act as pulmonary sedatives do so through their sedative action upon the respiratory centre, but for the most part they all decrease the secretions, although belladonna stimulates the re- spiratory centre ; but, nevertheless, it also, like morphine, lessens the secretions. Great benefit may be obtained from these drugs without pro- ducing the narcotic effects. Apomorphine and pilocarpine are the most active expectorants, and the former, used in small doses, is one of the best, although it should be given with due regard to the increased secre- tion it causes. In this respect it is far superior to pilocarpine, owing to the possibility of the latter producing an undue amount of secretion, so that it cannot be expectorated ; but this can be avoided by using the alka- loid in small doses, and discontinuing the remedy from time to time as the demand for it ceases. As adjuncts to the treatment of the class of affections for which pul- monary sedatives and stimulants are indicated, several important factors may be mentioned, as follows : Vascular tonics, appropriate method of breathing, the avoidance of draughts, and the adoption of suitable cloth- ing for the season, and, where there is profuse secretion *o interfere with respiration, emetics, the latter being of prime importance in children. Acids. Ammonia. Ammoniacum, Asafcetida. Balsam of Pei-u. Balsam of Tolu. Benzoate of ammonia, Benzoic acid. Benzoin. Alkalies. Ammonia. Apomorphine. Carbolic acid. Chlorine. Creasote, Pulmonary Stimulants or Expectorants. 6TIMULATINO EXPECTORANTS. Carbonate of ammonia. Cod-liver oil. Copaiba. Galbanum. Grindella robueta. Larch-bark. Myrrh. Saccharine substances. Senega, Saponine. SEDATIVE EXPECTORANTS. Iodine. Ipecacuanha. Lobelia. Oxide of antimony. Pilocarpus. Potassium iodide. Squill. Storax. Sulphur, Calcium sul- phide. Tar in various forms. Terebene. Turpentine. Quebracho. Sulphur oils, Onion, Garlic. Tartarated antimony, Vapor of water. PTJLMONAEY STIMULANTS AND SEDATIVES. 85 PULMONAET SEDATIVES. Acetate of lead. Hydrocyanic acid. Opium. Belladonna. Hydrocyanic acid Stramonium. Conium. (vapor of). Stramonium (in smoke). Conium (vapor of). Morphine. Tobacco {in smoke). Spasmodic Asthma. — Asthmsitic attacks and expectorants are so intimately related that it seems desirable to make some remarks concern- ing the pathology in this connection, and we have selected the substance of the following observations from an article which was published during the past year in the Medical Register, and clinical experience justifies the position we then assumed. At present three views are in vogue to account for the asthmatic paroxysm, as follow : The theory of bronchial spasm, the theory of spasm of the diaphragm, associated or not associated with otlier ordinar}' or extraordinary muscles of respiration; and, lastlj^the theory of constric- tion of the bronchial tubes by swellings of an hypersemie, herpetic, or nrticaria-like character. Regarding these various views, a word of ex- jjlanation may be added. The existence of a muscular structure in the bronchi has been demonstrated, as well as the contractile power of this muscular structure, and originally the theory of bronchial spasm was based upon the facts brought out by this investigation. For many years this was the accepted doctrine, notwithstanding the evolution of other theories, said to be of a purely speculative character, advanced by Todd, Brfe, Budd, Walshe, and others. It was indorsed by Reisseissen, Pro- chaska, Kolliker, Williams, and Longet, and apparently confirmed by the subsequent experiments of Ps),ul Bert, although in his time it was contro- verted by Laennec. It was called by Willis the "asthma convulsivum," and the bronchial-spasm theory was adopted by Cullen, Romberg, Bergsen, Trousseau, and by Henry Hyde-Salter, the latter being the author of an exhaustive work upon the subject which has generally been accepted as a standard by later authorities. Wintrich, in 1854, and Weber, in 1872, attacked and made serious inroads upon this theory, and in the latter j'ear Leyden claimed to have discovered certain crystals in the sputa of asth- matic patients which he regarded as responsible for the devefopment of the affection. Leyden's theory, however, wa,s short-lived, as it was found that these crj-stals accumulated when the expectorated matter was permitted to stand, and soon thereafter it was shown that these crystals might exist, the patient at the same time being free from asthmatic attacks (Pfuhl). Biermer, in his criticism, has pretty effectually refuted the theory of spasm of the diaphragm, advocated by Wintrich, and Weber's view, that asthma was the result of vasomotor derangements, accompanied by sudden congestive thickening of the bronchial mucous membrane, is a moditica- 86 PHARMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. tion of that which had previously been advanced bj' Traube. The old supposition that asthma was due to " striking in " of cutaneous eruptions, and revived by Waldenburg, is in direct relation with that of Weberand Traube, although Gedding says " it has found but few advocates among intelligent physicians in America." As a warm advocate of the bronchial- spasm theory, we may mention the name of Professor Fraser, of Edin- burgh, to whom we are indebted for many of the foregoing references ;* ••but, before referring to the weak points in these theories, we have to note the appearance of a fourth, which bids fair to attract considerable attention, at least amongst those who are devoting their time to the treatment of throat affections and allied disorders. The fourth theory, which is offered by Professor Bosworth, of New York, as a cause for the appearance of asthmatic attacks, is " that a large majority, if not all cases of asthma are dependent upon some obstructive lesion of the nasal cavity," and may justly be set down as the evolution of a specialist, by reason of his opportunities for studying tjiis class of cases. We do not mean by this that we would undervalue his work, nor speak derogatorily of his discovery, but simply wish to indicate that such conclusions are to be looked upon as the natural out- come of his observations, and the array of cases whicli he ofl'ers fur- nishes most conclusive evidence of the correctness of his therapeutic diagnosis. Dr. Bosworth giv«s a tabulated account of eighty oases, the majority of whom were males, treated mainly by the insufflation of cocaine, and with marked success. His cases are divided into two classes, those affected with what he terms " hay asthma," and another class sub- ject to " perennial asthma," all of whom were treated in the same way, as he believes that both affections are dependent upon similar pathological conditions, designated as vasomotor rhinitis and vasomotor bronchitis ; and yet, strangely enough, he speaks disparagingly of the theory that these attacks are or may be due to reflex disturbances. He says : " The subject of ' reflexes ' has always seemed to me as a term oftentimes used as a cloak to conceal our ignorance of the direct relation between cause and effect, but I am convinced that in very many instances of moi-bid symptoms, occurring as a result of reflex disturbance, we can offer a more reasonable explanation than reflex in the sense in which reflex is so often usec7 at the present day." Unfortunately, Dr. Bosworth lias fallen into the same pernicious circle of reasoning that brought about the failure of Weber's theory, which is more nearly correct than any of the others, although all of them have some features worthy of consideration. The great difficulty in the way of further progress will be more fully understood by quoting the ♦American Journal of the Medical Sciences, October, 1887. PULMONARY STIMULANTS AND SEDATIVES. 87 following from our author : " Under the influence of this vasomotor paralysis there occurs, from some cause, a sudrlen letting up of the con- trol which is exercised over the calibre of the blood-vessels, whereby they become distended to such an extent as markedly to interfere with the passage of the air through the bronchial tubes." It will be noted that no mention is made of the particular blood-vessels affected in this manner, and if we could determine whether it were the arterial or venous capilla- ries which are so distended it would mark an important step in advance. This question we shall proceed to investigate. In the discussion of the question relating to vasomotor paralysis, by which it is claimed that the blood-vessels become distended to such an extent that the passage of the air through the bronchial tubes is interfered with, — a supposition which is rather too indefinite, — it will be convenient to study the various theories which have been offered to account for the asthmatic paroxysm. We are not prepared, however, for this study, with- out some knowledge of the influence exerted bj'^ the respiratory centre, hence a brief survey of that problem is of paramount importance. The respiratory centre is situated in the medulla oblongata, and ex- tends tp the upper part of the cord, and the amount of work performed is largely increased by a venous condition of the blood circulating in it, arterial blood, on the other hand, abolishing its activity. It is still an unsettled question whether this stimulation following a venous condition of the blood is due to an absence of oxygen, the presence of carbonic acid, or the products of imperfect combustion. Bernstein asserts that the want of oxygen stimulates the inspiratory, while carbonic acid stimu- lates the expiratory, centre. At any rate, Brunton saj's, " As the blood becoines venous the activity of the respiratory centre increases, the respi- rations becoming quicker aud deeper, and the accessory respiratorj'' muscles are thrown into action. This condition is called dyspnoea." Convulsions follow ; excessive venoslty of the blood has paralyzed the nerve-centres, but this may be overcome by adopting artificial respiration. Now, these conditions may be made to dovetail with our ideas of the pathological complexus attending the development of the asthmatic paroxysm, but we must first have a clear understanding of the vasomotor paralysis which exists, and the blood-vessels that have become distended in the course of the attack. Furthermore, we must bear in mind the possibility of the bronchial muscles being affected at one time, the dia- phragm and other accessories of respiration at another ; in other words, the developnlent of the attack is not alwaj-s attended by the same condi- tions. Predisposing and neurotic tendencies will exercise an important influence in this matter. Although Professor Bosworth may have met with cases of vasomotor rhinitis and cases of vasomotor bronchitis which 88 PHAEIIACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. readily yielded to the insufflation of a solution of cocaine, we are not warranted in tlie conclusion that all cases are amenable to this compara- tively mild treatment. The bronchial -spasm theorj^ is untenable from the fact that the main difficulty is in expiration ; the excessive venosity of the blood may serve to produce an increased tension of the walls of the bronchial tubes bj- favoring congestion of the mucous membrane, but contraction by a form of spasm is out of the question here as much as in the case of an attack of dyspnoea due to anaemia. It is simply a condition of increased ten- sion, due to the distension of the blood-vessels, to which we shall pres- ently refer. In the light of this explanation, the theorj' of spasm of the diaphragm also falls to the ground, and if there be any legitimate basis for believing that asthmatic attacks can be produced by the " striking in " of cutaneous eruptions, we may safely assume that it can occur only by reason of the presence of the products of imperfect combustion, as already referred to. When we come to the subject of vasomotor paralysis, with distension of the blood-vessels as a cause of the asthmatic paroxysm, the solution of the problem is comparatively' easy, from the fact that we can rei>%)n from cause to effect. Thus, it is now a well-recognized truth that venosity of the blood will cause dyspnoea and convulsions ; that these effects are due to the action of impure blood on the nerve, destroying its function and lessening its control over the muscle which it supplies. The muscular structure, being freed from control, exercises its inherent property and contracts. This rule applies no less to the muscular structure of the arteries than to other muscles, and, as a matter of fact, it is foimd by observation that we have to deal with contraction of the arterial capilla- ries, the venous capillaries being the ones that are suffering from disten- sion during the asthmatic attack. With this condition present the resiliency of the air-vesicles is destroyed ; they cannot contract. The expiratory effort is thus practically removed, there is a lack of proper aeration, carbonic acid accumulates, and in case there are, in addition, the products of imperfect combustion in the blood, another factor is injected into the pathology of the affection. Nitroglycerin promptly relieves the asthmatic seizure. It does this by acting upon the arterial capillaries ; their distension is rapidly followed by a re-adjustment«of the vascular tension. Patients suffering from attacks of this nature frequently complain of severe headaches, which in many respects resemble the "helmet" of Charcot; at times they com- plain of occipital pain, then again frontal, but it may extend to both. Within one minute from the time a drop of the 1 per cent, solution of nitroglycerin is taken by the patient this helmet-like headache will dis- DIAPHORETICS, SUDORIFICS, AND ANTIHIDROTICS. 89 appear, the breathing will become easj-, and if the medicine is continued for a time the bronchial rales will gradually become less and less distinct. The inhalation of oxygen gas will often have a beneficial effect, and with cocaine by insufflation we need have but little fear that our patient will long be compelled to suffer. Lobelia has been used successfully in the treatment of these cases, but on account of its depressing eflect few patients are willing to take it the second time. Smoking the leaves of belladonna, stramonium, hyos- cyamus, and eve-n tobacco, with or without the nitrate of potassium, has been found useful, but the nitrites taken internally are far more satisfac- tory, nitroglycerin probably taking the lead, although the nitrite of sodium as well as the nitrite of amyl are used. The Iodide of potassium has been very highly recommended, and if we accept the view that asthma may be occasioned by the products of imperfect combustion in the blood, its value will be apparent ; but it may also be used advantageously when it is desired to remove the products of inflammatory action. As a remedy, in cases of neurotic character, grindelia robusta occu- pies a prominent position. The fluid extract, given in teaspoonful doses at intervals of three or four hours, will in these cases prove very acceptable. Atropine, morphine and chloral have all been recommended, but we need not further continue the discussion, as we have already pointed out the defects in the theories previously held regarding this disease. DIAPHORETICS, SUDORIFICS, AND ANTIHIDROTICS.— These are remedies which act upon the sweat-glands, increasing or diminishing the amount of the perspiration. Tlie first two, diaphoretics and sudo- rifics, are substantially the same, differing only in degree, the latter term being used to indicate increased functional activity. Pilocarpine is the representative of th^ class. Antihidrotics are remedies which lessen the secretion of sweat, bel- ladonna being the most active of the class. The two remedies just men- tioned may be regarded as representatives of the respective classes. It may be mentioned that, as a general rule, the action of antihidrotics is confined to those drugs which stimulate the respiratory centre. Diaphoresis is generally attended by dilatation of the capillaries and increased activitj' of the circulation, but this is not always the case, although it has been found that vaso-dilator and secretory nerves accom- pany each other. Sweating may be produced in different ways through the influence of the nervous system. Thus, some drugs, like pilocarpine, will produce sweating when applied locally, or taken internally, through its influence upon the nerve-centres ; ipecacuanha and tartar emetic are 90 PHAEMACOLOGY AND THEEAPEUTICS. supposed to produce diaphoresis reflexly through their influence upon tlie walls of tlie stomach ; alcoliol, opium and other drugs cause sweating by their stimulating action upon the general system. The effect of mental emotion should also be mentioned. The indications for the use of diaphoretics are daily growing more numerous, and as they act in the way of emunctories of the skin, and tlius become complementary in their action to the function of the kidneys, we cannot overlook their value, but it is desirable that thej^ should be applied with as little discomfort as possible to the patient. So far as known, it is believed that but little solid matter is carried off through the skin, althougli the fact is well known that many volatile substances are excreted largely through the cutaneous sj'stem. One of the most important of the functions of diaphoretics is that of regulating the temperature, but free sweating may occur while the skin is cold. To abort inflammatory action, either of mucous or serous surfaces, diaphoretics are of especial value, and since the introduction of pilocarpine for the treatment of erysipelas we must look to that drug for great service to us in all cases where benefit will be derived from free action of the skin. In the case of fevers, this drug and others of its class will be found of decided benefit if judiciously emploj-ed ; in the treatment of measles, scarlet fever, and other eruptive affections, the value of pilocarpus will be apparent when there is a tendency of the eruption to subside too rapidly, as shown by the appearance of a cough and an unsatisfactory condition of the patient. Morbid conditions of the skin will be improved by the judicious use of pilocarpine and its cogeners, and particularly will this be noticeable if we have to contend with a condition of the sjj^stem referred to as that of suboxidation. Dia- betes and polyuria often demand the administration of diaphoretics. Diaphoretics or Sudorifics. STIMULANT SUDORIFICS, Alcohol (aswine or dis- Camphor. Pilocarpus. tilled spirits). Chloroform. Salts of morphine. Ammonia, acetate. Dulcamara. Sarsaparilla. Ammonia, carbonate. Ethers. Sassafras. Ammonia, citrate. Gualacum. Senega. Ammonia, free. Mezereum. Serpentary. Ammonia, nitrate. Opium preparations. SEDATIVE StlDORIPICS. Sulphur. Antimony, oxide of. Antimony, tartarated. ASSISTANT SUDOEIEICS. Ipecacuanha. Hot vapor to the skin. Warm diluents. Warmth to the su DIUEETICS AND LITHONTKIPTICS. 91 ANTIHIDEOTICS OR ANHIDK0TIC9. Plcrotoxin. Pilocarpus (Pilocarpine). Quinine. Zinc salts. Acids. Ipecacuanha. Agaricus albus. Muscarine. Belladonna, Atropine. Nux vomica (Strych- Hyoscyamus. nine). DIURETICS AND LITHONTRIPTICS.-Diuretics are remedies ■which increase the functional activity of the kidneys, either through the influence they have upon the arterial pressure, or through their action upon the secreting nerves and cells of the organ, or both. Lithontriptics include a class of drugs which are supposed to possess the power to change the character of the urinary secretion to such an extent that de- posits of crystalline or amorphous substances are prevented, by which means the healthy condition of the kidneys is maintained, or, should diseased products be present, the presence of the remedy in the organ will effect their solution and subsequent removal. The whole subject is a very complicated one, and has been studied with great care by many careful observers, amongst which maybe mentioned Heidenhain, Phillips, Brunton, and others ; but from the fact that much of the literature must of necessity carry with it the defects which attend upon all experimental investigations, as has already been pointed out, we are still unable to determine positively tlie true relations existing between the influence of drugs in health and in disease. In placing before the reader the following tabulated lists of reme- dies, it is believed much benefit will be derived from a careful study of the subject, and by reference to the respective headings a tolerably clear idea can be obtained regarding the most appropriate drugs for the relief of the various aflfections we are called upon to treat : — Diuretics, Lithontriptics. DIURETICS. Sedative : — Stimulant : — Nitrite of ethyl, Colchicum, Alcohol, Turpentine, Scoparius, Cantharides, Water. Squill, Copaiba, The potash, soda, and lithia Tobacco. Juniper, INDIRECT DTUEETICS. salts ar4 placed under lithon- triptics. Caffeine. Cream of tartar. Gamboge. Counter-irritation to Depletion from loins. Hydragogue purga- loins. Digitalis. LITHONTRIPTICS. tives, as Elaterium. Strophauthus. Acetate of potash. Carbonate of lithia. Phosphate of soda. Bicarbonate of potash. Carbonate of potash. Phosphoric acid. Bicarbonate of soda. Citrate of lithia. Yichy water. Benzoate of ammonia. Citrate of potash. Other alkaline mineral Benzoic acid. Citric acid. waters. Borax. 92 PHARMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. ACTING CHIEFLr ON THE BLADDER. Balsam of Peru. Benzoic acid. Benzoate of ammonia. Buchu. Copaiba. ACTING CHIEFLY ON THE UKETHKA. Cubebs. Pareira brava. Uva ursi. Turpentine. The following diagram wliicli has been compiled, it is believed, will materially aid the student in estimating the value of the drugs therein, and at the same time further his interest in tlie investigation of the clin- ical value of these as well as other remedies which may be advanced as suitable for the treatment of diseased conditions : — Increase arte^ rial pressure, ' Generally. f Adonidin. Increase car- J ^^fj?°^- diac power. UtSS. . L Strophantlius. General efiEect through vasomotor influences. ' Adonidin. Caffeine. Cold to surface. Convallaria. Digitalis. Erythrophleine. Squill. Strophanthus. _ Strychnine. Locally in kid- ^ ney. Action upon the efferent vessels. ' Through vasomo- tor centres. Through local ac- tion on renal structures. to thr".*¥o,£n'; I Action upon vaso. lelsef "7 motor n^erves. (?) Similar above. ( 7) Broom. (?) Oantharides. (?) Copaiba. (?) Juniper. (?) Turpentine. Alcohol, trites. Urea. r Ai< ■l Nil 1(?) Increase activ- ity of secret- ing nerves and cells. Increase uri- [ ^conite- nary water, i 'ctlo^el. L Urea. Increase ur nary solids. "■{ Potassium and Saline diu- retics. EMMENAGOGUES AND ECBOLICS.— These are drugs and meas- ures which heighten the functions of the uterus and its appendages; the first excites the nervous system and favors the appearance of the menstrual raolimen at the regular periods, while the second stimulates the uterus to contract. Direct emmenagogues are medicines which are supposed to produce their effect through the influence of the nervous system' ; remote emmenagogues include those drugs which affect the general nutrition, as in the ease of iron and manganese preparations, as well as those which increase the determination of blood to the pelvic organs, as aloes and other purgatives, Ecbolics are drugs which seem to modify directly the uterine contractions, although the circumstances attending the action of the different remedies are essentially different, and therefore a combination is often more valuable for this purpose than a single remedy. EMMSNAaOGUES AND ECBOLICS. 93 The indications for the exhibition of this class of remedies may be briefly pointed out as follows : When the condition of the patient shows that the uterine functions are depressed from anaemia, as the most com- mon cause for amenorrhcea is an impoverished condition of the blood. Mention should also be made of the fact that anaemia maj^ be found in conjunction with general plethora, in which case purgatives are especially indicated, to be followed by ergot in suitable doses and a nutritious diet. There also occurs, not infrequently, amenorrhcea dependent upon malarial cachexia, in which quinine is of prime Importance. Ecbolics are useful in uterine congestion, as well as for their power to cause contraction of the uterus and the expulsion of its contents. In the condition known as subinvolution they are especially valuable, but it is needless to say that this treatment should be supplemented by appro- priate hygienic measures, and by other means calculated to improve the general nutrition of the patient. Galactagogues, remedies which influence the flow of milk, may be con- veniently interpolated here. The most powerful drug of this class is undoubtedly pilocarpine, and when properly used it will be found to increase the appetite and improve digestion to an extent which is sur- prising. The value of electricity should not be overlooked, but the diffi- culties attending its application, together with the transient character of the eifects produced, warrant us in assuming that much better results will follow the use of the former remedy. As an antigalactagogue, belladonna may be mentioned in this connection, and as adjuvants strong coffee and a dry diet should be insisted upon, although these measures do not require to be long continued. A word should be added to the effect that medicines when given to nursing mothers should always be considered with reference to their effect upon the child, as purgatives, opium, volatile substances, and notably salicylate of sodium are excreted with the milk, and will affect the infant at the breast, and cases of poisoning from the injudicious use of active medicines have been known to affect the child. Emmenagogues and Ecbolics. DIRECT EMMENA.00GUE3. Asafoetlda. Ergot. Qul-Uie. Castor. Gualacum. Rue. Cimicifuga. Hydrastis. Savlne INWKEOT EMMENAGOGUES. Xioes. Counter-Irritation,— Manganese. Colocynth. leeches, mustard. Potassium permanga- Other strong purgatives. Electricity. nate Baths. Iron. Strychnine. 94 PHARMACOLOGY AND THEKAPEUTICS. EOBOLICS. Belladonna. Electricity. Quinine. Borax. Ergot. Savine. Clmlcifuga. Galaetagogues. Thuja. Coffee. Hydrastis. Tea. Digitalis. Pilocarpine. Volatile oils. APHRODISIACS AND ANAPHRODISIACS.— The proper perform- ance of the sexual act depends to such an extent upon the general physical condition, aside from the special diseases to which individual patients may be subject, that we shall undertake here only a superficial consider- ation of the subject, and mainly from the stand-point of the general prac- titioner in his daily work. That this matter deserves more general con- sideration at the hands of physicians is evident from the numerous flaming advertisements in the daily prints. A large proportion of those coming under the malignant influence of quacks would receive far more advantage from the institution of hygienic reforms and mental encourage- ment than from drugs which, in the absence of mental and moral stamina, are practically worthless. In addition to the careful administration of the drugs named below, there are some general observatiotis which it will be advisable to take into consideration. The condition of the bowels should be regulated by the selection of an appropriate dietary rather than by the, exhibition of laxatives or purgatives, although their use is not contra-indicated as a preliminary to treatment. The specific gravity and reaction of the urine must be investigated with a view to remove local complications. The condition of the mucous membranes of the rectum and bladder must be determined, and in case of hsemorrhoids, cystitis, or stone in the bladder, of course, all such exciting causes should be removed. Those remedies whicli are regarded. as direct aphrodisiacs should always be exhibited in small doses, as their value depends largely upon the power they possess to increase nutrition. Aphrodisiacs and Anaphrodisiacs. DIRECT APHEODISIACS. Cantharides. Ergot. Indian hemp. Nux vomica. Opium In small doses. INDIRECT APHRODISIACS. Phosphorus. Strychnine. Blood tonics. Direct antispasmodics. DIRECT ANAPHRODISIACS. Nervine tonics. ■ Bromide of ammonium. Bromide of potassium. Camphor. Hemlock (Conium). Iodide of potassl MYDRIATICS AND MYOTICS; lEEITANTS. 95 INDIRECT ANAPHKODISIACS. Alkaline medicines (the Bleeding. Nauseants. continued use of) . Cold baths, — local and Purgatives. AH vascular and nervine general. sedatives, as — MYDRIATICS AND MYOTICS.— The number of drugs possessing the property of contracting or dilating the pupil is comparatively limited, but they are frequently of signal service in assisting the physician in the matter of general treatment, while their peculiar physiological effects afford timely warning to the physician that sufficient has been taken into the system. The effect of opium taken with suicidal intent may be deter- mined by the examination of the pupil, and we are thus furnished an indication for the proper treatment, at least from a ph3'siological point of view. Anaesthetics act in a double manner ; during the early stages of anaesthesia, the stimulating effect of the inhalation causes the pupil to contract, while later on, when to the anaesthesia there is added the narcotic action of carbonic acid accumulations in the blood, the pupil dilates, and serves as a guide to the operator. Mydriatics are frequently employed to relieve tension due to inflam- matory action, and with the advantages offered by cocaine as a local anaesthetic a more speedy recovery may be promised than could be ex- pected without these means. Mydriatics. Ansesthetics, at last. Gelsemium. Belladonna, Atropine. Hyoscyamus (Hyoscyamine). Cocaine. Stramonium. Dubolsine. Myotics. Anaesthetics, at first. Opium (Morphine). Calabar bean (Eserine, Physostlg- ' Pilocarpus (Pilocarpine), mine). IRRITANTS. — This class of remedies is well named. Their function is to irritate, and although the generation of physicians now passing away laid great stress upon the use of external applications, the physician of the present seeks rather to avoid their employment by anticipating pathological changes, and thus in a measure preclude their necessity. The dawn of antiseptic methods, by which we are almost certain of pre- venting the formation of pus-cavities, and the knowledge we possess of the value of drugs in modifying pus-fovmation when discovered, has effected a revolution in methods of treatment. The demands of modern science, as well as of modern thought, have exercised a remarkable influ- ence upon medical investigation, and the results attained in the practice 96 PHABMAOOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. of antiseptic surgery may be accepted as the greatest achievement of the nineteenth century. It will not be claimed, however, that external applications of this character should be wholly discarded, as within proper limits they may be made to serve a valuable purpose, but, like many other methods which are npw obsolete, they can frequently be avoided with advantage. Their abuse, and not their use, is what we contend against ; and with a view to elucidate the subject, the following remarlis have been prepared : — Irritants include a large number of remedies which have for their object the modification of tissue-change by means of local treatment, which maj' be either in the form of mild counter-irritation, or from that simple method it may extend to the destruction of the tissues through the application of caustics of different kinds, or the use of the actual cautery. For convenience of study, these remedies are grouped with a view to indicate the effect which may be expected when applied to tlie tissues of the body. The first of these groups covers the use of topical remedies called rubefacients, which are used simply for the purpose of causing slight redness and irritation, which will be merely temporary, or which may not wholly disappear within several daj'^s. They are not applied for a suffi- cient length of time to cause a solution of continuity of the tissues, nor do they give rise to the accumulation of serum in the underlying parts, as is the case with vesicants. The difference between these two classes is one of degree, not of kind. When vesicants are allowed to remain in contact with the skin for but a short time they act as rubefacients, and when rubefacients are permitted to continue their action vesication will follow and they thus become epispastics. Pustulants are remedies which, when applied to the skin, cause the development of small circular erup- tions similar to the eruption of small-pox. The effect of tlie latter is more pronounced and is deeper than that of the others which have just been named. Caustics or escharotics not only act as irritants, but they actually destroy the tissues to which they are applied. Tlierapy. — Having now referred in a general way to the action of tliese different classes, it will be appropriate to consider their value when applied for the therapeutic results which they promise. When we have to deal with deep-seated inflammations which cannot be reached by internal treatment, and which do not show an inclination to recovery under the influence of the vis medicatrix naturse, much benefit may be expected from the use of irritants because of the derivative action which follows. An example of this may be seen in the treatment of chronic pleurisy, when absorption goes on slowly, but after the application of a suitable counter-irritant the process is greatly accelerated. An explana- lEBITANTS. 97 tion of this increased activity may be foUnd in the fact that by the application of the irritant the quantity of blood circulating in the affected part is greatly augmented, and as a consequence repair is moie promptly carried forward. Counter-irritants are to be used with due caution on account of the depression which follows, and when there is insufficient vitality in the system, and the indications point to the probability of a lack of strength to determine reaction, their use will be attended with untoward effects. They are not to be used, therefore, too frequently, and never in cases where depression of the system would lead us to suppose that their use would not be promptly followed by reaction and by improved nutrition of the parts. Caustics and escharotics are useful in removing unhealthy granula- tions as well as local excrescences, where the patients are unwilling to submit to a surgical operation, but in the use of arsenic locally for this purpose great care must be exercised to prevent absorption by the general system. Rubefacients. Alcohol, ^ Liniments (Compound camphor). Chloroform, i'^^^'' evaporation is Menthol. Ether, ) prevented. Mezereum. Arnica. Mustard locally, or its Cajuput-oil. Volatile oil, and Iodine preparations : — Other volatile oils (Turpentine). Iodide of cadmium, Mechanical friction. Iodide of lead._ Epispastics or Vesicants. Acetic acid (Glacial). Rhus toxicodendron. Cantharides (solution, plaster, etc.) Heat. Euphorbium. Pustulants. Antimony (tartarated). Silver nitrate. Croton-oil. Caustics and Escharotics. Acetic acid (Glacial). Carbolic acid. Acid chromic. Caustic lime. Soda, and Potash. Acid hydrochloric. Cojqjer sulphate. Acid nitric. London paste. Acid osmlc. Mercury (Red oxide. Corrosive Acid sulphuric. chloride, and Acid nitrate;. Actual cautery. Silver nitrate. Antimony chloride. . Sodium ethylate. Arsenic. Vienna paste. Bromine. Zinc (Chloride and Sulphate). 98 PHARMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS, LOCAL SEDATIVES. — As contradistingulslied from irritants, we have a number of drags and metliods which act upon the tissues locally as sedatives, some of which produce an anaesthetic effect and are properly termed analgesics. Aconite when-applied locally has the effect of quieting pain, and when applied to contused wounds will materially aid in restor- ing the normal circulation of the parts. The use of belladonna for the relief of painful swellings is well known ; bismuth lessens the irritability of the sensory nerves and tlius becomes a pain-relieving agent. The value of ether and other sprays has long been recognized. External and Local Sedatives. Atropine. Local anaesthetics : — Belladonna. Aconite (Aconltine), Bismuth salts. Carbon disulphide, Carbolic acid. Cocaine, Creasote. Ether spray, Hamamelis. Ice, Hydrastis. Rhigolene spray, Hydrocyanic axjid. Veratria (Veratrine). Lead acetate. Opium and its preparations. Lead, solution of subacetate. (Laudanum.) EMOLLIENTS AND DEMULCENTS.— Tliere is no distinct line of demarcation between these two classes of remedies, although the former name is applied generallj' to tliose which are for external use, while the latter are intended for internal administration. We cannot overlook the value of external applications of this kind, but a note of warning should be given that they are not to be too long continued or they will defeat the very purpose for which they are used. Water dressing in itself is per- fectly unobjectionable, and when applied without adding any degree of heat to the parts, much good will follow its use, but the indiscriminate use by physicians and by the l.iity of poultices, salves and ointments has worked irreparable injury to thousands of patients. In disease, whatever most conduces to a return of the healthy function of the tissues should be adopted, but no one who has studied the matter carefully will attempt to deny the injury which is daily brought about by the injudicious use of this class of remedies. The authors have witnessed the most unfortunate results following the continuous use of perfectly harmless (?) poultices on the recommendation of physicians and friends. The more nearly we come to imitating nature in the treatment of aff'ections, both local and general, the greater will be the success which attends our efforts in the cure of disease, and we have aio hesitancy in saying that the entire business of external applications has been greatly overdone. LOCAL ASTRINGENTS AND STYPTICS. 99 Emollients and Demulcents. Albuminous and Gelatinous sub- Poultices and hot fomentations. stances : — Soap and otlier liniments. Gelatin, Starchy and Mucilaginous sub- Isinglass, stances :— White of egg. Bread, Oily and Fatty substances : — Collodion, Almond-oil, Figs, Glycerin, Flour, Lard, Gum, Linseed-oil, Honey, Olive-oil, Linseed, Spermaceti, Oatmeal, Suet, Starch. Wax. Warm water. Petroleum oils. LOCAL ASTRINGENTS AND STYPTICS.— These vary but little from astringents alreadjr considered. They are variously used for the purpose of checking excessive discharges, such as ulcers, a normallj' in- creased or diseased secretion from mucous membranes, or as an injection in leucorrhoea and gleet ; to check haemorrhage, and to increase the vitality of parts, and frequently for their alterative action upon the cutaneous system. Acids : — Dilute sulphuric, Gallic, Tannic. .\ctual cautery. Alum. Catechu. Iron perchloride. Iron sulphate. Kino. Lead acetate. Lead carbonate. Lead subacetate. Lime-water. Nutgalls. Oak-bark. Rhatany. Zinc acetate. Zinc oxide. Zinc sulphate. By contraction of the blood-vessels : — Digitalis iutemalJy. Ergot internally. The application of cold, as ice. The application of heat, as hot water, etc. Mechanical styptics : — Collodion, Matico, Spider's web. ANTIDOTES. — Antidotes are used for overcoming the effects oi poisonous substances taken into the system either accidentally or with suicidal intent. They are divided into chemical and physiological. Chemical antidotes are remedies which, coming in contact with tje poisons, neutralize their activity by forming with them chemical com- pounds which are insoluble and therefore harmless. The use of mag- nesia sulphate in lead-poisoning furnishes an example of this action ; the lead in the tissues is changed into an insoluble sulphide, and by the use PHAEMACOLOGY AND THEEAPEUTICS. such as the iodide of potassium, we are enabled to Se^ functions of excretion by which insoluble products arc eliminated. Physiological antagonists or antidotes, on the contrary, do not destroy the activity of the poisons, but have a tendency to counteract their effect upon the blood and the nerve-centres, by which means the normal func- tions are continued, and gradually the effects of the poison disappear. An illustration of this is found in the use of atropine or picrotoxin to counteract the effects of morphine upon the system. Morphine causes contraction of the pupil, while atropine produces dilatation, and it has been shown experimentally that in other respects they are mutually an- tagonistic, and that a lethal dose of either may be overcome bj' the sub- sequent administration of the other, although when both are given together this result does not obtain, and death will follow. This is un- doubtedly a very interesting study, and has placed mankind under great obligations to that much-abused class of persons known as experimental phj'siologists, who have already accomplished so much in advancing our knowledge of rational therapeutics. First in importance in the treatment of cases of poisoning, after having determined the character of the drug which has been taken, is to effect its removal by the use of suitable emetics, or by the stomach-pump or by an improvised syphon, although caution is required in ^he case of active corrosive substances, which may destroy the walls of the stomach, when A'omiting would be dangerous owing to the tendency to cause rup- ture of the organ. Next in order comes the necessity for maintaining a healthy condition of the blood and nervous system by means of artificial respiration, but as it frequently happens that patients are not seen by the physician early in the attack, at a time when there is great depression of the vital powers, oxygen inhalations should be called to our aid. When its administration is not available in this form, the gas may be used by rectal insufflation. The following list of antidotes has been compiled in the hope that its study will familiarize the student with the most approved methods to be followed in the more common cases of poisoning which are likely to be met with in general practice. Murrell suggests the following formula as a multiple antidote* : — R Saturated solution of sulphate of iron, . . .100 parts. Water, 800 " Calcined magnesia, 88 " Purified animal charcoal, 40 " * Murrell ; " What to Do in Cases of Poisoning." Phila,, 1S87. ANTIDOTES. 101 The iron solution is kept separate from the mixture of magnesia and charcoal until wanted, when they should be put in a bottle together and well shaken. This solution may be given ad libitum, a wine-glassful at a time. Acids :— Acetic, Hydrochloric, Nitric, Oxalic, Phosphoric, Sulphuric, Tartaric. Alkalies : — Caustic potash, soda, lime and ammonia, and car- bonates. Antidotes. Magnesia, chalk, and dilute solutions of the alkaline car- bonates ; soap, milk, albumin, and oils. Vinegar and water, dilute acids and lemon-juice, milk and oil. Alkaloids generally. > Finely divided animal charcoal. Gases and vapors : — Ammonia vapor. Bromine, chlorine, iodine vapor, Carbon monoxide. Carbonic acid, (Choke-damp), Charcoal fumes, Coal-gas, !Eire-damp, Marsh-gas, Sulphuretted hydrogen. Aconite. Alcohol. Anaesthetics : — Chloroform, ether, etc. Antimony, Arsenic. Atropine (Belladonna). Barium chloride. Belladonna. Calabar bean. Vapor of vinegar, steam, and oxygen Inhalations, along with the known physiological antagonists ; tracheotomy or intubation, rectal insufflation or transfusion, and artiiieial respiration. •DiiTusible stimulants, wai-mth, atropine, strophanthus, or adonidin hypodermatieally. Coffee, strophanthus, followed by pilocarpine ; catheter- ization. Artificial respiration, atropine, strophanthus, oxygen in- halations, inversion ; the use of the battery to stimulate the muscles of respiration. Kmetics, or the stomach-pump, to be followed by tannic or gallic acid, and albumin ; milk or white of egg, and demulcents. Secure vomiting ; wash out the stomach with stomach- pump or a syphon ; give dialyzed iron freely, or the freshly precipitated oxide ; animal charcoal or magnesia may be used. DiflTusible stimulants and coffee, or caffeine subcuta- neously, and morphine, but artificial respiration should be maintained ; physostigmine may be used cautiously. Soluble sulphates, magnesia and sodium. (See atropine.) Stimulants, atropine, artificial respiration. 102 PHAEMACOLOGY AND THEEAPEUTICS. Cannabis indica. Cantharides. Carbolic acid. . Chloraa. Cinchona and sdkalcids. Colchicum. Conium. Copper. Corrosive sublimate. Creasote. Croton-oii. Curare. Cyanide of potassium. Digitalis. Ergot. Gelsemium. Hydrocyanic acid. HyoscyamuE. Lead. Lobelia. Morphine (Opium). Mercuiy and its preparations. Exercise and artificial respiration ; the battery cautlouslyj and atropine. Avoid oils and fats ; give demulcent drinks, and use catheter. Stimulants and saccharated lime. Warmth, exercise, and strychnine hypodermatically. Tannic acid and alkalies ; iodine preparations form with cinchona insoluble compounds; give morphine for its etfect upon the brain, and belladonna for its influence over the heart and sympathetic system. Stimulants with tannic or gallic acid. Alkalies and tannic acid are chemically incompatible; sti-ychnine and picrotoxin subcutaneously. Albumin to form insoluble compounds ; wash out the stomach ; morphine to relieve pain. (See mercuiy.) (See carbolic acid.) Emetics and demulcents, followed by stimulants. Ligature, with removal of the infected portion, and, allow only a small amoimt of the poison to reach the circula- tion at one time; artificial respiration and diffusible stimulants cautiously. Apply caustic alkalies locally. Strychnine and atropine to combat its action on the cord. Oxygen inhalations especially valuable. (See hydrocyanic acid.) Tannin, stimulants, perfect quiet in the recumbent pos- ture, with nitroglycerin in the early stages to relax the arterial capillaries, and strophanthus later to maintain the power of the heart. Same as digitalis, with the addition of transfusion or enema of a saline solution. Diffusible stimulants, atropine and strophanthus, with artificial respiration. Affusions to spine, hot and cold ; ammonia by inhalation, internally and subcutaneously, preferably by intra- venous injection ; the subcutaneous use of ether with Hoffman's anodyne internally ; artificial respiration and oxygen inhalations. Same as atropine. Sulphate of magnesia or soda ; sulphur baths. Stimulants with strychnine or strophanthus. Emetics, animal charcoal, strong coffee, artificial respira^ tion, exercise, the battery, and atropine hypodermati- cally ; in case the patient is apparently moribund, nitroglycerin subcutaneously. Albumin ; white of egg ; demulcent drinks. DISINFECTANTS AND ANTISEPTICS. 103 Castor-oil ; atropine hypoderraatically and stimulants. MushTooms. Nitrites : — Amyl nitrite, Nitroglycerin , Sodium nitrite. Oil of bitter almonds. Opium. Phosphorus. Picro toxin. Pilocarpus (Pilocarpine). Saviue. Silver nitrate. Snake-bite. Stramonium, Strychnine. Tobacco. Turpentine. Veratrine. Zinc sulphate. DISINFECTANTS AND ANTISEPTICS.— The value of disinfect- ants has long been recognized ; not so the application of antiseptics. An entire volume njight be profitably devoted to the study of the uses of antiseptics, and the subject still be left incomplete and unsatisfactorj-. While much has been accomplished in this direction, the present state of our knowledge is such that our discoveries are of comparatively little value except from a surgical stand-point, and in the present article an attempt will be made simplj' to outline the general character of the relations which exist between antisepsis and practical medicine. At the outset, therefore, it will be appropriate to consider the mean- ing of the two terms which have been placed at the head of this section. Disinfectants are remedies which are used to destroy the poisons that ai-e essential elements in the spread of contagious diseases, and their use is a tacit admission that diseases are propagated by certain specific germs. Koch's discoveries, and the investigations of others who have followed in his footsteps, offer the most convincing evidence that without the presence of these germs the prevalence of manj- malignant affections Ergot, stimulants, hot and cold douches, digitalis, atro- pine, artificial respiration. (See hydrocyanic acid.) (See morphine.) Avoid oils and fats ; give French turpentine or that which has stood long and become oxidized ; sulphate of copper. Chloral, bromide of potassium, morphine. Atropine. Soluble sulphates ;' Epsom or Glauber's salts ; demulcents. Chlorides of alkalies ; common salt. 5 Ligature or removal of part infected ; ammonia or stlmu- ( lants, or both ; artificial respiration. } Same as atropine. < Chloral ; the bromides ; chloroform inhalations ; oxygen I inhalations ; tannin. 5 Strophanthus, stimulants, warmth, and, for its general I eflfect, strychnine. ) Magnesia sulphate and demulcents. ( Diffusible stimulants ; caffeine hypodermatically ; the re- ( cumbent posture. I Carbonate of soda in solution. 104 PHARMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. could be materially diminished, if not wholly eradicated, and the success which has attended the experiments of bacteriologists within the past few years warrants the assumption that much more will he accomplished from the work that has already been done. Antiseptics are remedies which prevent the development of bacteria, and thus arrest decomposition and putrefaction; they differ in some respects from germicides, which possess the power to kill these bacteria, which are inimical to life. Both classes belong to the more general division of remedies against fermentation known as Antizymotics, and it will best serve the purposes of this article to study the subject in connection with a consideration of the life- history of bacteria, including the j-east, the Innocuous, and the pathogenic bacteria. The reasons for lack of successful application of our knowledge of bacteriology in the treatment of disease lies in the fact that these fer- ments are less susceptible to influences which can be brought to bear upon them inside of the body than when found in exposed situations, as in the practice of surgery. Being distributed throughout the entire system, even in health, it is practically impossible to reach them by any remedies known which will not at the same time exert a deleterious effect upon the human tissues ; and were it not that nature has furnished means for their destruction, no living person could long withstand their mephitic influ- ences. Bacteria are found in large numbers in the alimentary canal, and several are intimately connected with the process of digestion ; their presence has also been discovered in the urine, showing that they must exist in the circulating fluids of the body, and when disease attacks the system their reproduction appears to be carried on with renewed energy. lu their destruction the liver takes an active part, but the discoveries of Metschnikoff in relation to the role played by phagocytes has thrown a flood of light upon this much-vexed question. Phagocytes, according to this distinguished a,uthor, differ but slightly from leucocytes, and it is claimed that their function is to destroy the bac- teria which find their way into the circulation and permeate the tissues. These apparently useless corpuscles are active agents in preventing the ravages which would follow the general distribution of bacteria through- out the system, and show a most wonderful capacity for work. No delay occurs after these bacilli enter the tissues from the alimentary canal, or when intrbduced subcutaneousl}', until they are pounced upon by the phagoej'tes and eaten up, the products of this metamorphosis being car- ried off bj-^ the kidneys, the skin, the lungs, and bowels. When, per- chance, the microbes are too numerous, or the phagocytes too few, the battle goes to the former, and, as a consequence the invasion of disease is more rapid and complete. We have taken occasion elsewhere to speak DISINFECTANTS AND ANTISEPTICS. 105 of tliis contest in connection witii tUe use of quinine, wliicli has long been recognized as a specific for malarial cachexia, as follows : The assump- tion, whether well founded or not, is to the effect that quinine, when used in therapeutic doses, has the power to prevent the migration of the white corpuscles of the blood, influencing them to remain along the walls of the blood-vessels, while the remaining portion of the circulating medium flows througli the centre. Under these conditions the white corpuscles act as sentinels, arresting the progress of the poisonous bacteria and destroying their vitality. If we accept this doctrine, there will be no difficulty in accounting for the great value of the remedy in the treat- ment of all malarial affections, since it may safely be assumed that these corpuscles have a special affinity for the germs of disease, while the large doses of the drug used are sufficient to produce the action we have already indicated. If further proof were needed, it is only necessary to mention the fact that the treatment of such diseases has become a matter of mathematical certainty since the adoption of the hypodermatic method of administration. It simply goes to show that the action of the i-emedy is more direct when injected, into the circulation than when given by the mouth, and it may be assumed that coming in contact with the contents of the stomach or passing through the liver has something to do with its properties, destroying in part its efficiency. But few remedies can be used in the liberal manner in which quinine is administered, the most active antiseptics being exceedingly irritant poisons. The most active of them, the bichloride of mercur3', if given in sufficient quantity to be efficacious against the microbe, would prove fatal to the life of tlie patient, and we must, therefore, seek other meas- ures which may be prevailed upon to act as allies to phagocytes. In the preceding pages the value and advantages of purgatives have been referred to, but the subject is mentioned here for the purpose of further empha- sizing the importance of this adjunct in the treatment of disease. For the most part the bacilli reach the tissues through the walls of the ali- mentary canal, and whatever conduces to establish and maintain a healthy condition in the digestive tube will materially interfere with the reproduc- tion of bacteria. An apt illustration of this observation is found in the use of salol in the treatment of rheumatism, — a remedy which possesses antiseptic properties, but which does not undergo solution untjl dissolved in the alkaline juices of the intestine. Its value has also been demon- strated in the treatment of cholera. Many of these microbes undoubtedly find their way to the liver through the portal circulation, arid, knowing the destructive action of that organ upon aliialoids, it is but reasonable to suppose that its function is in direct relation with that of phagocytes. There still remains another topic to be considered in connection with 106 PHARMACOLOGY AND THEEAPEUTICS. antiseptics, namelj', that of Ptomaines and Leucomaines and the so-called extractives, — products which are ever at war with the healthy condition of the organism. They are of no less importance than that of bacteria, but the history of their development and the manifestation of their effects is still in its infancy. Brief reference will onlj"^ be made to the subject here, but their influence should be considered in the management of every case of disease. Cadaveric alkaloids possess a medico-legal as well as therapeutic interest, and no physician can well afford to be without some practical data regarding their development. It will be sufficient to say that they are actively poisonous products found in the system while in a state of apparent health and after death. In disease their presence may obscure the real condition of the patient, and thus the treatment, based upon incorrect diagnosis, will be fruitless of good results. Cases have been recorded in which death was supposed to be due to some for- eign substance introduced into the economy', and chemical analysis has shown the presence of some active poison so closely resembling an alka- loid that the accused have had great difficulty in proving their innocence. Under these circumstances it is needless to expatiate upon the need for accurate information relating to the development and the effects of the so- called cadaveric alltaloids, not only for the purpose of counteracting their action upon tlie system, but also for the bearing they have in a medico-legal aspect. A single observation here may be of interest, namely, wlien suspicion is aroused as to the real cause of illness in any case, and a fatal termination should result, the physician in charge owes it to his own reputation, as well as to that of those pei'sonally related to the patient, tliat every precaution should be taken to have a full and impar- tial investigation, and, as this cannot be accomplished satisfactorily if decomposition has set in, the body of the deceased must be exposed to cold to such an extent that no changes of this cliaracter can take place. There then arises no occasion for dispute, as tlie formation of cadaveric alkaloids and putrefactive changes will be promptly arrested. In the foregoing sketch it will be noted that but little has been said of the respective drugs or remedies as to their power to prevent putre- factive changes, but the omission arises from the fact that it would be impossible to do justice to all, and the indications for the use of the different preparations will be found appropriately discussed in the body -of the work. The following tabulated lists have been prepared with the object of indicating in a general way the uses of the various remedies which have been advanced either as disinfectants or antiseptics. The first is intended to give a bird's-ej-e view of the comparative action of different preparations in the order of their importance, and is compiled from DISINFECTANTS AND ANTISEPTICS. 107 C5 O O W O 00 GO CO to O"^ CO V"^ w"^3 M-lOCSCOCtOOvf^OCSOSCTTCStOCOOht^COOCH hf!».i-^tOOCOI-^COOOlO-^COOOOh^OOGDCJICOO Prevent the Devel- opment of Bacte- ria from Meat In- fusion. M-CO h-i-q CO is bDOrfi-OOOC?!tOCn eoocoocscoooo. M -^ 1-^ hf^ cc to Oi CO 00 h- CJI 01 W Ol OD H-. O ,^ M- to MM CO WOT 1-1. i_i !_». 1-j.o ^s^oi hP*.oi o en o"^"^ 00 >-^hf:..rfi.k-itOC7TCSOO-^l-'OtOhf:».tOCJ»OtOOiO OhJi-'QOtOtOOOCC'M-tOOM.-qoooOCSOaoOT MM-. h-i !->■ 4i. h-^ CO !--■ 1-^ hf!.. to 05 CI to C71 CO to to o >--■ 1-^ CO o -:i CO en OSO. OOOH-^OOrf^OCSCSOO ^o M M H-i M H^ M M j^ O O! CO GO CO CO p tJi. O O M O CO OD w to o ""-a O Ol '^--^ 0^ ooo*».orf^-Jc;fCstococot-^a^oooT tOClCOpiUCO-^COGOOrf^i-iQlGOi-'O Prevent the Repro- duction of Unde- veloped Bacteria. Kill Developed Bacteria. Prevent the Repro- duction of Devel- oped Bacteria. Prevent the Devel- opment of Spores InBoiled Meat In- fusion. M.osi-'to ?D Cf! CO ht!K CO t-i o c:^ MOOOOCOCn^COh-iOCOtOOOO l5l-^CO«DOC!IO-3-^005COCJl?DQOC> ^^J^3 tO^H-^ CO OS toco Or to S"T^ X^ t-J. i-i CJT CO H-i CO O GO *». CO CO O CO en OitS a *-^ OtOOOOOtOhJ^00503Cn>-»-i-t.c;iCO*^C0003 (yil-*-qcOCOOi-^OCnOOCCOOCO-3«C5C»GO PreVetit Reproduc- tion of Spores. Prevent Develop- ment of Spares m' Unboiled Mfeat Infusion, I CO I— ■ hf»- 00 GO i-i 1-^ O en C04^tOOCO-34i.-3h<^-3'3COOlCitO WCOOOW-qOGOOO.tOWOHWi-'Ol Prevent Reproduc- tion. /— N >W w a y -s ^ a fD K> Li. c: B m m P L*: 3 S Hi w o 108 . PHAKMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. information based upon the investigations of de la Croix, and in the main corresponds with the observations of Koch. The second includes the disinfectants proper, a class of preparations which have long been used to prevent the spread of contagious diseases. In the past much stress was placed upon the power of deodorizers for this purpose, but later experience has shown this class of preparations to be utterly worth- less, and the sooner the public are educated upon this point the better it will be for humanity ; they are a delusion and a snare. It must be borne in mind, however, that the power of all these agents depends upon various factors, such as the concentration and character of the solution, the period of exposure and the temperature, and in estimating their influence variations of this kind must be taken into account. The third list embraces a considerable number of the most common antiseptics in use at the present time, arranged alphabetically : — Disinfectants. Bromine. Chlorine. Charcoal. Iodine. Chlorinated lime. Iron sulphate (Proto-sulphate). Chlorinated soda. Potassium permanganate. In addition to the foregoing, other antiseptics in common use may be mentioned as follows : — Aniline. Iodoform. Saccharin. Autipyrin. Iron perchloride. Saliein and Salicylates. Arsenic. Kairin. Salol. Benzoin. Naphthol and Naphthalin. Sulphites of alkalies. Boric acid. Oxygen and Peroxide of Sulphides. Chlnoline. hydrogen. Sulphocarbolatea. Copper sulphate. Pyrodin (Hydracetin). Turpentine. Creasote. Quinine. Zinc chloride. Hydroquinon. Kesorcin. ANTIPARASITICS. — These are remedies used locally to destroy the different parasites which infest the human body ; they may also be used for a like purpose upon animals. Certain antiseptics, as corrosive subli- mate, act as antiparasitics, but there is danger in its use, and in many instances other remedies have been found more efficient, as seen in the treatment of itch with sulphur. The action of these remedies is soon apparent, l|ut inasmuch as germinating spores may not be re.T,ehed, repe- tition is necessary at intervals until all traces have disappeared. As a rule, they are applied in the form of a lotion or an ointment ; the oint- ments of the oleates are generally to be preferred, and in order to secure the best results ointments should be prepared with an animal fat. The following substances belong to this group : — THEEAPEUTICS. 109 Balsam of Peru. Mercury :— Petroleum. Carbolic acid. Ammoniated mercuiy, Storax. Iodine. Mercuric chloride, Staphisagra. Iodide of Bulphur. Mercuric nitrate, Sulphur and Mammea Americana. Mercuric oxide. Sulphites. Sulphurous acid. THEEAPEUTICS. GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS.— The administration of medicines implies an acquaintance witii some general principles involved in the treatment of disease. In the first place, the ph3'sician is expected to have at least a good general knowledge of materia medica, so that he is reasonably familiar with the characteristic features of substances usually prescribed in respect to the source from whence they are obtained, their general character and appearance, and the dose that is generally admin- istered, together with the antagonists, both chemical and physiological. That matter has been considered in its proper place, and is referred to here only incidentally and for the purpose of bringing up the different parts of the therapeutic picture. The second subject demanding atten- tion is that of pharmacy, that he may have an experimental knowledge of the operations and preparations which are placed in the charge of the pharmacist under his direction, and, if a true philosopher, he should not be unwilling to take his own medicine. The most successful doctors, as a rule, are those who give attention to these minor matters, and who make their patients feel that they occupy a relation to tliem which is rather more than nominal. Not that we wonld encourage any preten- sions bordering on quackery, but it cannot be disputed that patients always do better when under the care of the physician of their choice, and it is but reasonable to suppose that this result is due in part to the interest they manifest for the welfare of the patient. The third important qualification of the therapeutist is a compre- hensive knowledge of pharmacology, either from the point of view which has just been indicated in the preceding pages, or from some equally de- sirable point of vantage, the object being to prepare the physician for the proper manipulation of the forces under his command. A general with an army of a hundred thousand men at his command is often at a loss from sheer inability to command his forces, while one with abilitj' and judgment, with a tithe of the men, will be able to accomplish results only short of miracles. How often do we find in the medical arena those whose lack of success may properly be attributed to a superabundance cf knowledge, and who, like the general with the immense throng at his command, find that their knowledge is not practical, and, besides, it is unwieldy. Alas 1 too often do we find that our so-called evidences of 110 PHAEMACOLOGY AND THEEAPEUTICS. medical lore are characterized by more learning than judgment. It is to be hoped that a stndy of the methods we have seen fit to adopt will be followed by results in lieeping with the amount of labor expended in the effort to acquire practical information upon this important topic. The whole purpose of the present age appears to be directed to that channel which shall promise the utmost on the score of practical utility, and with this commendable object in view our work has been actively prosecuted, but as no scientific relations can be established in medical practice unless through pharmacology the duty was plain; the spirit of the times is pro- gressive ; the men of the times are on the outlook for practical ideas, and with a view to meet this demand in the line of therapeutical inquiry the following pages have been prepared. MODES OF ADMINISTRATION.— The effect upon the system varies according to the method by which the drug reaches the circula- tion ; also from the form and time of administration, and especially is this true in respect to the dose given and its frequency. These different topics may be conveniently discussed under two heads, the former under the title we have selected, and the latter under the head of Absorption and Elimination. Medicines enter tlie system by the following routes : — By the Skin or Mucous Membranes, by means of external applica- tion of liniments and ointments, and by painting, as in the use of iodine and cocaine, and by plasters, as in the case of cantharides ; by fumiga- tion, as in the use of calomel in the mercurial bath ; locally to mucous membranes, by the use of gargles, injections, either as a wash or spray, or by insufflation, or by simply dusting over the surface, as in the appli- cation of calomel to the conjunctiva. While all these measures have for their object the relief of topical complications, such as pain, inflamma- tion, cutaneous disorders, or injuries, tiieir effect is manifested by im- provement of the general system, which has suflered derangement from local causes acting through the nervous system. 1 The methods of local medication will vary according to the demands of the economy, as viewed from tlie stand-point of the physician. The enepidermio method is confined to the simple application of the drug to tlie skin ; the epidermic method difiers from the former simply in the use of friction, while the endermic method consists in the application of the remedy after removal of the cuticle, by which absorption is greatly facili- tated. Still another topical method, inoculation, should be mentioned, as illustrated in the prophylactic treatment for small-pox. The use of medicines by friction or inunction is still a plan which commends itself to a limited number of practitioners. For many years, the local use of aconite in the form of liniment, for rheumatic affections, was MODES OF ADMINISTRATION. Ill in great repute, but that has been superseded hy more efficient measures. Soap liniment, with massage, is frequently of great value in overcoming stifiiiess after injuries, and Aulde has published a series of cases* covering the successful application of salicylic acid paste in the treatment of chronic joint affections. The most popular, as well probably as tiie most efficient, remedy to talse the place of such methods has lately been found in antipyrin ; the action of the remedy is prompt, and where there is no heart complication the use of external applications of this char- acter can be avoided. As a further substitute for applications of this character, especially when dependent upon a rheumatic diathesis, we should note rhus toxicodendron {q. v.). For the most part, however, the administration of medicinal sub- stances is confined to the mouth, by whicli tlie alimentary canal is reached, with a view to affect the nutrition, as in the exhibition of tonics, acids, astringents, refrigerants, and alteratives; or the object may be to influ- ence the economy through the nervous system, by acting upon the brain and spinal cord,tlie central nervous and ganglionic system, the heart and circulatory system, or certain special organs or tissues. In a general way it may be remarked that all therapeutic indications are based upon our knowledge of the action of remedies when adminis- tered per via naturales, and in the discussion of pharmacological data we have kept that principle prominently in the foreground, not so much by associating with it special diseases, as by hinting at the various dis- eased conditions which pharmacology indicates may be met bj- the drug under consideration. Without absolutely following a set method of classification, which is liable to become tedious and uninteresting, — in short, perfunctory, — the aim has been to so conduct the consideration of these topics that our observations shall have a direct bearing in the selection of suitable remedies for the relief of suffering and the removal of disease. The improvisation of the rectum as a media for alimentation and medication is of comparatively recent origin, but the successful applica- tion of the method for the past decade furnishes the best evidences of its utility. In females the vagina may be adapted for this purpose to a limited extent, chiefly for tlie relief of local disorders, and when consti- tutional treatment would be inefpcient or useless. The use of drugs by the rectum or gaseous enemata will include those cases of disease attended by irritability of the stomach, or intoler- ance, and cases of exhaustion from wasting disease. Again, the local effect maj' be desired, as in the case of pelvic, cystic, or rectal affections, and for the destruction of worms, or for the purpose of unloading an • Medical Bulletin, vol. ix, p. 198, lb87, 112 PHABMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. impacted colon. The subject is referred to more in detail under the head of Alimentation (Rectal Alimentation and Medication). Attention should be directed here to the absorbent power of the bladder, a subject which has lately been investigated by Tricomi, of Rome. According to this observer we have in the healthy bladder a means of reaching the circulation with the same rapidity as when medi- cation is conducted hypodermatically,at least in the use of strychnine sul- phate, prussic acid, and sulphuretted hydrogen. Other drugs which were tried were less active, and in rabbits it was found that five times as much cocaine was required as when introduced by the needle. The antiseptic power of the mucous membrane of this viscus should be noted, as Tri- comi found that the injection of putrid liquids produced no constitu- tional effect, although when the epithelium is abraded the introduction of micro-organisms is quickly followed by signs of intoxication ; it was also noted that when suppurative processes were in progress the absorp- tion of bacilli was rapid. These investigations may be of value to us in the matter of treatment when we wish to prevent the absorption of micro-organisms from a diseased bladder, and should be the means of assisting nature in overcoming the effects of morbid conditions. HYPODERMATIC MEDICATION consists in the introduction of the selected medicament by means of an appropriate instrument under the skin, by which it is deposited either in the cellular tissue (subcutaneous), or into the more deeply-seated tissues or organs (interstitial). The eflS- ciency of this method has long been recognized, and its application is gradually extending until at present it includes the treatment of various classes of diseases in addition to its use in emergency cases, for which it was originally suggested. So general is tliis practice that a special ar- ticle has been devoted to the subject. (See Hypodermatic Medication.) INTRAVENOUS INJECTION is simply a modification of the hypo- dermatic method, consisting in the introduction of stimulants or saline solutions into the superficial veins in cases of collapse from heart disease, from shock, or from haemorrhage, by which the substance deposited within the vascular system is enabled more quickly to reach the heart and cen- tral nervous system. It is substantially an impromptu method of per- forming transfusion, but, generally speaking, this method of medication is confined principally to the experimental investigations of the labo- ratory. MEDICATION BY INHALATION of late years has attained wide popularity, the announcement by Bergeon of the successful application of gaseous enemata for the relief of pulmonary affections contributing largely toward investigations in this direction. Another factor which has given an impetus to experimental or tentative efforts for the purpose ABSORPTION AND ELIMINATION. 113 of prolonging human life is probably to be found in the extravagant claims advanced by quacks concerning the wonderful results attending the inhalation of oxygen, or other compounds intended to replace it. Literature upon this subject is incomplete as to methods and results, but the indications are sufficient to warrant a study of the matter in its present condition, which maybe regarded as the transition stage. There j-et remains to be added a word concerning the methods of inhalation as practiced by phj-sicians giving special attention to throat and chest affections, which include medicated inhalations, either in the form of spray, by the use of an atomizer, by exposure to the fumes of volatile substances, or by contact with vapors of natural medicated waters, as conducted at various springs in this country and abroad. Tlie whole aspect of the subject will be found discussed under Medicated Inhalations. ABSORPTION AND ELIMINATION.— In considering the effect which medicines are calculated to produce upon tlie system, it is im- portant that an estimate should be made of the complications that may arise by reason of the drug not being properly absorbed, or when taken up by the tissues, its prompt elimination being interfered with, a cumu- lative action may be the result. Investigations with curare have shown that, when introduced into the sj'stem by intravenous injection, it was rapidly eliminated by the kidnej'S, but when the renal arteries were tied, and elimination prevented, death followed from the use of the same quantity of the drug that before had caused but the sliglitest systemic disturbance. "When strychnine is introduced into the bladder, the effect becomes apparent as quickly as if the same had been used hypodermati- cally, and the same drug, when introduced into the healthy pleural cavity, will be promptly followed by the characteristic physiological effects. Cumulative action is illustrated in the foregoingreference to curare, and is simply the action of the drug which has accumulated in the system ; if the drug be given in such doses that elimination is not suf- ficient for its removal from the system, then the same effect would follow. It will be noted that this differs materially from the so-called cumulative action of digitalis, which has the effect of paral3-zing the heart when long continued, even with the exhibition of small doses. Digitalis does not interfere with the action of the kidney, but, on the contrary, it increases the renal secretion ; but patients have succumbed under the use of digi- talis, and it has been understood with the medical profession that death was due to the cumulative action of the drug. Absorption is generally by the stomach, and from the stomach the stream of blood carries it to the liver, when that which remains of the drug passes into the general circulation. Some drugs, ho'^fever, are not 8 114 PHAKMACOLOGY AND THEKAPEUTICS. dissolved in the acid juices of the stomach, and they are carried on to the small intestine, where solution is effected, and from thence the drug is carried to the livep as in the case of absorption from the stomach. This, of course, does not apply to the action of poison like hydrocyanic acid or corrosive substances, which often kill almost instantaneously, but to the general method by which absorption is effected when drugs are taken into the stomach. There are quite a number of remedies whicii may be expected to gain entrance to the general circulation more rapidly when taken up by the glands of the mouth than when allowed to enter the stomach, and this practical fact can be taken advantage of when giving various remedies. If, for instance, we are anxious to get a patient quickly under the influence of aconite, belladonna, or pilocarpus, it will only be necessary to have the medicament in the form of a readily soluble tablet triturate, and ask the patient that it may be allowed to dissolve in the mouth. So small a dose as one-tenth of a minim of aconite tincture administered in this manner at intervals of five or ten minutes in attacks of rapidly developing tonsillitis may be depended upon to exert a decidedly favorable action upon its progress, and with other suitable medication, if called in time, no cases need go on to suppuration. Atropine given in a similar manner in the case of hoarseness, in simple pharyngitis, with congestion of the mucous membranes and possibly loss of voice, will frequently produce effects which are truly wonderful. Tlie condition of the stomach will modify the activity of absorption. When there is a condition present which embraces those features known as biliousness, accompanied by a coated tongue and foul breath, the processes of assimilation are seriously embarrassed. Such is frequently seen in the early stages of many diseases, and, of course, the first indi- cation will be to remove this obstacle to treatment. If there are symp- toms of organic disease of the stomach, the physiological remedies should be given with extreme caution, or it will be found that cadaveric alkaloids have found their way into the system, and we shall have to deal with a factitious as well as a real disease. Doubtless the impure pepsins which are to be found in the market are responsible for many cases of severe illness, which without their use would be comparatively trifling. The form of the medicine should always be adapted to the condition of the stomach, and in writing a prescription it will be necessary for the physician to exercise care in selecting the preparation. At one time a drug in the form of powder may be that which is best suited to the demands of the patient ; at another it may be necessary to give it in the form of a liquid, so that absorption may be hastened ; again, there are instances in which the drug should be given in the form of a pill or a triturate. This latter observation applies especially to the administra- ABSORPTION AND ELIMINATION. 115 tion of ipecacuanha ; if taken in pill form with a view to affect the liver, and indirectly the skin, the renal sjstem and the respiratory apparatus, as much may be given at one dose as would be required for an entire week if exhibited in the liquid form. But the small doses would have no apparent effect such as is desired, and therefore the time would be wasted, and the health of the patient jeopardized. In deciding upon medicines for children, ^the form is of the greatest importance, as it frequently happens that a dislike is occasioned for the doctor owing to the nauseating character of the medicine ordered, whieh lasts during the life of the child, and we regret to say that parents are not loth to foster such a disposition — probably because they have been sufferers themselves. Every effort should be made to secure the approval of the patient's palate by making combinations which shall not prove nauseating, and yet be efficient. The time at which medicines are exhibited is an important element. If taken fasting in the early morning, the action may be very much greater than when taken under less favorable conditions for its absorp- tion. There are, however, some medicines which are supposed to be far more efficacious when taken under these conditions. Quinine, in malarial affections, and decoction of pomegranate, for tape-worm, should preferably be given in the early morning, when the stomach is empty, but caution is required in order to prevent the rejection of the preparation by vomiting. The season of the j^earand the climate also have an influence upon the effect of the medicine on the sj-stem, but in temperate climates this is not a factor of sufficient importance to demand attention, except at times of unusual heat or excessive cold. Extremes of weather alwa\ s have a depressing influence upon the system, but this is not especiallj^ noticeable until toward the close of exceptional periods. It is most marked after continued wet weather, accompanied by cold and high winds, and those who ha-^e given the matter attention seem to think that the sickness is generally more widespread at the close of a long and cold winter and toward the end of an unusually hot and dry summer. As a rule, those who suffer most from such extremes are the children and the older persons in a community, and in eases of this character the phj'- sician should consider the best means of maintaining a healthy condition of the nutrition, adding such stimulants as may be indicated by the de- preciated condition of the nervous S3'stem. The manner of exhibiting the drug or drugs will depend, to some extent, upon the immediate needs of the patient. To relieve urgent symptoms a hypodermatic injection may be required, or a case of active congestion threaten'.ig brain complications will demand venesection. Emergency cases aie often due to a disordered condition of the stomach, 116 PHAEMACOLOGY AND THEEAPEUTICS. and the first tiling to be insisted upon will l)e the unloading of the stomach by an emetic ; and in a ease of poisoning, when there is a possi- bility that any of the substance still remains in the stomach, an emetic should not be omitted. Combinations will involve both chemical and physiological considerations, which will be referred to under the head of Incompatibility ; but the suggestion is put forward that if the physician does not know the effect which will be produced by the combination ordered, it will be far better to confine himself to the single remedy. There are times, however, when a combination of drugs which do not have the same general action upon the system may be united with the best results, but it is needless to sa}^ that such combinations should be ordered with care and their effects faithfully watched. The general habits of the patient should be taken into consideration. Persons who are daily engaged in hard labor will not be infiuenced to the same extent by drugs as those who live luxurious lives, or who may be engaged in sedentary employment ; but there is not so much difference here, aside from idiosyncrasies, as one would at first suppose. It will be found that when the dose is properly apportioned there is but little danger of meeting with any untoward action, except in the case of drugs which are somewhat uncertain in their action, and then the fault is rather with the drug than with the patient. But we cannot overlook the fact that the age and sex of the patient should be considered, and the temperament, as well as any diathesis which may be present. Lack of attention to these details will occasionally end disastrously to the physician by his losing the confidence of his patient. Diet is a matter which cannot well be overlooked, and, while that has much to do with onr methods of medi- cation, it frequently has far more to do with the welfare of the patient, and attention to it will be an important factor in hastening his recovery. It seems scarcely necessary to mention that the character of the disease will have an important bearing in the selection of the drugs, not only with reference to their absorption and elimination, but with refer- ence to the form, time, and manner of prescribing. Tlie symptoms of the patient, both subjective and objective, should not escape the attention of the physician, and without a daily record of temperature his hands are practically tied. Idiosyncrasy is one of the most diffleult things to meet in estimating the effects of medicine, but it is not too much to assume that many cases of so-called idiosyncrasy are but instances of cumulative action, in which there is a failure to eliminate the drug from the system. But all cases of this class are not so simple, as it not infrequently happens that the first dose of quinine will develop a scarlatinous rash, or a small dose of belladonna cause exceptional cerebral sj'mptoms. Occasionally^ the un- AESOEPTION AND ELIMINATION. 117 ■Jesirable effects of a drug may be overcome by administering at the same time some otlier preparation wliicli will, in a measure, counteract its objectionable features. Tlius, the bromides are used to overcome the objections to the administration of large doses of quinine, and it has been found that the sensitiveness of the nerves may be obtunded and still the action of the quinine will be apparent, just the same as if nothing had been used to diminish the subjective symptoms which it produces. Some persons are able to take certain pi-eparations of a drug, but not others, and, when there is a special indication for the remedy, the form of the medicine can be changed. Otliers are susceptible to large doses of certain medicaments to such an extent that they are practically barred, .but in these instances the phj^sician may find that a smaller dose not onl}- will be well borne, but will be quite as efficacious as the larger one. This condition may be reversed : the patient va&y be unable to take a small dose without discomfort, but a large dose of the same drug wiW be not only well borne, but will be found to have the desired effect. The use of quinine furnishes an illustration of the first, while the use of iodide of potassium illustrates the second. A single grain of quinine may be distributed over the day, and continued in this manner often witli the happiest results, but ten grains of the same drug, taken at one time or during the day, would cause most distressing symptoms. Five grains of potassium iodide may in some persons cause the appearance of the characteristic eruption and other unpleasant symptoms, but if the dose be increased to thirty grains three times daily there will be no difficulty whatever, and this even in the absence of a specific histor}^. A report published by Knapp,* of Boston, emphasizes this observation, and goes to show that small doses are sometimes more liable to produce iodism tlian large ones, and what is true of this drug is also true of mercury, small doses being far more likely to produce ptyalism than large ones. This, however, can be avoided by decreasing instead of increasing the dose of mercury, just as we have indicated in the case of the adminis- tration of quinine. The discussion of idiosyncrasj' has brought us into consideration of the tolerance of the human system for drugs, but, as that is a matter wholly in the Iftinds of experimental ph3'siologists, it demands but slight consideration at our hands. We do not undertake to give any of our drugs in such proportion to the weight of the patient as is the custom in the laboratory, although tlie physician is interested in knowing from time to time the weight of his patient, so that he may calculate upon the good results which attend upon his treatment. An attempt has been made to estimate the amount of corrosive sublimate which would be * Therapeutic Gazette, June, 1889. 118 PHARMACOLOGY AND THEKAPEUTICS. required to saturate the tissues to an extent that would affect the mi- crobes, l)ut it was found that the ordinary dose would have to be in- creased so many thousand times that the scheme was abandoned as - wholly impracticable. The tolerance of the system for drugs is only equalled by the per- • sistent resistance shown by it against disease. It is evident, therefore, that neither idiosj'ncrasy nor tolerance depends altogether upon absorp- tion ; at least, so far as our present investigations indicate. Dosage. — In the administration of medicines one subject, the size of the dose, lias always been a vexed question, and, judging from recent literature, there does not appear to be any more likelihood of approach- ing agreement than there was twenty years ago. Whenever the question- comes np for discussion, we are referred to the observations of experi- mental physiologists, where they have made the most careful calculations with respect to the effects observed when the proportion of the drug bore a certain relation to the weight of the animal; but, as that has already been referred to, space need not be taken with a discussion of the matter at this time, further than to say that this method cannpt be adopted in the treatment of disease. The period at which the medicine is exhibited in the usual medicinal doses will have a greater bearing upon the effect produced. This fact may be illustrated in the plan adopted by certain practitioners in the exhibition of pepsin. Should this physio- logical remedy be given in combination with an alkali, its activity will be neutralized, and Winslow has shown by very careful observations that the same result may be expected when the drug is given in combination with many other remedies which are supposed to be synergistic in their action to pepsin. Regarding the use of pancreatin, Chittenden has demonstrated by laboratory experiments that it is practically impossible to use that remedy with any hope of effecting improvement in cases of indigestion, because its activity is destroyed in the acid juices of the stomach. Now, what shall we conclude when the physicians who give pepsin with an alkali claim that they are warranted by the good effects which follow its administration ? What answer shall we make to those gentlemen who are regularly accustomed to prescribe pancreatin for indigestion, and who assert most positively that the best results attend its use, the statements of experimental physiologists to the contrary, notwithstanding ? The solution of the complicated problem may be found in the matter of the time of administration rather than in the size of the dose. , In the preceding pages we have taken occasion to speak of the action of drugs when given in small doses, and it will be appropriate to mention that there may possibly be something more in it than what has been ABSORPTION AND ELIMINATION. 119 variously called the selective action, or action bj- substitution. The sub- ject will be better understood by assuming that the effects observed from the exhibition of medicines are in the nature of a resultant action ; that is, the disease action and the drug action combined produce an effect upon the economy which is erroneously spoken of as the drug action. That this assumption is warranted will be apparent when we take into consideration that manj' drugs which produce marked effects during disease do not produce any appreciable effect in health. Quinine in large doses in health does not appreciably lower the temperature, and the same is practically true of some of the more powerful antip3'retics. In answer to this it will be said that the interaction of the various functions will sufficiently account for this apparent paradox, and as an illustration we are con- fronted with the statement that sometimes digitalis fails to reduce the pulse during an attack of pneumonia ; and while this theory of interaction of the functions will explain the failure of digitalis in this particular instance, it does not cover the use of the other drugs which have been mentioned. It cannot be made to do duty of this kind, simply because in the one case we have a condition of health to deal with, while in the other we are dealing with a diseased condition. The cases are not by any means parallel. The size of the dose is not always an arbitrary matter, and depends upon so many unknown factors that it must be largely a question of experience. A practical demonstration of this is found in the experience of Penton, of Streator, Illinois, in his observations of the effects produced by the exhibition of rhus toxicodendron for the relief of a case presenting all the indications of sciatica. The patient had been under the treatment of several physicians for a number of weeks before coming under his care, but all the usual remedies had absolutely failed, when he was ad- vised to seek further treatment under hospital management ; but ten daj's effected no change or improvement whatever. At that time tlie patient again came under observation, and was placed under the influence of the tincture of rhus, one-half drop in water three times daily, with the result that perfect recovery followed after the first five doses of the drug had been taken. Aulde has reported a number of cases in which cholera morbus and allied affections were promptly and permanently relieved by the exhibition of arsenite of copper in doses of one one- hundredth of a grain, distributed over a period of one or more hours ; but these subjects will be referred to more fully under their proper head- ings (q. v.). The dose must also be considered with reference to the so-called primary and secondary action of the drug. For example, we may refer to the primary and secondary action or effect ot alcohol, and as this 120 PHARMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. liriiigs us to consider the remote and local effects, both may he consid- ered in the same paragraph. Alcohol produces a local effect upon the mucous membrane of the stomach with which we are all familiar, at least theoreticallj', but in addition there is a remote effect which is manifested upon the liver and upon the tissues of the kidlleJ^ Then, again, there is the effect which is produced through the interaction of the various func- tions, which may be called the secondary effect. Aside from the first effect of alcohol taken into the stomach, which is in the nature of stimu- lation, there is the secondary effect manifested by inco-ordination of movements, and with this effect comes depression. The remote effects of alcohol will be found in the liver and in the kidneys. Bismuth is a sedative to the stomach, and such is the local action ■when first given, but when large doses are long continued, the subnitrate being a crystalline substance, it causes irritation, and thus we have the secondary effect. Chlorate of potassium is a drug which produces secondary effects by acting as a protoplasmic poison at the points of elimination, and, when given in considerable doses and long continued, the kidneys suffer from this remote action, which is substantially the secondary action of the drug. As a rule, then, the dose of the remedy should be small, and, as the duration of the action will depend to a considerable extent upon the size of the dose in all acute cases of disease, the frequency of repetition will keep the system constantly under its influence. Not infrequently, when the dose is large absorption is arrested, and, besides, it is not impossible to assume that, even when absorbed promptly, the effect of the quantity may be sufficient to interfere with elimination. When small doses are given, these complications cannot well arise. A single dose of five drops of the tincture of aconite may be sufficient to produce constitutional effects, but it may be less eflSeient in preventing the spread of inflammation than the same amount distributed over a period of several hours, so that the dose shall not exceed half a drop. Gelsemium is a drug which will afford an excellent illustration of the value of small doses ; a single drop at in- tervals of half an hour or an hour will be found an efficient remedy for the relief of fl,cute attacks of fever in connection with high motor excite- ment, but ten drops at once will be liable to cause ptosis, diplopia, and other phj'siological sj'mptoms which may require restoratives that shall neutralize practically all the good which might have been expected from the large dose. Ergot may be given with great benefit in doses of one drop of the fluid extract at short intervals in many instances, but there will arise occasions when it is necessary to give as much as an ounce at a single dose, in which eases of course, we have to take the chances of absorption and elimination. INCOMPATIBILITY. 121 In the bod}' of the work the dose has been regulated in accordance with the usual custom of the time, except in the case of some drugs which it is believed may be followed by untoward effects, in which instances the size of the dose has been reduced, or some observation has been made concerning the precautions necessary in its administration. INCOMPATIBILITY.— The first attempt of the recent graduate in medicine to write a prescription is generally attended with complications which are extremely embarrassing, but this is particularly true in regard to the combination of medicine which he decides to order for his patient. To him the matter of incompatibility is one which discloses unlooked- for difficulties, because he has in mind such a large number of remedies that would be suitable for the disease, were it not that their combination might result in such a way that none of the ingredients would be of value. Older physicians do not experience this hesitancy, owing to the fact that they have learned to confine their therapeutical resources within certain prescribed lines, and, besides, they not only do not object to in- compatibles with which they have become familiar, but they often order those preparations which are known to be incompatible. It should be noted, however, that this latter method must be conducted witliin certain circumscribed limits, as the general use of incompatibles cannot be ex- pected to result beneficially to the patient. A brief study of the subject will be sufficient to direct tiie methods of the student and enable him to avoid those quagmires into whicli it is believed many of the older practitioners have fallen. There are three general divisions embraced in this category, as follow : — CHEMICAL incompatibility results from the antagonism which one ingredient shows toward another when the two are combined in the form of a solid, powder, or liquid, but it does not signify that these compounds are inert from a medicinal stand-point. In fact, the chemical combination thus secured may be jnst the preparation which is wanted by the pln'- sician. By the combination of iodide of potassium with corrosive subli- mate chemical action takes place and a new compound is formed, but it is a preparation the value of which has been demonstrated, and hence there can be no objection to it other than that relating to the cosmetic eflfects ; inelegant preparations are to be avoided as far as possible. We are thus reminded that the physician must be possessed of at least a modicum of chemical lore as well as a knowledge of pharmacology. The practical application of this information will be sliown in the combina- tions which are ordered for patients, and will prevent the intelligent phj'sician from ordering drugs in combination which destroj' each other's usefulness. For example, he should avoid the exhibition of substances containing tannic and gallic acids in combination with preparations con- 122 PHAKMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. tainiiig tincture of the chloride of iron, because the result will be in the shape of an inky mixture ; the use of albumin and alkaloids generally in this combination is open to the same objection. Glucosides are destroyed by the action of free acids, and the salts of the alkalies are destroyed by caustic alkalies ; and alkalies and alkaline salts have the effect of precip- itating alkaloids and their salts. This latter observation will be apparent from the note that has already been made regarding alkaloids, viz., that tliey are found in plants in combination with an acid. PHARMACEUTICAL incompatibility is the name given to that form of disagreement between two substances which prevents them from com- bining with each other to form a clear solution. An illustration of this may be seen when attempting to add water to a fluid extract which con- tains a resinous property or ingredient.. Quite a number of the fluid extracts possess properties of this kind, and when it is desired to add water to them and still preserve the resinous part in solution, it will be necessary to introduce into the mixture a portion of powdered acacia. In these cases, where the use of alcohol is not contra-indicated the simple elixir may be used instead of preparing the product in the form of an emulsion. When administering quinine in an acid mixture with licorice it will be found that the mixture presents. an unsightlj- appearance because the acid has precipitated the glycyrrhizin of the licorice, thus defeating the purpose for which the licorice was used, namel}', that of disguising the taste of the quinine. PHYSIOLOGICAL incompatibility is a matter of no less interest to the physician than that which refers to chemical and pharmaceutical dis- agreement. The matter will probably be better understood by referring to poisons and their antidotes on preceding pages, in which it was explained that after the ingestion of a poison its physiological antagonist might be administered with the expectation that the eff"ects of the first poison might be counteracted by the second, until such time had elapsed as was required for its elimination from the system. Chloral hydrate is the physiological antagonist of strychnine, and in the case of the ingestion of a lethal dose of one, the other may be used in doses sufficient to coun- teract the eflects upon the system until it has been eliminated through the proper channels. A note should be made of the fact that if a lethal dose of both poisons is taken at one time the effect will be fatal, but not so when one is taken and the other allowed to follow within a reasonable time. Sometimes we take advantage of this physiological incompatibility by exhibiting two medicines whose effects are diametrically opposed to each other, and the two drugs just named may be used for this very purpose. THE PRESCEIPTION. 123 When it is desired to obtain the hj'pnotic effect of chloral, and this drug is contra-indicated by the condition of the heart, it may be taken, and within a short tinje. afterward the physiological antagonist, strj'chnine, may be administered without danger to the patient from the depressing action of the chloral. Morphine and atropine are well-known physiolog- ical antagonists, but the value of their joint use hypodermaticallj' has been demonstrated, and is now in accordance with established usage. In this instance we have an illustration of the narcotic action of the two drugs when given in combination. A general rule has been laid down by teachers that no drug should be given in combinations with either its tests or antidotes, but we have just seen that an important exception to the rule is a method now in general use, and the suggestion is advanced that while tlie rule may be a good one, it has, like all others, its exceptions, which do not invalidate, but rather go to strengthen it. Whenever it has been found by experi- ence that physiological incompatibility does not destroy the therapeutical value of a compound, and there is no danger of chemical or other changes so modifying it that the use may become unsafe, there is a general con- sensus of opinion that such incompatibility may be overlooked. In the following pages a number of formulae will be found presenting this char- acteristic, and, although the practice cannot be approved from a scientific point of view, we cannot deny the value of what may be termed empirical methods of practice. A limited number of drugs may be named which do not combine readily, and for this reason are better given in simple solution,. or where available in the form of tablet triturate : — Chlorine in solution. Permanganate of potassium. Guaiacum tincture. Potassium Iodide. Iodine and its liquid preparations. Silver salts. Iron and Quinine citrate. Sulphuric acid. Lead salts. Tannic and Gallic acids. Mercuric chloride. Zinc salts. THE PRESCRIPTION.— The efficient and palatable preparations now within the reach of physicians have greatly lessened the needs for care and calculation on their part in combining the various remedies which they may wish to use. Notwithstanding the advances which have been made in chemistry, in pharmacy, and the additional light which has been thrown upon the science of medicine by physiological investigations and by pathology, the modern objections urged against a combination of medicines as embraced in the general plan of writing prescriptions do nolf stand ; and the general principles included in the method still challenge the admiration of all regular physicians, whether they use the single remedy 124 PHARMACOLOGY AND THEEAPETJTICS. or a combination wliicli shall offer itself as a model of polypharmacy. The object of treatment is to cure disease, and the principles embraced in the prescription are illustrated in the well-known i»axim, " cito, tute, et jucunde." To cure our patients quicklj^, safelj', and pleasantly should be our aim, and to accomplish this desirable object much depends upon the contents of the prescription. The simplicity, beauty, and efficiency of prescription-writing can be estimated by the careful observer from tlie character and quantity and the number of medicaments ordered, when considered in their relation to the disease and the end to be secured. The story is related of a French pharmacist that he one day refused to put up a physician's prescription containing a large dose of chlorate of potassium because he had learned incidentally that in previous cases the children who took that medicine always died, and he felt that he was not warranted in becoming partly responsible for the blunder of the phj'sician. Before taking up the matter of prescription-writing proper, it maybe worth while to say a few words regarding the combination, to which we have only briefly referred. In connection with the remarks relating to incompatibility, on the preceding pages, the subject of combinations will be appropriate. In the first place, in making combinations, incompatibles should be avoided, unless there is some reason for making an antagonistic prepara- tion, as described on the foregoing pages. In the second place, the idio- syncrasy of the patient must be taken into consideration, and, if the combination is such that unusual effects may be produced calculated to alarm the patient or his friends, the dose should be properly adjusted, and the nurse given instructions as to the manifestations to be looked for and the appropriate treatment in case of emergency. In the case of acute attacks it may be necessarj' to give certain information as to the length of time which one drug or combination should be continued, and It will be needful that the patient or the nurse should understand and be able to appreciate the conditions indicating that it should no longer be given after the object sought for has been attained'. True, this matter trenches upon the practice of medicine, but it is not out of place in this connection. The reaction which has set in against combinations has had the effect of driving many to the opposite extreme, and has, to a certain extent, created a species of nihilism in the ranks, but such variations can have no material effect upon the onward march of science. Certain combina- tions in use a generation ago are quite as valuable in selected ORses as they were at that time. An example of this is to be found in the idea of get- ting the virtues of cinchona from a combination of different preparations, which shall include the fluid extract, the tincture, a decoction, and an THE PEESCEIPTION. 125 infusion. The same results are claimed from a combination of the diifer- ent solid or alkaloidal preparations. Another idea -which is worthy of notice is to be found in the combination of various drugs having the same general action, such, for instance, as gentian, calumba, and nux vomica, and to this you may add capsicum and rhubarb, if j-ou like. The story is related of a druggist, who called upon a celebrated phy- sician, paid him a handsome fee, and who found, to his chagrin, that the prescription contained but a few of the most simple preparations of this class, which he was accustomed to dispense dail}- over his own counter ; but, as an experiment, he had it put up,ax;d was greath' surprised to find that it cured his disease. This practical knowledge of pharmacology is beneficial in the making up of pills, certain ingredients being added which are supposed to have a selective action upon the different portions of the alimentary tract. A similar principle is involved in the use of chola- gogues in connection with salines, with a view to obtain better results from the cholagogue. The administration of calomel in connection with the alternate exhibition of magnesia sulphate will be found a most efficient diuretic. Under the head of Stomachics, the combination of tonics with stimulants and sedatives has been mentioned. In the treatment of uterine affections, a combination of drugs known to possess certain properties which are of value in relieving functional disorders will be found of more benefit than a single remedy. As an example of this, a prescription con- taining ergot, cimicifuga, and hamamelis may be mentioned. In prescrib- ing hypnotics, the addition of an anodyne or narcotic will be attended with the best results, because only a small quantity of each will be re- quired ; and in the use of drugs known to have a depressing effect upon the economy which would be undesirable, the judicious administration of remedies to counteract this depression should not be overlooked. The model prescription requires for its production not only the skill of the pharmacist and a knowledge of the science of pharmacology, but the prescriber must be informed regarding pathology, as without such information he is liable to err in directing their preparation and in the selection of his drugs. The classical form embraces the following four parts or subdivisions, a brief description of each being appended here- with : — 1. The Superscription. 2. The Inscription. 3. The Subscription. 4. The Signature. The superscription, in addition to the letter R, originally used as an appeal to the planet Jupiter, should also contain the name and address of the patient, with a view to prevent mistakes on the part of the pliar- 126 PHABMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. macist or the friends of the patient. By common consent, the symbol R is now taken as the imperative of the Latin verb recipio, " to take," and its literal meaning is, therefore, " take thou," or " take." The inscription covers the body of the prescription proper, and^ as a rule, is written in Latin, although there is no good reason for so doing except that the Latin is an universal language, and abbreviations in that can be deciphered in all countries, when such abbreviations in other languages might result in error by reason of the pharmacist not understanding the object of the prescriber. With the object of facilitat- ing prescription-writing, and enabling the student to familiarize himself with many of the abbreviations and terms used, a somewhat extended list has been prepared, and will be found on the following pages, and it is strongly commended to the attention of students and recent graduates. For the purpose of further elucidating this matter, a considerable number of approved formulae have been inserted in the text throughout the work, and it is believed that with these as illustrations it will be unnecessary to take up space and time with a full resume of the subject. The subscription is intended solely for the dispenser of drugs, and for the reason given above it is generally written in the Latin language. With this, and with the ingredients ordered by the physician, it is as- sumed the person for whom the medicine is intended has no business, — that it belongs wholly to the prescriber, — and, as it is often advisable to conceal from the patient the real character of the medicine ordered, this again furnishes anotlier reason for writing the whole in some language with which the patient is unacquainted. The signature is that part of the prescription devoted exclusively to the patient, and may either be in Latin, which inust be translated by the pharmacist, or it may be, and is generally, written plainly in English, or in that language which the patient best understands. The signature does not include the name of tlie prescriber, which appears at the bottom of the usual blank, either the full name or the initials. The date of the prescription should never be omitted. It may be placed at the top, although those who have not already formed a habit in regard to this will find that it can most convenientlj^ be added at the left- hand lower corner after the name or initials have been attached. One advantage which tliis plan possesses is that, after the mental exertion of preparing a prescription, this mechanical operation of adding the date affords a momentary relief, when the prescriber is ready to scan the written prescription with a view to discover any errors which may have crept into it, and every calculation as to the dose and the proportions of the different medicaments should be carefully' gone over before placing the order in the hands of the patient. LATIN 127 The inscviption is apportioned in the following mannejj : — First. Tlie basis, or principal ingredient. Second. Tlie adjuvant, or auxiliarj', to assist its action. Tliird. The corrective, — some substance used to correct or diminish an undesirable quality. Fourth. The vehicle, or excipient, to give it a suitable form for administration. Latin Words, Phrases, etc.. Used in Writing Prescriptions; with their Contractions and Corresponding English Equivalents. WORD OR PHRASE. AS GENERALLY WRITTEN. ENGLISH EQUIVALENT. Ad (with accus. case) Ad To or up to. Ad duas vices Ad 2 Vic. At twice taking. Ad libitum Ad lib. At pleasure. Ad tertiam vicem Ad 3tiam vie. For three times. Adde Add. Add. Ad gratam aciditatem Ad grat. a«id. To an agreeable sourness. Adhibendus Adhib. To be administered. Admove Admov. Apply. Alternie horis Alt. hor. Every other hour. Alvo adstricta Alv. adst. The bowels being confined. Ana aa Of each. Ante cibum Ante cib. Before eating. Aqua Aq. Water. Aqua astricta Aq. astr. Frozen water. Aqua bulliens Aq. bull. Boiling water. Aqua ferveiis Aq. fei-v. Hot water. Aqua fontana or foutls Aq. font. Spring-water. Bene Bene Well. Bis in die or dies Bis die or Bisind. Twice a day. Bulliat or Bulliant Bull. Let boil. Capiat Cap. Let him take. Caute Caute Cautiously. Cibus Cib.. Food. Cochleare magnum Coch. mag. A tablespoonful (3^ ounce). Cochleare medium or Coch. med. or mod. A dessertspoonful (3 drachnls). modicum Cochleare parvum Coch.parv. A teaspoonful (1 drachm). Cola or Coletur Col. or Colet. Strain. Collyrium CoUyr. An eye-wash. Coloretur Coloret. Let it be colored. Compositua Co. Compound. Congius Cong. A gallon. Continuantur remedia Cont. rem. Let the medicine be continued. Coque, Coquantur Coq. Boil, let them be boiled. Cras, Crastinus Crast. To-morrow. Cras manesumendus Cras mane sumend. To be taken to-morrow morning CujuB, Cujus-libet Cuj. Of which, of any. Cum (with abl. case) C. With. CyathuB Cyath. A glass. Cyathus vinarus C. vinar. A wine-glass. Debita spissitudo Deb. spiss. A proper consistence. Decubitus Decub. Lying down. De die in diem De ed. in d. From day to day. Diebus alternis Dieb. alt. IJvery other day . Diebus tertiis Dieb. tert. Every third day. Dilue, Dilutus Dil. Dilute (thou) , Diluted. Dimidlus Dim. Cue-half. 128 PHABMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. WORD OR PHRASE. AS GENERALLY WRITTEN. Dividatur in partes D. in p. seq. sequalea Donee alvus eoluta fuerit Donee alv. sol. ft. Dosis D. Drachma Dr. or 3 Durante dolore Durant. dolor. Eadem (fem.) Ead. Ejusdem Ejusd. Enema Enema Fac or Fiat F. or Ft. Fae pilulas duodecim F. pil. xij. Fervius Ferv. Fiant ehartulse xij Ft. chart, xij. Fiant pilulse xij Ft. pil. xij. Fiat emplastrum vesica^ Ft. emp. vesic. foriura Flat massa, et divide in Ft. mas. div. in pil. pilulas xij xij. Fiat pulvis in chartulas Ft. pulv. in chart, xij xij dividenda div. Folium Fol. Gargarisma Garg. Gradatim Grad. Granum Gr. Gutta, Guttse Gtt. Guttatim Guttat. Harum pilularum Bu- Bar. pil. sum. iij rn an tm- tree Haustus Haust. Hora decubitus Hor. decub. Hora somni Hor. som. Horse unius spatio Hor. 1 spat. Idem Id. In dies Ind. Infrico Infr. Intime Intm. Jecur Jeeur Linimentum Lin. Lotio Lotio Macero Mac. Magnus Mag. Mane Mane Mane primo M. prim. Medicamentum Med. Mica panis Mic . pan. Minimum M. or Min. Misce M. Mistura Mist. M.Hte Mitt. Modicus Mod. Modo prsescripto Mod. praesc. Mollis Mol. Morbus Morb. More dictu Mor. diet. More solito Mor. sol. Ne tradas sine nummo Ne tr. s. num. Noete maneque Noct. maneq. Nomeu proprium N.p. Non repetatur Non repetat. Nox, Noctis Nox, Noct, Octarius 0., Oct. Oleum OK Omni bora Omn. hor. ENGLISH EQUIVALENT. Let it be divided Into equal parts. Until the bowels shall be opened. A dose. A drachm (60 grains). Whil e the pain lasts. The same. Of the same. Enema or Clyster. Make, let be made. Make 12 pills. Hot. Let 13 powders be made. Let 12 pills be made. Let a blister be made. Let a mass be made, and divide it into 12 pills. Let a powder be made to be divided into 12 papers. A leaf A gargle. By degrees, gradually. A grain. A drop. Drops. By drops. Let three of these pills be taken. A draught. At bed-time. At the hour of sleep. After one hour. The same. Daily or From day to day. To rub in . Thoroughly. The liver. A liniment. A lotion . To macerate. Large. In the morning. Very early in the morning. A medicine. Cmmb of bread. A minim. Mix. A mixture. Send. Middle-sized. In the manner prescribed. Soft. Disease. In the manner directed. In the usual manner. Do not deliver without the money. At night, and in the morning. The proper name. Let it not be repeated. The night, of the night. A pint (16 ounces). Oil. Evei-y hour. LATIN WOEDS, PHRASES, ETC. 129 WORD OR PHRASE. AS GENERALLY WRITTEN. ENGLISH EQUIVALENT. Omni blhorio Omn. bih. Evei7 two hours. Omni quadrante horae Omn. quadr. hor. Every yi hour. Omni mane Omni mane Ever}- morning. Omni nocte Omn. noct. Every night. Optimus Opt. Best. Partes sequales Pt. seq. Equal parts. Parvulus Parv. Very little. PeiiicUlum camellnum Penicil. cam. A camel's hair pencil, or brush. Per (with accus. ease) Per Through or By. Phiala prlus agitata P. p. a. The bottle having been first shaken. Pllula Pil. ^ A pill. Post clbum Post cib. After eating. Pro (with abl. case) Pro For. Pro ratlone setatis Pro rat. set. According to the age of the patient. Pro re nata P. r. n. According to circumstances. PulTis PulT. A powder. Quantum libet Q. lib. As much as you please. Quantum sufficiat Q. s. As much as is sufficient. QuSquS horS Qq. hor. Every hour. Quoque Q. q. Also. Quorum Quor. Of which. Quotidle Quotld. Daily. Radix Had. A root. Recipe R Take. Redactus in pulverem Red. in pulv. Let it be reduced to powder , Repetatur Rept. Let it be repeated. Serupulum Scrup. or ^ A scruple (30 grains). Secundum artem .8. a. According to art. Semen Sem. Seed. Semis or Semissls Ss. A half. Semihora Semih. . Half an hour. Sesqui Sesqui As much again by half. Sesqulhora Sesqh. An hour and a half. Signa Slg. Write or Mark (thou). Simul Simul Together. Sine (with abl. case) Sin. Without. Singulorum Sing. Of each. Si opus sit Si op. sit If necessary. Solve Solv. Dissolve. Spiritus Spt. Spirit. Spiritus vinl rectificatus Spt. vln. rec. Rectified spiritof wine, i.e., Alcohol. Statim Stat. Immediately. Stet or Stent St. Let it (or them) stand. Subinde Subind. Frequently. Succus Sue. Juice. Sumat talem Sum. tal. Take one such. Sumatur Sum. Let it be taken. Sume Sum. Take. Summo mane Summo mane Early in the morning. Talis Tal. Such a one. Tere Rub. Ter in die or Ter die T. i. d. or T. d. Thrice daily. Tinctura Tr. or Tlnct. A tincture. Tritura Trit. Grind, triturate. Tussis Tus. A cough. Ultimus praescriptus Ult. praesc. The last ordered. Uncia Unc. or ^ An ounce. Unguentum Ungt. An ointment. lit dictum Venenum Ut diet. As directed. Poison. Vel Vel Or. Verus Ver. Genuine. Vesper, -erls Vesp. The evening. Vltellus Vit. Yelk (of egg;. 130 PHARMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. HYPODERMATIC MEDICATION. Modern methods of treatment include the use of medicines by sub- cutaneous injection, by whicii process the medicine is deposited either in the cellular tissue underlying the sliin, the muscular tissue, or into the more deeply seated organs. This is accomplished by the use of a pecu- liarl}' constructed syringe furnished with a hollow, pointed needle, and the method is usually spoken of as hypodermatic medication. The differ- ent methods as suggested above will commend themselves to the phy- sician and will be selected in accordance with the demands of his patient ; as a general rule, however, the hypodermatic administration is confined for the most part to the treatment of emergencies, when the medicament is lodged in the subcutaneous cellular tissues. The intramuscular injec- tion of medicaments is preferred where it is desired to obtain the consti- tutional action of the drug, and when we do not care to get an imme- diate effect from its administration. In the treatment of syphilis* by the use of corrosive sublimate and by calomel this plan has been adopted, and it is said that abscesses are less liable to occur than when the me- dicament is thrown into the cellular tissue. The suggestion has lately been put forward that not only syphilis might be treated in this manner, but that other diseases would show themselves equally amenable to treatment. The following, from a paper on " The Cause and Treatment of Psoriasis, "f by Shoemaker, may be noted : " The best- results which I have observed, however, from the action of arsenic in psoriasis, are from giving it hypodermatically, care being taken at the same time to keep the skin, alimentar}' canal, and kidneys active by the hygienic measures, together with the use of diaphoretics, diuretics, and cathartics, if neces- sary. In administering arsenic hypodermatically, full doses must be given if a good effect is to be expected. The beginning dose should be from one-tenth to one-quarter of a grain of arsenious acid or the arsenite of sodium, increased to one-half a grain every two or three days. The hypodermatic injection in fat subjects can be deposited deep into the cellular tissue, and, in lean individuals, in the muscular tissue. Arsenic given in this manner often acts more decidedly in chronic cases of psoriasis than when administered by the mouth. At times, patients will not permit the use of the hypodermatic needle, and under such circum- stances suppositories of from one-quarter to half a grain of arsenious acid or arsenite of sodium, once or twice a daj^, will at times prove equally as serviceable. * See " Remarks on the Treatment of Syphilis by Hypodermatic Injections of Corrosive Sublimate," by John V. Shoemaker, A.M., M.D. London Lancet, Sept. 6, 1884. t Read before the Pennsylvania State Medical Society, Philadelphia, 1888. HYPODERMATIC . MEDICATION. 131 While this claim has not been cleinonstrated by contemporary observers in Sufficient numbers to warrant a positive statement of the results to be expected, tlie evidences are accumulating which indicate that hypodermatic medication miglit with propriety be adopted in the treatment of quite a number of affections. If the reader will turn to the note upon hepatic stimulants and sedatives, he will find foreshadowed tlierein the reasons for thus favorably presenting tlie hypodermatic use of medicines. By this means we avoid throwing extra work upon the liver, excretion taking place by the kidneys, and if the product intro- duced possesses any antiseptic properties this action will be apparent in its action upon the blood, which it is enabled to reach without the liability of being destroyed by the liver. The interstitial method refers to the use of medicine in this manner when the substance is thrown into the affected organ, as the liver, the spleen, or into the pulmonary tissue. This plan has many adherents, especially since the discovery of the antimicrobic influence of certain medicaments, but it also has its opponents. The belief has generally prevailed until lately that pus in closed cavities was bej'ond the power of nature to overcome, and in the case of degeneration and breaking down of pulmonary tissue the antiseptic method, it was claimed, would destroy the activity of the germs of disease. While this proposition is true re- garding pulmonary tissue, it does not hold with reference to aceumnla- tions of pus in the pleural cavitj', in the liver, and in tlie peritoneal cavity. Collections of pus in the pulmonary tissues are not positively free from contamination by external influences, but the others are en- tirely so ; that benefit might be derived from the appropriate use of anti- septics introduced by means of the hj'podermatie needle in both in- stances is not unreasonable, but the result will depend to a great extent upon the amount of the collection and the vitality of the parts imme- diately adjacent thereto. Park, of Buffalo, we believe, was the first to point out that pus in closed cavities containing pathogenic bacteria would be absoi'bed with- out surgical interference, and if this observation were not true the prob- abilities are strong tliat individual life would be of but short duration. To-day we hear of a physician who has caused septic infection amongst his patients owing to some catarrhal affection ; j'csterday the report was current that the purulent discharge from the ear of one of the nurses of a hospital has been instrumental in developing an epidemic of puerperal fever, and to-morrow we shall doubtless be aroused to the dangers which surround us by an announcement that we are all exposed to the poison- ous matter which is thrown off from tlie lungs with the air we breathe. As there is a limit to human endurance from whatever stand-point 132 PHABMACOLOGT AND THERAPEUTICS. we consider the matter, so there is a, limit to the good we can accomplish by the use of antiseptics hypodermatieallj' administered. When tLie extent of the affected area is limited, and the general systemic condition favorable, much may be expected from this method ; when the conditions are otherwise relief will scarcely be more than temporary, and at most the treatment will be only palliative. The dangers connected with h3-podermatic medication should also be considered. However trivial such an operation may appear to the un- praeticed practitioner, it carries with it all the dangers wliich attend upon those that are more formidable. An examination of different text-books giiows that occasionally the use of ti>e hj-podermatic needle has been followed by most unlooked-for manifestations, and in some cases it has been urged that tlie medicament used was too powerful, the effect of tlie shock being entirely overlooked. Such being the case, it will ordinarily recur to the phjsician that his patient should be previously placed in a comforta^ble position, and that no external influences may affect him the I^atient will be most faA'orably affected by insisting upon perfect quiet. Septic influences must be avoided by the most thorough antiseptic treatment of all instruments used, and as it frequently happens that ph^-- sicians cannot follow out such methods at the time owing to the lack of facilities, boiling hot water ma,y be used temporarily instead. By adopt- ing this plan we shall also avoid carrying contagion from one patient to another. As a rule of practice for those who are accustomed to the use of hypoderrnatic injections in the treatment of syphilis, it cannot be too strongly insisted upon that they should have an instrument for each patient ; if this plan is too expensive thej^ ought to be willing to have one for exclusive use in syphilitics, and another for those not so affected. Abscesses will be met witl> occasional!}-, but not at very frequent intervals, provided proper precautions are taken in respect to antiseptic measures and due attention is given to the solubility and perfect distri- bution of the medicament in the media selected for its preparation. The puncture of a vein would be attended with untoward effects, because the whole of the medicament would thus be precipitated upon the heart at one time. Both these accidents may be avoided by withdrawing the needle a few lines after its introduction into the tissues, and just before depositing tl>e contents submit the syringe to a slight rotary movement, with a view to detect if the point is free from entanglement. By adopt- ing tills simple precaution many of the dangers incident to tlie method are avoided, and, besides, there is a decided lessening of pain to the patient. In selecting medicines for hypodermatic use, several rules are to be observed. Among the most important the following may be named : — MEDICATED IXH.UjATIONS. 133 Only the most reliable medicaments are to be used. Whatever drug or combination is decided upon should be freshly prepared, either with distilled water or water which has been boiled and liltered. All medicines for hypodermatic use, when not so prepared, should be preserved by the addition of suitable antiseptics. Perfect solution of the drug must be secured to prevent the develop- ment of abscesses. Tablet triturates containing the exact amount of the drug wanted are prefferable to extemporaneous preparations, and the few more generally used may be kept indefinitely. The size of the dose should be less, as a rule, than when adminis- tered by the stomach, certainly not more than one-half, and one-third to one-fourth will often be found quite sufficient. Inflamed tissues and bony protuberances should be avoided. MEDICATED INHALATIONS.— The discoveries of Koch and others regarding the bacilli have given renewed impetus to the use of medicated inhalations, and, although space will not be taken up with a full descrip- tion of the special methods, which properly belong to a special treatise, the general practitioner requires some suggestions which will be of some practical advantage in enabling him to decide as to the demand for medi- cation of this particular kind. For some years now, the whole attention of experimental physiologists has been given to the studj' of microbes, but lately it has dawned upon the minds of the more thoughtful clin- icians that possibly the microbes do not altogether produce tlie bad ef- fects with which they are charged. It has even been shown, experi- mentally, that the microbes themselves may be destro.yed, and yet we ma}' have, as a result of the ferment which attends upon their presence, the development of the most active poisons. A similar phenomenon may be witnessed in the stomach of tlie pig after it has been killed ; the ferment — that is, the pepsin in the stomach — goes on with its work, and for a time digests jiist as it would have done had the animal been alive. If such a ferment were actually secreted by the bacteria, it is but reasonable to suppose that it might be isolated by the methods now open to investigators ; but Kiihne in 1877 decided against this theory, as he was unable to extract an}' ferment such as he had been able to do with his investigations of the pancreas. Later investigations, however, by Bitter, Sternberg, Vaughan, and Brunton, show that Kiihne was in error, and that bacteria hquefy gelatin by means of an enzyme which not only can be isolated, but has also been found to remain active after the microbes from which it was obtained have been destroyed. It has been demonstrated, further, that this ferment is similar to the ferment 134 PHAEMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. obtained from the pancreas, in that it is most active in alkaline solutions, — a fact which may enable us to account for the actively poisonous symptoms which follow its supposed entrance into the blood. And this brings us to mention again the probabilities as regards the value of medicated inhalations. Admitting that enzymes find their way into the blood, and that they are subsequently deposited in the tissues, and, in the case of a diseased condition of the pulmonary tissues, that a suitable nidus is formed for their rapid multiplication, is it possible that much will be accomplished, in the way of interfering with their growth, by procedures which have for their object the destruction of morbid products? The suggestion is advanced that, by reason of the nearness of the medicated vapors or inhalations to the circulating fluid when inhaled, more can be accom- plished than when our efforts are directed through the stomach. Again, it is urged that the mucous membranes of the upper air-passages absorb suitable medicines if properly prepared, and that they are active in throwing off poisonous products which are constantly accumulating in the blood, and for these reasons the efficiency of medication conducted in this manner cannot be dovibted. For a long time some doubts existed as to the possibility of inhaled substances passing the glottis, but there is now no longer any question on this point, not only for vaporized sub- stances, but for any substance which can be finely divided. This latter observation is fully warranted by the observations of competent ob- servers in this State, who have had under their care persons who had long enjoyed excellent health, but, after a,few years' constant exposure to work in certain quarries where grindstones were ma,de, many of them were finally overtaken with a species of consumption of the lungs. Dr. Trail Green is entitled to the credit of making this discovery, although Ms views have met with strenuous opposition. Having now admitted the presence of the enzymes as well as the microbes in the health}' as well as the diseased pulmonary tissues, and having admitted, further, that medication could be conducted in such a manner that this particular area could be reached, the question then arises as to whether or not this form of medication will be efficacious when supplemented by tissues which are so active in performing their functions ? If it were possible that all of the microbes and enzj'mes could be marshalled in order and compelled to run the gauntlet of fresh air and medication, our chances would be greatly favored in the warfare against tiiem ; but we cannot forget that many of these active agents are constantly engaged in their deadly work, and for this reason, if for no other, we are forced to the conclusion that our treatment must be merely palliative. There still remains to be considered the fact that MEDICATED INHALATIONS. 135 nature is conservative, and that poisons such as ptomaines and leuco- maines do not long continue in the body in a state of health, but are subject to almost constant change ; those which are present to-day may be gone to-morrow, and those coming to-morrow may in a few daj^s give place to others which may or may not be harmless ; and so it goes on from day to day. During an attack of pneumonia, for example, the phj^- sician finds that one day the symptoms of the patient are more favoi'able, but the following day there may be a change for the worse, and he is un- able to account for the differences which occur from day to day. The older practitioners were wont to look upon this manifestation as an indi- cation of the presence of a malarial element, and accordingly quinine was given ; but they had no idea of the influence of the phagocytes and of the microbes, and their children, the formidable enzymes. Treatment by inhalations should be conducted with a view to its effect upon the tissues with which the medication comes into contact, and the objects for which its administration is followed ; no substance should be inhaled which cannot be safely absorbed bj' the delicate tissues without affecting their integrity, and, from the fact that it would be dif- ficult to counteract the effect of a lethal dose when taken in this manner,- the interests of tlie patient will best be conserved by care on the part of the phj'sician in deciding upon the amount of the dose. But medicated inhalations are not confined to the treatment of pul- monary affections, but may be used with great benefit in the treatment of catarrhal conditions, although some of the present methods are justly open to criticism. Vaporization and the inhalations of hot steam cannot be otherwise than hurtful, because by this method the tissues are unduly relaxed, and the system thus is rendered less able to resist unfavorable influences, and, doubtless, to this source may be traced many of the weak throats which are constantly coming under the observation of the gen- eral practitioner. Incipient specialists are much given to the use of atomizers, more probably for the purpose of impressing their patients with their ability to manage a machine than because they really expect to accomplish great results from a method which cara-ies with it the causes which are well calculated to undermine the vitality of the tissues. For a like reason it is not advisable to use any preparations in this form which will have a tendency to destroy the tissues owing to their destruct- ive action ; this will cover the use of solutions of iodine, nitrate of silver, and the vapor of carbolic acid. With these and Other precautions which will naturally suggest themselves to the thoughtful physician, the use of medicated inhalations will, doubtless, be attended with results in the main satisfactory, if not alwaj's brilliant, but for particular instructions upon the subject the reader is referred to special treatises, which are 136 PHARMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. * better calcillatecl to enlighten him in respect to the affections which are most successfully treated by this method. ALIMENTATION. — Believing that in many instances the regulation of the diet pf sick persons is productive of injury, owing largely to its being too restricted, the following remariis have been prepared more for the purpose of indicating certain general rules to be followed, with a view to have the diet of the invalid selected in accordance with the de- mands of the stomach rather than in conformity with certain rules such as we observe in dispensing our medicines. This appears the more necessarj' from the fact — which cannot be denied — that frequently dis- ease follows upon certain self-imposed regulations concerning food which in the end prove decidedly unfortunate for the patient. While we cannot wholly overlook the testimony of such authors as Salisbury, who has made extensive observations concerning the direct and remote effects of certain kinds of food, the fact remains that few physicians are in a position to control their patients, nor have they the necessary data to be able to determine themselves the actual demands of the system ; but the present work does not admit of more than a brief reference to this subject. There is one form of aliment which has had universal employment for centuries past, and still must be accepted as the best, because all atterdpts to add to our methods of nutrition have been with a view to supply something which shall be as nearly like it in its composition and effects as is possible for human ingenuity to imitate nature, and its superiority is still maintained. We refer to the use of milk, without' which it would be almost impossible to conduct many of our cases to a successful termination. Still, there are times when this form of nourish- ment cannot be given, or the patient rebels against it, and we must seek for something which shall take its place. The reaction which has lately set in against milk may be due in part to the discovery of Professor Vaughan of an active poison which he has -named tyrotoxicon, but the development of this poison should not cause its wholesale rejection. A more cogent reason, perhaps, is to be found in the interest taken in this matter by manufacturers who have something in the way of a sub- stitute to offer, but all such preparations should be used with caution, because they are no more certain to be free from the objections urged against the milk than is tlie milk itself. If a poison is liable to develop in milk which has not received proper attention in the matter of cooling, it is quite as likely that a similar accident may befall the artificial prepa- rations which are offered to supplant it. With proper care in the selec- tion of the product, there need be no fear apprehended from the judicious administration of good milk when it agrees with the patient; but caution ALIMENTATION. 137 is required tliat tlie mills may not be condemned by reason of the devel- opment of poisons after its ingestion, — a supposition which is not alto- gether without foundation, and which will be better understood by an examination of the preceding pages. It is impossible for us to saj' how soon, or at what period after the milk is ingested, it may come into con- tact with bacteria, or their ferments called enzymes, when the whole aspect of the matter is changed. What is true of milk is also true of all the digestive ferments, and applies with equal, if not greater, force to artificially digested products. But peptonized foods in great numbers and varieties are now on the market, and doubtless many of them are efficient ; but they are not entirely free from the dangers apprehended from the use of milk. In the case of organic affections of the stomach it would be unsafe to' use any food which had long been prepared, providing that food had been of domestic origin ; and thoughtful physicians should not forget that a similar rule should be applied to foods which have been allowed to stand in the shops for indefinite periods. Peptonized foods may be used temporarily, but when first exhibited they should be carefully guarded, and, as far as possible, they should be obtained as fresh as can be, in the hopes of avoiding cadaveric alkaloids. The use of such preparations, however, should not be too long continued, from the fact that they become objectionable to the patient, and, besides, the J' permit the normal functions of the stomach to remain in abej-ance. A good plan will consist in the alternate use of peptonized and some other food when the condition of the stomach will permit of this exchange. Occasionally it will be found that this may be effected by means of the method known as gavage ; that is, the food is introduced into the stomach in a liquid form by means of an cesophageal tube ; and thosewho have given the matter attention claim the best results from forced feeding. With the intention of supplying the general practitioner with sug- gestions regarding the preparation of suitable food for the sick, a number of formulae have been compiled, which, it is believed, can be adopted in almost all cases, on account of their simplicity. True, they are not numerous, nor are the dishes very extensive, but thej' are such as will appeal to the palate of the invalid, and will be found of great advantage when copied and placed in the hands of attendants who are not practicnl nurses, and it is strongly advised that they be used frequently for this purpose. Man3' of them are prepared according to formulre which can be understood and remembered, and with a little instruction from the phj-,. sician, when demanded by the condition of the patient, most of them may be made more digestible bj' means of peptonizing ; and by this process the artificial foods of the shops may be made at the fireside of the patient. 138 PHAEMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. Feeding the sick is a matter of no small moment, and the physician in charge should always make that a part of his business at the regular calls, as the amount of food taken in the twenty-four hours is frequently of greater importance than the amount of medicine. This observation is warranted from the fact that there is a disposition amongst the laity to follow closely the directions of the physician in everything pertaining to the administration of medicine, but the supply of food, we regret to saj', is often entirely forgotten. Indeed, some persons get so excited when any of their family is sick that they not only forget to take food themselves, but they never think of the needs of the sick in this respect, and it may be to the advantage of the sick person that the doctor himself should examine and taste the food prepared. In all cases of fevers the instructions to tli* nurse concerning the kind of food and the frequency of its administration should be given with deliberation ; and, in case there are any special reasons for adopting certain regulations, this matter must be specially impressed upon the attendant. Night-feeding is something which will sometimes require an explanation before the attendants are convinced of the necessity for administering food to an invalid early in the morning or late at night ; but in all cases where the vitality of the patient is at a low ebb this im- portant suggestion should not be omitted. From two to five o'clock in the morning are critical hours for the patient, and every precaution should be taken to prevent the strength from being dissipated for the want of proper food and stimulants at that period. During the day the intervals should not be too long apart, but regularity must be followed, and too much should not be given at one time. When but little is taken tiie periods may be shortened, and, as the patient takes more from time to time, the intervals may be gradually lengthened, as, if the quantity is considerable and the intervals short, the stomach will soon be over- worked, and unnecessary time will be lost waiting for it to regain its normal condition, Where medication does not interfere with digestion, it is well to time the periods of administration so that both procedures may be attended to at the same time, and we thus avoid arousino- the patient at a time when he might be favored with rest. Special instructions are sometimes required on this point, as certain medicines give better results when taken ftisting. An invariable rule on the part of nurses should be that no dishes nor medicines shall be in sight of the patient, — symptoms which act as a constant reminder of his illness, and which doubtless have the tendency to turn tlie thoughts in the direction of the possibilities of recoveiy. The most heroic patients are often thus affected with gloomy forebodings; but what must be the feelings of the confirmed, invalid when he considers the unfavorable outlook? RECTAL ALIMENTATION AND MEDICATION. 139 RECTAL ALIMENTATION AND MEDICATION.— When the con- dition of the stomach is such that food cannot well be taken in the usual manner nor by gavage, we have to improvise the rectum for the purpose, and in the use of drugs it often happens that medicines which w^ould not have a favorable action upon the digestive functions can better be admin- istered by the rectum ; and we are thus frequently enabled to maintain life and continue medication for considerable periods through the medium of this channel. In the use of food in the form of nutritive enemata, a few words only will be necessary. The same food, substan- tially, which is taken into the stomach of the sick person, can be given per rectum, with the expectation that the active principles thereof will be absorbed, and that the stools will be well formed ; but in the majority of cases it will be better to submit the intended preparations to the peptoniz- ing process before their introduction. Absorption is thus made certain, and, besides, we avoid the possibility of the undigested food acting as an irritant and preventing further effort in this direction. In the use of milk in this way it will not be necessar}- to first submit the product to the peptonizing process, as the circumstances are quite favorable to it after introduction. It will, therefore, only be necessary' to combine with the milk a sufficient quantity of pancreatin to produce the desired effect, when, by means of a suitable syringe, the whole amount can be deposited in the rectal pouch, with the expectation that digestion will be promptly carried on. The same method maj- be adopted with advantage in ordi- nary cases of illness accompanied by gastric derangement, when the stomach refuses to perform its functions in the usual manner, and will be found especially valuable in the treatment of children. A small quan- tity of milk can be prepared at a time, the few drops of pancreatin added, when it should be administered. The warmth of the stomach will be found quite as efficient , For low internal resistance and for quantity, the parallel arc coupling ( + -) is : J _| Y . For low internal resistance and for quantity, the multiple arc coupling is : < J^ [■ -JT >■. Of course, both arrangements tend toward quantity, the first by driving the battery, the second by reducing internal resistance. TENDENCY TO GENERALIZE FROM INSUFFICIENT DATA. What strikes one quite as much as anything else in the electrical treatment of disease is a prevalent tendency to generalize from data either imperfect in its character or insufficient in amount, until, if this tendency were not from time to time checked by the writings of eminent practitioners, we might expect to see the science o# electro-therapeutics degenerate into beliefs leading to an art as specialized as that of the pseudo-phrenologist, or as effectively generalized as that of faiuh-ciire. The agent with which w^e are dealing is so strange in its actions that some men lend themselves to its mystery, willing to believe anything of it, and of their own part in an efficiency exalted by their imaginations. Few, like Franklin, when the ailing from Pennsylvania flocked to him for cure by static electricity, take such a just view as he of their powers, when, despite the seductions leading to a contrarj' belief, in the ascrip- tion to him of knowledge in cures supposed to be brought about by him, he accounted for them by travel and change of food and scene, while at the same time admitting that the employment of static electricity might be efficacious in disease if it were administered under proper medical advice. The average man, however, gives free rein to his credulity in all that happens when he is a? subordinate agent, and this in everything else as well as in electricity. He believes everything that is found set down in books, irrespective of the author, and, in addition, whatever he imagines himself on a cursory view to have discovered. Yet so distin- guishedan electro-therapeutist as De Watteville remarks, even of what is supposed by some persons to be the foundation of knowledge for electro-therapeutic treatment, that " a therapeutical system built on the opposite anelectrotonic and katelectrotonic ett'ects [that is, the differen- tial action of the poles] rests upon an imaginary basis. . . . Both are stimulants, if stimulation there be, the kathode more than the anode." This remark strikes the keynote of correctness of view as to tbe efficiency 168 ELECTRO-THEEAPEUTICS. of electricity as a curative agent, as against the incorrectness of view ■whicli would regard it as consisting of various tools that can be fitted to one handle at the pleasure of the operator. As has been previ. ously remarked, the current is a force possessing many attributes, among which the operator has no power of selection, but merely, through dis- creet application, of subordinating some effects to others. The effects of the agent upon the human bod}', dynamic, anelectrotonic, catelectrotonie (if, as De Watteville says, such there be), electrolytic, catalj-tic, thermic, and cataphoric, are all immanent in the agent itself, and cannot be elimi- nated at the will of tlie operator ; nor can their relations be in any way even modified, except through external phj'siological or pathological con- ditions which it is summoned to meet, and which, necessarilj', are beyond the will of the operator to arrange. The most that the operator can do is to increase, through the mode of presenting the surface of the body (as when he scarifies the skin or presents mucous membrane), the effect of one of the powers of the current ; or, to give another example, as when he produces the heat desired for galvano-caust}', although, as heat in metals decreases their conductivity, he thereby diminishes the quantity of electricity. We might expect to find — and really do find among average phy- sicians — a tendency to ascribe particular effects to a too minute degree to some one quality of the current rather than to another, or to its different qualities in the aggregate ; and even so trustworthy an observer as De Watteville implies that too much reliance is generally placed upon our knowledge of the relative importance, even if we admit the exist- ence of certain factors which in sum go to make up what we call the galvanic current. The advance in the science and art of electro- therapeutics must be admitted to have been great, but we must guard ourselves against this human tendency to categorize upon imperfect data, and, beginning with hastily defined principles, to assert that this or that particular thing is efficacious here or there, to the exclusion of another whicli may have been more potent, although even it may not have been chiefly potent, but potent in conjunction with something other than we imagine. No one has looked more deeply into the subject of electro-therapeu- tics than has Erb,and yet he admits, despite all the present physiological basis for electro-therapeutics, that it rests even now upon an empirical footing, which only the future can extend to a truly scientific one. What can be a more cogent statement, as coming from such a man, than the following extract from his " Hand-Book of Electro-Therapeutics " : — " We may state unhesitatingly that electricity is an extremely pow- erful and many-sided remedy, and that more evident and undoubted QUALIFICATIONS TO PKECEDING STATEMENTS. 169 curative effects maybe attributed to it in diseases of the nervous system than to almost any other remedy. The experience of the last thirt3' j-ears leaves not the least doubt that electricity is valuable in the treat- ment of neuralgia, anaesthesia, spasms, and paralysis, in diseases of the peripheral nerves, as in those of the central nervous system, and that its introduction into therapeutics has caused a more favorable prognosis in many forms of disease. I am not guilty of exaggeration when I say that the curative effects not infrequently astonish even the experienced phj-sician bj^ their magical rapidity and completeness. " Despite these facts, however, we know extremely little of a posi- tive nature with regard to tlie finer processes in electrical curative effects, or their connection with the, to a certain extent, well-Isnown phj'siological effects of electrical currents. " The chief difficulties in this problem appear to me to lie on the pathological side of the question, viz., in our ignorance of the finer nu- tritive or molecular changes occurring in the nerves in various diseases. We possess scarcely any positive knowledge concerning the real nature and final causes of the so frequent inflammatory disturbances, degenera- tion, atrophy, etc., of the tissues. And how much less do we know con- cerning the more subtle processes in the various disorders of the nervous system, in neuralgias, spasms, paral3-ses, and other manifold neuroses 1 " On the other hand, our knowledge of the various effects of elec- tricit}^ is by no means so extensile as many seem to think. We are accurately acquainted onl}' with the irritating and modifying action of electrical currents upon the nerves and muscles ; concerning so-called electrolytic effects upon the living animal we linow practically nothing, and this is also true of so-called cataplioric action ; with regard to our catalytic effects, which are now referred to so frequently, it may be said that they are almost entirely hypothetical. " And who will affirm that there are not other at present unknown effects of electricity upon the living organism, upon which the most important therapeutic results depend ?"* QUALIFICATIONS TO THE PRECEDING STATEMENTS OF EEB AND DE -WATTEVILLE. Yet, although commending tendency to assumption of an attitude of doubt as to many tilings alleged regarding the powers of electricity, one should at the same time guard against accepting literally sncli statements of limitations of those powers as have just been quoted from Erb and De Watteville. They tliemselves would probably approve the same cau- tion respecting portions of these particular passages to which we have * Translated by L. Putzel, JI.D., New York, 1883. 170 ELECTEO-THERAPEUTICS. drawn attention. De Watteville ma}' certainlj' with proprietj' question wlietlier tliere is any demonstrated difference between tlie poles, sucii as to warrant, according to one, an anelectrotonic, and to the otlier a cate- lectrotonic, effect; but we are really at a loss to understand what he, even judging by his own general views, means by saying of the two jjoles, " both are stimulants, if stimulation there he." Again, as to a portion of what Erb sa^-s, maj' not exception be fairly taken? May we not answer that we know electrolytic effects from the poles occur in the human body, because we know that they occur when the poles act on fluids similar to those of the bodj' ? How can we ever know of them as occurring in the human body, if they do occur there, unless by this in- ference; and is not this indirect means all-sufHcient to establish the fact? Why, too, have we not the right to infer the occnrrence of cataphoric action in the bod}' through the same means, when we cannot in experi- ment suitably place the poles with reference to fluids contained in glass tubes without witnessing cataphoric action? Lastly, is there absent, even as to the living body, no evidence of the catalytic effect of tlie poles, when we find that ajjplication to the mucous membrane, although with only moderate current and trifling heat, is followed by escharotic effect ? CREDULITY PREVALENT IN ELECTRICAL MATTERS. At the same time, as we intimated, we cannot but applaud what is nowadays said in a cautionary wa}', even when we deem that the par- ticular utterance will not bear scrutiny throughout, because so much of credulity has mingled with proper belief as to the wonders of electricity. If we would have our armamentarium shine with the light of truth in the eyes of men we must brush awaj- from it as far as possible the cob- webs of fancy which imagination weaves about its strange agency. It is not so long since certain men of education were found in numbers to believe in the efficacy of the magnet alone in the cure of disease. Per- sons there were who were convinced that, under certain conditions, they could see light emanating from it, and many occult effects were ascribed to its exhibition in disease. Now, undoubtedly, as a magnet, to be a magnet, must have a field of force, and that field of force must exert itself on certain lines, unless something be brought within the field to deflect those lines, it is evident that, if we choose, we can so adjust a magnet that its field of force shall impinge upon and enter the human body. But, so far as we are aware, there is no evidence that the force produces any effect that is measurable in vital tei-ms. The investigations of Carpenter all gainsay any such supposition. Yet, for all that, we do not deny that a magnet may have prophylactic and curative power. Car- penter also clearly shows us what potency the mind has through " ex- DISPUTED POINTS. 171 pectant attention " in directing, even to a determinate point, a conception of disease, and thereby in influencing the disease favorably or unfavor- ably. If this be so, as among the various physical phenomena of dis- ease we believe it to be, it is easily to be credited that the mind maj^ exert an inclusive salutary or prejudicial action on the bodj- tbrougli its conception of dissipation or encroachment of disease of general distri- bution. The simplest form in which we recognize this phenomenon is that met by a placebo, which is administered for a limited specific effect. But we may regard placebos more generallj' as to their action, as in a case which we once met, where a pebble was exhibited as having once been a potato of such virtue that it had shown itself capable of drawing rheumatism from the bodj', in proof of which there was its hardness, which was undeniable. Horse-chestnuts are sometimes equally- efficacious in tlie same disease, but whatever the medium of cure, or preventive, as when swimming, an eel-skin tied around the leg for prevention of cramp, the real virtue of tlie application is not to be disputed, if there be faith in its efficac}-. We must remember that whatever the article maj- happen to be, no matter what, it sjnnbolizes the directive action of the mind, aided b}- the power of imagination, to secure prevention, palliation, or cure., and should, therefore, reserve a proper place in our regard and practice for every apparently different form of faith-cure. DISPUTED POINTS. Constantly accumulating evidence from practitioners seems to contra- dict many of the refinements of electrical treatment which were supposed at one time to be based on observed facts. That one pole is stronger than tlie other, and that one represents the acid, the other the alkaline resolution of electrolytic matter ; that for certain surgical unipolar punc- tures one is, from this circumstance, better than the other, are the onl}- fundamental facts with which we seem to be positivelj' acquainted. There is no demonstration yet (and it would seem that there could be none) that the descending current has always advantage over the ascending, or the ascending over the descending. "We have already said that, in percu- taneous administration of the current, the chemical part of the effects must be among the least, often so small as to be negligible. The reason^ we gave is conclusive, that the sitting at the longest is short, and that the current which the living bodj- will bear is not sufficiently dense to effect diffused electroljtic change. Even in Apostoli's operations, in which he uses currents so large, the densitj' of the current'^from one pole is diffused over a large area, and is denselj' concentrated only near the other. The action to which the human body is subjected in percutaneous ad- ministration of the current is nearly-, in sum, dynamic. That follows, if 172 ELECTKO-THEEAPEUTICS. ' the chemical action at the poles is slight, and we have shown that it must of necessity be then slight. The differential indications of the poles must therefore be, if the chemical effect is admitted to be slight, merely dynamically different ; that is, the molecularization set up, the parent of all the effects, whether in the battery or in the wires, manifests itself dynamically differently at the two poles. Then why, the reader may ask, should not the positive pole seem stronger than the negative pole? Ingress and egress of force must be regarded with reference to matter. If any one will take a rifle, and flre at an}' distance at which its bullet will perforate a pfank, he will find that the wood at the bullet- hole on the side of the plank nearer to him is smooth, but on the other side splintered, and yet the force deploj^ed had remained essen- tially the same during the transit of the bullet from one side of the plank to the other. The reason for this is that the bullet, in striking the plank, compacts the fibres of the jDlank because they are heavily reinforced, but, on the other side, it disrupts the fibres because they are free to escape. The electric current passes through the scarf-skin, through the sweat and sebaceous glands and the hair-follicles, the horny layer forming great resistance, and, after more or less diffusion in the body, concentrates again densely at the opposite pole, and there meets the resistance analo- gous to that of the further side of tlie bullet-perforated plank. When the tissues meet the force in ingress the}' tend to be compacted, but wlien they meet it in egress they tend to be disrupted. Hence, at the point of egress, the sensation is naturally stronger, but not from the fact of the presence there of the negative pole. THE MANNER IN WHICH THE CURRENT PASSES. The previous considerations conduct us much further than to the conclusion which we have reached. Many persons believe that the cur- rent flows only in one direction, from the positive to the negative direc- tion. But no one will dispute that both anode and cathode afford electro- scopic test of their respectively yielding positive and negative electricity, or that two independent cells, joined positive to positive pole, and nega- tive pole to negative, are neutralized. In the battery the ziuc plate fur- nishes positive electricity to the acid, retaining negative electricity itself. The conducting plate receives the positive electricity. The electricities cannot recombine in the battery, for the battery is engaged in producing them. They therefore flow away, if there are conductors forming an external circuit to receive them. Is it reasonable to suppose that they both flow away through the positive electrode, when the negative elec- trode is ready to receive one of tliem? When there is no external circuit, the electricities are in a static MANNER IN WHICH THE CUEEENT PASSES. 173 condition. Accepting Faraday's law, which no one disputes, that it is impossible to produce an absolute charge of electricity of one kind with- out producing an equal charge of the opposite kind, which all experiment proves, and accepting, what all experiment also proves, that these elec- tricities, although they, as formed, are mutually repellant, are ready to form another equilibrium by combination under other conditions than those which produced them, we find in the batterj'-cell tlie same general phenomena as in the frictional or inductive electrical machine, in which the second equilibrium between the electricities is obtained by discharge through its poles, just as the other obtains it by discharge through its poles. The only difference between them is that, in the case of the battery, the equilibrium is restored by gradual, instead of, as in the other, by disruptive discharge, and the current passes through the electrodes in one case and leaps from their surface in the other. But even with the static machine the electrical flow maj- be made gradual, as will appear later when we come to speak of static electricitj'. As soon as the static condition in the battery ceases bj' the completion of the external circuit, the respective electricities flow in opposite directions from the anode and cathode, respectively, to the positive and negative electrodes, respectively, representing the external circuit, returning on themselves to the battery. The reason that thej' move at all is because the dissolution of the elements of the battery has put in play forces which must continue to act under the conditions of their gradual genera- tion for the restoration of their equilibrium, until it is restored through the destruction of the efficient cause of them. Action and reaction are, it is well linown, everywhere equal, and, as has been said, the quantitj' of positive electricity everywhere generated is in presence of an equal quantity of negative electricity. As between the two opposite elec- tricities, we find in static electricity that the discharge of electricity pro- ceeds from the positive in the negative direction as anticipatorj'. Hence, we have the right to infer that the propulsive force of all positive elec- tricity is greater than that of negative electricity, and that the positive current is initiatory in the external galvanic circuit, and tlierefore I stronger from the positive to the negative pole than from the negative to the positive pole. It is stronger in the particular manifestation of energy to which we are refei'ring, but not in another sense stronger, for, compared with its corresponding negative electricity, it performs its proportional part, and no more than its proportional part, in liberating and recombining chemical equivalents. What has previously been said regarding which pole should appear to be the stronger in percutaneous administrations of the current, is con- formable with this view as to the movement of the two electricities. 174 ELECTEO-THEKAPEUTICS. Whether they both move in the same or in opposite directions, the man- ifestation of force at any given point would be constant, for, whether they move in the same direction or in opposite directions, we cannot suppose, in this case, that there would be interference, the current, whether regarded as single or as twofold, merely representing a molecularly affected chain. The seat of sensation in percutaneous administration of the current being, of course, at the surface of the bodj-, where the positive current enters and where it departs from the body, it meets as everywhere else the negative current. At the skin there is sensation, but in the interior of the body there is no sensation., Dispersion of the current would partly account for that fact, but, leaving that out of consideration, it is fully accounted for bj' the circumstance that the interior of the body is not sensitive like the skin. Discarding, therefore, all considerations except as to the points of the skin in contact with the poles, at the positive pole we have the positive current entering and the negative one departing, and at the negative pole we have the negative current entering and the posi- tive one departing. The difference between the dynamic weights of the positive over the negative current, added to its disruptive tendency at the point of egress, therefore, would render the sensation more powerful at that point, and that point happening to be at the negative pole, we ascribe to the effect of that pole what should be ascribed to the positive one. So, in fact, when we have been thinking and speaking of differen- tial polar effects, we have at least been mistaken as to which is the stronger pole in the true sense — that as to which pole affords the stronger current — and this, because we have not sufficiently considered, in addi- tion to a priori reasons for our conclusions, that ingress into and egress from the human body, of a force like current electricitj', present entirely different conditions, and that the positive is stronger than the negative current. The ground over which we have passed would seem to lead us to the conclusion that as, in percutaneous administration of the currents, they are nothing if not dynamic, they cannot represent real differential polar effects. THE ASCENDING AND DESCENDING CURRENTS. Equal with the doubtfulness as to the existence of peculiar differen- tial polar effects that would warrant the two poles being respectively designated as anelectrotonic and oatelectrotonic, is that regarding the alleged differential effects between ascending and descending currents, when reference is made by those terms to the directions taken in the body by the current. There is use made of the same expression when reference is made to an entirely different matter ; that is, when a nerve receives the application of the negative pole at the plexus, and of the ASCENDING AND DESCENDING CUEEENTS. 175 ' positive pole at its extremitj', the current is said to be ascending, while conversely', "wlien the positive pole is placed over the roots, and the negative at the extremity, the current is said to be descending. That kind of distinction is perfectly legitimate, and is not the one now under consideration, the directions to which we are referring relating to the body topographically considered. Although, as we have said, the current really moves in two opposite directions, yet, for the sake of convenience, we speak of its direction as being from the positive to the negative pole. Regarding it in that way, it must, however, be obvious tliat, the human body being formed as it is, administrations of the current will in certain cases be ascending tlirough one part and equally descending through the corresponding part. If each hand of a person holds a pole, the current is ascending in one arm and descending in the other. If one of the poles be at each foot, the current would ascend in one leg and descend in the other. If, however, the positive pole were placed at the nape of the neck and the negative one at the sacrum, and then the positions of the poles were reversed, we should have alternately a descending and ascending current, and so we may saj' of all cases of which this is a type. But, after all, there seems to be no clearly demonstrated dtfTerential effect derived from these dif- ferent modes of administration of the current, even when regarded from this latter point of view ; and if we might presume to discuss it merely upon general principles, this could not well be otherwise, for if we reflect tiiat the transmission of energy in the case of electricity has been deter- mined by the Wheatstone revolving mirror process at two hundred and eighty-eight thousand miles per second, while in the motor nerves of man the nervous current is only thirty -five to forty metres per second, and in the sensory nerves from fifty to one hundred metres pW second, we per- ceive that that is as much as to say that, by comparison with the electrical current, nerve transmission stands still. Make any abatement that one may reasonably choose to include for the great resistance opposed by the body to the electrical current, and still the difference between the velocity of nerve transmission and that of the electrical current is inordinate, and therefore gives no ground for supposition that any difference can be impressed upon the nerve transmission as derived from the fact that the electrical current is ascending or descending in the bodjf. It is well to note here that, although the velocity of the nerve transmission is less when the nerve is in an electrotonic than when in a catelectrotoftic con- dition, this may easily be accounted for without resorting to the suppo- sition that there is any truly diflferential action in the poles, for it is known that the stimulation of certain nerves is not necessarily productive of muscular contraction, but may produce contraction of a blood-vessel, 176 ELECTKO-THERAPEUTICS. or modify the secretion of a gland, or inhibit certain nervous action, which might be explained by the difference of dynamic force, with a given quantity of electricity and amount of electro-motive force, of one pole over the other, instead of accepting witliout further demonstration that one pole is in its effect upon the body intrinsically different from the other. THE MOOT POINT AS TO WHETHER THE BODY NORMALLY HAS REGULAR ELECTRICAL CURRENTS. At one time it was supposed by many persons that there are regular electric currents in the bod}^ some going even so far as to imagine that nerve force and electricity are really the same agencj'. This latter notion lias, of course, been thoroughly dispelled, as the result of the experiments made during the last few j^ears by Helmholtz and other physicists regarding the rate of transmission of nerve signals. The results of the experiments of Du Bois-Reymond, pursued in the interest of demon- strating the existence of currents in both nerves and muscles (the prevalent one being supposed to be produced by the muscles, the nerves merely acting inertly as conductors), and also of demonstrating the existence of electrical currents in the arms, coincident with, but distinct from, muscular or nerve currents, interesting as they are, and productive as they will prove in the future, through leading research in that direc- tion, would seem to be entirely disproved by experiments. "Professor John Trowbridge, of Harvard, has reached the conclusion that the phe- nomena observed by Du Bois-Reymond are not owing to the presence of muscular currents and nerve currents in the substances submitted to the action, but to endosmotic action of the fluids in the muscular and nerve substance, affecting the saline solution of the cushions adapted to the galvanic battery for the reception of these substances by way of referring 'their action to that of the delicate galvanometer used for the detection of infinitesimal currents. And in the case of the electrical cur- rent supposed to be produced by Du Bois-Reymond by dipping the tips of the forefingers of each hand in two solutions, and then producing muscular contractions of each arm alternately, registering a change in opposite directions on the galvanometer, they are probably rightly ascribed by Professor Trowbridge either to the change in temperature superinduced bj' the muscular contractions or to a change in the flow of blood in the arms. Nevertheless, although one who believes in the results of Professor Trowbridge's experiments, as against those of Du Bois-Reymond, is re- duced to the necessity of discarding any notion which he may have enter- tained regarding demonstrated muscular, nerve, and electi-ic currents in PEESENCE OF ELECTRICITY IN THE HUMAN BODY. 177 the liuman boclj', he is not thereby necessarily driven to conclude that there are no currents whatever of those kinds ; nor would he be forced so to think, even if such currents should never be demonstrated, because it would seem, after the experiments of Du Bois-Reymond and Prof. Trow- bridge, that it would be impossible to organize experiments looking to the conclusions involved, in such a manner that the results would not be masked by endosmotic action, even if they had any real existence. The existence of nerve and muscular currents in the body is a legitimate inference, from the fundamental conception that something conveyed presupposes something conveying it. That muscular current and nerve current, if sucli there be, are not electrical, is clearly shown by the evi- dence adduced as to the enormous difference in velocity between the conveyance of signals by the nerve force and by electricity. That, how- ever, there are not electrical currents in the body, as well as nerve cur- rents, even if there are no muscular currents save through the presence of nerves, is not to be supposed. The currents of which we have been speaking are simply undemonstrated, that is all. The discussion was assumed to rest upon the assumption, moreover, tliat if the electrical current existed, it is one performing regular function as current. The contrary view, which we hold, admits the presence of electrical currents, but not of electrical currents (properly so called) as being regular in their action with reference to nerve or other function. THE PRESENCE OF ELECTRICITY IN THE HUMAN BODY, SO FAR AS DEMONSTRATED. The chemical changes proceeding in the body, even when inactive, but especially when active, preclude the notion that corresponding elec- trical conditions are not generated. We know from experiment that electricity in a static condition exists in the body, and that being so, it must constantly take the form of discharge, which means current. Not only are different persons charged with different quantities of electricitj', but also with electricity of different signs, — plus or minus, — as is clearly shown by the ability of some persons to communicate and never receive a spark from certain others. Within two or three j'ears we have experi- mented with a young girl, who was able to communicate to any one whom we found a spark from her knuckles, no one with whom she was acquainted being able to reciprocate the compliment. Hemmer's experi- ments go to show that in some persons the electricity is positive and in others negative. He says, however, that normally the electricity in the human body is positive, but that this normal condition is lessened or entirely changed, by violent exertion or exposure to cold, to one in which negative electricity is present. Positive electricity, he says increases in 12 1 78 ELECTEO-THEKAPEUTICS. winter and diminishes in summer, ceasing witli perspiration. He also remarks that prolonged mental exertion increases the positive electricitj*. The last is the only one of the results mentioned which seems to us anomalous. We are not disputing it, having no grounds from either personal observation or remarks of other writers besides himself for denying the statement. But, although this is so, we may be permitted to sajr why the statement seems to ns anomalous. Hemmer distinctly speaks of lassitude from muscular overexertion as being pi'oductive of negative electricity in the body. Yet he ascribes the opposite effect to overexertion of the brain ; and it really should seem that, as lassitude from the former cause is as pronounced as from the latter, the electrical consequences could not be different. Mention of a very singular phenomenon should not be omitted in connection with this, — one of excitation of the brain. It is of frequent occurrence after prolonged mental exertion, especially when accompanied by disquiet, and when a period of rest at last supervenes with full inten- tion to recuperate, as when, after a day of mental strain, a person retires for tlie night, that he becomes aware of a succession of quick discharges in tlie brain, indicating the liberation of force of some kind. The time at which this occurs, wlien the mental tension is at least in a meas- ure relieved, clearly indicates that the force which is liberated is one wliich had been summoned to meet that for which it is no longer required, and, becoming superfluous, is discharged in a series of explo- sions. That the sensation is represented physically in the brain there ought to be no manner of doubt. As to whether it is electrical or nerve force which is discharged there is apparently small chance of discovering. Our Judgment as to its velocity must, as a matter of sensation, be wholly erroneous if the discharge be electrical, for just as the retina retains the picture of the electric spark for some time, although it has the duration of only TfjJiyjy of a second, so the nerves of sensation are, in this other case, incompetent to register tlie duration of the movement, our faculty of differentiating in lapses of time not being equal to perception of difference below the tenth of a second. TONIC EFFECTS OF THE ELECTRICAL CURRENT. That the chief effects of the current administered percutaneously will eventually be decided by electro-therapeutists to be tonic effects, we have little doubt. All experimentation, clinical observation, private prac- tice, and thought upon the subject seem to point in the direction of that conclusion. What with unhygienic surroundings, improper food, ex- cesses of all kinds, and mental strain, combined with inadequate exercise of many parts of the body, civilization has much to answer for as to the TONIC EFFECTS OF THE ELECTRICAL CUEEENT. 179 low general phj-sical condition of the nations. "We know that it can be pointed out that within late years, in America, the upper classes of society have advanced in physical well-being, through recognition, even among the female portion of communities, of the desirability of systematic exercise and its adoption to a large extent, thus changing to some degree a deplorable condition of things, unparalleled at one time in any civilized countr}'. The one pleasant aspect of the present anglomania among these people is its having led the women of this country to the experi- ence of the salutariness of exercise. Similarly, but to a much greater degree, and long preceding, the young men of the country have gradually become addicted to athletic sports, with the result of increased healthful- ness, vigor, and beauty of physique. But there the matter chiefly rests with the youth of both sexes. There is in this country no general appreciation of, or at least addiction to, habits of exercise throughout life, as we find obtaining in most other civilized countries. The average young man, who has contested in many a game through the flurry of college life, drops out after a year or two of sporadic return to exercise upon principle into a person who takes a stroll with- a segar, — calling it " a constitutional," — and feels that he has paid the full debt to nature required for health. And it is even worse with yonng women, who, for tlie most part, except under the impulse of some strong extraneous in- ducement of pleasure sought, cease all thought of constant fresh air and exercise as of things as necessary as daily bread. The topic is a fruitful one, in which we feel that we must stay our pen. In sum : we would say that as a nation we Americans, of any class, are not imbued, beyond the he3'day of youth, with love of exercise for its own sake, and in the later years of life do not pursue it sjj^stematically as a duty owed to health, but perfunctorily within the narrowest limits. The immediate consequence of this neglect is entire rest for some parts of the body. A man in middle life will sometimes be surprised to find that, upon taking trifling, unwonted exercise, the muscles of some part are sore where he had hardly dreamed thej^ were employed. He goes on for years with the most moderate employment of his muscles generally, and, although perhaps not fat, is so little inclined to flexure of the body that he dislikes to tie his shoe. As it is a well-known physio- logical law that organs and parts unused deteriorate from the mere circum- stance of their disuse, and even tend to disappear, and that judicious employment of them is essential to their vitality, we can readily see that the tendencies of modern civilization are to deterioration of the race ; for although we have in that civilization the condition of the middle estate, where the draughts on life are at their minimum, we have also the class of the highest estate, where the natural draughts . are voluntarily 180 ELECTKO-THERAPEUTICS. and involuntarily increased, and, lastly, we have the class of the lowest estate, where poverty means to those afflicted with it ill-feeding and in- adeqiiate feeding, ill-housing, including ill-ventilation, and all the ills that Pandora's box let loose on earth. A man cannot escape all ills, do what he maj. Even the savage, free to roam at least in places j-et, and trained in every fibre amid fresh air, has his periods of depression tlirongh famine and other evils due to his estate. But in the best speci- men of tliese we can see what is given to the phj^sical heritage of man, if only he could generall3' be more of a child of nature than he is, if merely to the limitations of the conditions which surround the civilized man. Then he would find that through exercise suited to his individual powers he has strengthened his heart's action, increased his circulation and digestion, lightened his spirit, and made of himself a new being. In the gradual relinquishment of ph3'sical exercise, and j'ielding to slothfulness in that respect (for many a man willing to labor with his brain is averse to physical exercise, and yet he is of all men the one who most needs it), as age creeps on apace every part of the body becomes more or less enervated, through not being called upon to perform its functions with the proper degree of intensity. The whole vasomotor system suffers in its integrity. We do not doubt that, if we could in- spect the internal economy of many a man, it would show a condition of incipient or permanent partial stasis in a transition stage, occur- ring, overcome, and recurring in fitful change without perhaps reaching the point where embolism supervenes, but always circling about the zones of danger, and threatening that conclusion, from the circumstance of the torpidity of the general action of the system. Now, if the gal- vanic current is fundamentally what we believe it to be in its effects, — dynamic,— if it is a current polarizing all that it meets on its passage through the body, distending and contracting muscles and veins, causing glands to secrete, moving, through change in the relative density of their parts, the fluids of the body, we have only said in other terms that this must not only relieve stasis, but must produce passive exercise of the most beneficial kind, especially in all those parts through which the cur- rent goes, which, through long neglect of hygienic laws, are functionally deranged. The primary curative effect of the current is therefore, to onr mind, tonic, restoring innervation and nutrition to the organism, with the secondary effects which we have mentioned. THE DIFFERENTIAL ACTION OF THE POLES. We could wish that this view of the fundamental action of the cur- rent were universally taken, and then we should see dispelled one of the concomitant notions associated in the minds of young electro-therapeu- DIFFEEENTIAL ACTION OF THE POLES. 181 tists ■with the present absence of any determinate opinion of the cause of the therapeutic action of the current, rather imputing it to some oc- cult, mystic agency. Tliis notion is that the current, to be efficacious, should always be strong. There is, however, only one oecJasion when tlie practice conformably with this view is justifiable, and that is where the current, whether galvanic or faradic, is used for diagnostic purposes. But even for certain diagnostic purposes it must be very wealc. Wc should like to see its use for diagnostic purposes extended, and in that case, the purpose not looking toward tonicity, it follows that tlie current cannot be defined for it as necessarily mild. For detecting tender points on the spine and other processes the faradic current has long been used, but it might elsewhere be judiciouslj^ employed in general diagjiosis of ob- scure ailments, especially where there is thought of surgical interference. A case is recalled in which surgical interference took place in a wrong direction, where it seems probable that previous faradic exploration would have avoided the mistake. To return from our digression to the question of tlie amount of dosage, we would say tliat the tonic eflfects of the currents are to be ob- tained witliout heroic administration of them, and that the notion of only strong currents being efficacious is one too much lilie that which the old darkeys used to have as to doses from the materia medica, properly to obtain vogue among skillful electro-therapeutists. Every individual case for dosage with electricity should have the same kind of discrimination applied to it as in the administration of drugs. The error of view among young electro-therapeutists, whicli we have pointed out, is of great consequence, as tending to retard general arrival at the most rational practice. Another point, too, which they should sedulously study is the differential action of the two poles. To apply the positive pole for stricture is to ruin the urethra, whereas to apply the negative pole, under tlie conditions imposed by so skillful an operator as Dr. Robert Newman, is to effect a permanent cure in a marvellously short space of time. Dr. L. C. Gray, of New York, lately said, in an article in the New York Medical Journal, that in spite of his sixteen j'ears' ex- perience with the current he had not been able to notice any therapeutic difference between the poles, that if one pole doe* not agree he tries the other, and if that does not agree he stops electrical treatment. The Doctor here implies what we feel sure from the context he does not be- lieve, that in percutaneous administrations there may be therapeutic dif- ference between the poles. He does not, of course, refer to applications of the poles to the mucous membrane. We, in speaking of the proper mode of applying the galvanic current to the urethra, have referred to the care which should be used, in all such applications, to employ the 182 ELECTKO-THEEAPEUTICS, proper pole. The differential chemical effects of the two poles are, as applied to the mucous membrane, demonstrable. The differences should be studied, so that the contemplated effect, not an untoward, or even contrary orre, may be readied by misemploying them. As for the per- cutaneous administration of the current, we can only repeat what we have before declared, that the effects of the poles mr.st in that case be infinitesimal, and therefore pegligible in the premises. The beginning and end of our first practical lesson is that the chief therapeutic virtues upon which we can rely in the galvanic and faradic currents lie in their tonic effects. THE FARADIC APPARATUS AND CURRENT. "We have now come to speak in such a manner alternately of the faradic and the galvanic current, th.it it is proper at this point to in- troduce some description of the faradic current, and of the machine with which it is used, as a preliminary to particular mention of when one kind of current or the other is indicated in medical practice. The faradic current is an induced current, induced by the primary current, perforce of that strange power which electricity possesses of summoning otlier electricity to manifest itself either statically or dynamically. In the case of static electricity the presence of one electricity binds another to its presence for a time, depending upon the condition of the atmosphere, which may dissipate it b}- convection or conduction, while in the case of current electricity the electricity induced by a current is only of momen- tary duration and is itself a current. Considerations of the manner in which the simplest and best kind of faradic battery works will instruct us as to the phenomenon to which refer- ence is here made. The battery consists of a few small cells, sometimes not more than two, and a bar of annealed iron encircled by a long helix or coil of insulated wire, which, in turn, is encircled by another coil of insu- lated wire, longer and finer than the wire of the first coil. The outer helix, that in wliich the induced currents flow, is not cdifnected with the inner one, in which the primary currents flow. Opposite one end of the inner coil, and tlie end of its inclosed bar of iron, which there appears, is a little platinum point restrained by a spring from touching the end of the iron core, which spring is still sufficientlj' slight and flexible to allow the point play enough from a slight impulse to enable it to touch the end of the iron core. Now, if an electrical current is sent through the wire of the inner helix or coil (the primary coil), there is an instantaneous cur- rent in the opposite direction through the outer coil (the seeondarj' coil), . and hence its current is called the secondary current. But, as the pri- mary current passes through the primary coil, it magnetizes the core of FAKADIC APPARATUS AND CUEKENT. 183 iron inclosed within it, whicli causes the platinum point, up to that mo- ment retained by its spring, to overcome the tension of the spring and touch the end of the iron core. This touch, allowing the current to pass through the point and its connections, has the effect of at once demag- netizing the iron core, which instantaneously releases the point to fall back to its old position under the controlling action of the spring. But, when the point falls back to its old position, away from contact with the iron core, the consequent break of the current allows of the iron core being remagnetized. Meanwhile the current in the secondary coil, which had first flashed in the direction opposite to that in the primary coil, at the " break" of the current flashes back in the same direction as tliat of the primarj"^ coil. It thus appears that induced currents are generated at both " make" and " break " of the primary current, and that their direc- tion is first opposed to that of the primary current, and then conforma- ble to it. It is at the " make " of the galvanic circuit that the current of the secondary coil goes in the opposite direction, and at the " break " in the galvanic circuit that the current of the secondary coil goes in the same direction. By means of the automatic arrangement of the iron core, platinum point, and spring, the " makes " and " breaks " in the cur- rent take place with great rapidity, so that the current is reall}- almost continuous. But, no matter how rapidly the " makes " and " breaks " of the current succeed each other, the interruptions of the current always generate secondary currents moving in the manner described. If the soft-iron core were not present, the same phenomena would be producible, provided only some way were devised and adopted for interrupting the current of the primary coil. But, by the inclusion of the soft-iron core two advantages are gained, — intensity of action of the currents is much increased, and the soft-iron core, with the addition of its platinum point and spring, serves as the best possible current-inter- rupter for general purposes. A current-interrupter is also called by the various names of rheotome, make and break, and vibrator. As the maicing and breaking of the galvanic circuit is repeated every, time the platinum point touches or leaves the end of the soft-iron core, the induced currents, as well as the primary ones, are constantly re- newed, and flow to the electrodes of the machine. It was discovered by Prof. Joseph Henry, that helix after helix of wire might be placed in succession over one another, forming tertiar}' and otiier currents, which, however, necessarily diminish in strength as they recede farther and far- ther from the primary coil, the source of energy. Here it would be well to conclude the subject with the correction of a prevalent error, that the coils create energy. But, it is true of them as of everything else in nature which liberates force, that ex nihilo nihil fit. What the faradic 184: ELECTRO-THEEAPEUTICS. and other machines with coils effect is, not the creation of energy, but the causing of a certain kind of manifestation of force. They increase enor- mously the electro-motive force as manifested in difference of potential. THE GALYANIO AND THE FARADIC CURRENT TWO TOTALLY DIFFERENT INSTRUMENTALITIES. It must be very evident to the reader that the distinctive char- acteristics of the galvanic and faradic currents are so divergent as to indicate that, if they have therapeutic effects, choice must frequently be made between them to puit particular cases. The characteristics of the currents will, of course, remain constant, and in regard to them the question will be only as to the places of application of the poles, and the intensity of the administration of whichever current may be selected. But, in the present condition of the art of electro-therapeutics, it is often an open question as to which current to employ in a special case, in- cluded within the ever-recurring question of correctness of diagnosis with regard to that special case. Barring, however, the limitations under which we work, we have in the two currents two diverse instrumentali- ties in the field of electro-therapeutics, even without including static electricity, and it is for us to seek sedulous!}^ to use them to the best advautage, inclusive of indication or contra-indication of either of them, or of both. According to the present tendency of opinion, however, among electro-therapeutists, their contra-indication would seem to be very rare, the chief instances of it cited being in acute mania and in preg- nancy, unless it be extra-uterine. The most apparently- diverse symptoms often seem to be amenable to treatment by the currents, such as anaemic and hyperasmic conditions. And yet, that the currents should affect both of these favorably is not so strange, after all, when we reflect that both conditions are by the currents subjected to mechanical effects which are tonic. Tor diagnosis and treatment of variarus forms of paralysis, both the galvanic and the faradic currents are often used, their treatmentsome- times indicating the use of the two currents alternately. In general faradization the current may be passed through the body by means of a moist and warm foot-plate, to which the negative electrode is attached, while the positive electrode, covered with a moist sponge, is placed on the upper part of the forehead. Skillful electro-therapeutists warn us that, in all applications to the head, great care should be taken not to have the current strong or the application long, not to reverse the cur- rent, if it is galvanic, and, when galvanic, not to make and break the circuit while the current is passing. These directions as to breaking the circuit and reversing the current do not apply to the faradic current, ADMINISTRATION OF THE GALVANIC CURRENT. 185 ■which is constantly engaged in making and breaking the circuit and re- versing the current. But, while the electro-motive force of the medical faradic machine is quite great, the quantity of electricity conveyed by the current is very small, — and so, we may add, it relatively is in all faradic apparatus as compared with galvanic apparatus. To avoid shock, a hydro-rheostat, or some better form of rheostat, should be in the galvanic circuit, and the current should be gradually raised from zero to the desired amount, and then be lowered in the same manner to zero, the poles being placed in position before the current is turned on, and removed only after the current is shut off. As with the galvanic current, so also with the faradic, the poles may be used in a stabile or labile (stationary or moving) manner. Thus, in general fara- dization, after the positive pole is placed on the forehead, and the cui-- rent is flowing, the positive pole is passed down the spine and over the. stomach and abdomen, over the arms and, if convenient, over the legs, always avoiding, in making sharp turns around the joints, shocking the sensitive nerves of the skin at those points through the concentration of the current upon them. CAUTIONARY WORDS AS TO THE ADMINISTRATION OP THE GALVANIC CURRENT. We have already spoken of the method of using the ascending or descending current for the purpose of causing the reaction of special muscles, and bringing them from a condition of quiescence into auto- matic action. The ascending current, it will be remembered, we speci- fied as meaning the current passing from the positive pole, placed over the peripheral portion of the nerve, to the plexus, and the descending current as meaning the current passing from the positive pole placed over the plexus of the nerve, to the negatiA'e pole, at the peripheral por- tion of the nerve. A current may be continued so long in one or the other of these directions as to destroy the tonicity of the nerve, which will require rest, or stimulation in the opposite direction, in order to restore it. This fact does not conflict with what has been previouslj'' stated as to its probably being a matter of indifference, as to effects, whether a current is ascending or descending, with reference to the body generally. It is entirely reconcilable witli and confirmatory of that statement. The current, in passing through the body, generally meets various conditions, neutralizing special and blending them into general effects, whereas we have, in the case of a certain muscle, excited through its nerve, a specialized concentrated effect, associated with the maximum densitj' of the current, as compared with the current dispersed on many circuits in its coarse tliroughout the body. 186 ELECTKO-THEEAPEUTICS. GREATER CARE TO BE TAKEN WITH THE ADMINISTRATIOIf OF THE GALVANIC THAN WITH THE FARADIC CURRENT. It cannot be too carefully kept in mind that greater precautions should be used in the administration of the galvanic than in the case of the faradic current. The effect of the faradic current upon the skin and sensory nerves is so great that it at once proclaims its presence and its strength. Not so with the galvanic current. A considerable current may be passing through a patient without his feeling any sensation what- ever, unless a break should occur in it. Then is produced the sensation of shock to which we have already referred, unpleasant at best, some- times terrifying ; with a strong current, more than disagreeable, and with a very strong one, dangerous. Therefore it is that, unless the cur- rent is known by the electrometer, by the small number of cells in cir- cuit, or by some other test, to be very, moderate, it should be as gradu- ally as possible increased, with the electrodes already in position, and just as gradually decreased, before either of them is removed from the body. TESTING FOR PHYSIOLOGICAL REACTIONS, TO COMPARE WITH THEM PATHOLOGICAL ONES. The muscles on symmetrical parts of the body can, in health, be excited by the same strength of current for each side. Hence, as we are possessed of the physiological fact that thej' are irritated to contraction, and to the same amount of contraction, under the same strength of cur- rent, we can utilize the knowledge for diagnosing many real and simulated affections. In the case of employing the faradic current for these pur- poses, it is usual to place one pole at the particular part to be tested for, or exercised in, reaction. As the polarity of the current is with the faradic apparatus continually being reversed, the rapid alterna- tions of the current may not give the muscles time enough for clonic spasm, but may throw them into a tetanic condition. If, however, one choose to employ a faradic apparatus in which the interruptions to the current can be made at longer intervals than is possible with the small automatic apparatus, he can produce with it clonic spasm of any but the most diseased muscles. ACTION OF THE CURRENT IN CASES OF POISONING. It is usual with the galvanic current to try the effects produced by transposition of the poles. In health, the contraction produced by closure of the circuit by the negative pole is greater than that produced by closure of the circuit by the positive pole. In health, the effect of the faradic ELECTEO-DIAGNOSIS IN PABALYSIS. 187 current is more marked than that of the galvanic current in its contract- ive power over muscles. Dr. C. M. Haynes, of Chicago, remarks, in his work ou electro-therapeutics, that when a muscle is deprived of its nerve influence, by poison or otherwise, leaving its fibres healthy, the reactions are very ditferent from the physiological ones just described. He says, " The faradic will then produce no contraction of the muscle whatever, no matter how slowly the interruptions may be made. The influence of the galvanic current is increased, so that a weaker power is required to produce contractions than in the normal state. In this condition there is not only contraction at the instant of opening and closing the galvanic current, but, if the current be strong, there is often a tetanic spasm during its continued passage." This effect of a tetanic spasm during the uninterrupted passage of the current is entirely abnormal. ELECTRO-DIAGNOSIS IN PARALYSIS. Dr. Haynes' statement of the principles of electro-diagnosis in cases of paralysis is so clear and condensed that we reproduce it here : — " Cases of paralysis giving normal electrical reaction usually indicate that the disease originates in the brain or white columns of the cord. " Cases of paralysis giving abnormal electrical reaction usually indi- cate disease either of the gray matter of the cord or the peripheral nerves. The evidence is stronger if the electrical responses are changed in quality and character in addition to quantity and degree. " Paralysis of one side of the body (hemiplegia) is usually due to brain disease. " Paralj'sis of the lower half of the body, including the bladder and rectum (paraplegia) is generally due to spinal disease. " Cross-paralysis, where the loss of power is irregular, as when it affects the face on one side and a limb on the other (hemiplegia alternate), may be dependent on disease of the brain or the white columns of the cord. " The reaction in hemiplegia alternate is normal ; therefore the disease cannot be exactly located by electricity, but must be determined by general symptoms, — often a matter of great difHculty. Fortunately, the latter form is extremely rare. " "When electrical reaction is greatly increased, it indicates hyper- excitability of the nervous system ; and when, in addition, reflex mus- cular contractions are produced in various parts of the body by stimu- lation of a nerve in the paralj-zed parts, it is further evidence of great irritability of the spinal cord, almost, if not quite, amounting to organic disease. When paralysis is confined to the branches, and muscles sup- plied by a single nerve-trunk, the probability is that the lesion is of peripheral origin. 188 ELECTBO-THEKAPEUTICS. " When a limb has lost its power of motion as a result of disease of the cord, the abnormal electrical responses may exist in one of three ways. " They may be uniformly distributed throughout the entire paralyzed member, all the muscles being equally affected. This takes place in gross lesions, involving a mass of the structure of the cord. " They may be distributed only to certain muscles forming physio- logical groups, irrespective of the nerve supply. For example, all the flexors of a limb, or its extensors, may present abnormal reactions, although they receive their nutritive supply from different sources. This occurs in chronic affections of the anterior roots of the spinal nerves. " They may be irregularly distributed, affecting muscles neither in anatomical nor physiological groups. This often follows acute inflamma- tion of the gray matter. " Thejr are always distributed according to anatomical relations in peripheral paralysis ; in other words, the abnormal reactions occur only in those structures which receive their nerve supply from a special nerve- trunk totally irrespective of their function. " Hence, limited paralysis, originating in the cord, may be distin- guished from that originating in a peripheral nerve lesion, since in the former the limb is uniformly affected, or its muscles are attacked in physiological or irregular groups, while in the latter they are affected according to their anatomical distribution. "PARALYSIS ARISING FROM DISEASE OF THE GRAY MATTER OF THE CORD. " When the abnormal reactions are uniform, extending over an entire limb, the disease occupies a mass of its substance, as in the inflammation of the substance of the brain (mj-elitis). " If they are confined to certain physiological groups of muscles, the disease has generally been chronic, and implicates the anterior roots of the spinal nerves, as in progressive muscular atrophy. " If the degenerate muscles react in an irregular manner, neither ac- cording to distribution nor function, the disease has usually been the re- sult of an acute inflammation of the anterior cornua, which has destroyed some of the nutritive centres and left others intact. " When a nerve is found deficient in response, and muscle normal, it shows alteration in the former, the latter remaining intact, as is some- times seen in the early stage of infantile paralysis. " The electrical reactions in peripheral paralysis indicate with exacti.. tude the extent and distribution of the disease. " When the electrical reactions are normal it indicates a paralysis of slight and temporary form ; prognosis is favorable. EEACTION OF BEQENEEATION. 189 "Loss of response when either current is applied to nerve-trunks points to nerve-alteration, and this in proportion to diminution of action. " Loss of response to faradism applied direct to a muscle indicates changes in the intramuscular nerves, without necessary alteration of the fibres themselves. " Loss of response with galvanism applied to the muscles shows a modification or destruction of the muscular tissue, and this in proportion to the physical changes induced. "REACTION OF DEGENERATION". " Immediately after a muscle has been injured severely enough to destroy a portion of a motor or mixed nerve, it has been found by Erb that atrophy of the muscular fibres sets in, which may be seen during the second week, and reaches its limit about the fifth or sixth week. At first it ceases to respond to the faradic current, then follows a period when it will act only to a slowly interrupted galvanic current, and finally ceases to react to any form of electrical stimulation ; he termed this the reaction of degeneration. It is present in paralyses arising from rheu- matism, lead palsy, the paralysis peculiar to writers, telegraph operators, etc. In those difficult cases after railway and other accidents, when per- sons demand compensation for damages, the existence of the reaction of degeneration would 'be a fact of vital importance in favor of the appli- cant, as it would indicate that he was suffering from a serious injury of the nerves. Such a demonstration in a court of justice is more conclu- sive than any amount of autlioritative opinion." STUDY OF THE MOTOR POINTS OF MUSCLES. It would require pages that we have not at our disposal to enable us to present drawings of the nude human figure represented in different positions, with the motor points marked upon them, with the addition of accompanying descriptive text. This matter, which will be found in the more voluminous works on electro-therapeutics, tlie drawings in the work of Erb being particularly fine, is instructive, and yet there is only one unroyal road to full acquaintance with testing for reaction and for exercise of muscles, and that is to practice upon one's own person and elsewhere the physiological reactions of muscle, and carefully compare with them, when opportunity serves, the reactions afforded by the patho- logical conditions which will continually offer themselves to observation. Every one who reads these pages is justly presumed to possess enough anatomical knowledge to serve as at least a basis for any physiological experiments and pathological observations which he may desire to make. 190 ELECTEO-THEEAPEUTICS. Without this kind of stud3' of the subject, on the living body, he might study motor points from prints and descriptive text until dooms- day without becoming an expert electro-tlierapeutist. As well might one expect to be a skillful surgeon without having made even a dissection. CENTRAL GALVANIZATION. With the mature judgment derived from long experience, such as that of Drs. Beard and Rockwell, supplemented by such, skillful manipu- lation as theirs, central galvanization, of which tliej' were the origina- tors, may be a perfectly safe procedure. But, even according to their own adverse, as well as favorable, showing, to which we could add testi- mony in the same direction, it is evidentlj' one which had better he scrupulously avoided by the average operator. The object of central galvanization is, to use Drs. Beard and Rockwell's own words, "to bring the whole central nervous system, — the brain, sympathetic, and spinal cord, — as well as the pneumogastric and depressor nerves, under the influence of the galvanic current. One pole (usually the nega- tive) is placed at the epigastrium, while the other is passed over the forehead and top of the head, by the inner borders of the sterno-cleido- mastoid muscles, from the mastoid fossa to the sternum, at the nape of the neck, and down the entire length of the spine." Their procedure consists in passing the positive electrode from one side of the forehead to the other, rarely over the head, and then to let it remain for a minute or so on the cranial centre. In this procedure from two to six cells are generally used, the current being brought up from a weak one and increased until a sour or metallic taste is perceived. They regard the cranial centre as the most important region of the head in all electrical applications, a current passing from that point to the epigastrium traversing the roots of the facial nerves and affecting the sympathetic. Sudden interruptions of the current may, under the cir- cumstances described, cause dizziness. During from one to five minutes the positive electrode is passed on both 'sides down along the inner bor- der of the sterno-cleido-mastoid muscle, from the auriculo-maxillary fossa to tlie clavicle, thus affecting tlie pneumogastric and sympathetic. Pro- ceeding to the spine, especial attention is paid to the cilio-spinal centre, below the first and seventh cervical vertebrae. Thus, tlie cervical sym- pathetic and pneumogastric, as well as the cord, are influenced by the current. The positive pole is also passed up and down over the whole length of the spine. Drs. Beard and Rockwell remark that, as the back is not usually sensitive to the current, it may be treated during from three to six minutes, the whole length of the sitting for central galvanization requir. CENTRAL GALVANIZATION. 191 ing only from five to fifteen minuteg. Tlie disrobing required of the male patient is the removal of coat and waistcoat and the loosening of the collar, so that free access can be had to the epigastrium and the spine, while, for the female patient, it is necessary to remove tlie corsets and loosen the clothing at neck and waist, so as to afford access to the same parts. The electrodes used for central galvanization by Drs. Beard and Rockwell are, for the negative pole at tlie epigastrium, a sponge or flannel-covered electrode of broad surface, having an insulated handle tliat can be held by the patient. For the positive pole they use flannel- covered electrodes, the disks of which are parallel with the handle, so as to permit of their being easily passed up and down the spine under the clothing. The battery should be one of constant current, and furnished with a rheostat. The methods of application could not be other tlian thej' are from the anatomical point of view. The question is not as to them unequivo- cally, but as to them fiom two other points of view : First, as to whether the procedure in itself does not entail too much risk for any object to be gained ; and, second, if it does not, in the skillful hands of Drs. Beard and Rockwell, entail such risk, whether it is one to be attempted by the ordinarjr medical practitioner. Drs. Beard and Rockwell themselves quote weighty authority against the procedure from men who cannot be considered inexpert. They state that, so far as Althaus had experimentally' carried out their method, by applications to the head and neck with the positive pole, and to the epigastrium with the negative pole, lie had produced dis- agreeable cerebral symptoms, sometimes lasting for twenty-four hours after the operation. " The patient," said Dr. Althaus, " had a general sensation of malaise and nervousness, headache, and a feeling of giddi- ness and confusion." He added to this, however, that he had with ad- vantage applied the positive pole to the cervical and lumbar spine and the negative pole to the epigastrium. Dr. Anstie, Drs. Beard and Rockwell themselves say, speaks of gal- vanization of the cervical sympathetic as a method either to be avoided or to be used with great caution ; and, in support of his opinion, he cites a case from his own practice, and repeats, in his review of Tibbetts's " Hand-Book of Medical Electricity," the same caution as to the procedure. Dr. Brown-Sdquard, too, quoted by Drs. Beard and Rockwell, remarks that he once tried to galvanize the cervical sympathetic of a friend of his, to try to relieve him of a violent headache. "The eff"ect," remarked Dr. Brown-S^quard, " was all we could desire against tlie headache, but the galvanic current, acting at the same time on the sympathetic and the agus the simultaneous excitation of these two nerves cannot 192 ELECTKO-THEEAPEUTICS. be avoided), produced such a dangerous syncope that I would never tr^ again to apply gah'anism to the cervical sympathetic of man." Drs. Beard and Rockwell answer the objectors in detail and in gen- eral. But, that there should be such objectors to the procedure de- scribed justifies us in all that we have expressed in the way of doubt. " These men be masters in Israel." If, then, they have found a certain procedure in their hands disagreeable, and sometimes dangerous, it be- hooves all lesser men not to undertake it until they can justlj' deem them- selves equally competent with Drs. Beard and Rockwell to venture it. The heart receives nerves from the vagus or piieumogastric nerve and from the spinal cord, through the sympathetic nerve. When the vagus is stimulated, currents pass along it to some of the ganglia of the heart, and inhibit its action, producing slower beats or an entire arrest of func- tion. Fibres which, on the contrary, accelerate the action of the heart, derived from the cervical spinal cord through the last cervical and first thoracic ganglia of the sympathetic, stimulate its centres. These, which are called accelerator nerves, increase the rate but weaken the action of the heart. Take it for all in all, we prefer, therefore, to rest where we began, with the admission that wliile, in most expe- rienced and skillful hands, central galvanization may be at times a proper procedure, it is by no means to be attempted by any one who has not made a long and exhaustive study of the galva,nic current and its appli- cation in electro-therapeutics. STRENGTH OF THE GALVANIC AND FARADIC CURRENTS COMPARED. Although the difference of potential is enormously greater in the medical faradic apparatus, as compared with that of the medical galvanic apparatus, as, indeed, we may add, it is enormously greater in any electro- magnetic apparatus as compared with the galvanic apparatus, yet, as the quantity of electricity is extremely small in the medical faradic appa^ ratus, as compared with the galvanic, the mechanical action of the ordi- nary galvanic current is very much more powerful than that of the far- adic current, although not so apparently. Because a faradic current may cause a muscle to twitch, palpitate, or violently heave, where the galvanic current may fail to make it do so, tliat is no proof that the dynamic effect of the galvanic current is not vastly greater.' The mere tickling of a nerve on the face, and notably on the sole of the foot, may cause great muscu- lar action, but no one would claim for the active cause of the movement much dynamic action. The fact is, as is well known, that faradization, as compared with galvanization, greatly excites the motor and sensory nerves, especially the nerves of the skin, but its dynamic effects are not DIAGNOSIS AND TEEATMENT IN PAKALYSIS. 193 BO deep-seated as those from galvanization. Tliis is not, as some persons have thought, because it does not penetrate so deeply as the galvanic cur- rent, for it passes just as easily as the galvanic current through the whole body, but because the quantity of electricity generated by the farad ic ap- paratus is, when dispersed in the various circuits in passing through the body, so minute as to be, as it were, lost in the mass of the body. Hence we find thM the galvanic current is better than the faradic for establish- ing innervation and nutrition. Moreover, as the faradic current in the medical apparatus is constantlj- reversing its polarity, we have with it, as compared with the galvanic, no persistence of dynamic effect, be it much or little, in any determinate direction. DETAILS FOR USING THE CURRENTS FOR DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT IN PARALYSIS. Through the fact of its constant change, and its rapid sequence of change in polarity, there are many cases when the tendency of muscle to reaction is too slight to be controlled by the current from the ordinary faradic apparatus, and therefore its current must be slowly interrupted ; and, again, there are other cases when the faradic current is even in this manner incapable of causing reaction, and must be superseded by the galvanic interrupted current, and then, after the galvanic current; has establislied reaction, the faradic current maj- control the same reaction. As, in general, the faradic current produces contractions more readily than the galvanic current does, the only rational explanation of the differ- ence discussed is, that it is owing to the greater quantity of electricity conveyed by the galvanic current that we must chiefly ascribe its superiority over the faradic current in improving innervation and nu- trition. COMBINED GALVANIC AND FARADIC APPARATUS. Only a few years ago the medical apparatus wliich professed to give the facility of using both currents siinultaneouslj' was really represented by two different machines in the same receptacle. To some, but not to the same, degree this is still the case. At present, with an arrange- ment by means of which the poles of a faradic apparatus can be con- nected with those of a galvanic apparatus, the two currents can be administered simultaneously from what can, more properly than before, be regarded as the same apparatus. The galvanic battery has its cells, and faradic battery its small cells. No attachments or detachments are required to accomplish the purpose in view, of administering the gal- vanic alone, or the faradic alone, or the two currents together. By means of an admirably contrived switch, which is called a current- 194 ELECTKO-THEKAPEUTICS. selector, we have an easily managed agent for tue selection of the cur- rents. Pushed over to the extreme riglit, the switch gives one kind of current only; pushed to the left, it gives tne other current only; pushed to the middle of the plate, it gives both currents. If the physician purpos- ing to become an electro-therapeutist will add to the apparatus, of which tlie appliance just described is a part, an electrometer miUiampferemeter and the Massey graphite current-controllep, he will have, withthe proper assortment of electrodes, adjustable and other, an excellent armamen- tarium. There are many inherent objections to the water-rheostats; and rlieostats of the plug system, for adding to and subtracting from re- sistances, although well adapted to many purposes, are not at all suited to medical practice, and a^e, besides, enormously expensive when they are fine. The Massey graphite current-controller * gives a ready means of increasing and decreasing the galvanic current by the nicest and most insensible gradations. TREATMENT OF PARALYSIS. Having given the clear and condensed electrical diagnostic tests of Dr. Ha3'nes for the various paralyses, his equally excellent general re- marks as to procedures in the treatment of paralysis would here make so admirable a pendant to the former statement, tliat we cannot omit it at this opening of a brief presentment of special applications of the galvanic and faradic currents : — "Galvanism is indicated in those eases in which we wish to excite the nerves of tlie skin, to destroy the outer skin or mucous membrane, to produce an increase of warmth, to produce a chemical process, and also blood coagulation. " In certain peripheric paralj'ses in which faradism fails, galvanism, probably in consequence of its uninterrupted duration, produces effects which cannot be brought about by tlie necessarily rapidly-interrupted faradic current. "When a muscle has lost all power of responding to the stimulus of a faradic current, in many cases its sensitiveness may be restored by the application of a tolerably strong galvanic current. " Faradism is indicated where we wish to excite eitlier the motor or sensory nerves, to produce contractions of the blood or lymphatic ves- sels, to affect certain organs supplied by the sympathetic nerve. To in- crease the volume of a muscle : This it accomplishes through exciting muscular contraction, which increases the temperature and at tlje same time improves its nutrition. To relax a tense muscle, or to loosen a • The plumbago cnrrent-controller Is the invention of, and was patented by, Dr. John Butler, author of "Electro-Therapeutics and Electro-Surgery." Philadelphia, 1879 and 1IJS2. CLINICAL CASES IN OVU EXPERIENCE. 195 peripheric contractor, single shocks from a strong faradic current are generally more useful than the galvanic. " Galvanism not only acts as a powerful stimulant to nerves and mus- cles, when interrupted, but during the time it is passing without inter- ruption it produces a marked alteration in the nutrition. To this eftect Remak gave the name, catalytic action. " When paralyzed muscles exhibit the reaction of degeneration, they are more sensitive to galvanism than faradisni, therefore the former should be selected to improve their nutrition. " With this exception, faradism is a more powerful agent in the direct treatment of paralj'zed muscles than galvanism. " According to Dr. Rockwell, in paralysis of one side of the body, when the muscles contract more readily under the influence of eleptricity than in health, electricitj'-, if used at all, should be in the form of a very mild faradic current ; even though the musqular contractions are not excited quite so readily as in a normal condition, the faradic is still to be preferred. On the contrarj-, when the contractility of the muscles is verjr greatly diminished, the galvanic cm-rent is indicated, the faradic current being only employed after the muscles begin, to contract under its influence. In most cases of paralysis. of the lower half of the body there will be found, after a short time, more or less complete loss of farado- muscular contractility ; the galvanic current alone is useful in these cases to restore nerve excitability, although the faradic may be usefully em- ployed to improve the impaired nutrition of the paralyzed members." CLINICAL CASES IN OUR EXPERIENCE. A late clinical case was that of a man who, although seeming in passably good health, gradually lost the use of one of his arms, to the extent that he was no longer able to perform his accustomed work. The history of the case included mention of a blow on the shoulder received long previously-. This suggested nerve injury, despite the fact of the length of time intervening between the blow and the paralytic affection, and despite also of the fact of the good muscular development observed in the case. Although the disease was ciironic, the electrical reactions to both galvanism and faradism were normal, not only throughout the sound part of the body, but through the paralyzed member. Hence the lesion was inferred to be, not spinal but cephalic, and the subsequent autopsy confirmed the diagnosis. Another case presented symptoms very similar to those just described, but with this difference, that the paralysis had made more rapid progress than in the first instance, and it was also associated with some atrophy of muscle. Here, as in the first case, the reaction to both the currents was normal, and peripheral lesion 196 ELECTRO-THEEAPEUTICS. •«#as therefore absent; but, on the otlier hand, atrophy of muscle becoming pronounced on both sides, the disorder was decided to be spinal, and this diagnosis was also confirmed by autopsy. In these cases the emploj-- ment of the currents cannot be said to have directly decided the char- acter of the affections in each case, but to have indirectly contributed to the conclusion reached. A man found one of his arms painful after a fall, and soon experi- enced numbness in the fingers, associated with weakness of the whole limb. The part exhibited no muscular atroplij', but he experienced pain all around the ulnar nerve. Testing with the currents for reactions, only some of the nerves and muscles on the injured arm responded,, while on the otlier arm they all responded. The lesion was therefore decided to be peripheral, and the prompt recovery under appropriate treatment established the correctness in diagnosis. Here, in this connection, a cautionary word will be well. In diag- nosing with the currents it is necessary to avoid stronger currents than will barely effect the end in view. If violent contractions are super- induced by the currents, the enfeebled reactive force of the parts may be obliterated. It is best to proceed with the greatest care, by gently nur- turing, as it were, the contractile force, until it is built up to a point when stronger currents can be used in treating the parts. The tremor of chorea and allied tremors are often relieved bj^ general galvanization. The frequently observed twitching of the muscle, common raiser of the upper lip and the alae of the nose, is readil}^ relieved bj' local faradization, as is also twitching of the eyelids by the same treatment. In neuralgia we can often decide whether the pain is purely neuralgic, or a hysterical, — pseudo-neuralgia, by the circumstance that pure neu- ralgia yields to galvanization, while pseudo-neuralgia is amenable only to faradization. Treatment with the currents is quite etficaeious in rheumatism. They should be used generally and locallj-, — as constitutional and as local treatment.* In employing them in loco morbi, care must be taken not to use them too strong nor too long. The very thing which, properly employed, may soothe, allay, or dissipate infiammation, may be made to exacerbate and increase it. We are satisfied that, over a large range of the field of electro-therapeutics, mild administrations are the most bene- ficial. If a skilled masseur comes to treat a sprained ankle, or to rub a rheumatic limb, he does not use brute foi'ce or keep up even a small force for a great length of time. Lose not sight of the fact that the currents are force, that they are agitating parts, not only as masses, but as to * "The Therapeutic Uaes of Eleotrioity," by John V. Shoemaker, A.M., M.D. Journal of the American Medical Association, 1889- EHEUMATIC AND GOUTY AFFECTIONS. 197 their intimate constitution, and tliat this passive exercise may be made the hardest kind of exercise, and the most disastrous, if too violent and too much prolonged. Just as a weak person may be tickled to death, or come within an ace of it, so a weak person may be passively exercised with such exercise as, the electric currents can inflict, to the degree that every nerve and muscle where it has passed, instead of being refreshed and invigorated, shall have lost tone, and be in the depth of lassitude. DIFFERENTIAL EFFECTS OF THE GALVANIC CURRENT IN RHEUMATIC AND GOUTY AFFECTIONS. The experience of Drs. Beard and Rockwell, which probably covers a wider field than that of any other two electro-therapeutists in the United States, is that chronic articular rheumatism is, of all forms of rheumatism, the least amenable to electrical treatment, and that tlie best effects from it are obtainable in the regular gradation, of the muscular form, the acute, and the subacute. These same authors note that, in the case of chronic gout, tem[K)rary relief may be obtained from both fara- dization and galvanization of the affected parts, but that galvanization of the joints seems to have verj^ little catalytic effect. They remark that, in rheumatic gout, the same deficiency of catah'tic effect from the gal- vanic current is observable, that there is no marked success from both of the currents when administered in this disease with reference to toning the general trophic system, — that, in fact, the disease is very intractable to electrical treatment. Certain neuralgias are quite amenable to the constant current. In a ease which we have in mind, when the whole array of antiperiodics and narcotics had been tried, the patient, a lady, was treated as follows with the galvanic current. The positive pole was applied to tlie shoulder (stabile) and the negative to the arm, forearm, and hand (labile), with a current beginning with five milliamperes, and increased to sixty milliamperes. This treatment, daily, effected a perfect cure, although she had suffered from cervico-brachial pain for four j-ears ; and she remains well now, although three years have elapsed since the operation. FACIAL NEURALGIA CURED BY GALVANIZATION. A washerwoman suffered from a severe facial pain, involving, on one side of the face, the temple, ej'e, and cheek. Tlie patient, being consti- pated, having little appetite, and suffering from nausea at times, had been successively treated by various physicians for liver and stomach com- plaint, disease of the kidneys, dyspepsia, for disorder of the womb and ovaries, but all without avail. Pressure over the focal points causing re- lief rather than 'pain, faradization was employed in this case. A moderate 198 ELECTEO-THEEAPEUTICS. current was made to pass through the tender parts of the face to the nape of the neck. Twenty-five administi-ations eifected permanent relief. GENERAL FARADIZATIOISr AND LOCAL GALVANIZATION IN HYSTERIA FROM SPECIAL IRRITABILITY. Alternation of general faradization witii localized galvanization of the spine is wonderfully efficacious in forms of hysteria from spinal irritability. Many nervous girls whose condition from this cause lessens their own enjoyment of life and that of every one around them have had heneficial change wrouglit in them through this new therapeutic treat- ment. Manjr physicians are too prone to assume the existence of uterine disorder, arid the necessity of abdominal sui'gery, on occasions when an electrical treatment like that described is all that the sj'mptoms indicate for a case of h3'steria in the female. Any one who has ever seen, as we have, the skillful manipulation of a professional rubber of sprains, who is usually believed by the ignorant to have magic in his touch, can realize how well adapted the electrical hand must be for the same purpose, the rubbing hand itself conveying the current. Both currents can be used in treating sprains, the sensa- tions of the patient being an excellent guide as to which should be con- tinued, and as to the strength of the current, which should be in all cases mild. A part near the surface, such as a finger-joint, may be so severely attacked by the current .ts to experience acute pain ; and it is not conceivable that an administration of the current, coupled with this effect, is accomplishing good. A PLEASURABLE AS WELL AS USEFUL MODE OF ADMINISTERING THE FARADIC CURRENT. This last observation of ours leads us to remark that the faradic cur- rent, which produces oh the dry skin a sensation which, even if not painful, is fiir from pleasant to most persons, can be so used as to be productive of /the most agreeable sensations. If there is any necessity for a patient, otherwise Well, to treait himself for any affection, such as constipation, enlarged prostate, etc., he cannot do better than with a Gaitfe, or other small faradic apparatus, placed alongside of him on a stand about three feet high, to assume the ordil)ar3'^ recumbent position in a tepid bath, and then to use the electrodes upon any iramfersed part of his body to which he may wish to administer the current. He will find that the current, comparativelj'^ free to move through the wet skin, can be passed with fan-like wafts over his person, from one pole held ai some distance from the body, and moving freely to and fro, while the other pole is held at some convenient indifierent spot on the body. TBEATMENT OF CANCEK BY ELECTBICITT. 199 If the treatment is for the reduction of the prostate gland the one electrode, in the form of the ordinary brass tube with wooden handle, should be placed between the legs, on the perinaeum, avoiding putting it so far back g,s to touch the mucous membrane around the anus, which it unpleasantly shocks, and then with the other electrode, masked with the usual sponge and placed on the symphysis pubis, he can administer the current to the part with the greatest ease and satisfaction. If one wishes to promote peristaltic movement, so as to relieve con- stipation, a sponge-covered electrode is placed on some indifferent point of the body, and the other electrode, also armed with a sponge, is passed around the abdomen in the direction of the colon, circling from right to left by the upward path. If, finally, one should wish to treat himself to a general faradization, to give himself an electrical douche, as it were, over the whole immersed part of the body, he will place one electrode on the inner part of the thigh or elsewhere, and, witli the other electrode about an inch from the im- mersed part of the body, move it in every direction almost tangent to the skin, not forgetting to let the genito-urinary organs come in for their share of tlie treatment. Here especially, however, the treatment should not be strong or too long pursued. The effect of a moderate current, not too long continued, on the genito-urinary organs is at once recognizable as to its tonicity, both by the eye and the general sensations, but prolonged treatment of these delicate parts more than counteracts the healthful effect of their judicious treatment. The diseases of the female sexual organs for which electrical treatment has proved beneficial are, according toDrs. Beard and Rockwell, amenor- rhcea, dysmenorrhoea, menorrhagia, leucorrhoea, chronic pelvic cellulitis, uterine hj'perplasia, subinvolution and superinvolution, atrophy of the uteruSj displacement and prolapsus, ovarian neuralgia and ovaritis, peri- uterine hfematocele, stenosis of the uterine canal, cystic growths, and fibroid and ovarian tumors. TREATMENT OF CANCER BY ELECTRICITY. Late experience of electrolytic treatment of cancerous growths leads ^to hopefulness that they maj' often prove amenable to electrical treat- ment. Dr. Parsons, of the Chelsea Hospital for Women, writing in the British Medical Journal, reports favorably as to progress in that direc- tion. M. Darin also contributes to our knowledge of excellent results derived from that treatment in the case of cancer and allied tumors. Dr. Inglis-Parsons gives the following as his method of procedure in the electrolyzation of cancer : — " The patient is anaesthetized ; the current is then passed through the 200 ELECTKO-THERAPEUTICS. tumor and all the tissues for some distance round it by means of fine, insulated needles, so as not to injure the skin. A battery of seventy cells, with an electro-motive force of one hundred and five volts is used ; the intensity of the current, to commence with, is ten milliamperes, gradually increased to six hundred milliamperes, and flashed through the growth in every direction from fifty to one hundred times, according to circumstances.. The pulse and respiration were carefully watched. One &ut of the four cases treated, a woman, aged sixty-three, with extensive carcinoma of the left breast, a presystolic bruit, and weak, intermittent pulse, was unable to stand more than two hundred and fifty milliamperes for this reason : when the current is applied to the left breast electrical stimulation of tlie heart occurs, and if this organ is healthy an increase in the strength of the contraction appears to take place after its passage; but with the patient, who had cardiac disease, the improvement only con- tinued up to a certain point, and then the intermittency increased and great irregularitj^ occurred. The current could be borne with safety when, at six hundred milliamperes, it was passed through a secondary growth in the axilla of the same patient." It is claimed for this treatment by Dr. Inglis-Parsons that it allevi- ates pain, arrests the growth, reduces the size of the tumor, and improves the general health. Epilepsy and epileptiform affections are sometimes amenable to the influence of the galvanic current. The practice best approved in essay- ing this kind of treatment is to seek to anticipate a seizure and abort it; counting upon this, tliat if the allowance of time of anticipation has not been quite sufficient, at least the shortening tlie time of the seizure will be accomplished. The method prescribed for administration in this case is application of the positive pole to the vertex of the cranium, and of the negative pole to the epigastrium. In all cases where the head is concerned the current should be descending. The eflTects of the bromides ,are heightened by conjoined electrization. When minor epilepsy is evi- dently merely checked by bromine, electrization may make a cure such as it has in many cases efl'ected in the hands of skillful practitioners. Mild galvanization of the brain soon after paralytic seizure hastens the absorption of tlie effusion. From six to twelve weeks being allowed for absorption of the clot, local faradization of the affected muscles af- fords most satisfactory treatment. For Bell's palsy we employ localized galvanization, treating each affected muscle separately, and occasionally, when galvanization does not act curatively as quickly as anticipated, we employ the franklinic spark drawn from the muscles. There have been, by meai]s of this treatment, recoveries so extraordinarily quick as to surprise even t)ie patient. TEEATMENT OF CANCER BY ELECTRICITY. 201 In that disease which continues to bafHe medical skill,— locomotor ataxia, for which suspension has lately been recommended, — much can sometimes be eflfected in the direction of palliating the suffering of the patient. The lancinating pains of the disease are sometimes re- lieved by galvanization. Spinal galvanization has sometimes effected even more for this disease, to the extent of so greatly ameliorating the condition of the patient as to permit him to go about, when pre- viously he had been confined to a chair or bedridden. The acute paroxysms of sciatica have been relieved by g.alvani- zation used by the method of the descending current ; permanent cures have been obtained by electro-puncture, the needle being entered along one or two points on the painful portion of the nerve. In all eases where puncture is concerned, where the action vehem- ently establishes electrolysis, through bringing one pole in contact with the moist tissues under the integument, we should earefullj' consider which pole to employ. Of course, there are operations where both of the poles mast be embedded in the morbid tissue, but we are speaking of the cases where, in unipolar operations, there is a choice between them. Oxygen and the acids go to the positive pole, and hydrogen, alkalies, etc., to the negative pole. The clot which forms about the negative pole is yielding, that around the positive pole is hard, and hence the needle; of tlie positive pole becomes firmly embedded. "We have already sounded a note of warning against using the positive pole in the urethra, and now add in another direction to that information, which we will increase fur- tiier on when we shall have occasion to speak of the kind of needles to be used in electro-therapeutic work. In treating b}- electrolysis a fibj'oid tumor, for example, we are aiming to disintegrate it. In consequence, we emploj' the negative pole, because, wherever the needle connected with it is inserted in the mass, marked liquefaction of the part is ob- served, which, by the way, we may presume to diminish indeflnitelj- from all such points as centres. But if we are seeking to arrest haemorrhage, while operating on a myoma, the needle of the positive pole should be used, because the polar action of the positive pole is coagulator^' and therefore styptic. That disorders such as torpidity of the liver and constipation should yield to faradization, that indigestion, gastralgia, stomach-ache, pyrosis, and the nausea of pregnancy should be amenable to galvanization is not at all surprising to any one who has reached with us the conclusion that mild electrical currents are tonic in their effects wherever they are made; to pervade the human body for a proper duration of time. Gastralgia and stomach-ache are relieved b}' placing the positive pole on the cervical spine and the negative pole at the epigastrium. 202 ELECTEO-THEEAPEUTICS. TREATMENT OF STRICTURES OF THE URETHRA. We cannot do better than invite tlie reader to look into the pro- cedures of Dr. Newman, of New York, and Dr. Blackwood, of Phila- delphia, for conclusive teaching as to electrolytic practice in strictures of the urethra. The rules as laid down by him are charming in their sim- plicity, including contra-indieations as well as indications for the use of electricity in certain cases ; but simple as the rules are they must, to be followed by success, be implicitly obeyed, since they are based on laws more immutable than were those of the Medes and Persians. One of the methods of treating prostatorrhoea and enlarged prostate, besides that already mentioned, is that of reaching the prostate ghuid by an intra-'rectal rheophore, representing the negative pole, while the positive — the indifferent — pole is placed on the patient's thigh or other convenient spot. In extreme hypertrophy of the gland the negative pole may be applied per anum, from three to five minutes, by means of a well-insulated needle, and with a current as high as it can be borne by the patient, the current-controller enabling the phj^sician to submit the question of amount of current continuously to his patient. We are satisfied that in such cases it would often be judicious for the ph3'sician, if he has for his patient a person of intelligence, to allow him to regulate the current for himself b}"^ means of the controller, to the ultimate point at which he can bear it with equanimity. With Dr. Massey's current- controller this can be effected with the most gentle gradations. The patient, thus controlling the strength of the current to a nicety, would leave no margin of uncertainty as to what can be properly borne. The phj'sician oscillates between too much and too little, whereas the patient's judgment and touch would unite with the infallible guide of sensation and the confidence begotten of supreme control. INDICATIONS FOR STATIC AND FARADIC ELECTRICITY. Dr. Blackwood reports that at St. Mary's Hospital, Philadelphia, great relief has been afforded in cases of phthisis from the adminis- tration of both static and faradic electricit3'. Night-sweats are often checked for a week after the first administration, and pains in the chest are greatly alleviated. The improvement in nutrition evidenced tlie source of tiiese ameliorations of condition. Spasmodic asthma and chronic bronchitis have been much alleviated by faradization of the thorax. The gravity of the dyspnoea, in the case of the former, has been much lessened. In two cases of which we know the paroxysms of angina pectoris were aborted by prompt galvanization of the sympathetic nerve, in both cases the left side being selected for the administration of the current. In both cases relief followed much INDICATIONS FOE STATIC AND FAKADIC ELECTEICITY, 203 more quickly than it would have occurred from inhalation of nitrite of amyl. Hay fever has proved amenable in some cases to galvanization. The general belief tliat nothing but change of climate ■will relieve the patient sufl'ering from this complaint has heretofore forbidden our reaching de- terminate conclusions regarding the efficacy of electricitj' in its treat- ment. Enough, however, is known of successful administrations of the current for its cure to warrant us in still further pursuing our investiga- tions regarding the effect of the current upon it. In tlie treatment of this complaint the positive pole is placed directly under the angle of the inferior maxillary bone (on the pneumogastric), and the negative over the solar plexus. The duration of the treatment should be for about ten minutes, repeated three or four times a week, and with a moderate cur- rent. Faradization by the application of the poles respectively to the cervical spine and the pit of the stomach has sometimes been employed, but the excellence of this practice is by no means so well established as that of the other method. General galvanization has good results to show in marasmus and in general debility without atrophy of muscle. Combined with faradization" of the muscles, instituted for the purpose of exercising them within moderate bounds, the systemic treatment by general galvanization offers excellent results. Incontinence of urine, which is obstinate to treatment by drugs, can be controlled by persistent galvanization. Dyspncea following whooping-cough, measles, and scarlet fever, and the occasionally resultant aphonia, are amenable to treatment by the galvanic current, and in the case of aphonia the employment of static electricity is often effective. Dropsy, as the sequela of scarlatina, is sometimes quickly reduced by localized electrization. CEdema, in both children and adults, provided that Bright's disease is not a complication, is also at times reduced by localized electrization. In diabetes the excretion of urinary solids is promoted by local faradization of the kidneys, the volume of fluid not being increased, but, on the contrary, sometimes diminished. Faradiza- tion, which relieves hypersemia of the mucous lining of the bladder and lessens the mucous discharge, often cures cases of cystitis in both children and adults. The direct dependence of certain cutaneous diseases upon disturb- ance of the central trophic system leads us at once to expect from elee- tricitv, used both generally and locallj-, excellent results in the treatment of some of those affections.* ♦ "Electricity in Skin and Venereal Diseases," by Jolin V. Slioemaker, A.M., M.D, Tlie Medical Bulletin, October, 1889. 204 ELECTEO-THKRAPEUTICS. The galvanic current is used with markedly good effects in chronic eczema. There is probably no cutaneous disease which offers results so uniformly good from the emploj'ment of electricity as does eczema. Especially where eczema is complicated with, or seems to be largely de- termined by, disorder of the liver, the current is especially indicated. Psoriasis, too, seems to be a disease quite amenable to the electrical treatment. In the case of these diseases central galvanization with a mild current, with the precautions heretofore prescribed, should be instituted. Many cases of psoriasis are unquestionably due to nervous depres- sion. In these galvanization has the double advantage of being able to produce systemic and local effects. In erythema and erysipelas mild galvanization removes the stasis, and, through absorption of the effusion beneath the skin, reduces the swelling. The extension of erysipelas is frequently checked by galvani- zation around the parts attacked, the positive pole being placed in the centre of the eruption, and the negative pole moved gently around be- yond its circumference, the current, from five to ten milliamperes, being so moderate as not to occasion muscular contraction. In herpes simple or in herpes zoster, very mild, prolonged galvani- zation relieves the great prostration and the intense burning sensation. The formation of vesicles is checked, they are reduced in number, and the drying of those which remain is hastened. In the inflammation caused in the skin from poisoning b}' the rhus toxicodendron and allied species, the galvanic current is very soothing and curative. The itching, pain, and swelling of pemphigus are quickly relieved by faradization. Discolorations of tlie skin, such as lentigo, vitiligo, and rosacea, are generall}' amenable to galvanic treatment. For birth-marks, port-wine stains, varicella, nothing proves more effective than the administration of the galvanic current. It is generally administered by sponge elec- trodes, while galvano-puncture is occasionally added for its cosmetic effects. The relentless itching of prurigo is almost instantly relieved by local application of the faradic current. General and central galvaniza- tion produce upon it marked constitutional effect. In alopecia, whether general or circumscribed, galvanization used as a stimulant to the hair, whenever the hair papillse and follicles are not atrophied, has good effect in stimulating the parts and renewing the growth. Faradization is very effective in chilblains, which, as is well known THE CUEEENTS IX MISCELLANEOUS DISOEDEES. 205 have a tendency to recur. Faradization allays the itching and burning and stimulates tlie skin to healthy action. Urticaria, or nettle-rash, excites irrepressible desire to scratch, and hence, complicated with secondary symptoms, is sometimes an exceed- ingly troublesome disorder. Galvanization allays the itching, and in many cases has the effect of shortening the duration of the disease. Galvanization is serviceable in tinea versicolor, which, although gen- erally amenable to ordinary treatment, occasionally yields to it very reluctantly. Administration of the currents has been found beneficial in the fol- lowing miscellaneous disorders. Coupled with entire abstention from penmanship, writers' cramp is deemed amenable to galvanization and faradization. This statement applies also to cognate disorders, of which writers' cramp may be con- sidered the generic name. The treatment, when at its best for all of these, is central as well as peripheral, that practice obviously declaring that the lesion is not alwaj's to be regarded as strictly local. In view of the prevalence in these modern days of the distinctively writers' dis- order, it seems extraordinary to us that everj' one who has much writing to do should not acquire the art of tj^pe-writing. Persistent practice for an hour a day for a month enables any one to write with tolerable ease, and thereafter he glides into such proficiency as to make the movements as automatic as those with the pen. The Remington, Caligraph, and Hammond are all admirable machines, the first two being especially adapted to the general writer's needs. The aching in haemorrhoids, or piles, attendant on the congestion of the parts, is often relieved by placing the positive pole of the galvanic current near the anus and the negative pole over the liver, and then passing a current of from twenty to thirty milliampferes for fifteen minutes through the parts. Instances of the dislodgment of impacted gall-stones by the use of the galvanic current have been reported by credible witnesses. How- ever, whether or not we maj' be disposed to believe it, yet, as we have nothing which pretends to be able to meet this painful condition, and as, at the same time, the current is harmless, it would be well to essay through electricity the treatment of this disorder. For the palliation and breaking-up of intermittent fevers, the use of both galvanization and faradization is indicated. In the practice of Dr. Blackwood, of Philadelphia, faradi'zation is mostly used, but it is followed at the end of the sitting, in case there is glandular hypertrophy, by galvanization. In the galvanization, one pole is fixed over the aolar plexus and the other over the liver, both before and behind, for five 206 ELECTEO-THEEAPEUTICS. minutes, and then for five minutes over the spleen. This is followed, for five minutes, b^'^ general faradization of the abdomen and spine. The itching and swelling of the skin in pemphigus are a distressing phase of the disease, which faradization speedily relieves. When, in haematophiiia, drugs administered internally do not check the haemorrhage, and exhaustion of the patient is liable to ensue, faradi- zation is valuable on account of its efllecting contraction of the capillaries. Insomnia at bed-time is often successfully averted by general gal- vanization or faradization, which almost any kind of an attendant is capable of administering. They reduce febrile sj^mptoms of an amount sufficient to render a patient restless, and to make sleep uncertain or uneasy. In the case when a narcotic is to be especially avoided, on account of its ill after-effects, we may find in electrization all that is needed to give tone requisite to insure refreshing sleep. Boils and carbuncles majr, if the suppurative process has not gone too far, be everted bj' galvanization. The needle operation for epilation, in which the positive pole is held in the hand of the patient, and the needle forming the negative pole is embedded in the papilla of the root-sheath, and the galvanic current then turned on, by which means unsightly hairs are utterly destroyed, is one of such slight gravity that it taxes only the e3'es and deftness of the hand of tlie operator, with ample reward for the slight endurance re- quired of the patient. Faradization, alternated with galvanization, and sometimes even com- bined with it, is coming into general use. Sometimes, although galvani- zation seems to be indicated, it fails to act as promptly as expected, and then, the active capillary stimulation of faradization being allowed to pre- cede it, succeeding galvanization will be found to take full effect. What is true, as derived from experience, naturally suggests itself even to inex- perience, that in most skin diseases in which itching is a prevalent and exasperating symptom, the faradic current alleviates it, from the fact of its peculiar dynamic action on the cuticle. Operators cannot be too careful to insure the cleanliness of all the instruments with which they work. The electrodes used on a patient should be washed in water immediately afterward, to insure that they be not inadvertently employed in an improper condition on anotlier patient. In addition, they sliould be rinsed off in a solution of boric acid or of corrosive chloride of mercury. Disregard of these precautions may be ruinous td both physician and patient, from the circumstance that the neglect of them may lead to contraction of a disease not contemijlated in a treatment. It is to be impressed on the reader that cutaneous diseases are sometimes contagious, and that in syphilitic disorders the virus is so ALAEMING OE ANNOYING THE PATIENT. 207 subtle tbat it would be best in all such cases treated to burn the covers of the electrodes and replace them with new ones. Electrode coTerings, when not of absorbent cotton, should be frequently replaced by new ones, both sponge and chamois-skin being objectionable. PRECAUTIONS AGAINST ALARMING OR ANNOYING THE PATIENT WHILE ADMINISTERING ELECTRICITY. The mysteriousness of electricity excites in the average patient a lively sense of alarm when the first administration of it is allowed. Tlie knowledge of the physician that, under proper safeguards, it is perfectly safe, should not, however, cause him to lose sight of the fact that, if he per- mits some of the manifestations of which it is capable to present them- selves, he will be sure unduly to alarm his patient, and seriously obstruct the end he has in view, even if he does not incur the penalty of obtaining from his patient a sitting for the first and last time. In all applications of the currents, for trifling ailments as well as for severe ones, comfort to the patient and success in the operation are not to be obtained with poor instruments and unskillful procedure. Batteries which are so con- trived as to have cell-selectors, by which few or many cells are brought into circuit, are imperfect. The cells most used are, of course, soonest exhausted, and when the whole battery is put in action, its strength is limited by the exhausted cells. That renders the apparatus an ineffi- cient instrument for all purposes to which one may wish to put it, and, such as it is, it is uneconomical. It is therefore the interest of the phy- sician to have things different, and the interest of the patient lies side by side with that of the physician. If the cells used are few in number, the current is not constant, and pleasant reception of the current is insep- arable from its constancy'. There are enough difficulties in the way of making it perfectly constant to sensation, one, even the difficulty of making the very same poles convey with constancy, without introducing a purely gratuitous element of inconstancy. The. only proper battery is one in which all the cells are simultaneously emploj'ed, whetl;er the cur- rent needed be great or small, the draught upon them being equalized by a current-controller. Thus the current from the battery remains constant, and tiie patient is not annoyed by fluctuations. But there is a point far beyond mere current fluctuations from inconstancy of a battery which the operator must seek to avoid. If he uses a commutator on his gal- vanic battery, and a strong current is flowing, if he reverses the polarity of the current lie will give a shock. It would have seemed unnecessary to mention this, but that it is understood among skillful electro-thera- peutists that the fact of having a commut.ator on an instrument is often thought to indicate that it is to be used constantly in the administration 208 ELECTKO-THEEAPEUTICS. of the galvanic current. Now, the reversal of the current has its specifio uses in galvanization ; that is, the interrupted and the reversed currents are employed in galvanization, but they are not indiscriminately used ; and the quantity and density of the galvanic current being far greater than in the faradic current, the interruption of it, or the reversal of it, might, depending upon its quantity and the part of the body through which it is passing, give a dangerous or even fatal shock. But, even in lesser degree, it is the phj'sician's cue, in using electrical treatment, never to disturb, if possible to avoid it, the equanlmitj' of a patient. HINTS FOR CONVENIENCE OF TRANSPORTING BATTERIES. Secondary batteries, or, as they are now popularly called, storage batteries, although they are not the wondrous receptacles of energy gen- erally believed, are still admirable contrivances for many practical pur- poses. Nothing can be easier now than to utilize them when electrical treatment necessitates the carriage of the apparatus for treatment to the house of the patient. The difficulties are not, however, weighty in the matter of the transportation of an ordinary small galvanic battery if the physician will only carrj' the exciting fluid for it in a demijohn of con- venient shape and size. With the addition of a funnel it is a matter of only a minute's task to put the battery in working order. ELECTRO-SURGICAL PROCEDURES. Heretofore we have treated of operative procedures which, excepting those to which brief reference was made in the case of mention of the extirpation of myomata and fibroids, almost any well-educated physician might attempt with propriety without previous clinical instruction. But now, in coming to the department of electro-surgery, it must be observed that many operations in it are of such severity and magnitude that no one should attempt them without having seen them performed by some operator of recognized skill iu his specialtj-. In Apostoli's operations it is not mainly because the currents which he uses are so large — which circumstance alone seems to strike the medical imagination — that the o[)erations are critical, but because they are in themselves critical, no matter what may be the manner of approaching them. So Critical are tiiey that no one, without having thoroughly mastered the manipulation including knowledge of battery paraphernalia, should think of employing such electro-surgical procedures. The explanation of the endurance of the large currents administered by Apostoli is very simple. Employing, as he does, for the indifferent electrode a large disk of lead superposed on a still larger layer of moist potters' clay, and for the other electrode a cutting or perforating instrument of platinum, or needles, the current DIFFEEENCE IN ELECTEOLYTIC CAPACITY OF TUMORS. 209 passes through the body in what may be roughly regarded as a cone of dispersal with a very large base and a very small vertex. This is only saying, in other words, that the density of the current is thereby lessened in its passage through the body, and that, where it is efficient at the operating instrument or instruments in the function of generating heat, it has, by the law of electrical conduction in metals, and by that, also, of the particular metal employed, its activitj"^ as electricity lowered, not in kind, but in degree, for instead of having electricity pure and simple we have electricitj' and heat. DIFFERENCE IN ELECTROLYTIC CAPACITY BETWEEN VASCULAR AND FIBROID TUMORS. It has been thoroughly established that, for electrolyzation, those tumors which are rich in fluids as compared with those which are not are less intractable to electrical treatment by the galvanic current. This, it was known, would prove to be the case even before the beginning of medical treatment by the galvanic current, for, to be an electrolyte, matter, it was known, must be in a fluid condition. In consequence of the small amount of fluid in fibroids, they, therefore, resist electrolyzation more than any other kind of tumor. Shrinkage and atrophy can often be produced, but often nothing beyond. In this treatment both needles connected with the poles are inserted in the tumor. Sir Spencer Wells reports unfavorably as to the electrical treatment of ovarian tumors as compared with ovariotomy. The percentage of cures from the former he states as only 55 per cent., as compared with those from the latter, — 70 to 80 per cent. The reported excellent results from the treatment of benign cystic tumors are numerous. Beard and Rockwell recommend keeping the pos- itive needle fixed in position and working the negative needle around so that it may act on the inner surface of the cyst, and also enlarge the hole made by it, so as to permit the inclosed fluid or gases to escape. Naevi can be successfully treated by the electrolytic method with a mild current. Ansesthesia, either general or local, depending upon the character of the case, should be adopted. When an indifferent pole is used, make it of a moist-sponge electrode, stationed near by on a sound portion of the skin, and for the other pole use one or more needles. The current required is a moderate one, and its duration should be from five to fifteen minutes, depending upon the size and character of the naevus. Nice judgment is required in this operator as to the strength and dura- tion of the current, especially when, the treatment being on the face, cicatrization i,s particularly to be avoided. For ordinary aneurism the treatment is with an indifferent pole, u 210 ELECTKO-THEEAPEUTICS. using the positive pole at the point of operation, or by both poles, at the the seat of the lesion. The needles are insulated nearly to the tips, so as to prevent the current from acting on the walls of the aneurism. For aneurism near the heart no one should presume to operate unless thor- oughly conversant with the whole procedure. An anaesthetic spray pre- cedes the operation. The current-controller should always be in circuit, to prevent all possibility of shock. Some physicians have condemned ■ this operation under any circumstances. Others reply that there are occasions when, any other procedure being impossible, this affords at least a forlorn hope. Dr. Semmola, as quoted by Dr. Haynes, suggests that electrolyzation cures malignant tumors in one of the three following ways : — " By producing small foci of inflammation with consecutive sclerosis, the tumor being converted into a small, indurated, and harmless lump ; by producing a colloid and fatty degeneration, especially in tumors with this tendency ; and bj' exciting destructive inflammation and suppuration of the tumor. Along with this tre.-itment he has combined the adminis- tratioft of large doses of iodide of potassium, with a view of gravely modifying the general nutrition." The needles used for electrolyzation should alwaj^s be either of gold or be gilded, unless occasion should arise to make it desirable to introduce some metallic compounds into a part through the peculiar action of the positive pole, in which case, of course, the needle for the positive pole should be made of the metal, desired for dissolution. The platinum galvano-cauterj^ loop is used for the same purpose as the ecraseup is adapted to, being principally appKcable to pediculat^d tumors, and having the advantage over the ^craseur of stopping flow of blood by cauterizing while it severs the tissues. The instruments for galvano-cautery and galvano puncture are the platinum points, platinum knife (a slender blade which burns instead of cutting its way), and the platinum dome (a surface for cauterizing). Platinum is the metal used, because, while the metal is otherwise well adapted to these instruments, its resistance to tiie galvanic current is so high as readilj' to allow it, in such small masses as those which represent the instruments, to he brought to a red or a white heat by the power of a suitable battery. FRANKLIISriC ELECTRICITY. It was long ago proved that static, or franklinic, electricity, when in equilibrium, resides on the outside surfaces of conducting bodies. When on a sphere of metal the electricity is equally distributed outside. ■VVhen on an ellipsoid of revolution the density of the electricity is greatest at the ends of the major axis. And yet it would be going too DOES STATIC ELECTKICITY PASS THROUGH THE BODY? 211 far to assume that static electricity in a condition of equilibrium resides entirely on the ontside of conducting bodies. The supposition negatives the postulate that the bodies are conducting upon whose outsides it is supposed to reside. How can we leave out of consideration the fact o' the bodies being conducting, when static electricity has preference for conducting bodies ? If it has, and it has, a preference for conducting bodies, does not that prove that all of the electricit,y does not reside on the outside of them, and that the safer statement regarding the behavior referred to would be that static electricity in equilibrium tends to I'eside on the surface of conducting bodies? As we can never ex- amine the interior of solid conducting bodies, this question is not open to experimentation, but it seems to us clearly determinable by the considerations just set forth. In a general way, however, we must consider the fact, broadly stated, to be true, that static electricity in a condition of equilibrium resides on the outside of conducting bodies. Only on two conditions will it sen- sibly remain on the inside of a conducting body, and they are when the body is hollow, and wlien, at the same time, an electrified body is sus- pended within, but without contact with, the inclosing body. Many were the tests by Coulomb and others, which established this fact, none, perliaps, so striking as one by Faraday, who had a cubical box con- structed, twelve feet on a side, covered with tin-foil and copper wire, and insulated from the earth. Yet, although this box was electrically charged from the outside by a powerful machine, a gold-leaf electroscope and every other electrical testing device could detect no electric charge what- ever within the inclosure, although outside it was giving off a profusion of sparks and electric brushes. DOES STATIC ELECTRICITY PASS THROUGH THE BODY? The human body is a conductor, although a poor one. It is cer- tainly far froni being a non-conductor, as we have proved by passing through it the galvanic and faradic currents. As there is reason to be- lieve that static electricity, even in a condition of equilibrium, permeates below the surface of a. conducting body, there is ground for believing that the electricity communicated bj^ the static electrical machine is a current passing through, as well as on, the surface of the human body. It would be difficult, although not impossible, to settle this ques- tion experimentally, but, in the meantime, as no attempt has yet been made to settle it by experiment, we may be permitted to discuss the probability upon general principles. We might say, in tlie first place, that the electro-therapeutic effects of static electricity would not be so manifest as they are, if the admin- 212 ELECTEO-THEEAPEUTICS. istration of static electricity (putting the spark out of question, for then it becomes dynamic) resulted in a mere coating of electricity on, or a gliding of electricity off, the skin. But, as static electricity has not yet, excepting as to its spark manifestation, obtained -widespread faith as to its therapeutic value, we must discard that statement by way of argu- ment. Of coui-se the sensation in the skin from the disruptive discharge affords no argument as to the electricity being more than superficial on the bodj'. The electricitj' of the Leyden jar also resides in an altogether superficial manner on the tin-foil coatings. We must, therefore, go fur- ther back in the consideration, even to fundamental facts. It is a fundamental fact that static electricity, so called, resides at east chiefly on the surface of bodies, when it is in a condition of equi- librium. But is it in equilibrium when the apparatus to generate it and administer it is engaged in the process of destroying its equilibrium while increasing its potential ? The apparatus generating the electricity must be kept in motion, because the electricity is passing away, partly into the air, through convection or conduction, or both, and partly on the person (we will not beg the question by saying in the person) of the patient under treatment. Assuredly it is not in equilibrium then, even if we concede that it may be only flowing over the outside of the patient's body. But when, further, we consider the ease with which mere touch in electricity communicates charge, and additionally, the complexity- of the human structure, internal more than external, different intenial parts being differently susceptible to electrification, as has been proved by experiment upon various parts of the dissected lower animals, it does not seem reasonable to suppose that the condition of being charged with static electricity represents anything less than a streaming of electricity through various media susceptible of various charges, but all tending to flow off at the general surface of the inclosing organism. That, normally, the body is slightly charged with electricity, and that its states of electrical charge are modified by temperament, health, fatigue, and other conditions, seems to be established. If this be accepted as true, it is incredible that the body is not susceptible of having those states changed, or at least temporarily modified, by outward infiuence directed to the purpose by mechanical means. And if these states are susceptible of change through artificial means of producing it, that probably means flow of electricity from a static condition within the body, for it is incon- ceivable that anything reconcilable with the idea of electrical states could be represented onl}' on the surface of the body by the presence of elec- tricity, such presence being elsewhere, under apparently analogous con- ditions,, quite evanescent. MACHINE FOB GENERATING STATIC ELECTEICITT. 213 MACHINE FOR GENERATING STATIC ELECTRICITY. The old frictioiial machine for generating static electricity is now discarded, and instead of it is used, as by far the most convenient ma- chine for its generation, one of the modifications of tlie induction ma- chines of Holtz's invention. This has undergone many modifications. Poggendorff and RumhkorflT made changes in it, and one of the machines which seems now to meet very general approbation is of the variety known as the Toepler-Holtz. This type of machine, as designed by Dr. Ranney, and manufactured by Waite and Bartlett, of New Yorlc, is regarded by many persons as that best adapted to meet the chief difficulty involved in the use of all static electricity machines, — that of their being neutralized by the condensation of moisture upon them. This difficulty has never been entirely overcome. In the Waite and Bartlett machine, as in others inclosed in a glass case, chloride of cal- cium, or some other bibulous chemical substance, is used for absorbing moisture affecting the instrument during the summer months. The in- troduction of a source of heat for the purpose has been essayed, but no device for the purpose has proved entirely satis factorj'; an alcohol-lamp, which has been tried, OTily increasing the difficult}'. If ever a small incan- descent burner, in its vacuum, can be introduced into the glass case, the difficulty will receive its solution. AN ELECTRICAL TONIC BATH. As a refreshing tonic bath, static eleetricitj' is often administered by seating the patient for a quarter of an hour upon the insulating plat- form, and connecting it with one or the other of the two poles of the machine, according to whether it is desired to give a positive or a nega- tive charge. The other pole is, of Course, connected with the ground. The poles are also separated as far as possible before the machine is put in action. THE STATIC BREEZE. This simple method of administering static electricity can be modified by turning the slow dissipation of the electricity from the body of the patient into a rapid current of considerable volume. This is called producing the static breeze, and can be accomplished either di- rectly or indirectly. The eflfect being the same in each case, the mode of its execution is only a matter of detail. In the indirect static breeze the patient remains as before, insulated on the platform, with one pole of the electrical machine connected with it, and the other connected with the ground, preferably to a wooden floor, to some pipe wliich runs to the ground. The operator, then, bj means of a chain fastened to 214 ELECTKO-THEEAPEUTICS. some other pipe, and terminating in an electrode of some sort, draws off the electricity in a rapid cun-ent from the person of the patient. The electrodes used for this purpose are speciallj" designed for it. They are made of both metal and wood, and have single or multiple points. Dr. llanney remarks that when the operation is performed near the eyes the electrode used should be of wood. In the method of producing the indirect static breeze it will have been observed that, one pole of the machine being connected with the insulating platform and the other pole with the ground, the electrode which the operator holds in his hand, connected by a chain to a gas-flxture or some such thing, is an intermediary in the affair. It does not repre- sent one of the poles of the machine ; it is not associated with them except in the most indirect manner. It represents a conduit tlirough which the electricity in the person of the patient tends to flow off into the earth b}- means of the electrode, chain, and gas-fixture communica- tion with the soil. In the method of producing the direct static breeze, however, the electrode held by the operator is not an intermediary in tiie production of the phenomenon. It is directly connected with one of the' poles of the machine, while the other pole remains connected with the insulating platform. That is to saj', that the pole which had at first been the ground connection of the machine is now, in a modified form, in the hand of the operator. THE DIRECT AND INDIRECT STATIC BREEZE BY MEANS OF THE UMBRELLA ELECTRODE. An electrode called the umbrella electrode is sometimes suspended over the head of the patient as he sits in the chair on the insulated plat- form. This electrode, being studded with points, draws off the electricity somewhat uniformly through the scalp. Tiie umbrella electrode maj"^ be connected by its chain, either directly to one of the poles of the elec- trical machine, or else indirectly to some pipe having ground connection. In the first case we have the direct static breeze, and in the second the indirect static breeze, where the permanent umbrella electrode takes the place of an electrode waving in the hand of the operator. WHAT THE DIFFERENT MODES OF ADMINISTERING STATIC ELECTRICITY RESOLVE THEMSELVES INTO. The several modifications just described of administering static; electricity resolve themselves into the abilit}' to draw sparks from the person of the patient, or to dissipate, in the form of a current, the elec- MANIPULATION IN TBEATMENT BY STATIC ELECTEICITY. 215 tricity with wliich he is charged. Regarding the matter scientifically, neither of these actions represents electricity in a static condition. The disruptive discharge of sparlis is dynamic, and a current, however feeble, is dynamic, or at least not static. DETAILS OF MANIPULATION IN TREATMENT BY STATIC ELECTRICITY. To confine ourselves to the question merely of treatment, we would say that brass balls of various sizes are provided for the purpose of drawing sparks from the body of the patient. Other things being equal, a lai-ge hall will produce a spark of greater volume than a small one does, and its action will be the strongest at the distance at which it is capable, through the difference of potential in the machine, of putting stress upon and breaking down the dielectric resistance of the air interposing between the pole and the body. The object sought in the withdrawal of sparks from the body of the patient is stimulation for skin or other affections where healthful action is to be initiated. The brass balls re- ferred to, with insulating handles, are held in the hand of the operator, and readily draw sparks through the clothing of the patient. If, how- ever, any limited spot is to be treated, of course sight should be intro- duced to determine the spark exactly to that point. The sensations of the operator experimenting on himself, and the sensations of the patient verballj' communicated to the operator, will guide the intensity of the administration. The effect of drawing a vehement spark is to make on the skin the appearance of an urticarial wheal, and this may be too often repeated in the same spot. A metallic roller is employed in franklinization. This is used directly on the skin or on the clothing over the person. When used directly on the skin the effect is scarcely perceptible, but if used with the interven- tion of the clothing there is a prickling discharge of sparks that produce a sensation vividly perceived. The difference observed is strictly in ac- cordance with general principles. With perfect contact conduction takes place without disruptive discharge. With the intervention of tlie cloth- ing the stress put upon the intervening dielectric (the air permeating the clothes) breaks down with the disruptive discharge of the spark. As, however, the roller pressed against the clotlies leaves only a slight film of the dielectric to be pierced, the stress on it is reduced to nearly the minimum for each individual spark, and the intensity of the aggregate of sparks is reduced by the fact of their multiplicity approaching the condition of conduction. This roller process will produce in the cnta- neous nerves a stimulating effect analogous to tliat produced by the faradie current, but the effect will not, as with tlie faradic current, be appreciable, except through reflex action, below that surface. 216 ELECTKO-THEBAPEUTICS. A MOOTED QUESTION AS TO AN ELECTRICAL APPARATUS. We now approach a mooted question, whicli is, -whetiier the static machine can produce a current performing the same functions as the gal- vanic and faradlc currents, and beyond that two other questions, whether, granting for the salve of argument that it is capable of so acting, it so acts equally well in those spheres, or even well, with valuable differential differences. So far as we are able to judge of the matter, the claim to make the static machine perform the functions of the galvanic and faradic apparatus is not admissible on any higher ground than on that of the ingenuity of the invention. But the fairest way will be for us to give, in connection with this matter, the views of those who think differently. Accordingly, we quote, as follows, from Drs. Bartholow and Ranney. Dr. Bartholow saj^s : — "Owing chiefly to the phj-sicians of Guy's Hospital, London, and Dr. Charcot and his pupils. Dr. Arthius and Dr. Vigouroux, of Paris, the use of static electricity as a therapeutical agent has been revived and rendered entirely practicable. Dr. Morton, of New York, and the author simultaneously arrived at a method of using the Holtz electrical machine as a means of stimulating muscular contractions, and as a substitute for the faradic current in cases requiring such treatment The Holtz machine may also be employed to procure the muscular effects hitherto obtained only from faradic appliances. The current passing be- tween the discharging-rods can be tapped by means of a flexible wire attached to the outer coating of one condenser, and another flexible wire connected with the brass knob or bar which is in communication with the interior of the other condenser. The strength of the current and the rapiditj' of the interruptions are regulated by the distance between the knobs of the discharging-rods. At every passage of a spark a muscular action takes place. If the knobs are placed very near each other, so rapidly do the sparks pass that the efiect produced is very like that ob- tained from a mild faradic current. Thus, by an arrangement of the machine which can be done on the instant, the actions heretofore only obtainable from the faradic machines are readily procured from the stati- cal electrical instrument. Besides the effectiveness of this method, it has the advantage that it is almost painless. In no other way can strong muscular contractions be Induced, witli so little pain, at least." Dr. Ranney, speaking to the same intent, sajs : — " To convert a static machine into what to all practical purposes may be considered a ' faradic ' instrument, some slight modifications only are required. " The discovery of this method may justly be attributed to the in- vestigations of W. J. Morton, of New York, although Matteucci first PEOPEIETY OF ELECTRICAL SHOCKS. 217 devised an instrument wliicL gave shocks by induction simultaneously with the discharge of a Leyden jar. " To produce this form of current it is necessary to first hang a pair of Leyden jars upon the arms of the machine. The size of the jars em- ployed modifies the strength of the current. Hence it is necessary to have jars of diflerent sizes as a part of a static outfit. You now attach the chains — or by preference insulated wires which serve to connect the machine with the patient — upon the hooks that rest upon the outer coat- ing of the jars. Finally, you attach to the other end of each rheophore an electrode for use upon the body of the patient. The electrodes majj^ be of metal without any covering, or ordinary sponge-covered electrodes may be employed, care being taken that the insulating handles are somewhat longer than usual. " Before the machine is set in motion its poles should be approxi- mated closel3'. This step is important, because the separation of the poles intensifies the current as long as a spark will pass between them. There are two factors, therefore, in determining the strengtli of the static-induced current, — the size of the jars, the extent of separation of the poles." This cloim seems to us well answered in a general way by Drs. Beard and llockwell, and, with a brief quotation from their work on "Medical and Surgical Electricity," we wiU close the discussion. It is there said : — " It is claimed for this current that it produces maximum muscular contractions, with a minimum amount of pain, and that the response is qiiiclcer than that from the faradic current. As for the first claim, it is difficult to see how it can be determined, since the ordinary faradic cur- rent, from the single coil apparatus especially, need seldom call forth pain in the production of muscular contractions. As to the alleged greater quickness of response, I have not as yet been able to satisfac- torily form an opinion. The change in the apparatus for the production of this current is quickly and easily efi"eeted, and for the purposes of localized electrization it is useful. For general faradization, however, I can confidently assert that it is far inferior to the current produced by the best faradic appara,tus." THE QUESTION OF THE PROPRIETY OF ELECTRICAL SHOCKS. By some electro-therapeutists shocks from the Leyden jap are given, for what purpose is inconceivable. Shock of all kinds is objectionable. Perhaps such persons imagine (there are such) that because a thing is capable of certain performances, it must be called upon to do everything of which it is capable. But a horse can rear so as to dislodge his rider, or even so as to fall backward on him, and j^et no one considers it 218 ELECTBO-THEEAPEUTIOS. advisable to put him throngli his paces to the extent of incurring that shoclc. ShoclfS of any kind are, even when one is well and hearty, objectionable enough, but they are frightful to a sick and nervous man. AFFECTIONS NOTABLY RELIEVED BY THE ADMINISTRATION OF STATIC ELECTRICITY, The administration of static electricity is recommended for, as favor- ably influencing, certain nervous disorders, and therefore such aflfections of the skin as are presumed to be associated with disturbance of the gen- eral trophic system are believed to be amenable to it, both directly and indirectly. Prurigo, as can readily be believed, is modified by the stimulating effects of the roller franklinization. Formication, as the concomitant of certain nervous lesions, is sensibly abated by the administration of franklinic baths. The only peculiarity of the electric-bath administration of electricity, as compared with the other, by insulation, is that the current is more sensibly felt by the body, and probably more fully taken up by it, on account of the relatively resisting character of the surrounding medium of water. Just as from the galvanic and faradic currents we obtain general and local effects, so, from static electricity we obtain similar results, without the passive exercise which is combined with galvanization or faradization. Though exciting to healthy function, lividity of the skin is dissipated under the stimulating effect of the multiple spark from the electric roller. Anaesthesia and hyperaesthesia, different as they are, are ameliorated by the same process. The pain of muscular rheumatism is believed to be better relieved by roller franklinization than by any other means. Neuralgias of various types are also frequently relieved by this kind of administration of franklinization. Beard and Rockwell, however, de- clare that, in the various forms of true neuralgia, franklinization does not compare with galvanization. They say that the neuralgias which are most amenable to franklinization are those of a chronic character, confined to no special nerve-trunks, with the character of dull aching, and the parts not tender upon pressure. Hypertrophies of the skin, such as those of callosities, corns, horns, cicatrices, and scales, are often relieved by the method of drawing sparks from the diseased surface. Treatment for absorption in chronic synovitis, by sparks, is recom- mended by Beard and Rockwell as being frequently better than the treatment by galvanization and faradization. AFFECTIONS EELIEVED BY STATIC ELECTEICITY. 219 Blind boils may be aborted by drawing sparks sufficiently strong from tlie inflamed surface. In eczema and psoriasis the same method of treatment is often effective. Acne marks and hard papules are frequently removed by the same process. Sluggish lymphatic glands may be stimulated to better performance of their function by drawing sparks from them. Obstructed local circulation, from great infiltration, is relieved by franklinization. The roughness of the skin from scrofulosis is much ameliorated by franklinization. The eczema of children, known as " scald-head," is ameliorated by franklinization. In hyperidrosis of the feet and hands franklinization has proved a valuable remedy, and in itching of the feet and hands, often afflicting the very aged, franklinization affords great relief. Ringworm has been extirpated by franklinization. The rare and painful lesion of the skin caused by the presence of the guinea-worm has been cured by destroying the animal by strong and continuous sparks. Sycosis is sometimes relieved by franklinization. Spasm of the eyelids, or of the corners of the mouth, in nervous or livsterical patients, frequently yields to franklinization. .The weeping concomitant of this kind of spasm is in general favorably influenced by the same treatment. Locomotor ataxia, difficult as it is to deal with, often seems to have better outlook from treatment by franklinization than by^ galvanization or faradization. Haematocele is treated, depending upon the character of the case, by faradization, electrolyzation, or cauterization. Conclusion. — To proceed further in the discussion of static elec- tricity and in the mention of its applications would unduly expand that portion of this treatise wliich had. been allotted to the subject, and would in consequence also render it disproportionate in its importance, as we conceive it, with reference to the subject of electro-therapeutics as a whole. It was with set purpose that we did not, as many writers on electro- therapeutics do, begin the subject with the discussion of static electricity. This would be the proper method if one intends to write a history of the discovery of electricity, and treat of its phj'sics, and then of its thera- peutics. The intention of the preceding pages, however, w^as not that, 220 OXYGEN. but to place compendiously before the reader an account both of the physics and the therapeutics of electricity, without regard to historical sequence in discovery, because one is best graduated in the science and art concerned by beginning first with the study of the direct current, . then passing to that of the induced current, and then concluding with that of static electricity. Two reasons conspire to make this the best course to pursue. In the first place, the therapeutic value of current electricity is, as well as we can judge, far beyond that of static electricity. In the second place, every one is nowadays more familiar with the action of current electricity than with that of static electricity. Time was, and not very many years ago, when familiarity with the general phenomena of electricity was all in the other direction. The generation of phj'sicians, our predecessors and instructors, which is passing away, was familiar in its youth with the phenomena of static electricity, and with no other, and had little knowl- edge and correspondingly little faith in its therapeutic value. They had followed a generation which had expected great things of static elec- tricity, only to see it fall, as magnetism did within our own times, into the hands of charlatans ; and, proportionally disappointed, that generation had transmitted their loss of faith to their successors. Now a new era has arrived, with a partial revival of faith in the therapeutic A'alue of static electricit}^, a faitli better grounded than that which pre- ceded it, because based on experiment, cautious in development, and therefore one less likely to be, as was the former, suddenly dethroned. At the same time, if we ma}'^ venture to speak out frankly our own minds as to the therapeutic future of static electricitj', we must say that, judg- ing of it from its physics, and in the full light of therapeutic experience with it, it will never conquer a place at all comparable to that already occupied by current electricity in the armory of medicine. OXYGEN. GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS.— While it has long been recognized by physicians as well as the laity that the presence of oxygen was neces- sary to sustain life, it has probably received less attention than some other matters in the way of relieving disease. Pood, water, clothing, shelter, all have received the attention of the physician, but from the hygienic stand-point very little attention has been given to the necessary measures for purifying the atmosphere, and for the removal of filth, and for supplying a pure air for breathing purposes. With each inspiration a certain amount of atmospheric air is taken into the lungs for distribution GENERAL CONSIDEEATIONS. 221 throughout the sj-stem, a portion of whick is oxygen ; and it has been estimated by Liebig, the eminent chemist, that not less than thirty-two and one-half ounces were consumed daily in the wa^- of ordinary breath- ing. There have been attempts made in the way of medical treatment with a view to increase the oxygen in the blood by means of the exhibi- tion of certain medicines which were supposed to convej- this important element into the system ; chlorate of potash, i^reparations of iron, and other substances have been given with this object in view. When we think of sending our patients away for the benefit of their health, the atmospheric conditions likely to be met with at the point of destination are always considered ; the question arises as to the humidity and the amount of ozone, for instance, which is contained in the atmosphere. From personal experience and observations we know that during ordi- narily' cold weather the heat of the body is maintained through the active agency of oxygen; the appetite improves, digestion is carried along more completely, and, as a rule, we feel much better than during an unusually hot period, — a fact going to show that the oxygen taken into the sj'stem plays an important r81e in the matter of health. We know also, from study and experimentation, that oxygen which is inspired reappears in some other form, but the knowledge is not general that when a super- abundance of oxygen is taken into the system and thrown off this oxygen has been deprived of its vitality', and that it will not support animal life. This brings us to remark what has long been recognized, that oxygen is the vital element, and if such is the case in many instances; its inhalation at sufficiently frequent intervals may be made to answer' in the place of a trip to the mountains, a journey abroad, or a visit to the sea-shore, and it will thus be made to serve the physician in enabling his patients to attend to their regular duties, remain at home with their families, and enjoy the satisfaction of being well notwithstanding the undesirable season of the year. Increase of weight is not always accompanied by increase of strength, and this rule may be applied to the body as a whole. Increase in weight often means an accumulation of excrementitious products which should be eliminated, and in the elimination of which oxygen forms an impor- tant element. Such a condition is referred to as that of suboxidation, the function of oxygen being to consume these excrementitious prod- ucts, prepare them for elimination, and if that duty is not properly attended to the health becomes impaired ; there follows loss of strengtli, and possibly it is at those periods that ptomaines are so freely developed that poison overcomes the influence of phagocytes and undermines the health, destroys the constitution, and makes the subject more susceptible to deleterious influences. 222 OXYGEN. Notwitlistanding these observations, the triitli of which cannot he denied, objections have been urged against the practice of the inhalation of oxj'gen. It is said by some that oxygen is harmless in country regions, in normal condition, in combination with other ingredients of atmos- pheric air, and that if we wish our patients to get the full benefit of nature's most efficient restorer, there would be the place to send the patients ; but this is not a practical A'iew to take of the matter because it is very often impossible to comply with measures of this character, and even could we distribute our patients in this manner it is doubtful if much good would be accomplished from the fact that so many are un- willing to practice the necessary methods. They will not breathe syste-: matically and regularly, and are unwilling or often fail to take the neces- sary amount of exercise for tlie purpose of assisting nature to throw off the objectionable accumulations in the system. Another objection is, that by this method a condition called hyperoxygenation may be produced, which will be dangerous to tlie life of the patient, as in the use of cabinets for the purpose of making experimental demonstrations to determine the effect of oxygen when given to excess. This objection might stand, but ordinarily as practiced it has but little force from the fact that the tissues will only take up what is needed. If this latter objection is not sufficient we are met on tlie other hand by one from the other side, to the effect that the limited amount of oxj-gen taken during a single sitting or at several sittings is so small that but little benefit can be gained from the method requiring such a short time for its performance ; but if this ob- jection were well founded the same would be offered against medicinal treatment because of the limited amount which is required to produce an effect, and especially would this be applicable to the use of antiseptic measures in surgical practice. But those who have witnessed the mar- vellous effects following the introduction of a small quantity of medicinal substance into the system, and the wonderful improvement attending upon the antiseptic treatment of surgical cases, as well as the truly re- markable effects which follow upon the exhibition of oxygen gas, will not be dismayed by such flimsy excuses. A further confirmation of the yalue of the method, if one were needed, may be found in the rapidity with which sulphuretted hydrogen gas, given according to Bergeon's method, is distrilnited throughout the circulation, only a few moments being required until the whole system is charged and its presence can be detected in the air exhaled from the lungs. Ordinarily in the use of drugs, except by intravenous injection, we do not expect immediate results, but those who look with disfavor on the use of oxygen assure us that the action is not prompt, and insist that even if benefits are immediate they must of necessity be rather GENEEAL CONSIDERATIONS. 223 evanescent in character ; but these objections are fully answered by the prompt control of the seizures connected with the attacks of spasmodic asthma. A patient so exhausted that he is scarcely able to walk, and unable to speak above a whisper that is barely audible, will be able to speak aloud after a few inhalations of pure oxygen gas, and will exhibit a marked change for the better, although inspiration is so shallow that but an infinitesimal portion of the gas reaches the pulmonary tissues. An example of this kind amounts to a demonstration concerning the influence of oxygen upon the blood and upon tissue-change. A change has been effected which cannot be produced by medicine, bj^ exercise, nor so promptly by change of climate, and when attacks of this char- acter are not complicated by a diseased condition of the upper air- passages the judicious use of oxygen will prove quite sufficient to carry the patient over that period or season which may be regarded as the exciting cause. As an adjuvant to the treatment of diabetes, Bouchardat has shown that gymnastic exercises are superior, and cases liave been recorded in which the patients became aware of this peculiarity and acted accord- inglj', taking more than the usual amount of exercise after indulging in the pleasures of the table ; but now comes the announcement from De- raarquay that diabetic patients not only improve under the inhalations of oxygen, but also that favorable changes are effected in the composition of the urine without any'change in the diet whatever. Tlie statement is also made that in a number of cases the actnal amount of sugar was decreased, in some eases as much as one-half that which had been pres- ent previous to the exhibition of the gas. Beddoes and Demarquay have taken special care to note from time to time in their writings that none of their patients had suffered any inconvenience from oxygen inha- lations, and, lest any apprehensions should be felt by those who may wish to adopt this method of treatment in their practice, the statement is made here that unless the patient is confined in a closed cabinet, by which oxygen alone is supplied to him,' no danger need be feared from its administration by ordinary methods of inhalation, and the notion of superoxygenation taking place ^nd damaging the patient's health is only a ' man of straw, as no more will be absorbed than is required by the con- dition of the system. Exceptions should be made to the administration of the gas by rectal insufflation, its injection into the peritoneal or the pleural cavities, and, as has already been noted, its administration by the use of closed cabinets. This question, however, finds an apt solution by presenting a factor of great practical utility in reference to its use in the treatment of diseased tissues, as noted elsewhere in this article. The healthy tissues are unaffected by its application, while the diseased tissues 224 OXYGEN. are destroyed and the part rendered liealthy. A table based upon the work of Beddoes shows that he used oxygen in a great variety of cases, nearly one hundred in all, and that more than one-half of them were cured ; about one-third were relieved, and in the remaining number it failed^altogether. But that is not an argument against the use of the remedy, because there are many cases which have progressed to such an extent that no known method of treatment will be successful, and is but a proof that oxygen inhalation, like all other remedies, has its limitations, — a subject that will be further discussed under the head of Therapeutics. The investigations of Ehrlich, as noted in Bruntou's " Croonian Lectures,"* are thus summed up, and very fully cover this question of hjfperoxygenation : — " The production of acidit}-, or rather, in most cases, the diminution of alkalinity in tlie protoplasm, lessens its affinity for oxygen, and thus the process of combustion in the cell is diminished or arrested by the formation of acid, though oxidation again begins as soon as the circulating blood or lymph has restored its alkaline reaction. The activity of tiie cell tends to generate acid products of tissue waste, and these will be formed all the more quickly the more actively the functions of the cell are going on. But their accumulation will tend to lessen the alkalinity of the cell, and consequently its affinity for oxygen. The processes of combustion will then diminish or stop entirely until the waste products have been re- moved. There is thus a sort of self-acting mechanism in the cell, which, to a certain extent, regulates oxidation within it. Yet this regulating arrangement, which might be likened to the appetite, which prevents reasonable people from eating too much, does not seem to be enough, for we find a further one, which actually prevents the oxygen from getting to the protoplasm, and with the few exceptions of the brain, heart, and some of the muscles, the tissues of the body are shown by their reducing power to have only a restricted supply of oxygen, or, in other words, are burning like a furnace-fire with partially closed dampers 'Now the question arises, how is the supply of oxygen to the protoplasm restricted, and how is it that the supply may be, if necessary, increased? The damper which restrains combustion in the cell is, according to Ehrlich, the paraplasm, or cell-juice which surrounds the protoplasm. This para- plasm presents considerable resistance to the diflFusion of oxygen through it, and thus restricts the quantity which reaches the protoplasm. " The amount of oxygen which will pass through the paraplasm and combine with the protoplasm will vary according to the thickness of the paraplasm and to the area of surface of the protoplasm. When the pro- toplasm is contracted to its utmost extent, it will foi'ra a globe presenting * British Medical Journal, 1889. EISTOKY. 225 a minimum surface to attract oxygen, and with a maximum tliiclmess of paraplasm around it. Wlien tlie protoplasm is extended it will present a maximum surface with a diminished thickness of paraplasm. It will, therefore, attract oxygen more readily, and combustion will go on more quickly within it." These preliminary remarks seemed to be demanded on account of the meagre references to the subject found in the text-books of the present day, many of them ignoring the subject entirely, while a few treat of the matter but in tlie most superficial manner. Tile attention whicli the oxygen treatment has received in this country and abroad during the past ten yeaffs is sufficient to warrant a consideration of the matter, and the success claimed for it by irregular practitioners is such that tlie regular phj'sician cannot afford to be without some general knowledge of its utilities, and it is of such a nature that a careful investigation is warranted. The object of the present article is therefore to present the matter from the stand-point of practical utility, in the hope of enabling those who wish to adopt the method in their practice to determine the cases in which it will be beneficial, and the cases in which it will not be of value. An article somewhat elaborate has therefore been prepared, but it is none too exhaustive for a work of this character. It will be found to contain a brief reference to the early history of the subject, and not only the methods of preparation and exhi- bition of oxygen gas, but the uses and methods of administering the peroxide of hydrogen and nitrogen monoxide, commonly known as nitrous oxide, together with brief reference to ozone, its action, and to glycozone. In this connection the authors desire to express their thanks and appreciation of the courtesies extended by Dr. S. S. Wallian, of New York, who has completed a translation of the excellent work of Demar- quay, which will soon be within the reach of phj-sicians of this country. The active exertions of Dr. Wallian in bringing this method of treat- ment to the notice of the profession in America should be appreciated by all who are interested in the progressive spirit of the age. HISTORY. — Ox3rgen was first isolated in 1774 by Priestley, and its name is derived from two Greek words, — o^vg, sour, and ysvvda, to gener- ate, — which were intended to convey some notion as to its character, from the fact that other elements combined with it and dissolved in water pro- duced acid solutions. The discoverer anticipated an unusually promising field for it from a therapeutic stand-point, but we are forced to the con- fession that only within late years has much been accomplished in this direction. The indorsement of Lavoisier was equally complimentary, but he, like many others who have followed him, entertained an idea that 15 226 OXTGEN. its application in disease might result disastrously to the patien'^ bj reason of the property it possesses of rapidly breaking down the tissues. The theories of Fourcroy were chimerical in the extreme, and calculated to arouse suspicion from the exaggerated claims put forward. In his opinion it became at once a remedy of universal potency, and the value of all drugs was estimated in proportion to the amount of oxygen enter- ing into tlieir composition, and the remedies then in use were even classed in two divisions and referred to as oxj'genators and deoxygenators. Beddoes, already referred to, the gifted professor of chemistry at Oxford, was more judicial, although he advanced his opinion concerning its use with that conservative modesty which failed to inspire his readers with great confidence in this new and untried therapeutic agent. But other scientists took up the subject and studied it witli great interest. Sir Hum- phry Davy and Liebig among the number. Bircli, of the Manchester Medical School was an enthusiastic advocate of its introduction into medical practice, and within late years numerous investigators have given the subject more or less attention, some of whom have claimed tliat the blood cannot absorb more oxygen than is contained in atmos- plieric air, and that all attempts to increase the quantity by the usual ■ methods must prove futile. Tliis matter we have alrcadj- considered, and the large number of competent observers who have demonstrated the utility as well as tlie harmlessness of the agent renders any furtlier attempt in its defense unnecessaiy, although the careful physiological experiments of Claude Bernard, Paul Bert, and Burdon-Sanderson effect- ually settle the question. The physiological and clinical tests made by Demarquay and others in France, Germany, and England, and those of Dalton, Kellogg, Tliompson, Humphrey, Love, and others in America, fully corroborate the views here advanced. PREPARATION. — Oxygen is a tasteless gas without color or odor, and slightly soluble in water, one hundred volumes at the ordinary tem- perature taking up but three volumes, but all attempts to liquefy it liave proved fruitless. Substances which burn in the air are consumed with much greater rapidity when exposed to this gas, but, while it unites with other bodies in a state of combustion to form new substances, the gas itself is incombustible. The term incombustible, however, is rather a relative expression, because, while in some instances it may be a supporterof com- bustion, under other conditions the gas is burnt, and tlie weight of the product in all cases will l)e the weight of the body burned plus the weight of the oxygen consumed. Heat and light attend upon the com- bination which is called combustion, the body consumed being called the combustible, and that in which the operation takes place the supporter of combustion. Oxidation is the term given to the combination of oxygen PEEPAEATION. 227 with other elements, and in every instance heat is produced, although the rapidity of tlie action may be insufficient to produce light, this being the principal difference between oxidation and combustion. Although oxygen is the most abundant and likewise the most important of all the elements, forming one-fifth of the atmosphere, and the largest portion by weight of water, and, in addition, being found in considerable proportion in all animal and vegetable substances, its preparation in the form of free gas is not always accomplished without difficulty. First obtained by Priestley by heating mercury with common air, Chaptal found, in using this gas for medicinal purposes, that salivation followed, and experiments instituted to discover if mercury were present showed that prepared in this way at least one-third of a grain to the pint was carried by the gas, and of course that process was immediately abandoned. Other metals, like gold and platinum, whose oxides liave but little affinity for oxygen, have also been used for obtaining the gas, but it remained for Graham to discover a method of dialysis by which superoxygenated air could be made from ordinary air. For this purpose very thin India rubber is used as the membrane, and is supported on cloth, the apparatus being in the form of a bag to which an air-pump is attached. The contents of the bag having been exhausted, the pump will continue to deliver air more highly charged with oxygen, or containing about twice the quantity of ordinary air (41.60 per cent.). Other methods of obtaining oxygen may be mentioned as follows : From the decomposition of peroxide of manganese or by its combi- nation with sulphuric acid, but both methods are open to objections owing to the great amount of heat required by the first process, and the dangers attending the use of sulphuric acid by the second, and the fact tliat impurities in the gas thus prepared are removed with difficulty, while the yield is uncertain, and, besides, gas made in this manner may be dangerous. The gas obtained from decomposition of chloride of lime is not great in amount, and has to be subjected to frequent washings to free it from chlorine. Oxygen in large quantities can be obtained from barium dioxide by a series of complicated operations, but attempts to use this method except for its preparation on a large scale have been found impractical. Efforts to procure oxygen from the decomposition of sul- phuric acid or zinc sulphate by heat have not been successful owing to various causes, although Richardson claims that it can be made in abun- dance from the use of sulphuric acid acting upon potassium bichromate. This latter method has the disadvantage of requiring that sulphuric acid, always dangerous, shall be handled in considerable quantities, while the yield must be comparatively limited, and it has also the disadvantage that it must be used as fast as prepared. When the potassium bicbro- 228 OXYGEN. mate is heated with sulphuric acid, oxygen is evolved, and the solution promptly changes to yellow. Bouchardat's method consists in the use of equal parts of peroxide of manganese and peroxide of barium upon which rectified pyroligneous acid is gradually formed, but this is also open to the same objection as that of Richardson, since there is no arrangement for determining dosage. Potassium chlorate, however, furnishes the best means of obtaining oxygen, and the gas obtained from it has tlie advantage of being almost pure. The decomposition of this substance by heat results in the pro- duction of potassium chloride and oxygen, but for this purpose an un- usually high temperature is required. To obviate the difficulty it is only necessary to add to the chlorate one-eighth of its weight of some me- tallic oxide; copper oxide, ferric oxide, or the binoxide of manganese may be used, wlien the gas will be given off with great rapidity at a much lower temperature, while the metallic oxide remains unchanged at the close of the operation. About the only objection to this plan is owing to the contamination of the gas from the presence of chlorine, but this can be obviated by passing it through a solution of caustic soda, and this is substantially the method we have adopted for the preparation of the gas for use at the homes of patients, and for office treatment. But little inconvenience attends its preparation, as twenty- five gallons can be made in fifteen or twenty minutes, and by means of India-rubber bags this can be kept on hand for a period of twenty-four hours without injurj-. Prepared in this manner the amount taken by each patient can be estimated, if not actually measured, while the expense, aside from the first cost of the plant, will be comparatively trifling, certainly not more than two cents per gallon. ADMINISTRATION. — The dosage is by no means arbitrary, but must be regulated according to the condition of the patient. When given by inhalation in ordinary cases the amount will range from one to ten gallons, and this may be taken daily. When the patient suffers from excessive pulmonar}^ secretion, as in bronchorrhcea, the gas should be passed through calcium chloride to remove from it an}- moisture, although at other times it may appear advisable to pass the gas through moderately warm water in order to warm it, and to have it moist at the same time. As a precaution for the purpose of avoiding impurities, it is recommended that at some period of its preparation this gas should be passed through absorbent cotton in addition to the washing process already described. Urgent cases, such as haemorrhage, shock, opium narcosis, asphyxia from any cause, will require the administration of gas in its undiluted state, without its admixture with atmospheric air, but generally this is not demanded, as the method is attended with loss of gas unless the PHAEMACOLOGT. 229 patient can be made to understand the advantages to be gained from forcible inspiration. When it is necessary to bring children under its influence who are too young to be guided by instruction, and when the plan of rectal insufflation cannot be adopted, a mouth-piece similar to that used by dentists for the administration of nitrous oxide will be found to answer the purpose admirably. In the exhibition of the gas, either by inhalation or by rectal insufflation, the addition of a small pro- portion of nitrous oxide will often be found a valuable adjuvant, owing to its anaesthetic properties; but as this action is supposed to be due largely to its influence in depriving the nerve-centres of oxygen, its continued effect is not desirable. PHARMACOLOGY. — The question arises at the beginning of this investigation as to the manner in whicli oxygen gas acts when taken into the system. We know from observation tliat often the effects are imme- diate ; but there are other instances in which the effects apparently are delayed, and we conclude very naturallj' that the flrst effect — that is, the primary effect — is upon the blood ; and we are, therefore, warranted in assuming tliat the secondary effect is upon the nutrition ; that the oxygen is carried by the blood-corpuscles and deposited within the tissues ; and that tlie active changes that normally take place and favor the elimina- tion of exerementitious products are carried on more promptly. It thus favors absorption ; at the same time it increases the elimination of exere- mentitious materials. Tiie effect upon the blood is very prompt, as shown by the investigations of those who have given the matter atten- tion. By introducing a small quantit}' into the lower bowel by means of rectal insufflation, and exposing during the seance the omental tissues in which the blood presents the venous hue, the addition of a small quantity of oxygen in a few moments will cause this venous blood to change its appearance and become distinctly arterial, or red. Of course, the inhaled oxygen reappears pi-obably in the form of carbonic acid and water if the combustion of hydrocarbons brings about their elimination by the lungs, while the fatty and nitrogenous products are converted into uric acid, hippuric acid, and urea, the sulphur of the latter being converted, and the products eliminated, by the kidneys. From these observations we are prepared, in a measure, to estimate the value of oxygen and what is meant b}' the expression suboxidation ; and we are also in a position to understand the advantages which are claimed for quite a number of remedies, including clilorate of potash, iron, and other preparations, by reason of the supposed value they pos- sess in depressed conditions of the sj^-stem characterized by suboxida- tion. As a rule, no unfavorable constitutional symptoms follow its administration bj' inhalation ; but, on the contrary, a general feeling of 230 OXYGEN. well-being is experienced ; there is cerebral stimulation and an unusual buoyancy characterizes the movements, all sense of weariness disappears promptly, conversation is more active and direct, the ideas concentrated and forcibly expressed, while the step is firm and elastic. Hayem's observations show that when given in combination with a proportion of atmospheric air there is decided improvement in the functions of nutrition. The general action is that of a stimulant, by which the whole ner- vous system is affected, the activity of the circulation is increased, and the functions of respiration are more perfectly performed ; the tempera- ture at fli-st is slightly elevated, as well as the pulse ; digestion is carried on more promptly ; and the function of the red blood -corpuscles is greatly augmented and often their form remarkabl^^ changed by oxygen inhalations. Instead of being depressed in the centre and presenting a shriveled api>earance, the}"^ are full, rounded, and have every appearance of robust health, a change which is effiected generally throughout the entire system, although, of course, this is not long continued from a single exhibition of the remedj' ; but by rei>eated inhalations decidedly beneficial results may be witnessed. Of the various theories relative to respiration that of von Marrow is of most recent origin, and is probably more tenable than any otlier. According to this observer oxygen is not merely an oxidizer of carbona- ceous and excrementitious products, but is extensively absorbed, both as a tissue builder and as a prime instigator and chief promoter of general metabolism and tissue metamorphosis ; and, viewed from this stand- point, tlie claim is not unwarranted that this element is destined to occupy an important position in therapeutics. Ditiiculties present themselves in the course of the preparation of an article of this character, and it seems advisable to remark here that in order to understand fully the benefits to be derived from this method of treatment the physician should have the advantages of personal observa- tion and experience. So many eases are daily presenting themselves which would receive great benefit from the treatment, and j-et it is im- possible almost to point out the special cases which are likely to be affected favorably from oxygen inhalations or its use in some other form. THERAPEUTICS. — At the beginning of tiie present paper we took occasion to speak of the hygienic relations connected with the uses of oxygen, and we desire again to emphasize the needs for taking that matter into considei-ation. Resprrabte aip, such as we find in large cities, and even in Some of the smaller where mxich manufacturing is going on or wliere the location is nnfavorable, will often be found con- taminated with gases which are extremely obnoxious when taken into tlie lungs in concentrated form. These gases and odors permeating the THERAPEUTICS. 231 atmosphere constantly are calculated to have a depressing effect upon the system, although the plan of taking summer vacations, which now prevails, will have a tendency to modify this feature of modern civiliza- tion, for those who can afford it, provided proper sanitary precautions are adopted at the various summer resorts. The application of oxygen as at present conducted covers a wide range of diseases, and, although not alwaj-s curative, its use certainly has a favorable influence upon the progress of quite a number of maladies, — a result which probably follows because of the power which is thereby added to the organism to resist disease. The natural supposition is that it modifies the nutritive character of the red blood-corpuscles and affords increased vitality to phagocytes, which, as we have pointed out, are the enemies of disease. This, however, does not take into account its general revitalizing action upon diseased tissues, which will be noted farther on under the head of Hydrogen Dioxide. A familiar example of this action may be seen in the decay which attends upon the exposure of organic matter to atmospheric air for anj' considerable length of time, although a mistaken notion exists regarding the role played by the oxygen contained therein. The process of decay is not wholly that of oxidation, as animal and vegetable substances' undergoing a slow process of decay are modified to a great extent by the presence of micro-organisms, as pointed out by Pasteur years ago, who showed that when these micro- organisms are excluded decay takes place at an extremely slow and almost imperceptible rate, — a fact which but emphasizes the observations already made concerning the normal antagonisms existing in the economy. The use of oxygen in anaemia and other blood dyscrasiae would seem to furnish a crucial test of its practicability, but without the addi- tion of certain adjuvants, as nutritious diet and a healthy condition of the primary assimilation, together with medicinal treatment to correct any moVbid condition of the system, and such preparations as iron and manganese to improve the condition of the blood, the benefits from its administration will be far from satisfactor3^ And this leads ns to remark again that oxj^gen is far from being an imiversal panacea, but in cases that we have mentioned it forms one of the most important adju- vants within our reach at the present day. The investigations of Beddoes and others, while of immense service to us, were made without the knowledge we now possess concerning haematology and bacteriology, and, in the light of more complete information on these subjects, our ob- servations will have a correspondingly increased value from a therapeu- tical stand-point. Synergists, in addition to the above, will also include alkalies, as will be pointed out later, and the use of such alteratives as may be indicated in the particular case. Humphrey-, of Whitewater, MZ OXYGEN. Wisconsin, has used successfully cod-liver oil by enema in connection with the rectal administration of oxygen, and claims excellent success from the method. The class of remedies referred to as nervine tonics would also be indicated. Included in this class of diseases which have been mentioned should also be noted quite a large number of affections which appear to be influenced primarily by the condition of the blood, as in the case of chlorosis, or an entirely diflferent class, of which erysipelas is the repre- . sentative. Chlorosis is practically represented in the treatment of anaemia, from the fact that the latter is generally the concomitant of the former ; and if to the treatment for ansemia we add the use of emmena- gogues, we shall have a pretty good idea of the plan to be pursued in that disease. Leuoooythaemia would properly come in for a share of our attention in this connection, and it is a satisfaction to know that this malady will show a favorable change under the use of the gas ; but its use must be followed up, and, as adjuvants, the benefits of outdoor exercise should be impressed upon the minds of the patients. Erysipelas is one of the diseases which will be modified bj^ the inhalations, but the local use of the dioxide will be more productive of benefit if used in the early stage of the affection before "the micro-organisms have had an opportunity of multiplying. The same method will be found available in the treatment of septicaemia, — a plan wliich will be better understood as we come to the consideration of diseases of the alimentary tract on the following pages. Lithaemia, and its congener, neurasthenia, is just such an aflfection as we should expect would receive benefit from the use of oxygen, and in this disease the appropriateness of the suggestion that alkalies would be suitable as adjuvants will thus become apparent. These cases, as a rule, are met with in which there is a condition of suboxidation ; there is congli, showing that excretion by the pulraonarj' tissues is embarrassed ; and there is a highly acid condition of the urine, — a fact which proves beyond question that tlie combustion is incomplete; and an examination of the urine discloses the presence of large quantities of uric acid, — an insoluble substance which should have been converted into the soluble urea. In addition to the foregoing complications, as if they were insuf- ficient, we have to deal with an unhealthy condition of the alimentary tract, a torpid state of the liver, and a sluggish condition of the entire cutaneous system. With sucli an array of disorders and complications, is it any wonder that the population of our mad-houses is rapidly increasing? While urging the benefits to be derived in cases of this character, we do not assume that oxygen alone will reliabilitate .and rejuvenate a debilitated system, but we cannot too strongly insist that an THEKAPEUTICS. 233 investigation of its claims will be well calculated to start the physician in the direct line of investigation, and he will thereby form some idea of the results which follow a more perfect oxygenation of the blood. At the close of a long list of diseases which manifest themselves through the medium of the blood, rheumatism may be mentioned. Both subacute and chronic will promptly respond to the judicious use of oxj'gen ; but when a diathesis has been acquired, and a habit is formed on the part of the sj'stem, the use of the remedy for only a sliort time cannot be expected to accomplish more than palliative results. Other treatment must be instituted with a view to secure a healthy condition of the hepatic function, and everything must be done that can be done for the purpose of purifying the condition of the blood and keeping it in a condition unfavorable to the development of microbes, by which we avoid the presence of the poisons that they form ; but this subject has been so fully canvassed that its repetition would be a waste of space. Whether diabetes is a disease which may be properly considered in connection with other affections which apparently have their seat in the alimentary canal, we shall not attempt to say, although its origin is shrouded in obscurity ; but there are some points which can be con- veniently considered here in connection with its treatment by inhalations of oxygen. Chevereul, we believe, was the first to suggest that much miglit be accomplished in tliis disease by the use of alkaline mineral waters, owing to their power to aid the blood in carrying oxygen in increased quantity ; and he insisted that under these conditions it would have a curative action, — a point which has been taken up by Mialhe, who claimed to have established upon this basis what he was pleased to term a rational treatment for the disease. By the use of alkaline mineral waters and inhalations of oxygen, saccharine matters in the blood are burnt up, as it is. observed that many organic compounds do not combine with oxygen until brought into contact with a free alkali. We know the value of alkalies in the treatment of uric acid diathesis, and from what has just been remarked the advantages to be gained from the addition of oxygen will be more fully appreciated. Fossibly Sternberg had this in mind when he adopted the alkaline plan for the treatment of yellow fever ; but whether he did or not, the fact remains that thus far it has proved more generally successful than any other. True, this plan also includes the use of considerable doses of corrosive sublimate, but, given in the presence of an alkali, we cannot entertaip the idea that its valine is felt beyond the contents of the stomach ; and this, we believe, is all that is claimed for this part of the treatment by the discoverer. The hypodermatic use of pilocarpine accords with the views here expressed in so far as the secretions 234 OXYGEN. are affected, and good results have followed its use in the hands of Hebersmith, who was the first to recommend it to the notice of the profession. If now, to both of these methods of treatment, we are per- mitted 'to add the use of inhalations of oxygen gas, and either the rectal insufflation of the same or the exhibition of the hydrogen dioxide, there is reason to believe that better results will follow than by any other method which has yet been suggested. A similar plan can be adopted for the treatment of cholera ; and if we may be permitted to anticipate the possibilities of the case, judging from the good effects which attended its use in the epidemics in which it has been used, and which include those of India in 1819 and 1821, and in France in 1832 and 1848, we have great hopes that much may be ac- complished in attempting to control the disease, at least in the earlier stages. In both yellow fever and in cholera the poison is to be found in the intestine, and not untir^the disease has invaded the system do the powers of the organism show a disposition to succumb, — at a time, probabl3', when the poisons generated from micro-organisms .ire begin- ning to overpower and destroy the phagocytes. The suggestions here advanced appear to be confirmed by the remarkably satisfactory results which have been noted from the use of the gas in that nondescript affection called dyspepsia, and in chronic gastritis. The use of oxygen internally has not yet received the attention which its value warrants, although it has been practiced to a limited extent jn this country. The method was first introduced by Odier, a physician of Geneva, and was advocated as a desirable plan for restoring the energies and increasing the appetite, especially amongst those of a ner- vous disposition. Wallian has sometimes seen remarkable results follow its use in this manner, the only valid objection which can be offered being that the taste of water impregnated with oxygen is flat and rather dis- agreeable. This difficulty, however, may be overcome by combining the oxygen with nitrogen monoxide, and it is said the two together not only are taken with a relish, but also th.at they produce results far superior to that of oxygen alone. Water holds, under pressure of from fifteen to eighteen atmospheres, three or four times its own volume of gas, and very convenient appli- ances are at hand for administering it in this manner. Thus used, it has been found to possess great excellence in all cases of so-called dyspepsia, in cases of convalescence from illness, and in general debility. Along with the foregoing may also be mentioned such affections as astjima and catarrhal fever, as well as tertian. Its value has also been demonstrated in the treatment of all spasmodic affections and as a diuretic in an.asarca. In the latter cases it is believed to act strictly as a diuretic, as the uri- THEEAPEUTICS. 235 nary flow is greatly increased and pari passu the anasarca disappears. In estimating the value of oxygen, therefore, its internal administration should not be overlooked. Some of the diseases of the cutaneous system are especially amenable to treatment of this character, amongst which may be mentioned eczema and urticaria ; and it should be noted here that this observation is in direct relation with the views advanced concerning suboxidation. These affections are but indications that the ordinary channels for excremen- tition have been temporarily closed, when the skin takes upon itself a vicarious function, — that of eliminating products which have been allowed to accumulate in the tissues. Whatever aids combustion of these obnoxious products will favor a return to the health standard, and first on the list of remedies aside from appropriate medical treaViient and nutritious diet we should be disposed to esteem oxj'gen gas. Pulmonary affections, however, appear to furnish the most promising field for its use, partly because there are a greater number ,of persons who suflfer from various forms of lung and bronchial troubles than any other single disease, and partly for the reason that there is a belief that more good can be accomplished if the remedy goes direct to the aflfected area than if the diseased part be located at a distance from the point of medication ; and doubtless this opinion is shared to some extent by phy- sicians. The immediate value of the action of the gas is perceptible when given for the relief of asphyxia from whatever cause, and it will be con- venient to have access to a preparation of the kind in the case of emer- gency. Not infrequentlj' there will occur cases in which the patient has been exposed to the fumes of coal-gas in a sleeping apartment, when in addition to the usual cardiac and vascular stimulants the administration of oxygen should not be omitted, as it materially hastens recovery and also otherwise acts as a potent agent in re-establishing the equilibrium of the circulating fluid and increasing the nutrition of the nerve-centres. Certain drugs, like antifebrin, may cause such depression of the system that collapse may be threatened, but the timelj' administration of oxygen ■will often tide over the difficultj'. This comes about from the action of the drng upon the red corpuscles which are deprived of hsemoglobin, this substance being converted into methtemoglobin, by which the appearance of the blood is changed from the arterial hue to that of a chocolate color. Asthma comes in here for a share of attention, and it may be re- marked that amongst the cases recorded by Beddoes, by far the largest number of any one class were of this affection, although the matter has already been so fully considered in preceding pages that further dis- cussion would be unprofitable. It is sufficient to sa}' that uncompli- cated cases of asthma will be promptly and permanently benefited, but 236 OXYGEN. attention must be given to those conditions which are so well calculated to perpetuate the existence of the disease. Along with asthma comes bronchitis, dyspnoea, and emphysema, all of them being promised im- provement under the use of the gas, together with other measures intended to improve the general nutrition. Phthisis has undoubtedly furnished the oxygen treatment the largest number of followers ever since its introduction, and for man}- years there was a general impression that its use was confined to the relief of this scourge to the human race. As a result of this mistaken notion, many who would liave given the matter serious consideration have listened to the claims of oxygen enthusiasts with no little incredulity, and unfortunately physicians as well as the laity naturallj' looked upon it with disfavor, because no one believed tliat it could cure consumption, and that was what many of its projectors in different sections of the country proposed actuallj' to accomplish. The subject is therefore de- serving attention in this connection. In tlie early stages of phthisis, when digestion is impaired, when the function of the liver is not prop- erly performed, and before serious clianges have taken place in the lung- tissue, no doubt exists but that much can be accomplished in the matter of stopping its progress, but tlie use of the gas alone will not do it, and we must call to our aid all those remedies which are known as adjuvants, the object of which is to increase the resistance of the organism. In the later stages it is but palliative, but may be used with no little benefit to the patient during the intervals between the exacerbations of fever. And just here it may be remarked that there will be found a considerable number of cases in which the progress of the disease will be but slow, and the benefits to be derived from pulmonary gymnastics would prove advantageous; but with the use of the gas as an incentive, respiration is practiced in a more thorough manner than without it, and there is a corre- sponding gain in strength, tlie appetite and digestion improve for a time, and the patient is buoyed up witli the hope that a cure has been found and that ultimate recoverjr is among the probabilities. But when hectic again appears, which it will sooner or later, the sufferer experiences a shock both mental and physical and the resistance of the organism is diminished. Under such circumstances as these we may assume many of the glowing testimonials concerning oxygen inhalations have been written. Both croup and diphtheria are diseases in which oxj'gen may be ex- i:)ected to produce a favorable action by reason of the improved quality of the blood which follows its introduction into the system. It frequently occurs that the virulence of the disease and the strength of the patient are exhausted about the same time; but if we can introduce this plan, in HYDKOGEN DIOXIDE. 237 many cases the vitality of the patient will be prolonged, and he will have strength to recuperate after the activity of the disease has subsided. Upon the same principles it will be found efflcient in the earlier stages of albuminuria, in which the role it plays in eliminating morbid products will be manifested, and temporarily, at least, the progress of the disease arrested. Neuralgias of various forms will be often found quite amen- able to this method of treatment, many of them being due to an impov- erished condition of tlie blood. The same rule aptly applies to the treatment of that condition known as 'general debility, in which there is a marked depression of all the vital functions, and where the phj-sician is at a loss to determine in which direction his treatment should be aimed. As an adjuvant to other treatment, the use of oxygen will prove of signal service in the relief of malarial toxaemia, and very flattering reports have been made regarding its virtues in this direction. From all that has been said of the general action of this remedy in favoring the elimi- nation of waste products which have accumulated in the system, in the treatment of corpulence we should very naturall3' expect to obtain good results from its use, and this is true ; a number of observers have already indicated that beneficial results follow its employment. In conclusion, it may be noted that, while a large number of dis- eased conditions ha^ been mentioned as being more or less favorably influenced by the use of oxygen, scarcely a week passes that some new use for it is not found. Medical uses will include its exhibition in the form of inhalations, by rectal insufflation, and lately it has been sug- gested that oxygen baths be used with a view to obtain cutaneous ab- sorption ; its use in connection with beverages is a favorite plan with some. In surgical practice, in addition to the methods already outlined, it maybe used locally, a more detailed description of which will be found on the following pages under the head of Hydrogen Dioxide, and we bespeak for that section a favorable consideration. HYDEOGEN DIOXIDE (PEROXIDE OF HYDROGEN). Hydrogen dioxide (H^O^) is produced in many cases by slow oxi- dation in the presence of water; also in small quantity by electrolysis, in which case it is regarded as an oxidation of water. Usually, how- ever, it is prepared by double decomposition from barium dioxide and hydrochloric or carbonic acid. Thdnard discovered this product by evaporation in vacuo over sulphuric acid. It is a colorless, transparent liquid of syrupy consistence, and is probably never quite free from water.' In its pure state hydrogen dioxide is an unstable product, and in aqueous solution decomposition rapidly takes place when heat is applied, but, to overcome this objection, in medical practice the solution 2oS OXYGEN. maybe slightly acitlnlated. The taste is usually slightly acidj other- wise almost tasteless ; but it does not redden litmus ; when applied to the skin in concentrated form the tissues are turned white, but when used in dilute solution its action is bland and unirritating, and this forms one of its most desirable qualities, as it can be freely used , for its antiseptic properties in this manner when the use of other remedies would be contra-indicated. Its resemblance to ozone is very marked, and, like the latter, it is also a reducing agent of great activit3\ The use of hydrogen dioxide is merely another source by which we are enabled to obtain oxygen in different form than in the gaseous if wanted, and is of special value in the treatment of various diseased con- ditions, amongst which may be mentioned those of septic, zymotic, and parasitic origin: The preparation of peroxide of hj'drogen, as it is commonly called, is somewliat difficult, and, as purity' is the most essential feature, tiiere are doubtless many instances in which such a preparation has been used which was either sophisticated or contained impurities which seriously interfered with tlie therapeutic advantages that might have been ex- pected under ordinary conditions. The so-called " oxygenated water " is actually a definite compound of oxj'gen and hj'drogen, and yiekls under favorable conditions four hundred and seventy-five times its own volume of oxygen, but, as already stated, it is somewhat unstable at ordi- nary temper.atures. At times it will decompose other bodies by abstract- ing their oxygen, and again, coming into contact with those of greater afflnit}^, its own oxygen is yielded to them. » For medicinal use a solution sufficiently stable is prepared contain- ing twelve to fifteen volumes (2|- to 3 per cent.), and a product of this character is to be found upon the market which, with the exception of a slightly acidulous taste, from a trace of acid added as a preservative, cannot be detected from pure distilled water. The preparation referred to has been called ozone water, and it has even been claimed that ozone and H^O^ are identical, and that the former represents an aliotropic form of oxygen, and is a compound body. Submitted to various laboratory tests, Richardson has shown that hydrogen dioxide readily imparts free oxj'gen ; and in accordance with facts pointed out by these investigations certain therapeutic indi- cations have been formulated, and clinical observations have confirmed the assumptions advanced from its theoretical stud}'. As an illustration of the clinical advantages which may be antici- pated fi-om the use of this preparation, the following extracts,* together with comments, may be found interesting to the reader : — » "The Oxygen Treatment," by John Aulde, M.D., in Medical Times, 1888. HYDEOGEN DIOXIDE. 239 " As there is an impression abroad that the use of oxygen in tliera- peutics requires special sliill on the part of the phj'sician, and that it in- volves a considerable outlay on the part of the patient, a few words as to the apparatus needed and tlie expense connected therewith may not be out of place in this connection. Unsatisfactory results, it is true, have attended the efforts of some, but chiefly for the reason that tliey liave been contented with the use of ordinary commercial gas, compressed in iron or copper cylinders, — a method strongly condemned by Wallian, who believes that by this process the gas is to a certain extent devitalized. Observers are therefore cautioned that the best results will follow the use of the strictly nascent or fresh gas, which may be readily prepared, all impurities or deleterious elements being promptly eliminated by the process. " For securing perfectly fresh oxygen, two sources are .available. The most convenient and at the same time least expensive, when but a small quantity is required, is by means of a preparation of hydrogen dioxide (HgOg), commonly known as peroxide of hydrogen, which, on being moderately warmed, gives off one equivalent of its oxygen, and in a state so decidedly active as to strongly resemble ozone. Brunton says : ' It has therefore been used for similar purposes to ozone. It destroys bacteria and is a powerful antiseptic' This is tlie method I have adopted for the most part, and, although the volume of gas realized is so small as to seem insignificant, it apparently makes up in quality or in- tensity for the lack in quantity. The other method, recently made avail- able, is bj' means of a portable generator, which may safely be placed in the hands of the patient, or an intelligent nurse, the whole outfit not costing more than twenty-five dollars. "When the peroxide of hydrogen is to be used, the patient is sup- plied with a bottle of the solution, generally employed in the strength of ten or fifteen volumes, in water, together with an inhaler, the use of which can be explained in a few minutes. A small portion of the di- oxide solution is placed in the inhaler along with a little clean water, and heat applied ; the evolution of oxygen soon follows, and the patient is permitted to practice inhalation from ten to fifteen minutes two or three times daily ; or, in case the inhalation is found to be too laborious, five minutes or less will be sufficient, in which case it is advisable to In- crease the frequency of its administration. The method resolves itself into a pulmonary gymnasium, by which the patient is permitted to in- hale pure, warm air, charged with oxj'gen, while carbonic acid, which ordinaril}' accumulates in the lungs and causes depression, is thrown off. " A ease, which may be mentioned, was that of a widow lady, aged thirty -five, who, two years previously, had buried her husband, his death 240 OXYGEN. being due to phthisis pulmonalis. During all the time of his illness she had given him lier personal attention, and when first seen there was a suspicion that she also had contracted the disease. Later observation, however, convinced me that I had to deal with a case of catarrhal pneu- monia, chronic in character, although I was strongly impressed with the idea that it would ultimatelj^ become catarrhal phthisis. The cough was exceedingly intractable, with great depression of the vital powers. The sputa were thick and tenacious, the color and consistencj' indicating the breaking down of pulmonary tissue to such an extent that my prog- nosis could not be other than unfavorable. This information was kept a profound secret from the patient, but the relatives were full}^ advised as to the probable results of treatment. It may be mentioned here that for the preceding two }-eais she had been under irregular treatment, and had been informed positively that she was going the same way as her hus- band, all of which, no doubt, added to her depression. The fact that she feared this to be the final result was about the only redeeming feature of the case, and I proceeded with the greatest deliberation. Suitable medication with a view to maintain the nutrition was regarded as of the first importance, and the use of the oxygen was attended to faithfully by both patient and nurses. At first, the inhalations could be continued for but a few minutes at a time, but in the course of a week she was able to take the treatment for the space of ten minutes, about four times dailj^. " Soon after treatment was begun there was rebellion in the camp; the effort required proved rather depressing, and, besides, she had several serious attacks which threatened to terminate fatally. These attacks were characterized by great cardiac pain, dyspnoea, and a sense of choking or smothering, and I must confess that on several occasions the end seemed near at hand. They were followed, or rather accompa- nied, by profuse expectoration of muco-purulent clots of such size that I will not undertake to make any comparison, lest it should- appear to be a gross exaggeration. In the course of a month or so, after she was able to sit up in bed, she questioned me very pointedly in regard to her prospects, and, while I was tempted to tell her what I considered her true condition, the belief that she would quickly succumb under an unfavora- ble prognosis prompted me to gloss the matter over, and she appeared greatly relieved. A week later she surprised me with the information that she was to be married, and that her engagement had been deter- mined altogether on my prognosis. Here was a dilemma ; but the mis- chief had been done, and it was then too late to retrench. She followed up the oxygen treatment for the period of two months in all, and was married shortly after treatment was discontinued. " Nearly two years have now elapsed, and with the exception of one HYDROGEN DIOXIDE. 241 attack of illness, wbich usually attends ladies soon after pregnane}' takes place, she has enjoyed fairly good health. What the final outcome of the case will be I am not at present prepared to say, but certainly the prospects are far from bright. Want of space prevents me from giving any of the details of the system of medication which was carried out, but suffice it to say that the picture is not overdrawn, and I am fully convinced that the inhalation of the oxygen saved her life."* In addition to the use of the dioxide as an inhalation, the antiseptic properties which it possesses are of such importance tliat it becomes an invaluable aid in the matter of surgical practice. As compared with other antiseptics it is claimed that the dioxide is forty per cent, more potent than mercuric bichloride, twenty times as powerful as salicylic acid, aiM sixty times the activity of carbolic acid ; although as a germi- cide it is admitted to be less powerful than those drugs just mentioned, but its value in this direction is of no small merit. As a disinfectant we are warranted in taking into account the observations of Pasteur, from the fact that we are fully aware of the prevalence of micro-organisms in both medical and surgical practice. The topical uses of this remedy will include the local use by means of the spray or otherwise in all such morbid conditions as gangrene, boils and carbuncles, indolent ulcers, and carcinoma ; also it may be used locally in venereal diseases. Shelly ,f speaking of the local use of the dioxide, says : " It is interesting to watch the action when a few drops of a proper solution is brought in direct contact with pus- corpuscles." A brisk effervescence at once commences and continues until all the pus is destroyed, and upon this basis he has suggested that it might be used for the detection of pus in the urine. Such qualities would naturally commend it to the attention of the gynaecologist, the ophthalmologist, and the laryngologist, and in many of the more serious diseases coming under the observation of the general practitioner, like croup and diphtheria. Acting as an enemy of the bacteria and enzymes, together with its destructive effect upon diseased tissues while tlie healthy membranes remain unaffected, and being perfectly harmless when swallowed, its use cannot be too strongly urged in the two latter affections. As an inhalation, a spray, douche, or gargle, or applied locally by means of absorbent cotton to the affected area, it will be found to produce an immediate and favorable action, and there need • Referring to this case, July, 1889, it may be noted that the patient passed through the period of confinement and is now enceinte for the second time, and, at the end of three years after treatment, appears in better health than for many years. Illustrative oases of this char- acter could be Increased,— a fact which may account for the enthusiasm of the present article i but when one sees the dead brought to life, as it were, the disposition is but natural. t Practitioner, London, 1S81. 16 242 OXYGEN. be no fears that harm will result from its frequent repetition. Nunn, of Savannah, Georgia, reports flattering results following the use of the l^eroxide of hydrogen in the treatment of diphtheria, and claims that when seen in the early stages much can be expected in the way of modifying the character of the disease and in curtailing the period of sickness, and, besides, he is credited with the assertion that no fatal cases have been met with since this plan was adopted. Richardson recom- mends an ethereal solution called '' ozonic ether." lu the treatment of true croup, where the breathing had become so embarrassed that cyanosis had begun, decidedly beneficial i-esults followed the use of the spray diluted with a small quantitj^ of warm water. In gynaecological practice, a vaginal tampon may be prepared of ab- sorbent cotton and introduced into a gelatin capsule along with a solu- tion of the dioxide and a little glycerin with the best results. This preparation forms the glycozone, so called, but only perfectly pure glyc- erin should be used in this manner. The above-described tampon may be used to good advantage by simply s.aturating the cotton with the ordi- nary fifteen-volume solution; but in introducing the tampon the neces- sary pressure will have a tendency to remove the greater part of the preparation, while by the use of the capsule, which will readih' dissolve, the solution may be placed in the desired position, when the patient should maintain the recumbent position until solution of tlie capsule has taken place and the affected parts have been batlied in the antiseptic solution. Cases of septic poisons introduced into the system either from dis- section or other wounds should be promptly submitted to the infiuence of the dioxide ; if pus has already accumulated .an exit must be made for it, and the remedy applied until all symptoms of effervescence have sub- sided. In the treatment of pyaemia it has been highly recommended. A word may be added from a theoretical stand-point regarding the method of using tliis preparation in the treatment of yellow fever and cholera, and are in the main conclusions which have been formed from the preparation of the preceding pages. If we are willing to admit that this remedy has such an action upon tissue-change, bacteria, enzymes, and upon morbid products as pointed out, we are wai-ranted in assuming that it would be an efficient agent in controlling or destroying the poisons found in the alimentary tract in the diseases named ; and as the greatest difficulty heretofore has been in bringing the antiseptic within reach of the habitat of the poison, this obstacle will be fully overcome by the use of the remedy by rectal insufflation. We have already mentioned the fact that the use of the oxygen gas has been recommended in the form of rectal insufflation, and by the method suggested in the treatment of NITKOGEN MONOXIDE. 243 cholera and yellow fever the cireumstaiices would all seem to favor the action of the preparation. Demarquay has used it in many chronic dis- eases, and has also found it a valuable aid in surgical practice. Patients subjected to severe surgical operations endured the ensuing shock, de- pression, and loss of blood much better for having been previously super- oxygenated. He also applied local oxygen baths to patients suffering from foul ulcers and gangrenous wounds of the extremities, and reports excellent results in these cases, the wounds rapidly taking on a healthy appearance and losing their fetid and angry character. In concluding this somewhat imperfect sketch the authors realize that there is still much that might be said, but an attempt has been made in the hopes of bringing the main points to the notice of the reader, and sufficient has been said to enable the intelligent practitioner to determine for himself the cases in which the remedy might be used with the reasonable hope of success; and it is believed that the present is but the infancy of the therapeutical uses for oxygen, and, like electro- therapj', we predict for it a brilliant future. NITROGEN MONOXIDE. Nitrogen monoxide (N^O) (Protoxide), better known as nitrous oxide or " laughing gas," is a preparation more generally used for the purpose of producing temporary anaesthesia or exhilaration according to the mode of its administration. When inhaled in an undiluted form it causes rapid ansesthesia, sufficient for minor surgical operations, but when taken with an admixture of atmospheric air the action is that of an exhilarant. It is prepared from nitrate of ammonium by the action of heat. Administration, as stated, is generallj-by inhalation, but of late years, as will be noted further on, it has been used locally in connection with the hydrogen dioxide. As generally used by dentists it is condensed and placed in an iron receiver, and by means of a suitable mask or mouth- piece connected with the container by a rubber tube the gas is conveyed to the patient. i PHARMACOLOGY. — When but a small quantity of the gas has been inhaled the subject undergoes a period of excitement which lasts but a few moments, but during that time he displays the effect it has produced in a variety of -ways. Some will sing, dance, laugh, or talk volubly, while at other times a pugnacious disposition will be developed ; a pecu- liarity of this is that the subject is fully aware of the ludicrous appear- ance he is making, but j'et feels no disposition to control his antics. This, however, is not noticeable after the full effect has been produced, when the influence of tile remedj' is wearing off. As a rule, no bad efTects 244 OXTGEN. follow its administration, and the patient soon recovers full conscious- ness, although we have seen several cases in which the effects failed to disappear within several days ; but this in all probability resulted from some impurity in the gas. Such accidents are not likelj^ to occur, from the fact that the preparation does not readily undergo decomposition, and is^more stable than any of the other gases we have mentioned in this article. The general action is principally through the nerve-centres, which are deprived of oxygen, but it is not definitely known just what decom- position takes place when it is introduced into the economy, although its anaesthetic effect is similar to that of nitrogen. The effect upon the blood is to cause it to assume the venous liue, iind for this reason it is not well adapted for continued anaesthesia, — an observation which may appear somewhat anomalous when the statement is made that it readil}' parts with its oxygen, and will support combustion equally as well as oxygen itself. THERAPY. — The claim is advanced that it is nitrogen monoxide instead of oxygen which is largely nsed by irregular practitioners at the present time, and, while it maj- act as a sedative and exhilarant, equal benefits cannot be claimed for it from a therapeutical stand-point. A combination of the two, however, may be made to advantage in those cases where oxygen would be too stimulating, or when the anesthetic effect is desired, and this is now a method of treatment approved by those who have given the subject careful attention, who have reason to believe that in addition to the influences just mentioned it assists materially in the distribution of the oxygen. For this purpose from 15 to 50 per cent, of the entire volume of the gas may be nitrous oxide, the bal- ance pure oxygen, and this compound is diluted by the admixture of atmospheric air during inhalation. Minor surgical operations which require but a short time for their performance may be submitted to under the influence of this gas, and it is now largelj' used by dentists when extfacting teeth. As compared with chloroform for this purpose, the nitrolis oxide is greatly to be pre- ferred owing to the danger attending the use of chloroform when the operation is small and requires but a meagre quantity of the anaesthetic, and when given while the patient is in the erect position. The accidents reported from this have been so numerous Within late years that the use of chloroform for this purpose should be discouraged. "When compared with the action of ether, we may note that tlie action of the nitrous oxide is much more rapid than the former, and, besides, there is not the dis- agreeable odor about it which is so offensive and at the same time so formidable to some persons ; recovery from its effect is also much more . OZONE. 245 Ifipid. When a formidable operation is contemplated the use of nitrogen inonoxide, it is believed, will not only bring the patient more quickly under the influence of the operator, when given as a preliminary to the administration of ether, but it has the effect of inspiring confidence on the part of the patient; and it has been observed that, when given as a preliminary to ether in these cases, the recovery of the patient from the effects of the auffisthetic is more prompt and complete. A note should Ije added to the effect that, after the administration of this gas, it is well to ask the patient to perform some simple manual effort, by which con- sciousnes is more quickly regained. Tlie analgesic properties of the gas render its use of great service as a topical application in connection with the local use of hydrogen dioxide, to which the reader is referred in the preceding pages. Tiie same may be added relative to its use in combination with oxygen gas or with hydrogen dioxide in the form of enemata, in all cases where the use of either is demanded, and where the sedative and anaesthetic action of the protoxide is indicated. OZONE. Ozone is a colorless gas, having an unpleasant odor, and is not readily soluble in water, one hundred volumes taking up but .5 volume. It is supposed to differ from oxygen in having the three molecules con- densed into one (O3), and this was apparently demonstrated by the experiments of Sir Benjamin Brodie in attempts to ozonize oxygen, when it was discovered that not more than 15 per cent, of this gas could be converted into ozone. This was due to the facts connected with what is called dissociation phenomena, by which reconversion takes place. When an electric spark is passed through the air a peculiar smell is noticeable, and is due to the breaking up of oxygen and the formation of ozone. It may be obtained from oxygen by various forms of apparatus, generally constructed on the principle of Siemens's induction-tube, although it has never been obtained in a pure state. In slow oxidations ozone is generall3' found, and probably in most cases is accompanied by that of hydrogen dioxide, to which it has been compared, and by some is considered identical, although there is a consensus of opinion that it shall be admitted to be an atlotropic form of oxygen. Traces of ozone are found in the open country, and its value becomes of significance from the fact that it favors the removal of organic' impurities from the atmos- phere by destroying them. Ozone may again be converted into oxj^gen, slight decomposition taking place at 110° C. ; 97 per cent, is reconverted at 200° C. ; and the entire volume at less than 300? C. The action of ozone upon albumin is, to say the least, remarkable, 246 HYDKO-THEEAPEUTICS. and consists in rendering it nneoagulable by boiling and the addition of ncids, unless they be added in large quantities, although, on the other hand, the addition of alkaloids retards its coagulability, and these sub- stances also seem to destroy its affinity for oxygen. The study of the oxidation of phosphorus is an exceedingly interest- ing matter, and should be referred to. In undergoing oxidation phos- phorus breaks up the atom of oxygen ; one goes to the phosphorus and tlie other unites with two more to form ozone, and here again are probably illustrated the phenomena of dissociation, conld we trace reactions. Pro- toplasm also possesses tlie- power of cansing rapid oxidation, and it has been suggested that this action is similar to that of phosphorus. PHARMACOLOGY AND THERAPY.— Ozone has an irritating effect upon the respiratory apparatus, and probably the great value of ozone lies, in its oxidizing power. Dr}' mercury is promptly oxidized by it, although oxygen has no effect upon it : dry iodine also is oxidized, and so is indigo, and, with the exception of pai"afiin, wliich it does not affect, nearly all organic substances are quickly destroj'ed by its action. Binz, who has given the subject a great deal of attention, is a. believer in the soporific effects of ozone, although on the tissues it diminishes, instead of increasing, oxidation. The brain, like respiration, is varionsl}^ affected, probably according to the amount taken into the S3'Stem. The power of this agent over low forms of organisms would indicate its employment in all forms of infectious and oontagjous diseases, but in order to do this we must first learn to handle it with safety to ourselves. While the therapeutic value of the gas is not yet up to the prophesies of those wiio have studied tlie matter, the time is doubtless near at hand when we may be able to control this agent just as well as many others which are now in common use. HYDEO-THEEAPEUTICS. GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS.— Water is an integral portion of the human economy, entering into the composition of every tissue. The digestive fluids contain a large proportion of water, and the essential [lart of the process of digestion consists in tl»e solution of the various solid constituents of onr food. After solution has been accomplished tlie fluid pabulum is capable of being absorbed by the laeteals and blood-vessels, and distributed by the latter throughout the organism. Entering into the composition of every organ, tissue, and secretion, being a necessary factor in all the processes connected with nutrition, those of elimination, as well as those of absorption, it is manifest that ■water must be regarded as a true aliment. THE DIFFEKENT KINDS OF BATHS, 247 Again, since its presence is necessary to the performance of every kind of cell-life, it is not only imbibed in tbe work of constructive, but is also produced in that of destructive metamorphosis. A sufficient quantity of water must be regarded as necessary to the healthy action of the excretory no less than to that of the secretory organs. As it escapes from the system it carries with it, in solution or sus- pension, a large number of inorganic or organic compounds, waste products which have resulted from the breaking down of tissue. This property renders it depurative. It possesses a true diuretic action, since it increases not only the water of the urine, but also urea, sulphuric acid, phosphoric acid, and chloride of sodium, the increase of the latter ingredient, however, being but temporar3'. Water promotes free alvine discharges, but the solid con- stituents of the faeces are not increased. A deficiency of water in the contents of the large intestine is attended by troublesome or even serious effects. From seven to eleven ounces of watery vapor is daily thrown ofi' by the lungs, and this vapor, also, removes, in addition to carbonic acid, inorganic and organic substances from the system. The hygienic effect of mere cleanliness can scarcely be overestimated. Impurities are removed from the integument, and obstruction of the ducts by inspissated or altered secretions is prevented. Thus the cutaneous envelope is rendered capable of performing most perfectly its important respiratory and secretory functions. The reflex consequences upon cir- culation and innervation tend to promote the health of the system at large. The h3^gienic and therapeutic effects of water when applied ex- ternally depend largely upon its temperature. It is the most suitable vehicle by which the human body may be subjected to the varying action of different degrees of heat. In addition, however, to the influences due to temperature, the direct and reflex impressions produced by the mass of water, together with the cutaneous absorption, must be taken into account. Immersion in a bath at 95° F. for the period of half an hour has been found to add eight ounces to the body-weight. The use of water of moderate temperature is not, however, attended by such positive conse- quences as when it varies considerably from that of the surface. THE DIFFERENT KINDS OF BATHS.— A bath may be general or partial; simple immersion may be practiced, or the effects may be vari- ouslj' modified by the alternating impression of heat and cold, bj' the effect of sudden impact of different grades of force, as in affusions, douches, or shower-baths. We may also avail ourselves of the different physical conditions which water may assume, so that the effect of vapor baths and of the local employment of ice are properly discussed under the head of Hydro-Therapeutics. One of the most powerful modes of 248 HYDEO-THEEAPEUTICS. influencing bodily states by means of water is tlie ocean, or surf batL Water may also be used as an injection in order to fulfill various indications. At a moderate temperature (75° to 85° F.) water produces upon the human system no decided effect, either stimulant or depressant. It sub- serves the purposes of cleanliness, and the physiological and hygienic results which are connected with that condition. Its therapeutical appli- cation is restricted to irrigation of wounds or ulcerated surfaces for the purpose of removing blood, coagula, pus, tissue debris, or foreign bodies. The influence of a tepid bath is scarcely more pronounced, but, as the temperature is raised from 85° to 95° F., is gradually merged into that of the warm bath, the heat of which ranges from 95° to 100° F., while from 100° to 105° F. we obtain what is termed the hot bath. The surf bath may be regarded as the type of the cold bath. It causes the most active tissue change ; perspiration is first checked, but subse- quently increased ; the excretion of urea is promoted. The primary shock and depression, quickly succeeded by an exhilarating reaction, the freedom of movement, the impact of the tumbling waves, the exercise of swimming, the stimulus of gay. society, the simultaneous influence of sea-air, sunlight, and the spectacle of the boundless ocean, produce in perfection the beneflcial results of bathing in cold water. These benefits accrue if the bath be left early, but if it be unduly prolonged surf bathing becomes positively injurious. There are some persons of tolerable health but delicate phj-sique to whom surf bathing is never advantageous. The shock is too severe and reaction tardy or absent. For such, warm sea baths are provided at the sea-side resorts. Robust individuals are greatly benefited by ocean baths, provided they act with discretion and leave the water before depression occurs. EFFECTS OF BATHS.— The effects produced by baths are partly of a direct and partly of a refiex nature. Either hot or cold water exerts, in the first place, a purelj' ph3'sical action in communicating or abstracting heat. The impression produced by warm water upon the sensory nerve- filaments at the surface is reflected by the vasomotor centres; the cutane- ous vessels dilate, and are filled with a greater volume of blood, which fluid is, to a corresponding extent, withdrawn from the interior of the body. Radiation of heat from these distended vessels leads, subsequently, to reduction of temperature. When directly applied a high degree of heat causes coagulation of albumin and contraction of blood-vessels, and this contraction lasts for a considerable period. The first efTect of a cold bath is, upon purely physical principles, to abstract heat from the surface. Together with this effect the blood- vessels are caused to contract, leaving the surface comparatively blood- EFFECTS OF BATHS. 249 less, and concentrating the circulating fluid in the internal organs. Reaction, however, impels it to the periphery. The afflux of blood acts, in its turn, upon the sensorjf end-organs, and a luxurious sensation of ■warmth replaces the chill. Other results are produced coincidently upon respiration and circulation, and, subsequentlj', upon glandular and mus- cular activity, and nutritive processes in general. If reaction is not prompt, it majf be promoted by friction of the entire body during the bath. A summary of the facts stated leads to the conclusion that the first effect of a general cold bati) is depressant ; durbig the stage of reaction a tonic influence is generated ; after the reactionary stage has subsided a depressed condition follows, which lasts for a considerable period. Mod- erate lieat is sedative. A hot batli is, for a short time, stimulant, but if too prolonged it becomes powerfully depressant. A corollary from this resume is that both in health and disease it is exceedingly important that a bath should be so managed as to derive its beneficial and avoid its prejudicial effects. The same agent which, rightly used, is effective for good, is proportionately effective for evil when abused. This is true of everj' powerful hygienic measure or therapeutic remedy. A certain modification of the influence of baths takes place in disease. In many cases tlie most pressing problem relates to the commu- nication or withdrawal of heat. The continual loss of heat and reduction of temperature at the surface favorably modifies the process of heat pro- duction within ; heart and brain are preserved from the damage incident to elevation of temperature. But these questions will be studied more in detail when we come to speak of the application of water in the treat- ment of disease. Water may be used externally in a great variety of modes. It may be brought into contact with the entire surface of the body, constituting a general bath, or may be applied to a restricted portion, forming a local bath. The terms foot-bath and hip-bath substantially explain them- selves. A sponge-bath is taken by causing water to trickle over a portion or the whole of the body, b}' squeezing a sponge which is distended with water ; it may, therefore, be either local or general. The same is true of affusions, which consist in the dashing of water with more or less force against the body. The mass may be directed from above, from below, or horizontally. The shower-bath is analogous to aflTusion. In the former the stream is divided into a number of drops which fall from a height upon the head, neck, and shoulders of the bather. The shower-bath is usually taken in connection with the general bath. When a stream of water is blown into fine spray, it is said to be atomized, and the spray is a valuable application to the respirator}- surfaces. A constant stream caused to impinge upon a surface is called a dobche. It makes a 250 HYDEO-THEKA.PEUTICS. powerfLil impression upon tlie caj)illary circulation, arid also upon the absorbent vessels. Another way in which water is used is the wet-pack, to be hereafter described- Water may also be charged with electricitj', and thus a water and electric treatment may be combined. The influence upon the circulation, secretions, and respiration of the skin, upon its sensory nerve-fibres, the reflection of this influence to all parts of the system, the gentle muscular exercise, the improvement of all the forces of life, is sufflcienth' attested by the pleasurable sensations which accompany and succeed a bath, provided that the requirements as to its temperature and duration be properly observed. Many, who are scarcely to be ranked as invalids, lack sufl3eient vigor to react from the cold bath. These, consequently, experience only its evil effects, and it is a mistake little short of cruelty to encourage cold bathing on the part of such persons. On the other hand, robust indi- viduals, in whom reaction rapidly succeeds the chill, derive enhanced force from the cold bath. The most important effect of baths is, perhaps, to be ascribed to the influence of temperature, water serving only as a medium. ^Nevertheless, the physical contact of the fluid, the impact due to plunge, shower, or surf bath are subsidiary factors in the production of the result. Nor do we consider the absorption of fluid as entirel}' without importance. That absorption takes place has been doubted or even denied, but a gain in weight and the experience of shipwrecked mariners prove that it does occur. The organic and saline substances held in solution in the bath maj' not be able to pass through the skin in appreciable quantitj', since they have not been detected in tlie excretions. At the present day, most hydropathic establishments, as they are called, are under the superintendence of a phj-sician, who should be able to determine to what cases the water treatment is adapted. A visionary system of patholog}^ is connected with hj'dropath^' as a plan of treat- ment. This may be disregarded, however, and need not prevent scien- tific medicine from obtaining all the information possible from the em- pirical experiments of hydropath}'. MODERN METHODS.— It will often happen that a patient in whose case, a Turkish bath is likely to prove beneficial is unable to seek a public establishment. In such event a domestic substitute may be de- vised by placing the patient naked upon a cane-seated chair, covering him with blankets, with the exception of the head, a spirit-lamp being lighted beneath the chair. As adjuvants water ranj be drunk freely and a pan of water placed above the lamp. In ten or fifteen minutes a copious perspiration is excited. When this has reached its height the THERAPEUTICS. 251 blankets are removed and cold water dashed upon the body or the patient may enter a moderately cold general bath. A vapor bath may be easily procured when the patient is too ill to leave the bed. Two or three hot bricks wrapped in moistened flannel laid under the bed- clothing soon produce an abundant outbreak of pei^ spiration. After fifteen minutes the moisture is rapidlj^ rubbed off with a towel wrung out in cold water. After that he is rubbed dry and the bed-linen is changed. Such a steam bath is of undoubted efficacy in acute articular rheumatism. Still another mode in which the system is subjected to the influence of water is by means of the spinal ice-bag and spinal hot-water bag in- troduced b}' Dr. Chapman. The application of cold over the spinal column, Dr. Chapman asserts, influences the condition of the vasomotor centres, and, consequentl}', the circulation in different paj'ts of the body. The centres are partially paralj-zed, and the vessels which derive their animation from the affected centres dilate and receive an increased quan- tity of blood. Muscular spasm is relieved, sensibility is lessened, and hypersecretion checked. Tlirough its effects upon the peripheral circula- tion the bodily heat is increased. Applied over the lower dorsal and lumbar vertebrae, an increased determination of blood to the pelvic organs takes place. This promotes menstruation, or restores the function when it has been suppressed. For tlie same reason it restores warmth to cold feet. Conversely, a bag of hot water applied over the vertebrae will stimu- late the peripheral vessels to contraction. Dr. Chapman states that by tins device he has been able to arrest haemorrhage from the nose, the lungs, or the womb. To affect the nose and lungs tlie bag should be ap- plied over the cervical and upper dorsal vertebrae, to act upon the uterus over the lower dorsal and lumbar vertebrae. THERAPEUTICS. — In deciding to make use of water as a thera- peutic agent it is necessary to choose which mode of application and wliat temperature seem best calculated to act advantageously. Accidental circumstances, such as the surroundings of the patient, the efflciencj- of the nurse, etc., must be taken into consideration. And as regards the temperature at which the water shall be employed it must be confessed that no absolute rule can be formulated. Cold will sometimes succeed when hot seems indicated, or the reverse may be the case. This is to be accounted for partly by the fact of different individual nervous suscep- tibility and partly by that of the different effects of temperature accord- ing to the length of time spent in the bath. Tlierefore, at certain stages, the effects of hot and cold water are, to some extent, interchangeable. As a rule, however, tliose affections which are attended by elevation of temperature are benefited by cold, while those which are marked 252 HTDKO-THEEAPEUTICS. by depression of temperature and strength are improved by hot appli- cations. Surf bathing creates a profound impression. We are greatly more susceptible to the temperature of water than to that of the air. Water at 70° P. gives rise to a decided sensation of cold, whereas the atmos- phere at the same degree is felt as warm. At the same temperature, also, running water seems colder than that which is at rest. The waves strike with considerable force. Exercise during bathing soon causes fatigue. These circumstances account for the shock and depression pro- duced by the sea bath. In the vigorous this shock is succeeded by a proportionate reaction, and the system is strengthened. But if, from an3' defect whatever, reaction does not occur, the bath becomes a source of injury and should be forbidden. It is particularly beneficial to indi- viduals of natuj-ally r-obust constitution, but who have been debilitated by arduous mental labors and excitements, exhausted by tlie requirements and surroundings of city life, or to those whose habitual occupation is of a sedentary or unhealthy character. Sea bathing may also be advantageous to those who have not long recovered from some prostrating disease. In chronic phthisis, especially of the fibroid variety, it may also prove invigorating. Pregnant women, who have previously aborted, should never enter surf, but a woman who has never met with this accident, and has been accustomed to sea bath- ing need not debar herself from the habit. It is inadvisable for a woman to begin a course of bathing during the catamenial flow ; other- wise the baths need not be intermitted. The best time of the day to indulge in the sea bath ib about eleven o'clock in the morning. At that time breakfast has been digested, or nearly so, and the economy stands in no present need of food. It is im- proper to bathe during digestion, since nervous energy is engaged in presiding over the elaboration of food. The grand indication for the employment of cold-water baths is ele- vation of temperature. The higher the temperature, the greater the need of frequent applications. A high degree of fever leads to rapid degen- eration of tissue ; the most vital functions of the organism are perverted ; muscular tissue undergoes granular and fatty change ; the voluntary muscles, the heart, and the muscular coat of the blood-vessels being espe- cially affected. A similar alteration takes place in the structure of the liver and the kidneys. Waste elements accumulate in the blood, which becomes rather a toxic than a nutrient fluid. The oxygen-carrjnng function of the red corpuscles themselves is seriously impaired. The structure and functions of the central nervous system share in the gen- eral disorder. The secretions are well-nigh suppressed. It is evident THEKAPEUTICS. 253 that life cannot long endure such a strain. Life is directly menaced by any temperature above 105°, while recovery may almost be reckoned a physical impossibility wlien the mercury ascends above 108°. The most effective, the most prompt, and the safest means of combat- ing these serious results of hyperpyrexia is by the general cold bath. In febrile conditions, by reducing temperature it lessens the waste of tissue which the fever lias occasioned. Cold water is not able to abort the course of a specific fever, but it conserves tissue and force, relieves the most urgent and dangerous symptoms, quiets restlessness, lightens the cerebral sj'mptoms, and effects a notable decrease in the death-rate. In cerebro-spinal fever the intense pain in the head, back, and abdo- men ; the cramp, stiffness, and convulsive twitchings in the muscles ; the hypersesthesia, the active delirium of the early stage are relieved by the cold bath. The alarming symptoms are replaced by quiet or sleep, and much damage to spinal cord and brain is averted. Measles is a disease which, as a rule, does not demand energetic treatment, yet in a not in- considerable proportion of cases it assumes a grave form, characterized i by high fever, haemorrhages, and brain trouble. In the milder variety sponging with cool or cold water, and in the more severe the application of cold cloths, the wet-pack, or the general bath, are measures which should be adopted. Scarlatina is generally a dangerous disease. In the beginning it is attended by high fever, and the dangers which belong to that condition ; even when the initial fever is not intense, we have to con- tend with the subsequent peril of acute nephritis. With the fever we generally have to deal with extreme restlessness and headache, sometimes even convulsions, or a semi-comatose condition. In order to reduce to a minimum the dangers due to the temperature, irrespective of its cause, the cold-water treatment is eminently suitable to the early days of scarla- tina. Especially is this true of those cases, not few in number, in which the thermometer registers more than 103°. A good method of employing the water treatment is that adopted by Ziemssen, who has the patient placed in a bath the temperature of which is 90° ; this is gradually reduced by the addition of cold water until it has fallen to 77°. The length of time during which the patient should remain immersed depends upon circumstances. Occasionally he will feel chilled, and the circulation will be weakened, when he should be imme- diately removed and stimulated by warm covers and whisky or brandy. A reduction of 2° or 3° is generally effected by such a bath, which can be repeated when the temperature again rises to a threatening height. If the general bath is impracticable, substitutes may be employed. One of the best of these is the cold wet-pack. This is administered by protecting the mattress of the bed upon which the patient lies by a 25 i HYDEO-THEKAPEUTICS. rubber clotb. A sbeet wbicb has been -wrung out in cold water is then drawn under the patient and the sides folded over or firmly tucked under the patient. The wet sheet ma^- be placed in position by attaching its edges to those of the dry sheet and withdrawing the latter. Tlie wet sheet is tlius brouglit into position without disturbing the invalid, and may be adjusted in the manner described. When heat, instead of cold, is indicated, tlie sheet may be dipped into warm water. The heat emitted bj' tlie fevered body soon vaporises the water, and an abundant perspira- , tion is induced. The packing may be renewed at intervals either by clianging the sheet or by sprinliling water upon it. Instead of being merely dampened with water the sheet ma}' be saturated. This proce- dure gives relief to the sufferer, retards and strengthens the pulse. Another method of administering cold water with excellent eflfect is termed affusion. This is performed bj- dashing with some force against the naked body large quantities of cold water, to the extent altogether of several gallons. A notable reduction of temperature is occasioned by this practice. A cloth or towel which has been dipped into cold water may be laid upon the abdomen, breast, or thighs, and in the armpits, and the moisture renewed as soon as the cloth becomes dry. Or the body maj' be frequently sponged with cold water. Cold applications are especially called for in malignant scarlatina, in which high temperature, anomalous rash, and haemorrhages proclaim the toxic quality of the blood. Cold compresses and sponging assuage dis- comfort, but produce little reduction of temperature. When the fever is active, the pulse bounding, the restlessness, headache, or delirium extreme, the cold bath, affusions, or the'cold wet-pack are the measures to which we should promptly resort. All that has been said of the value of water used externally in scarlatina applies, with perhaps increased force, to variola. The first stage of this loathsome complaint is marked by con- siderable fever, intense headache and backache, and often by delirium. Cold applications, therefore, are not inappropriate at this stage. The wet sheet may be preferred at this period on account of the reaction and sweat- ing. It is, however, during the secondary fever, that accompanying maturation of the pocks, and in confluent small-pox, that water is par- .ticularly indicated. If it accomplished no other purpose than irrigntiou of an immense suppurating area, such an application would con^'er great benefit. The additional danger of purulent absorption is removed. Much more, however, is accomplished. The removal of the pus and the scabs limits the suppurative process. The tendency of this is to lessen the pitting. The stomach is enabled to perform its functions measurably, and less emaciation and debility are produced by the attack. Typhoid fever is, beyond all doubt, the disease to which cold-water THEEAPEUTICS. 255 treatment is especially applicable. Its universal prevalence, its duration, the height to which the temperature often niounts, its remarkable pros- trating effects, as well on account of its influence upon the nervous centres as of the degeneration of the heart and voluntary muscles, are circumstances which recommend the strongest antipyretic measures within our power. In t3-phoid fever, to reduce temperature is to save strength, and to save strength is the grand indication. Ever^' remedy is employed with this end in view. If we are able to carrj- our patients on to that time when, according to the natural historj"- of the disease, defervescence takes place, life may, as a rule, be saved. Currie employed cold affusions in the treatment of typhoid fever, and for twenty or thirty years, by reason of his strong advocacy, this measure was extensively resorted to in Great Britain. It then fell into a strange neglect, and has but lately been revived, owing to the testimony of German ph^-sicians in its favor. In 1861 Braud, of Stettin, publislied a work called the " Hj'dro-Therapy of Typhoid Fever," in which he nar- rated his success in the use Of this treatment. Cold water has since been verj' largely emploj'ed in Germany and Switzerland by Bartels, Jiirgens- sen, Ziemssen, and Liebermeister. The attention of English-speaking physicians was drawn anew to the subject by Dr. Wilson Fox. As regards th€ mode in which the treatment should be executed, we can but repeat what was said of the hj'dro-therapeutics of scarlatina. Some have preferred cold, others baths in which the temperature is graduated. By some affusions have been employed, while by others cold towels, the wet-pack, or cold sponging have been brought into requi- sition. There is no doubt that tjrphoid fever varies extremely in the severity and even the duration of the attack. Some cases are so mild that no urgent symptoms are exhibited. There is present only a con- tinued fever without much disorder of the bowels or pain, without marked cerebral symptoms, perhaps not even delirium. The strength is tolerably preserved, and every sign and symptom point to ultimate recover}'. In such cases, hydro-therapeutics, like every other form of treatment, has but an insignificant r61e to perform. Cold sponging or cold cloths are perhaps grateful to the sufferer, and may, therefore, be emploj-ed. But a well-marked case runs quite a different course. Tlie prolonged high tem- perature manifests itself in the dry, parched skin, the utter prostration, the subsultus. tendinum, the delirium, the coma vigil ; these are the cases emphatically that require cold applications. Bra,nd and others have, in addition to the general bath, made use of the shower-bath and affusions. These, however, seem rude applications to patients too ill to raise the head ; moreover, they are much less efficient than the general bath. There are two methods of employing the 256 HYDKO-THEEAPEUTICS. bath ; that of Liebermeister is by abrupt immersion in water of the tem- perature of 68°. The shocli of contact is soon succeeded by a return of the circulation to the cutaneous capillaries, and a sensation of comfort ensues. If no contra-indication forbid, the patient is allowed to remain in the water for ten minutes. He is tlien wrapped in a dry sheet and re- turned to bed. If reaction is not good the stay in the bath is reduced to seven, or even to five minutes. If the circulation still appear depressed alcoholic stimulus should be used and hot bottles placed in the bed. For very weak or very nervous patients the method of Ziemssen is prefer- able. This consists in the use of the graduated bath, in which the patient is placed in water at the temperature of 95°, which is gradually low- ered to 71° bj' the addition of cold water. In a bath of the latter description most individuals may remain half an hour without discomfort or danger. Administered in either manner the general cold bath causes the mercury to fall 2° to 2^°. This fall continues for a little while after removal from the water, so that it is unnecessary to use the thermometer while the patient is immersed. Preyer and Flasher proposed, in 1884, the use of the spray instead of the general bath. The patient need not be removed from bed. The covers are laid aside, the mattress and sheet protected by rubber cloth. A finely divided spray is then directed upon the body for about half an hour at a time. The operation may be repealed as often as necessar}'. Water of any temperature may be emploj'ed, according to the indica- tions. Placzeli uses about a pint and a half, from 53° to 59° F., after which he resorts to water of a higher temperature. The depression of temperature is of variable duration ; heat has been dissipated by a refrigeration of the surface, but the cause has not been touched. The production of heat still goes on, and the temperature, therefore, again begins to rise. The thermometer must consequently bo used at frequent intervals. In severe cases the temperature at the end of two hours may be as high as before the bath. Immersion should then be repeated. In less urgent cases the bath need not be repeated oftener than every four or six hours. It is asserted that one general bath is equivalent to four successive packings with the wet sheet as regards the reduction of temperature. Cold baths have been opposed as a mode of treatment in typhoid fever on the ground that they increase the congestions and inflammations of internal organs, and, therefore, the meteorism, diarrhoja, and tendency to haemorrhage. It is probable that there is an increased liability to haemorrhage. Yet this danger is by no means so immediate or so certain as is that of fatal exhaustion from high temperature. Brand makes the contrary assertion that this treatment lessens haemorrhage and diarrli03a. THERAPEUTICS. 257 Professor Fuerbringer, of Berlin, esteems the bath valuable in the treatment of typhoid fever, less on account of its antipyretic virtue than by reason of its restorative effect upon the nervous system and promo- tion of nutrition. Hydro-therapeutics is applicable to typhus in the same manner as to typhoid fever. It must be confessed that the utility of the treatment by cold water has been greatly limited in consequence of popular prejudices. This par- ticularly applies to the exanthemata. It has gi-own into an article of faith among tlie laity that efflorescence is promoted by a warm room, warm drinks, and abundant bed-clothes. This is a survival of what was taught by the medical profession a generation or two ago. People should be gradually educated to the opposite view, and success in the application of the treatment is the most eftectual means of producing this change. There is a condition which is apt to arise suddenly in the coarse of several disorders, — typhoid fever and delirium tremens, for instance, — but is especially liable to occur in acute inflammatory rheumatism. The case may be apparently progressing with no more than the usual joint involvement and pain when, without anj^ warning or assignable cause, the temperature leaps to 110° or even higher. Restlessness and delirium are followed by stupor, which deepens into coma, the pulse becomes fre- quent and forcible, the respiration hurried and shallow. The use of cold baths, of cloths wet with iced water, or even rubbing with ice, constitutes the only form of treatment by which this alarming condition can be over- come. The wonderful alleviation produced by cold applications will never be forgotten by one who has witnessed it. Fevers of septic or pyaemic origin are also mitigated by the use of cold water. When the source of infection is accessible the diseased sur- face or cavity should be flooded. Benefit undoubtedly results from the removal of infectious products. We have, indeed, in this class of dis- eases, to combat prostration rather than high temperature, yet a high degree of fever is not uncommonly attained, and adds its own effects to those produced by the state of the blood and tissues. Our most promis- ing means of treating these serious disorders consists in the removal of the nidus of infection and the dissipation of the heat, together with ' vigorous stimulation. If Infection be derived from decomposing material retained within the uterus of a puerperal woman intra-uterine irrigation should 'he prac- ticed. The interior of the womb should be, as far as possible, cleansed and kept cleansed of infecting material. Cold water should be used ex- ternally either by means of Kibbie's cot or coils of metal or rubber, through which is kept running a constant stream. The latter application 17 258 HYDEO-THERAPEUTICS. ia, as a rule, grateful to the patient's feelings and effects a considerable diminution of ttie temperature. In fever symptomatic of inflammation, cold-water applications are also of service. When localized pain, heat, swelling, and redness point to a focus of inflammation, cloths wrung out in cold water will not infre- quently prevent the formation of a furuncle or abscess. Cold towels to tlie cliest diminish the pain of pleurisy and pneumonia and reduce inflam- matory action. The wet-pack may be employed instead of the towel, and, in fact, is a better application. The same plan is useful in pulmonary haemorrhage, though in this condition ice-bags to the chest are preferable. It has been demonstrated that cold applications are useful in acute articular rheumatism, allaying the inflammation and pain in the affected joints and affording great relief to the sufferer. The water. may be ap- plied in several ways. Wet cloths may be wrapped around the swollen joints. The cold wet-pack, however, furnishes a better mode. The profound influence of the general cold bath has been taken ad- vantage of in cases of maniacal delirium, whether this arises from cere- bral disorder or occurs in the progress of an acute fever, at3'phoid fever, small-pox, etc. The same mental excitement sometimes presents itself in acute alcoholism, when the same treatment will be found eflfectual. In puerperal mania, also, this form of treatment has been used with excel- lent results. Cold water may be brought into contact with the surface in a number of different ways other than bj' means of the general bath. This fact has, indeed, been incidentally anticipated in the foregoing description. Instances continually occur in which, although the general cold bath is rationally indicated, circumstances or prejudice preclude its emploj'ment. Recourse must, therefore, be had to one of the local or partial applica- tions of h3'dro-therapeiitics. The wet-pack ranks next in value to the bath. Its antipyretic powers have already been dwelt upon at sufficient length. We may simply add, in this place, that in certain cases it possesses an advantage above the bath. This is where weakly, nervous, or emotional subjects, especially women, are concerned. Among persons of this tj'pe, and among chil- dren, much less objection, nervous shrinking, or excitement is caused by the wet-pack than by the general bath; The first contact is not product- ive of much chill and the heat of the body is soon communicated to tlie sheet. So much is this the case that the latter needs to be dampened with cold water from time to time, or it becomes, in effect, a fomentation. The sight of a bath-tnb will often arouse violent paroxysms of excite- ment in children. In this contingency it is better to resort to the wet sheet. After it has been experienced once or twice it is seldom that it THERAPEUTICS. 259 meets with further opposition. It is, in fact, generally welcomed, for it is a very refreshing application. A man who comes home fatigued at night with the toil and strife of the day will find himself remarkably freshened if he remove all his cloth- ing and have himself wrapped in a wet sheet. The enterocolitis of in- fancy, which Is either <*kused directly or, at least, maintained by exces- sive heat, is alleviated by the wet-pack. The discharges and fever are lessened, the gastric disturbance quieted, and alimentation is rendered possible. This treatment should always be adopted. Supplemented by removal to the sea-shore or momitains, or even to the pure air of a coun- try place at some distance from the city, it has saved many a life. The wet-pack is a valuable measure in acute articular rheumatism. Practiced in the manner detailed above, it does not involve painful disturbance of position in the patient. The free perspiration evoked proves alike grate- ful to the feelings and beneficial to the disease. Cursory reference has been made to cold affusion. This was a favorite method with Currie and has never been wholly abandoned, al- though its use has been curtailed. The bath has been gradually substi- tuted for affusion in fevers. Nevertheless, Trousseau esteemed it highly in the treatment of scai;latina. In sthenic cases, with high temperature, he was wont to have the patient placed in a bath-tub and splashed with water by the pailful for a quarter of a minute to a minute. He was then removed to bed and covered with the bed-clothes without drying. Lieber- meister approves of the occasional use of affusions in typhoid fever, from their power of arousing the circulation and the cerebral functions. A stream of water, thrown with a certain degree of force from a pail against the breast, is an admirable excitant to respiration and intel- lection ; hence, it ma^' be used with notable effect to waken one from the stupor of drunkenness. Other intoxications than that of alcohol are benefited by affusions, which form an important adjuvant in the restora- tion of patients from alarming ether, chloroform, or opium narcosis. Hydrocyanic acid destroys life with such extreme rapidity that antidotal therapeutics are almost impossible. Cold water affords more hope of success than any other remedy. If the dose taken has been rather small, if the patient is seen immediatel}^, cold affusions may succeed in avert- ing a fatal termination! Anjr gain of time here is invaluable, since elimination, as well as absorption, is remarkably speed}', and if the patient can be tided over half an hour he will probably recover. Cold water poured from a considerable height upon the head is one of the means upon which we may rely with some confidence in the man- agement of opium poisoning. The respiration is strengthened, and a repetition of the procedure from time to time, as indicated by the con- 260 HYDKO-THEEAPEUTICS. * dition of the breathing, materially assists the action of other measures emploj'ed. Cold affusions may also be made use of ■with benefit in sunstroke. In laryngismus stridulus they secure speedy relaxation of the spasm. The douche is a modified or limited affusion. A constant stream of cold water is sent against a selected portion of the body. The force of the current admits of regulation. A certain degree of friction is excited, the cutaneous circulation is directly influenced, the circulation and inner- vation of deeper parts is impressed by reflex action and by altered con- dition of the capillary circulation. The function of the absorbent vessels is stimulated. It is a measure which produces some shock and nervous excitement. Its use should never be long continued, but should be sus- pended and resumed ; and care should be taken in administering it to persons of an excitable disposition. The douche has an important range of adaptation, and is even more effective than affusions in sunstroke, delirium tremens, chloroform and opium poisoning. In delirium tremens it is often more effective in pro- ducing sleep than medication by drugs. In fevers, also, its use is fre- quently attended by very happy results in the relief of restlessness and the promotion of sleep. Cold water, applied by means of the douche or compresses, is one of the best methods of relieving the headache which frequently is so distressing and obstinate a symptom during the first week of typhoid fever. It is equally suitable to the headache which ushers in other specific fevers. Headache dependent upon gastric de- rangement may often be relieved in the same manner, as well as that form caused by exposure to the raya of the sun. Old neuralgias are not seldom relieved by the cold douche, which possesses the advantage that it can be readiljr applied to almost any portion of the body. The same application is of service in chronic rheumatism. It relieves the stiffness and the pain in the articulations and reduces the swelling, and will often cause ab- sorption of old inflammatory deposits. The shock, both physical and psychical, of a plentiful cold affusion or douche, is remarkably effective in breaking up a hysterical paroxysm. Pruritus of the anus and vulva is often overcome by tlie cold douche. The bidet, a modified douche, is an instrument used for the purpose of throwing a moderately forcible stream of water against diseased areas, chiefly used by surgeons in the treatment of rectal affections and de- rangements of the genito-urinary apparatus. A nozzle is connected by means of a rubber tube with the water-closet seat, so that the patient can adjust the force and regulate the temperature at will ; but the stream should have siifHcient power to cause slight tingling. No more is required, however, than is used for giving an enema or a vaginal injec- THEEAPEUTICS. 261 tion, and the calibre of the stream should be slightly less than the size of an ordinary lead-pencil. The method of using and the cases to ■which it is adapted may be briefly enumerated. As aflfeeting the rectum, first in importance is haemorrhoids, or piles ; and along with that troublesome disorder should be included eases of prolapsus ani and recti, and pruritus. Two applica- tions are recommended daily, the lower bowel having been first evacuated ; and these affections are said to j'ield to this treatment after having long resisted the most approved methods of medication. The genito-urinary afl'ections include varicocele, disorders of tlie prostate, and impotence in the male, an(l pruritus vulvae in the female, the latter being by far the most formidable complaint, all things considered, which comes under the care of the physician ; but it should be added that this plan, like many others, sometimes fails. The shower-bath is a sort of multiplied douche. The water is broken up into drops, which pelt down upon the bather, who stands or sits in the tub beneath. The first shock is considerable, but reaction is prompt and vigorous. The shower-bath constitutes an excellent hygienic meas- ure. Its therapeutical application, however, is rather restricted. It is, at least, scarcelj^ available in cases of acute disease, but may well receive a place in a tonic course in chronic illness. By regulating the tempera- ture of the water, the size of the drops, and the height of the reservoir, an individual may easily train himself to endure and derive the full benefit of the cold shower-bath. The cold sponge-bath is a good method of applying water. The trickling of various little streams along different parts of the body produces a shock of moderate intensitj^, quickly followed by reaction. Its physiological effieets are, therefore, those of a general cold-water bath , and its therapeutical indications and uses correspond substantially to those of the general bath. There are occasions upon which it maj' be more readily utilized. An ailing child will generally evince less aversion to a sponge-bath given in a small tub than to being plunged into a large quan- titj' of water contained in a bath-tub. Considerations of this nature very ■ properly govern our choice. Cold sponging is an excellent remedy in laryngismus stridulus. The nervous system is braced, and that instability removed upon which the spasm depends. The same treatment proves effective in a more persist- ent spasmodic disorder, chorea. Performed several times a day, cold sponging diminishes the twitching by invigorating the source of nervous supply. The co-existence of subacute rheumatism is thought to furnish 1 contra-indication to this treatment. It is also an excellent procedure in rachitis, in addition to exhibition of the mineral salts of which the 262 HYDKO-THEEAPEUTICS. organism stands in need. In tliis affection, and in chorea, also, if tlie general health be weak, the child should be accustomed gradually to the nse of cold ■water, beginning witli water of a moderate temperature and gradually using colder, upon the same principle tiiat the graduated bath is emploj'ed in the management of typlioid fever. By increasing tissue waste "and exopetion, and by stimulating secre- tion, baths promote the appetite and digestion. It is for this reason that sponging has demonstrated its utility in anaemia, and, cohseqnentlj', in morbid conditions connected with impoverishment of the blood, as leucor- rhoea, amenorrhoea, and spermatorrhoea. This condition it is, too, which frequently maintains a gleety discharge. Dr. Johnson, indeed, in his book on h3-dropathy, testifies to the ability of a course of cold-water treatment to cure chronic gonorrhoea and urethral fistulae. The hip-bath is a valuable appliance. The patient sits in a tub of suitable dimensions, immersed to the waist. The water may be of anj^ temperature, according to the indications. The cold hip-bath is ser- viceable in varicocele, constringing the distended veins and lending tone to their muscular coats. It is likewise useful in some eases of sperma- torrhoea, though, as a rule, this disorder receives more benefit from warm water. In chronic metritis cold hip-baths may prove useful. They should be taken immediately upon rising, and at first the patient should remain in the water but two or three minutes, leaving it as soon as reaction occurs. The duration of the bath maj- be gradually lengthened to ten or fifteen minutes. This treatment assists in the absorption of uterine and pelvic deposits. * THE USE OF ICE. — Though the treatment by ice is rather a mode of employing cold than moisture, yet, as being water under another physical form, and as we include under this section some consideration of vaporized and atomized water, we have thought proper to give, in the present connection, the therapeutical applications of ice. Indeed, the effects of ice differ from those of cold water more in degree than in kind. Its effect in abstracting febrile heat is even more marked than is that of the cold bath. It constringes the skin and contracts Islood-vessels by its action upon muscular fibre. It blunts the sensibility of nervous tissue. It produces a powerful influence upon reflex nervous functions, and is, therefore, capable of exercising a great effect upon the circulation in deep-seated organs. No part must be' subjected for too long a period to the effect of ice. So great a diminution in the blood supply and in- nervation of a part might be followed by gangrene, just as death of tissue results from frost-bite. Ice is of great utility in the reduction of temperature, and on this account is quite a valuable resource in the treatment of specific fevers. THE USE OF ICE. 263 Especially should it be resorted to when the temperature is extremely elevated. Above all, it is of service in those diseases wliich affect the structure and function of the brain, either by reason of superheated blood or active congestion, or both combined. Notable relief is afforded in the headache of typhoid, typhus, cerebro-spinal, relapsing and yellow fevers. As both the circulation and the temperature are affected it proves of marked benefit in alleviating the agonizing pain of cerebral or cerebro- spinal meningitis. The suffering of tubercular meningitis is diminished, and it may also be of service in infantile convulsions. In the apoplectic form of sunstroke ice should be applied to the head and the body rubbed with ice in order to avoid the danger of fatal coma. The delirium of fevers often yields more readily to the ice-bag than to any otlier mode of treatment. In delirium tremens, likewise, the ice-bag will frequently afford relief. By causing contraction of the vessels, it is an admirable local application in inflammation, and will often prevent suppuration. In inflammatory affections which involve the throat or stomach, ice is peculiarly appropriate, since it lessens the volume of blood, allaj's pain, cleanses the parts, assuages thirst, and checks vomiting. Hence, pharyn- gitis, tonsillitis, diphtheria, membranous croup, tlie sore throat of scarlet fever, are all benefited locally, to a limited extent, by directing the pa- tient to suck small pieces of jce, but the method is open to the serious objection that unquenchable thirst follows, and this plan can be adopted with advantage only when ice is used at infrequent intervals. Occa- sionally, in the above-mentioned throat troubles, it is a good plan to sur- round the neck with cold compresses or an ice-bag. The intense burning pain and constant retching characteristic of acute gastritis are relieved temporarily to a striking extent by allowing lumps of ice to melt in the mouth. The effect of the cold upon the vessels and nerves of the gastric mucous membrane tends to limit the disease, but this method should not be continued too long, nor to the exclusion of other treatment. The nausea and thirst as well as the temperature of fevers are also lessened by ice when small lumps are swallowed and its use restricted. Used externallj', it is valuable in a number of abdominal affections. In the early ^tage of typhlitis and perityphlitis, it moderates inflamma- tory action. It will often relieve the pain and vomiting produced b}' gastric ulcer, and even carcinoma. It will sometimes enable a surgeon to replace a hernia, and it may be applied to a prolapsed rectum or womb. Light ice-bags are highlj' recommended in the treatment of orchitis or epididymitis, and neuralgia of the testes in the early stages. It reduces the size and the pain of internal haemorrhoids, and may be used to mitigate the pain after operation for piles. It is extensively employed , in order to restrain bleeding. Slight 264 HYDKO-THEEAPEUTICS. epistaxis is often checked bj- the sacking of ice. Haemorrhage from the stomach or the lungs is diminished by appl^'ing ice externally to abdo- men or chest. Post-partum haemorrhage is often stopped by inserting pieces of ice into the womb or rectum. By holding a block of ice in contact with the skin for a few minutes, sensibility is so much reduced that slight operations may be performed, such as incision of an abscess, removal of a toe-nail, opening a sinus or fistula in ano, or tapping an ascites. A mixture of salt with ice, one part of the former to two of the latter, will add to the anaesthetic power. THE USE OF WATER IN DISEASES OF THE SKIN.— Warm water is far superior to cold in the removal from the integument of im- purities or the products of disease. The warmth is grateful to the end- • organs of the nerves. The cutaneous capillary circulation is regulated, and the skin, as a whole, is softened. These properties promote the health of the integument, and act as valuable agents, likewise, in the restoration of the health of the skin when it has been impaired. Scarcely an affection of the skin exists which may not be benefited by a suitable re- sort to bathing. In some cases warm or hot fomentations will supply the effect of general baths. Among the remedial measures adapted to acne are warm, hot, or vapor baths, while sponging with water as hot as it can "be borne is one of the means which may be used to cause disappearance of the lesion of acne indurata. Hot-water baths are commendable in anidrosis, in order to restore the suspended function of the sweat-glands, and are useful likewise in tlie other functional aberrations of the perspira- tory glandulfe, hyperidrosis, bromidrosis, and ehromidrosis. Alterations of the normal sensibility of the skin are relieved by baths. In dermatalgia and paraesthesia, hot water is frequently of the greatest service. The hot bath and the hot douche are alike beneficial. Warm baths promote recovery in dermatitis, ecthyma, eczema, and hydroa ; in icthyosis, accumulated scales are removed. Baths, either plain or medicated, tend to Support nutrition in patients afflicted with lepra. In lupus vulgaris bathing is a useful adjunct to other hygienic and therapeutic agencies. In pediculosis baths are an essential feature of treatment. Hot baths accomplish a good purpose ia. psoriasis, by softening and detaching the scales, leaving the underlying surface acces- sible to medicaments ; and in pityriasis, prurigo, and scabies they'are also found serviceable. Warm baths are extremelj' important in the treatment of syphilis, as much depends, in this affection, upon maintaining the functions of the cutaneous S3'stem. Hebra has originated a continuous water bath which he uses and recommends in certain diseases involving the skin. A bath is so ar- ranged that a person may lie immersed for weeks at a time. The fluid THE USE OF WATER IN DISEASES OF THE SKIN. 265 maj' be moderately warm, or but lukewarm, and may be varied accord- ing to circumstances. Excellent results have been effected by this method. Evidently it is not one to meet with extensive employment in this country, yet the great destruction of tissue produced by severe burns, the attendant shock, the exhaustion due to extensive suppuration, the danger of septic or pyeemic infection, render continuous baths a valuable resource in the management of this severe traumatism. Pain is remarkably alleviated, the surface is kept cleansed, granulation pro- moted, and strength sustained by the continuous bath. The same pro- cedure has proved of avail in pemphigus. Septicaemia and pyaemia have also been relieved by this method. Both heat and cold have been advocated in the treatment of frost- bite ; the latter, perhaps, has been more generallj' employed. It has been feared that the sudden return of the circulation into the frozen part, favored by the application of heat, would be followed by destructive in- flammatory action ; but the experiments of Laptchinlvarmth by means of suitable clothing. Warmth to the affected joints assuages the pain of gout. Some improvement may be effected in rheumatoid arthritis by the persistent employment of heat. Either moist or dry heat may be used, or both alternatel.y. The skin requires sedulous care in syphilis. The sudden impression of damp cold is followed by the intensification of symptoms, and we may deduce hence the practical conclusion that, in addition to warm baths, the skin should in the interim be sufficiently protected by warm clothing. This remark especially applies to the colder part of the year or to cold 302 HEAT AND COLD, climates. Tlie patient sliould strictly- avoid exposure to draughts. The unfortunate inheritors of syphilis begin life burdened with defects of nu- trition. The conservation of bodily warmth, therefore, is a matter which should duly engage the attention of the physician. Moderate heat is likewise requisite to the nutrition of those who suffer from scrofula. Maintenance of the bodily warmth is demanded in many morbid states, associated with reduced power of heat generation, as severe dyspepsia, anaemia, chlorosis, neurasthenia, jaundice, and cancer. Both infancy and old age are characterized bj' a deficient power of resistance to the effects of low temperature. The aged require warm garments and apartments and receive benefit from sun-baths. The failure is more pronounced in the case of prematurelj'-born babes. The tem- perature of a seven-months' child, two or three hours after birth, was found by Dr. W. Edwards to be only 89.6° F. Warm surroundings slioiild come to the aid of the defective power. An apparatus termed a couveuse has been devised, adapted particularly to the use of orphan and foundling asylums. It consists essentially of a double-walled bath- tub of copper. Hot water is poured between the walls and the tem- perature maintained at 100° F. Pi'ofound shock effects positive reduction of temperature. The cir- culation and respiration are equally depressed. It is necessary in this condition to communicate heat from without, since the system is no longer able to generate it. The action of the heart and lungs is stimu- lated by high temperature. High degrees of heat are counter-irritant, cauterant, styptic, and escharotic. A cauterant action may be secured by concentrating the rays of the sun by means of a double convex lens. A smart impression of heat upon the external surface allays pain and draws, or derives, a cuirent of nervous influence and blood to the periphery. The nutritive states of deeper parts are influenced by reflex action or by alterations in the dis- tribution of the blood. Judiciously applied ir the congestive stage, counter-irritation, reinforced by other measures, may ouffice to arrest the development of an inflammatory process. After the subsidence of an inflammation, it is efficacious in promoting the absorption of exudation material. It is serviceable, again, in converting a chronic into an acute inflammation. The former, pursuing a sluggish course, manifests little or no tendency to improvement ; the latter, raging vigorously for a time, terminates in recovery. Active inflammation due to cauterization is destructive to irritable, unhealthy granulations, and, therefore, contributes to the cicatrization of irritable or chronic ulcers. Chronic inflammation often gives rise to proliferation or thickening, which, in extreme cases, may attain the pro- CONTKA-INDICATIONS TO THE USE OF HEAT. 303 portions of morbid growths. .Consequences of this kind are seen in old listulse, in some cases of endometritis, in n.asal hypertrophies, etc. In- flammatory softening may lead to haemorrhage from rupture or nlcer.atiou of blood-vessels. If this occur in accessible situations cauterization is at once an effective and cleanly styptic. The vessels are obliterated, and their orifices seared by the formation of an eschar. There is no better method of checking the haemorrhage, often excessive, of uterine cancer. An eschar upon the surface will exert a profound influence upon chronic iufl.ammation of deep structures, chronic synovitis, sciatica, chronic myelitis, etc. Counter-irritation and mild cauterization may be effected by " firing." An escharotic result is produced by what is styled the actual cautery. Tiie tissue is desti-oyed by means of iron raised to a white heat. The objection to the actual cautery as a remedj' against hseniorrhage is, that when the eschar has separated recurrent bleeding is liable to take place. Of late years heat has been generallj' obtained through the instrumen- tality of electricity. Hot .applications in the incipiency of a superficial inflammation are often sufficient to arrest the disease. At a later stage, when stasis, tran- sudation, and exudation have occurred, heat promotes suppuration. CONTEA-INDICATIONS TO THE USE OF HEAT. In all cases in which increased cardiac activity may be a source of danger heat is to be avoided or used with extreme caution. Haemorrhage from vessels or surfaces inaccessible to direct surgical procedures re- quires cold applications and surroundings. Again, whenever a forcible impulse of the heart might lead to rupture of a vessel, elevation of tem- perature is manifestly improper. This is the case whenever atheroma is present. If the cerebral vessels be brittle, exposure to undue heat might result in an attack of apoplexy. One who suffers from aneurism, especially tlioracic aneurism, should shun the effect of a very high temperature. In apoplexy heat should never be applied to the head, though it may be of service to use cold to the head and heat to the feet and legs, in the effort to divert the circulation frolm the brain. DISEASES IN WHICH COLD IS BENEFICIAL. Acute inflammatory affections are relieved by cold as well as by heat. Pneumonia, pleurisy, bronchitis, endocarditis, pericarditis, have all been treated with gratifying results by means of cold applications to the chest. It is well for us to guide ourselves by the physique and the sen- sations of the patient. Persons of delicate constitution should receive 304 HEAT AND COLD. heat. Among robust individuals some will derive more advantage from* hot and others from cold applications. Prejudice, as has been intimated, will not infrequently dictate our selection. Niemeyer highly praises the application of cold to the chest in in- flammatory disorders of the thoracic viscera. In the paroxysms of spas- modic asthma the patient obtains some alleviation of his distress by the inhalation of cold air. In haemorrhage from the lungs cold plays an im- portant part in our management. Tlie air of the room should be kept cool, if possible ; the chest should be subjected to the influence of cold, while ice should be swallowed. The same measures prove effective in cases of haemorrhage from the stomach due to ulcer or cancer. Cold to the neck is a valuable resource in spasmodic croup. Swallowing pieces of ice will sometimes diminish the pain of angina pectoris. Cold, con- veyed by means of bladders filled with ice, mitigates the pain caused by biliary or renal calculus. The burning pain sometimes produced by tumor of the kidney or bladder may be relieved by an ice-bag, as recommended by Front. Tlie abstraction of heat in fever is principally effected by means of water, arid has been discussed under the head of Hydro-Therapeutics. We may aid in obtaining the same result by the maintenance of a rather low temperature in the sick-room. Acute peritonitis is benefited by the use of cold to the abdomen. Since this disease is most frequentlj' the result of septic infection, the reduction of the systemic temperature becomes an important question. For that reason cold rather than warmth is to be advocated in its treatment. Congestive headache is afforded much relief by the application of cold. We have already adverted to the principles which should govern our employment of temperature in cases of apoplexj-. Cold to the spine by means of ether-spray, as suggested bj' Dr. Benjamin W. Richardson, has been found efficacious in chorea. Some improvement may be effected in leukaemia b}' cold applications. Niemeyer saw temporary gain result from cold-water treatment. Some practitioners advise injections of ergot or arsenic into the enlarged spleen, an ice-bag being laid over the spleen after each injection. But almost any mode of treatment seems hopeless in this disease. In obesity it is advisable to avoid high temperature. The patient's room should be only of moderate warmth, and cold water should be used for bathing. Acute articular rheumatism is generally, perhaps, treated by warm applications. Nevertheless, in a certain proportion of cases the inflam- mation in the joints is reduced by the use of cold. In these cases marked diminution of pain occurs. CONTEA-INDICATIONS TO THE USE OF COLD. 305 Surgeons meet with disordered intellection, as a consequence of severe injuries, such as compound fractui-es, extensive lacerated wounds, extensive burns, etc. Traumatic delirium, as this condition is called, is not infrequently so prominent a symptom as to call for measures adapted to its relief. Among these, cold to the head and warmth to the feet have proved of service. ■As cold promotes constructive metamorphosis, it stimulates the appetite and assists digestion. This is the effect of cold bathing and cold climates. Bodily and mental vigor are promoted. Yet, continued exposure to excessive cold is powerfully depressant. The application of heat in conditions of lowered vitality is stimulant. The principal organs are assisted to resume their functions. But, con- tinued too long, it reduces the strength. This effect is produced by hot bathing and hot climates. CONTEA-INDICATIONS TO THE USE OF COLD. Warmth needs to be very carefully maintained in old people. They lack, as has been stated , in resistance to lowered temperature; they are sensitive to sudden falls of the thermometer ; tlieir nutritive processes are carried on slowly: they should, therefore, be warmly clothed. But, on the other hand, the elasticity and contractility of their tissues are im- paired ; atheromatous changes are common : caution should, therefore, be exercised in subjecting the aged to a high degree of heat, from the fear of inducing apoplexy or heart failure. Infants and very young chil- dren should be strictly guarded against the influence of reduced temper- ature. Cold is apt to have a deleterious effect in dilatation of the heart or valvular disease, accompanied with dilatation. Avoidance of cold is especially to be enjoined upon recovery from acute desquamative nephritis. A sudden chill of the surface may very readily provoke a recurrence of the inflammation. Intermittent haema- turia is very closely connected with atmospheric conditions. Exposure to cold, especially damp cold, is quickly followed by the attack. This fact suggests the care which should be exercised. Whenever possible, the patient should make a change of climate. In surgical affections harm may doubtless be done by too prolonged use of cold applications. It is quite possible to reduce the circulation through a part sufficiently to produce gangrene of the edges of a wound. As granulations require warmth for their development, cold is not adapted to the treatment of open wounds; nor do cold dressings favor the occurrence of primary adhesion. 20 306 MINERAL WATEES. MINEEAL WATERS. GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS.— Unfortunately for the public, the medical profession has placed too much reliance upon the presence of mineral constituents in various waters used for therapeutic effect, as it is now known that many drinking-waters contain a larger proportion of such ingredients than those which are highly lauded as mineral waters. Doubtless much depends upon the relative proportions of these ingre- dients and upon the temperature, but, on the other hand, it is claimed that some of those recognized as the most valuable — ^like Vichy, for example — derive their activity from the presence of microbes, which it has been suggested may in some occult way modify digestion when introduced into the alimentary canal. That bottled mineral waters are less efficient than those drunk at the fountain is admitted, and. as an explanation of this inferiority we are confronted with the suggestion that the original microbes are destroyed and others take their place, while the bottled water is further contaminated by the enzj'mes thus formed. But all waters contain these micro-organisms to a greater or less extent, and we know that no special precautions are taken for the pur- pose of sterilizing this product, hence a consideration of the tlierapeutic value of so-called mineral waters must be limited to their use in the immediate vicinity of the wells. In view of this tendency to deteriora- tion from the presence of micro-organisms, it has lately been suggested that waters having a definite chemical composition might be prepared artificially, and we must admit that many of the imitations now on the market apparently confirm the wisdom of this course. By the adoption of appropriate antiseptic precautions no objections could be offered on the score of bacterial infection, and patients could then expect to receive quite as much benefit from the judicious use of mineral waters as if they journeyed to distant parts ; but of course this leaves out of the question entirely the benefits to be derived from change of climate and social environment, and above all the advantages attending upon dietetic changes. We must pass over in tins connection the fanciful claims advocated on the part of interested stockholders, who would have us believe that the waters in wliich tliey are interested possess certain peculiar properties not vouchsafed to less favored mortals. Speculative investors will scarcely be able at the present day to find many willing to adopt the notion that the heat of a certain spring is different from ordi- nary heat, or that the water possesses any peculiar electrical property, or the still more absurd theory tiiat, like the serum of the blood, the water GENEEAL CONSIDEEATIONS. 307 carries witt it a certain life, wliicli causes all other waters, wlien com- pared ■with it, to sink into insignifleance. All classifications must of necessity be artificial and open to serious objections as studied from different stand-points, owing to the fact that it is often impossible to determine the most important therapeutic agent ; hence, a subdivision upon any basis of this sort would be comparatively useless. The most convenient arrangement for a work of this character is naturally suggested by the general character of the water itself. Thus, chalybeate waters would form a separate group from those dis- tinctly sulphurous ; in addition, we have saline and alkaline, with their sub-varieties ; but this leaves ont of consideration a considerable number of waters which are fully entitled to notice, and such will therefore appear as unclassified. It must not be inferred, however, that all of them are so different from each other that no classification is possible, but rather that the scope of this work does not admit of the considera- tion of their various- properties in detail. Many of them, in fact, appear to possess therapeutic value in inverse proportion to the amount of mineral constituents contained. Much^as been said of the temperature of many of these waters, and there is a general belief that thermal waters possess properties more valuable than others, but of this there is room for doubt. In addition to the climatic changes which the patient undergoes, it should be noted that there is a decided modification of the hygienic regulations imposed at many of the springs, and to this, along with the dietetic changes, we may ascribe a share of the good results which follow a visit at the differ- ent resorts. This matter is so forcibly and delightfully described bj' Mr. Ernest Hart, the energetic editor of the British. Medical Journal, that we quote from his facile pen the following regarding his impressions of Carlsbad : " It affords a well-regulated life in the open air amidst the flr- woods ; it supplies an interval of complete removal from the rush, hurry, and excitement in the course of a busy life ; it provides the best of all cures for mind and body,— -pleasant scfnery, wholesome diet, with the universal accompaniment of beautiful music, and with these what may be properly called a natural hydropathic treatment of copious draughts early in the day of hot water, sipped in moderate quantities at suitable intervals of time. There are very few forms of gastric, intestinal, renal, and nervous cases which are not capable of being benefited by such a treatment, even if that were not at all mineralized. It is thus that the most varied complaints and the most opposite morbid conditions are successfully treated by the Carlsbad-cure. As to the specific value of the saline constituents of the water, I profess an absolute skepticism of the value of the minute differences which it is attempted to establish 308 MINERAL WATERS. betweeji one spout and another ; but to the virtues of the Carlsbad-cure, as a whole, under the conditions, and in the way in which it is carried out, after more than one experience, I am a convinced convert." Mr. Hart facetiously refers to it as a water-cure, a rest-cure, an air-cure, a music-cure, an exercise-cure, a mind-cure, and a body-cure, and is dis- ^ posed to regard a Carlsbad-cure as a very complex therapeutic agent. A patient, after having experienced the influences of so many and multifarious cures, upon returning to his home and regular emploj'ment, should not immediately discontinue the system which has afforded him benefit, but will find it advantageous to conform to the methods in spirit, if not in letter, which have shown their value ; it will be advisable also to continue the use of the water or some suitable substitute. Mineral waters are so widely distributed that in a short sketch a complete description will not be expected, and manj' of the springs must of necessity pass unnoticed. The necessity for this observation will be apparent when it is stated that in the United States alone more than eiglit thousand have already been located, although not more than a few hundred of this immense number of different waters have been analyzed. CHALYBEATE WATERS. . As a rule, the quantity of iron contained in these waters is quite small, and is generally the carbonate or sulphate in combination with carbonic acid, the latter being supposed to exercise an important influ- ence when taken into the system. A want of iron in tlie blood would naturally point to its use in chlorosis and ansemia and in all those condi- tions attendant thereon, as general debility, weakness after fever, and from loss of blood ; but while iron is admitted to be a constituent of the blood, only about one grain daily is taken with the ordinary food. Chalybeate waters are useful in amenorrhoea and other menstrual derange- ments in women, as well as sterility, seminal emissions, and hypochondria in men. Where a tendency to haemorrhage exists those iron waters impregnated with alum should 'be selected by preference. These are styptic and astringent, but others which contain chloride of sodium, and are known as bitter waters, are purgative. American. Saily Sprlnffs, Alabama. — Contain oxide of iron, with carbonates of potassium, sodium and magnesium, and carbonlc-acld gas. £ath Alum, Virginia. — (Temperature, 110° F.). Contain a larger proportion of sulphuric acid and sulphates, with protoxide of iron. Valuable In gout, rheumatism, and liver affections, and the neuralgias incident thereto. Warm Springs, Sath County, Va.—(Tem- Iron than Rockbridge Alum, as well as free perature, 98° F.). Used In similar cases as CHALYBEATE WATEBS. 309 the Bath Alum Springs, although the latter, it is claimed, have a greater value in kidney affections. Cooper^s Well, MissUUppi. — Advocated for the treatment of chronic diarrhoea, cer- tain eases of dropsy, and in blood dyscrasise, as ansemia, etc. Oak Orchard Acid, Sew York. — ^Useful in diseases of the skin, ulcers, passive haemor- rhage, etc. Contains ten grains of free sul- phuric acid to the pint. Eawley Springs, Virginia. — Contain car- bonate of lithia, manganese, magnesia, and lime, but the most Important ingredient is the carbonate of iron. A useful tonic in ansemia, etc. Rockbridge Alum Springs, Virginia. — These watere are highly recommended for the treatment of scrofula, chronic diarrhoea, etc. Sweet Chalybeate Springs, Virginia. — Con- tain iron, with sulphates and chlorides, together with a considerable quantity of carbonic-acid gas, and has a peculiar, sweetish taste. Therapy the same as that of Eawley Springs, European. Alexisbad, Germany. — Contains carbonic- acid gas, iron, and manganese in large quan- tity. Bascombe, Bournemouth, England. — Con- tains iron in combination with carbonic acid. Boeklet, near Kissengen. — Altitude, 600 feet. Contains carbonate of iron, and is laxative ; useful in anaemic conditions, and ' has some reputation as a ladies' bath. Dorton,England. — Contains iron sulphate, with carbonic acid, but is to be diluted be- fore drinking. Elster, Saxony. — Altitude, 1465 feet. Of the same character and used in the same cases as that of Boeklet. Forges-les-Eaux, France. — Contains car- bonate of iron and is laxative. Framensbad, Bohemia. — Altitude, 1293 feet. Much the same as that of Boeklet. Griesbaeh, Black Forest. — Altitude, 1614 feet. Contains carbonate of iron and is laxative. Hastings, England. — Contains sulphates of iron, lime, magnesia, and soda. Bomburg, near Frankfort. — Contains but a small quantity of carbonate of iron ; is said to be useful in anaemic conditions and laxative. La Malon, Herault, France. — This is a warm spring {temperature, 88°), and' is recommended in anaemic conditions ; laxa- tive. Liebenstien, North Germany. — Altitude 911 feet. Contains carbonate of iron and is laxative. Mnspratt Spring, Harrogate, England. — Contains small quantity of carbonate of iron, with chlorides. Petersthal, Black Forest. — Altitude, 1333 feet. Contains but a small quantity of car- bonate of iron ; laxative. Pyrnwat, Germany. — Altitude, 404 feet. These waters contain carbonic acid, and sul- phates and carbonates of iron, lime, soda, and magnesia, and are used in anaemic con- ditions. Becoaro, North Italy. — Altitude, 1463 feet. Contains carbonate of iron and is laxative; used in anaemic conditions. Rippoldsan, Black Forest. — Altitude, 1886 feet. These waters are used in anaemia, chlorosis, etc. They contain a small quan- tity of carbonate of iron and are laxative. Sandrock, Isle of Wight.— These waters are what may be termed aluminous cha- lybeate, and must be diluted before drink- ing. Schwalbach, Nassau. — Altitude, 900 feet. Useful in anEemic conditions ; laxative, and highly regarded as a ladies' bath. Spa, Belgium. — Altitude, 1000 feet. Much the same as Schwalbach. St. Morit?., Fngadine, Switzerland. — AUi- tude, 5464 feet. Much soughtfor on account of the air. It is useful in anaemia, and acts as a laxative. Tunbridge Wells, England. — Altitude, 289 feet. These waters are deficient in carbonic acid as compared with many others, but are still of value in anaemia. 310 MINERAL WATEBS. SULPHUKOUS WATEKS. Waters having tlie odor of bydrosulphurie acid are generally be- lieved to be modified as to character by the presence of organic matters in the soil. Some contain sulphides, with but little mineral matter, while others contain sodium chloride or sulphate of lime. Since the introduction of Bergeon's method of rectal insufflation, the toxic character of hydrogen sulphide has become more apparent to the medical profession, although it is not believed that this gas exists in mineral waters in sufficient quantity or amount to cause untoward symp- toms. Nothing is known positively concerning the effect of this gas upon the system, except tliat it has in a moderate degree the property of influencing tissue-change, and counteracting to a limited extent the de- structive metamorphosis connected with tlie breaking down of cell growth, such as may be witnessed in the progress of tuberculosis. These waters are of decided benefit in the treatment of syphilitic affections; in the depression attending upon metallic poisoning, and that which is connected with chronic rheumatism and gout. Malarial disor- ders, and the accompanying diseases of the liver and spleen, with dis- turbances in the portal circulation, are all favorably modified by the judicious use of sulphur waters, both internally and in the form of baths. Persons suffei-ing from lead-poisoning, upon taking hot baths in sulphur water, find the skin on coming out of the bath covered with a blackish- brown coating, which is in realitj^ the insoluble sulphide of lead. This shows that the metal has readied the skin, and, in a short time, with the continuance of the baths, the characteristic toxic effects begin to dis- appear. The Mount Clemens (Michigan) Mineral Springs are notablj" efficient in this respect, as well as in the removal of sj^philitic infection. That iron tends to accumulate in the liver we have most conclusive evidence, but we have no positive knowledge that the sulphur has any influence in promoting its removal, although doubtless much benefit is derived from drinking such waters, containing as they do the chlorides of sodium and magnesium. In diseases of the skin, sulphur waters have long been highly esteemed, and they certainly do produce appreciable effects in all those cases characterized b^' the condition known as sub- oxidation, and probably a small portion of the gas is absorbed bjr the skin. Not only in the cases mentioned, but also in pulmonary affections, sulphur watei-s occupy an important position in therapeutics. In tlie latter case, they have been much used in this countrj' and abi'oad in the form of inhalation, which is effected by reducing the water to a vapor by means of certain mechanical appliances. SULPHUKOUS "WATERS. 311 Two peculiar substances, named respectively grZarm and baregin, are found in these waters, both in Europe and America. Tlie typical sulphur water is probably to be found in that of Aix-la-Chapelle, the temperature of which is 131° to 140° T. ; the altitude of the spring is but five hundred and thirty-four feet. Some of these waters are cold ; others are warm or hot ; and in the following list, so far as could be learned, the temperature of the thermal springs is given. American. Indiana, ■{■■ Blue Lick Springs, Indian Springs, . West Baden Springs. These springs contain both sulphuretted hydrogen and carbonic-acid gas, and have more than a local reputation. / Big Bone Springs, J Lower Blue Lick Springs, I Upper Blue Lick Springs, Kentucky, . Paroquet Springs. These waters are aperient and alterative, containing large quantities of sulphuretted hydrogen and chloride of sodium. Crab Orchard Springs. — Contain Glauber's salt, with some sulphuretted hydrogen, and are of decided benefit In the treatment of , disorders Of the intestinal tract character- ized by deficient secretion. They have been recommended in a great number of diseases, and the water is now placed upon the mar- ket In a concentrated form, which adds to the convenience of administration. Michigan, Alpena Well. — Contains but a small proportion of chloride of sodium, though It is rich in sulphuretted hydrogen. mw York \ ^^""^ ®P™S^' ( Sharon Springs. These waters contain but a small quantity of sulphuretted hydrogen, but are rich in sulphate of lime. Green Brier Sulphur Springs, Eed Sulphur Springs, Salt Sulphur Springs, Yellow Sulphur Springs. These waters contain carbonic-acid gas and sulphuretted hydrogen, with sulphates, chlorides, etc., and are useful in scrofula, syphilis, and other blood diseases. Virginia, . . White Sulphur Springs. These waters are much the same as those just mentioned. They have recently been studied by Van Bibber, who recommends both a two and a four weeks' plan for the treatment of malarial aifectlons, and, in ad- dition to the use of the water, suitable ex- ercise should be adopted. Uuropean. Aix-les-Bains, Savoy. — Altitude, 765 feet ; temperature, 108.5° F. Aix-la-Chapelle, Germany. — Altitude, 534 feet ; temperature, 1310 to 140° F. Amilie-les-Bains, Pyrenees. — Altitude, 810 feet ; temperature, 87° to 147° F. Archena, Spain. — Temperature, 126° F. Baden, near Vienna. — Temperature, 95° to 1150 r. Barlges, Pyrenees. — Altitude, 4100 feet; temperature, 113° F. Cauterets, Pyrenees. — Altitude, 3254 feet ; temperature, 71" to 134° F. Challes, Savoy. — Altitude, 900 feet. Eaux Bonnes, Pyrenees. — Altitude, 2400 feet ; temperature, 90.5° P. Silsen, Schaumburg-Lippe. Mngbien, France. Switzerland. — Altitude, 3600 feet. Harrogate, England. Hercules Bad, Banat. — Altitude 500 feet ; temperature, 110° P. Llandrindod, Wales. Lavey, Phone Valley. — Altitude, 1.350 feet ; temperature, 93° to 113° P. Leuh, Switzerland. — Altitude, 3593 feet. Lisdunvarnia, Ireland. Lachon, Pyrenees. — Altitude, 2000 feet ; temperature, 133.5° F. Meinberg, Lippe-Betmold. Moffatt, Scotland. Schinznach, Switzerland. — Altitude, 1060 feet ; temperature, 80° to 93° P. Strathpeffer, Scotland. Urlage, Isere, France. — Altitude, 1500 feet. 312 MINERAL WATERS. ALKALINE WATERS. Like the other waters considered, alkaline waters contain an excess of carbonic acid, and, in addition, a considerable quantity of carbonate or bicarbonate of soda, and act as efficient diuretics. The value of alkalies has already been referred to Csee Oxygen, page 233), but, inasmuch as alkalies have the effect of retarding digestion, some discrimination must be exer- cised as to the time of their exhibition. Given after meals, while the secretion of gastric juice is thereby increased, its activity is lessened. This assumption is, however, more or less theoretical, and does not always obtain in practice, and especially is this the case where the alka- line treatment seems to be indicated. A condition of hyperacidity is present, and the judicious exhibition of alkaline waters will often accom- plish most remarkable results. Undoubtedly, a too free use of alkalies will have a tendency to pro- duce a lowered condition of the system, but the amount of such ingredi- ents found in mineral waters generally is insufficient to produce untoward effects unless used to excess. The carbonates are neutralized in the stomach and changed into the chloride of sodium, and, while the first effect is to dilute or destroy the gastric juice, the increased gastric secretion sufficiently compensates for any loss in this direction. In some, carbonate of soda is the principle agent ; in otheVs, we find sodium chloride in addition, while others still contain sulphates. The special indication for the exhibition of alkaline watei-s may be said to be in the treatment of gastro-intestinal disorders, including, of course, in this category, affections of the liver. Indirectly they modify tlie genito-urinary apparatus. Again, they are also believed to be of decided benefit in cases of incipient phthisis, as already mentioned in the section upon oxygen, and in cutaneous affections dependent upon digestive disturbances. Those containing a notable proportion of sulphates are known as bitter waters ; they act as purgatives, the best known of the class probably being Hunyadi, and this class of waters has been largely imitated. The larger proportion of them are cold, but some, like Carls- bad, are thermal. Alkaline mineral waters are especially valuable in the treatment of lithsemia and the succeeding neurasthenia, affections which appear to be rapidly increasing, and it is doubtful if there are to be found auj^ more efficient alkaline waters than those of our own country. The public will require to be educated, however, and greater attention will be demanded on the part of those having in charge patients who are to be subjected to this treatment, with a view to having some methodical plan adopted which can be readily carried out. ALKALINE WATERS. 313 Vichy and Vals watfers are said by Prosner and Goldenberg to be useful in the treatment of uric acid diatliesis, on account, probablj* of tlie sodium bicarbonate they contain, and, as all i^ersons cannot take advantage of this water, it has been recommended that the bicarbonate of soda might be substituted with equal benefit. Whatever renders the urine alkaline, while increasing the flow and lessening the specific gravity-, will contribute to prevent the formation of renal calculi and subsequent attacks of gout. Probably no combination for this purpose offers better promise of success than lithium bromide in combination with potassium citrate, to which the reader is referred. American. Berkley Springs, Virginia. — Simple alka- line. Bethesda Springs, Wisconsin. — These springs are justly celebrated for their medici- nal properties, and have been long used in the treatment of diabetes mellitus, renal cal- culi, cystitis, and as a diuretic in albumi- nuria and dropsy. Bladon Springs, Alabama. — These waters are carbonated alkaline, with carbonic-acid gas, etc., and a trace of sulphuretted hy- drogen. Bromine-Arsenic Springs ( Thompson's) North Carolina. — Alkaline saline ; contain lithium, iodine, etc., and are said to be useful in rheumatism, dyspepsia, and all classes of kidney diseases. Buffalo Lithia Springs,, Virginia. — Simple alkaline ; an eflicient remedy for uric acid diathesis, gouty and rheumatic affections. California Seltzer Springs. — Saline alka^ line ; similar to Congress Springs, Cali- fornia. Capon Springs, West Virginia. — These waters are alkaline, with traces of iodine and bromine, and are situated in a picturesque and delightful mountainous region. Congress Springs, California. — Saline al- kaline, with iron , etc. , and are highly charged with carbonic-acid gas. Sot Springs, Bath County, Virginia. — These are alkaline-saline thermal waters (temperature 100° to 108° F.). It may be mentioned that this is one of the famous springs of this class in America, the water being used both internally and for bathing, very complete arrangements having been made for the latter purpose. [Warm Springs, situated in the same county, are similar to the Hot Springs, though of a somewhat lower temperature. ] Ferry Springs, Illinois. — Alkaline saline. Si. Louis Springs, llichigan. — Contain carbonate of soda, magnesia, iron, and lime sulphates, etc., and are claimed to be mag- netic, but a personal inspection negatives any such claim, although in years past the waters have enjoyed great popularity. European. Bilin, Bohemia. — Used in the treatment of gastro-intestinal disorders. Carlsbad, Bohemia. — Altitude, 1214 feet ; temperature, 85° to 166° F. There are seven- teen springs , varying in temperature as above indicated. They contain sulphate, carbon- ate, and chloride of sodium, besides sulphate of potassium, and carbonate of calcium. Like all these springs, Carlsbad is recom- mended for hepatic and gastro-intestinal troubles, and the usual skin affections ac- companying them. Both biliary and renal calculi are favorably acted upon by these waters, and it is said that diabetes has shown itself amenable to their influence. Bormio, Southern Alps. — Altitude, 4460 feet ; temperature, 102° F. Alkaline saline ; contains chloride of sodium and magnesium, and an alkaline sulphate. Has been used in rheumatism, and accompanying neuralgia 314 MINERAL "WATEKS. and paralysis, and in such catarrlial affec- tions as modiiy the pulmonary and gastro- intestinal tracts. It is said to be especially valuable in chronic skin diseases. Bourlole, ^Mtiei-^mc— Altitude, 2800 feet ; temperature, 107° to 135° F. Used in scrofula, bone diseases, and in cutaneous aifections. Sister, 5aa;o»j^.— Altitude, 1460 feet. Con- tains sulphate of soda, and is useful in a variety of disorders, including abdominal disorders and diseases of females. Ems, Nassau. — Temperature, S.5° to 115° F. These waters are used especially in dis- eases of the mucous membranes and in the treatment of female complaints. Franzenshad, Bohemia. — Altitude, 1293 feet. Contains sulphate of soda, and is also classed with chalybeates as a ladies' bath. Gleichenierg, Styria. — The waters of this spring contain carbonate and chloride of sodium, and carbonate of magnesia highly charged with carbonic-acid gas. Ischia, JiaZj/.— Temperature, 170° F. Used mostly for the treatment of rheumatism and female complaints. Za Malon, i?»-o«c«.— Temperature, 97° F. These waters are used as a nervous sedative, and have attained a wide reputation. Lubatschowitz, Moravia. — Altitude, 1600 feet. Contain both carbonate and chloride of sodium. Marienbadt Bohemia.— Altitude, 1013 feet. Contain soda sulphate and carbonate, and recommended in obesity. These waters are sometimes classed as saline. Mount BorS, Auvergne. — Altitude, 3300 feet; temperature, 100° to 114° F. Used in pulmonary affections, asthma, and chronic laryngitis. Neuenahr, BMneland. — Said to be es- pecially valuable in the treatment of dia- betes. Bippoldsau Waters. — Useful in anaemia, neuralgia, and nervous disorders. Bogat, Auvergne. — Altitude, 1400 feet ; temperature, 80° to 95° F. Used success- fully in the treatment of aneemia and cu- taneous disorders. Saltzbrunn, Upper Silesia. — These waters are rich in carbonate of soda. Tar asp, Lower Engadine. — Altitude, 4000 feet. Contains sulphate and carbonate of soda, and is believed to have decided action upon the abdominal viscera. Tbnnistein, Bhine Valley. — Antacid and tonic. Vols, France. — Useful in catarrhal affec- tions of stomach and bowels, renal and biliary calculi and diabetes. Vichy, France. — Temperature, 105° F. Much the same as Vals. Vidago, Portugal. — Called the Portuguese Vichy. SALINE WATEBS. Many of the saline waters are classed with the alkaline group, as the former contain important constituents which belong to the latter. Salines include strictly only those waters in which sodium chloride is the pre- dominant ingredient, ordinary sea-water being the representative of the class; but ordinary sea-water contains much less sodium chloride than many of the mineral waters of this group. Lilce the others, carbonic acid is found in considerable quantities in all those which liave gained popu- larity'. They also contain the usual chlorides of lime and magnesia, together with some bromine, lithium, and iodine, and occasionally some iron. They are used for drinking and for bathing, and are found both hot and cold. The therapeutical indications for the employment of salines may be summed up as follows : Gastro-intestinal disorders characterized by a torpid condition of the glandular system ; hepatic and portal congestion. SALINE WATEES. 315 and the usual pelvic derangements dependent thereon, sueh as uterine engorgement, ovarian neuralgia so-called, and haemorrlioids. Gout, rheu- matism, and rheumatoid arthritis are also included in the list of affections amenable to the iniiuence of saline mineral waters. We have already noted that carbonates taken into the stomach are clianged into chlorides, and act as diuretics, and it is here to be noted that wlien salt is increased over the usual daily allowance it may have an antiseptic influence owing to the chlorine set free, but that it does • have decided aperient effects there is no question. Even when taken in considerable quantit3', it has been estimated that saline waters add but little more than one-third more to tlie daily amount taken into the system with food, which ^las been set dowai at about three hundred grains, but its action when taken into the stomacli fasting may differ materially from that which takes place when digestion is going on. The r61e which salt plays in the economy is that of a stimulant. From the time it enters the stomach until excreted by the liidneys, the function of every organ which it enters is exalted ; the tissues with which it comes into contact undergo more active changes, while its presence favors the removal of waste products. The therapeutic range of saline and allca- line-saline mineral waters has not been fairly estimated; at least,. not in this country. The successful treatment of Bright's disease by the use of sodium chloride on the part of Memminger prompted Dr. Austin Flint, of New York, to prepare a formula whicli should embrace the more important organic salts of the blood, containing a small quantity of reduced iron and an excess of sodium chloride, as follows : — R Sodii chloridi, . Potassii chloridi, Fotassii sulph., . Fotaseii carb., . Sodii carb., Magnesii carb., . Calcis phoe. prsecip. , Calciscarb., Ferri redacti, Ferricarb., M. In capsulse no. Ix. Sig. : Two capsules three times a day. 3iij. gr. ix. gi- vj. gr. iij. gr. xxxvj. gr. iij. 3ss. gr. iij. gr. xxvij. gr. iij. This saline chalybeate has given good results in Bright's disease, and in simple anaemia, when indicated, the showing has been quite remark- able. While upon this subject, Ebstein's theory may be referred to, viz. : That glycogen and diastatic ferments are present in the circulating fluids 316 MINERAL WATERS. and tissues, and the latter acting upon the former results in the produc- tion of sugar. This action may be temporary or permanent, the latter constituting diabetes. Carlsbad water, which contains carbonic acid in considerable quantitj', becomes then an efficient remedy, owing to the supposed prophylactic power of the carbonic acid against those diastatic changes. Ordinary sea-water baths have been found efficient in the treatment of scrofulous affections, so that a number of establishments for the pur- pose of affording children the benefits have within a few years been located along the Mediterranean coast. • There is such an institution at Cette, France, and at Cannes a winter asylum has been opened, where a prolonged stay is recommended, but not to the exclusion of suitable medical treatment, such as cod-liver oil, phosphate of lime. Salted milk, and infusion of hops. This method of treatment is highly recommended for tuberculosis. American: Arrowhead Springs, California. — Temper- ature, 140° to 193° F. Contain sulphates of potash, soda, lime and magnesia, chloride of sodium, and other important ingredients, together with a small quantity of free sul- phuretted hydrogen. BalMon Spa, New York. — These waters are similar to those of Saratoga, and are used in the same class of afTections. Bedford Springs, Pennsylvania. — Contain sulphate of magnesia, with carbonate of Iron, and are by some classed as a chalybeate. They possess diuretic properties, are laxative, and are useful in anaemia and kidney troubles, as calculous affections, etc. Caledonia Springs, Ontario, Canada. — These are common salt springs, and have been used in rheumatism and gout. Catalina Island Springs, California. — Ac- cording to the analysis of McCarty, these waters are especially active salines. They contain chloride of sodium and magnesium. With sulphates, etc., and magnesium car- bonate. Crab Orchard, Kentucky. — These springs have already been referred to under the head of Sulphurous Waters. Glauber's salt is the most active ingredient. Olenwood Springs, Colorado. — Altitude, 5000 feet; temperature, 138° F. These waters contain a large proportion of chloride of sodium, with sulphate and carbonate of lime, and resemble in many respects sea- water. The action of the water is that of an alterative, and, conjoined with an unusually dry atmosphere and delightful climate, it is said to be especially etflcacious in chronic rheumatic affections, and in general debility. Las Vegas, New Mexico. — Altitude, 13,000 feet; temperature, 140° F. Contains car- bonate, sulphate, and chloride of sodium, the latter in large proportion, and is re- garded as of value in pulmonary troubles. Midland Springs, Michigan. — Contain Glauber's salt. Saratoga Springs, New 7ork. — The Sara- toga springs vary somewhat in composition and therapy, but the greater number contain chlorides in abundance along with carbonic acid. Their value is much the same as many others of this class. They are indicated in functional disorders due to engorgement of the abdominal viscera, and in chronic dis- eases. Spring Lake Well, Michigan. — The uses are similar to the waters of St. Catharine's, Canada. St. Catharine's, Ontario, Canada. — These waters contain a large percentage of chloride of sodium as well as other chlorides, potas- sium, calcium, magnesium, and must first be diluted before using internally. Gout, chronic rheumatism, and abdominal disor- ders are modified favorably by a course of baths; strumous affections and neuralgia are also benefited. SALINE WATEES. 317 Aliano, Italy. — Temperature, 185° P. Mud-baths are much In favor, the waters also being used for bathing purposes. Aegui, Northern /i!ai^.— Temperature,169° F. Greatly prized In the treatment of rheu- matism, and the bath-deposit is also used as a poultice. Adelheidsquelle, Savaria. — Altitude, 2000 feet. Used with success in chronic rheuma- tism, gout, and uterine affections. SadenSaden. — Altitude, 616 feet; tem- perature, 156° F. Useful in gout and rheu- matic affections ; it is a mild saline, and popular for bathing purposes. Saiaruc, Southern France. — Temperature, 116° F. Especially advocated for the treat- ment of paralysis ; useful also in rheumatism and malaria. Eex, Shone Valley. — Altitude, 1400 feet. Useful in chronic affections, rheumatism, uterine diseases, etc. Sourbonne, Haute-Marne. — Temperature, 114° to 149° F. These waters have been highly lauded for the removal of malarial cachexia ; they are also useful in the treat- • ment of neuralgia and rheumatism. Brides, Savoy. — Altitude, 1700 feet ; tem- perature, 9.5° F. Used in abdominal plethora and obesity. Caldas de Mombuy, near Barcelona, Spain. —Temperature, 1.53° to 1.58° F. Used in rheumatism, sciatica, and old injuries ; said to be very efiBcacious. Castrocaro, Tuscany. — Advocated for the relief of chronic diseases. Cestona, Oripuscoa,^ Spain. — Temperature, 88° to 94° F. These waters are supposed to aifect the liver, and have been found val- uable in rheumatism, indigestion, and in chronic bronchitis. Cheltenham, England. — Saline aperient, and contains carbonic acid. Useful in he- patic affections and constipation. Sroitwich, near Worcester. — These waters are highly charged with sodium chloride, having about eight times as much as ordi- nary sea^water, and have been used with satisfaction in chronic affections like rheu- matism and in uterine disorders. Friedrichshall, Germany. — An aperient bitter water ; useful in abdominal affections accompanied with obstruction of the portal European. circulation. They contain carbonic-acid gas, and are laxative. Hall, 3V)-o!.— Altitude, 1700 feet. Con- tain a large percentage of sodium chloride, and have been used in uterine affections, rheumatism, scrofula, etc. Hamburg, near Frankfwt.—A\t\baAe, 600 feet. Useful in hepatic affections, mild cases; in chlorosis, gout, chronic constipa^ tion, and even in hysteria. They contain a large quantity of carbonic acid. Ischl, 4«sMa.— Altitude, 1440 feet. Water is highly charged with sodium chloride ; used in chronic diseases, Including rheumatism and female complaints. Kissingen, Bavaria. — Essentially the same as the waters of Homburg and Sodeu. Used also in albuminuria and diabetes. Krmtznaeh, near Bingen.—AXtiba&k, 285 feet. Possesses valuable alterative proper- ties, and is used in strumous and syphilitic diseases, and in diseases of the skin. The treatment consists largely in bathing. Leamington, England. — Saline alkaline; used in acid dyspepsia, constipation, etc. Although called chalybeate, it contains a considerable amount of chloride of sodium, and in addition thereto the chlorides of potassium, calcium, and magnesium, and a number of other important ingredients. It is especially recommended by Garrod in the gouty diathesis, and in liver troubles with sluggish condition of the circulation. Nauheim, Wettereau. — Temperature, 80° to 103° F. These waters have about the same proportion of chloride of sodium as ordinary sea-water, and are especially advocated in locomotor ataxia. Pyrmont, North Germany. — In addition to the iron spring, there is also a salt spring. Behme, Westphalia. — Temperature, 92° F. Especially recommended in locomotor ataxia, but is also used in chronic diseases, scrof- ula, etc. Beiehenhall, near Saltzburg, Germany. — Altitude, 1800 feet. Used in scrofula, chronic diseases, rheumatism, etc. Mheinfeld, Switzerland. — These waters contain over three hundred parts of sodium chloride to one thousand parts, and are used principally in scrofulous affections. Saline, Moutiers, Savoy. — Altitude, 1480 318 METALLO-THEEAPY, feet ; temperature, 96° Y. Has a reputation for the treatment of sexual disorders, anaemia, scrofula, etc, Salzungen, North Qermany. — Contains two hundred and flfty-six parts of chloride of sodium to one thousand parts, and has been used with success in the treatment of rheumatism and other similar conditions. Soden, near Prankfort. — Said to be es- pecially valuable in throat troubles and phthisis, and, besides, the waters have been recommended for dyspepsia, ansemla, and scrofula. Weisbaden, Nassau. — Temperature, 1550 F. Used internally in dyspepsia and gout, but has a greater reputation as a bathing resort. UNCLASSIFIED WATEKS. In concluding the section upon mineral waters it should be noted that the subject is by no means exhausted. The verj^ large number of valuable thermal springs found in the western portion of the United States, to say nothing of those thermal waters which have been studied and now largely used in European countries, should be better understood by general practitioners. They could then take advantage of their pres- ence by prescribing them for patients suffering from diseases which would be benefited from a course of baths or from the internal use of the water. Space will not permit a detailed list of these springs, but it may be stated that for the most part these unclassified waters are used as baths, and in European countries they have attained wide celebrity. Quite a number are found in Switzerland, some in Germany, southern France, and England, the waters of which vary from 85° to 140° F., but thej' do not excel in quality and composition those which are found in abundance in our own countrj'. This will appear the more forcible wlien it is stated that many of these waters have even less mineral constituents than those used for culinary and drinliing purposes. The student is, therefore, i-eferred to the article Hydro-Therapeutics for a more detailed exposition of the value of hot and cold baths as a means of maintaining and regaining health. These unclassified waters in this and also in other countries are generally found in picturesque and almost inaccessible regions, and the change of scene and surroundings may exercise an important rejuvenating influence. METALLO-THEEAPY. Although not yet reduced to the scientific basis of a system, the use of metals for the purpose of curing dise.ase has held a place in the minds of mankind from the earliest times. The following which the method now has is such that only good will result from an investigation, since none but actual results will be taken into consideration in estimating the proper METALLO-THEEAPY, 319 position of the plan as a therapeutic agent. As at present conducted, it is confined to the local use of metals, either in tlie form of disks or coins, which are attached to each other and applied around the affected limb, or the disks are simply placed upon the affected area, and it is claimed from these apparently useless applications that not only paralyses of hysterical origin may be promptly relieved, but also those due to organic lesion ; but it should be mentioned that more success has been reported from abroad than has been witnessed on this side of the Atlantic, — a fact which may be due to the character of the population. This brings us to speak of the value of the so-called " impression " in all such cases, — something which is often omitted when taking into consideration the probable results of any form of treatment. The impression produced upon the patient is calculated by some as of the greatest importance in the ordinary administration of medicines, and some go so far as to assert that many of the later methods intro- duced into our practice, like electricity, the inhalation of oxygen, and other methods which might be mentioned, are calculated to attract the attention of patients to such an extent that their maladies will, in a mea- sure, be forgotten, if they are not actually relieved. The suggestion is put forward that Hypnotism and Suggestion are but other methods of treatment which are just across the line of demarcation, and that the only difference between the two is that in the latter method the patient is sent across the boundary -line through the magnetic (?) influence of the operator. Confirmatory evidence in this direction is furnished by the extraordinary success whicli attended the introduction of the so- called "tractors" of Perkins, of Connecticut, not only in this countrj-, but abroad, persons of the highest standing and reputation giving most laudatory testimonials concerning the great cures which had been effected by this means. Now, these tractors of Dr. Perkins's invention were prepared from different kinds of metal, and were so made that they could be applied along the affected area, when the pain, insensibility, weakness, hyper- sesthesia, and what not, would almost instantly disappear, and the suf- ferer proclaimed himself as having been miracnlousljr restored to health. A damper, however, was cast upon the method when it was shown that wooden tractors were equally as efficacious as the metal ones, and finally . the whole sj-stem was abandoned, because there was no one who could explain the scientific basis of the cures, and neither could intelligent practitioners be influenced to lend themselves to charlatanry. That our countrj-men are not wholly free from the machinations which may be brought about by mental influences is a fact which requires no demon- stration, as the marked success which has attended the Introduction of 320 METALLO-THEEAPY. various chimerical theories relating to healing is a sufficient indorse- ment of the impressionability of a considerable portion of the American people, but, in respect to the effects of metals, they appear to have either ■withstood the manipulations, or the manipulators have been signallj- incompetent. The theories which have been advanced to account for the benefits resulting from the application of metal disks to affected tissues and organs, when considered from a scientific stand-point, must be admitted to be lame and unsatisfactory, although they have been presented bj' men of science whose conclusions are entitled to great weight. The sub- ject was first presented to the attention of the Soci^tid de Biologie, of Paris, by Burk, in his inaugural thesis, in 1851, although but little atten- tion was attracted by it. A committee, however, was finally appointed to investigate the matter, and in 1879 a report appeared which not only confirmed what had been claimed by Burk, but which also embraced some new and important discoveries that had come under the observation of the committee during the investigation. As the most active member of that committee, Charcot was under the impression that the action of the metals might be, and probably was, due to the electricity which was de- veloped, and it was demonstrated that a current actually pi-esented itself strong enough to be measured ; but, when it was found by the investiga- tions of Bennett, of England, that pieces of wood or other substance would produce effects eqnallj- as satisfactory as the metals, and that even so trifling a thing as a handkerchief was quite sufficient for the pui-pose, there was a hesitancy in accepting the conclusions of Charcot and his associates. English observers were therefore disposed to discredit the electrical phenomena, and sought to substitute for it the theory of " ex- pectant attention " on the part of the patient. There is a general belief, whether warranted or not, that any measure of this kind will produce an effect altogether out of proportion to the curative properties of the application as usually understood, and it must be admitted that the mere application of anything of the kind has a tendency to mystify and excite the mental activity of the patient ; but it is claimed on the part of those who have given the matter attention that in a number of instances all modifying circumstances of this character have been eliminated. A magnet has also been used for the same purpose as the disks, biit the use of magnets has not been attended with better results than that of the simple metal, and, in addition, there have been decided indications that some patients were subject to one metal while they were uninfluenced by any other, although some were influenced by two, but more by one than the other. The proper metal having been found which affects the disease by external application, that substance is used internally, and it is said METALLO-THEKAPY. 321 the effects are all that could be expected. What is probably more to the point is that these earlier statements have been confirmed by observers in England, Italy, and in Germany, although in this country the method has not yet met with the success which is claimed for it abroad. A notable fact in this connection slipuld be mentione(^, namelj^, the phenomenon of " transfer," by which is understood the power of these applications to transfer the strength from an unaffected part to the dis- eased portion. Thus, when one of the legs or arms is suffering from paralysis, the selected metal having removed the disease, it will be found that the strength of the other member has been lessened. Another in- teresting observation which has been noted is, that after a cnre has been effected, if the same metal be reapplied, the paralj^sis returns. But a method has b,een discovered by whicli the relief may be made permanent. It consists in having a second metal superimposed upon the curative metal for a short time, when, it is said, no further difficulty will be ex- perienced, although this does not correspond with the statement that to remove the disease the subsequent internal administration of the metal becomes necessary. Neither are we enlightened as to the additions which are required when only a piece of wood is used for the purjjose, nor when so simple a remedy is used as an ordinary handkerchief. How do these metals act ? That is a question which is j-et to be solved, although we are placed in a favorable position for considering the matter by the information that when tliese applications have been made, whether the cases are of hysterical origin, or whether the paralj-ses are due to organic lesion, the temperature is promptly increased in the affected part, and the sensibilitj' as well as the muscular power is restored. This leads us to the conclusion that the imagination has more or less to do with the therapj"^, as it is a well-known fact in medical practice that when the mind is concentrated upon any special part of the organism, there is an increased determination of blood to the part, and of course that brings with it increased warmth, but it is doubtful if such a change would be of sufficient amount to restore sensibility, and power to para- lyzed muscles which had followed upon organic lesion of tlie brain. In conclusion, we must be permitted to suggest that the notions heretofore held in regard to the value of metals for the relief of disease applied in the manner just indicated are somewhat fanciful, to say the least, and are on a par with ofher extraordinarj' announcements which have but a transitory existence. That a man will become powerful from eating the hearts of lions, or that lie will be enabled to see better at night by swallowing the e3'es of weasels, is an exploded superstition. The sug- gestions are entertaining, just as it is pleasant to speak of an obsolete idea concerning spontaneous generation, namely, that in order to generate 21 322 TBA'NSFUSION. mice it was only necessary to get some corn, put it in a sack, and stow it away in a dark place for ten to fourteen days, when, lo I the mice had fully developed. TRANSFUSION. Transfusion is a method of procedure which is not altogether con- fined to the surgeon, as it frequently falls to the lot of the physician to adopt the x>lan in cases of emergency, as well as in those cases where the system has become debilitated from continued illness. For the most part, however, the practice of transfusion is limited to the treatment of the effects following upon haemorrhage, which may attend upon serious injury, post-partum haemorrhage, or tlie haemorrhage which occasionally occurs in connection with abortion or miscarriage, and that form which is supposed to be due to a diathesis. There are times, however, when it will be advisable to introduce a quantity of blood of a healthy character into the tissues of those who are sufferers from functional diseases, in which the ordinary treatment has failed to afford relief. Exhausted conditions of the system have been met in various ways with a view to snpplj^ the economy with something which would quickly be transferred into the circulating fluid, and which might be expected to add to its nu- tritive character. With this object in view it has been recommended that the blood of the ox should be taken internally, and to those who are so fastidious that such form of nutriment would be objectionable its use by enemata has been suggested, and the practice is not without its advantages, although many practitioners are unwilling to give the matter personal attention, because they regard the method as of doubtful value. As generally practiced, transfusion consists in the introduction of a quantity of blood into the veins of the patients for the accidents already mentioned, and may be either mediate or immediate. By the first method the blood to be used is first withdrawn from the donor, when by means of a suitable instrument the same is introduced into the veins of the patient. In these days of antiseptics the foregoing statement will appear somewhat indefinite, but it seems almost unnecessary to say that proper antiseptic precautions should be observed throughout the entire proceed- ings. Attention should also be given to-the general health of the donor, and especially is this necessary when it is remembered that operations of tliis character are liable to be attended with unfortunate results to the patient should there be any specific history, and, in view of the possible microbic origin of other diseases, this suggestion becomes still of greater importance and significance. TRANSFUSION. 323 B3' the second process a communication is made directly between donor and receiver, by whicli the blood flows from the veins of one into the other, the principal guide to the discontinuance of the Operation being the improvement in the condition of the sufferer. By the first method an opportunity is permitted for deflbrinating the blood, and from an extended investigation of reports covering the prac- tice there seems to be an agreement that defibrinated blood has shown a larger proportion of recoveries than when used in the pure state. When the latter is introduced into the circulation the greatest care is necessarj^ to prevent the coagulation of the liquid and the subsequent formation of clots in the circulation, and at all times is it necessary to guard against the entrance of air into the circulation, — a circumstance which would undoubtedly prove fatal to the patient. Tills tendency of the blood to coagulate has caused some inquiry to be made concerning tlie need for the introduction of a nutrient fluid in cases of this character, and, while this view'was strenuously upheld by practitioners and expei'imental physiologists ten j'ears ago, other views now obtain, and the belief is now more general that such is not necessary, and that an aseptic neutral fluid is all that is required ; but it should be noted that the tempei'ature of the injected fluid should be a trifle higher than the temperature of the body as taken in the mouth, and there is a general agreement that 100° F. is as nearly correct as possible. A saline solution composed of less than 1 per cent, of common salt is quite sufficient for ordinary purposes of transfusion except those cases in which it is desired to increase or change the quality of the circulating fluid, as in the case of anaemia; Cases of the kind or of" pernicious ansemia, to receive benefit from transfusion, we should expect would re- quire actual blood rather than a saline solution. Cases of emergency will, of course, require different treatment from chronic cases, where benefit can be expected only when blood is used. Other substitutes for blood have been suggested. Milk has been used suceessfnlly, and thus its safety demonstrated, but failures have also occurred in the cases where used, while besides there is a belief, whether well founded or not, that the use of milk has a tendency to cause the de- velopment of albuminuria. In cases where it is used, the recommenda- tion is tliat it should be as nearly fresh from the cow as possible, that the temperature should be at 100° F., and that not more than from four to six ounces should be introduced into the circulation at one time, — an amount sufllcient at any time. Elsewhere we have indicated how practitioners might be* able to im- provise a substitute for transfusion* in the following language: Not * Medical Bulletin, vol. si, p. S5, 188D. 324 TRANSFUSION. infrequently does it occur to the country practitioner that in cases of haemorrhage from any cause, if transfusion were demanded or advisable, the proper apparatus and other paraphernalia are not at hand. Transfu- sion is probably more frequently demanded in emergency than at any other time, and that is often the time when it cannot be practiced. Tor a long time it was supposed that nothing but blood could be used for this purpose, but recently it has been practically demonstrated that a saline solution will answer everj' purpose, and accordingly the method has been so far modified that fresh blood is not a preliminary require- ment. But even with this difficulty removed there will be times when this simple procedure — simple for the manipulator who has been fullj' initiated — cannot be carried out. Suppose, for example, we take a case like the following — one without blood, but carrying with it all the bad effects of loss of blood : A profuse and repeated choleriform discharge from the bowels. Given a patient on a hot summer day suffering from an attack of this nature, and the physician is called suddenly to find his patient in collapse. Hypodermatic injections of morphine and atropine may be of some value in controlling the action of the bowels for the time, but something is demanded for the benefit of the patient threatened with death from exhaustion and from shock. Now, in a case of this kind, what could be more appropriate than an enema of hot water, to which has been added a sufficient quantity of laudanum to obtund the sensibility of the rectum. If to this we ^dd a small quantity of common salt, the work is completed, and this can be repeated again and again without danger, and with the best possible re- sults. Cases of the kind will occur to the practitioner far out in the country, at a farm-house, perhaps, when it is only necessar}^ that he should use the ordinary syringe which every accoucheur should have in his bag. While watching his patient recover, he can send for the appa- ratus for transfusion, together with any assistance which may be deemed necessary. In the case of uterine haemorrhage, either before or after delivery, this may be adopted; or, in the case of injury, where great amounts of blood have been lost before the arrival of the physician, many lives might be saved annually from the bad effects following the shock of the injury and of the operation demanded, if this simple precaution were followed out. Possibly the method may be objected to on account of the condition of the bowels ; it will be said that the lower bowel should be unloaded. That is not required, but by the use of an enema the bowels may be moved, when we have still a better opportunity for practicing the method, as they will then retain more water with less discomfort to the patient. TKANSruSIOK. 325 Arterial transfusion has been strongly Indorsed by Sehafer and others, as it is claimed that this method is most successful in laboratory experi- ments. Where this method is adopted, either the dorsal artery of the foot, or the radial or anterior tibial may be selected, and after exposure a small canula connecting with a rubber tube is inserted. To prevent the formation of clots and exclude air, it is advisable that the tube as well as the canula used should contain a saline solution of the proper temperature. No force is required, as the blood flows from the arteries of the donor no more rapidly than it is distributed throughout the tis- sues of the patient, and the claim is advanced that owing to this fact there is less danger of causing untoward symptoms by precipitating at one time a large amount of blood upon the heart. The danger from the formation of clots is certainly much less than when the blood is with- drawn and subjected to manipulative operations which add further to the dangers owing to the septic influences liable to take place from exposure. Peritoneal transfusion has also been practiced, using for the purpose either pure or defibrinated blood, but the method, although successfully- accomplished, is not without danger that cannot be avoided. Few sur- geons at the present day would be willing to have four to six ounces of fluid introduced into the peritoneal cavity by means of an aspirator, providing other routes were practicable ; but when so highly organized a product as blood is introduced in this manner, there is a strong proba^ bility that, unless the quantity be vevy small, at least a portion of it will act as a foreign body before absorption takes place. The wonderful achievements in surger}' are doubtless due in a measure to the activity of the peritoneal tissues in absorbing and eliminating objectionable ma- terials which are developed after operations, but we do not take kindly to the idea of trusting to these tissues lO'' the performance of a vicarious function if it carries with it a degree of uncertainty such as has been pointed out. The apparatus required for the performance of the operation when rjlood is to be transferred from one person to another by means of the veins, is not complicated. An ordinarj' small but well-made aspirator will answer every purpose, but the needles should be small. Caution is required that the direction of the needles should so correspond with the current of blood that no hindrance will occur in the regularity of the flow, and when no arrangement is attached that will enable the operator to measure the quantity a portion' of the supply-tube should be of glass, 1)}' which the surgeon is enabled to estimate if he cannot measure the amount of blood which passes. In the absence of an instrument of this character, an ordinary small rubber syringe will do, but the valves must 326 HYPNOTISM AND SUGGESTION. first be removed. It should also be mentioned that the person supply- ing the blood is to be watched as well as the patient, as the mental effect together with the shock of the operation may be such that a stimulant may be required. Emergency eases, however, demand prompt attention, and it may not be advisable to await the action of an enema or peritoneal injection, when venous or arterial transfusion may be temporarily delayed, and at such times it may be well for the operator to bear in mind the value of oxygen inhalations, but the position of the patient must never be for- gotten. In the case of great loss of blood, the patient may insist upon maintaining the erect positiop, when the fright which attends the acci- dent, together with the want of blood for the cerebral tissues, to say nothing of the difficulty with which the heart has to contend, may be sufficient to cause a serious shock. HYPNOTISM AND SUGGESTION. Hypnotism and Suggestion may be said to be relics of mesmerism, and to have been first placed upon a scientific basis through the efforts of Braid, a Manchester surgeon, although his investigations were wholly directed to the study of the various applications of mesmerism. For twenty -five years Liebault, of Nancy, has devoted his life to the relief of suffering b}"^ means of what is now called hypnotism, which is simply a modified form of Mesmer's methods freed from cunning and trickery, and the success which has attended upon his work and tliat of his fol- lowers has been such that the matter lias been studied within late jears by Charcot. The object of the present reference will be confined to a description of t)^e methods pursued, the class of diseases to which it is adapted, together with some reference to the success which has attended upon its use ; in addition to that which has just been stated, it will be interesting also to take into consideration some special features, elosinc^ witli a brief note intended to present an estimate of the therapeutic value of the method as we now understand it, and the precautions wliich should be taken when it is determined to place a patient under this peculiar influence. Like all other methods for the relief of disease, this has its oppo- nents as well as defendants, but it cannot be successfully denied that all physicians practice the plan of suggestion, at least to a limited extent, although it must be admitted that often it is done uncon3ciouslj\ The mere writing of a prescription and hanaing it to a patient implies a power or ability which places the person receiving it under obligations, HYPNOTISM AKD SUGGESTION. 327 if it does not render liim more susceptible to influences wliicli tlie phj-- sician may wisli to bring to bear upon Iiim. TJnwittingly we do more than that when we encourage those who may be afflicted with disease to keep up hope, by telling them that they are in a fair way toward re- covery, although there is the difference that we do not undertake to place them under any occult influence, nor do we lead them to suppose that we can accomplish great results without the use of drugs or other remedies, — two very important changes from the ordinary methods of treatment. The phenomena connected with the practice of hypnotism, it must be confessed, are peculiar, and, as has been remarked in the article upon metallo-therapy, it seems doubtful if such a practice will meet with sup- porters in this country, although we do not lack for those who claim to practice without the use of drugs. To be more definite, it may be stated that there are no inducements for any one to engage in a work of this kind in this country with tlie expectation that he can conduct it profit- ably and legitimately at the same time. The tendency of men who seek novel methods is to lend their attention to tliose who promise the most, and who have the least regard for truth, — matters upon which the legiti- mate practitioner is disposed to place a high estimate. The method of conducting a seance is simplicitj' itself, and no one who is possessed of the peculiar power should be incapacitated on tliis score. The patient is seated in a comfortable cliair, and is simply talked to by the operator, — first, with the view to impress upon him the idea of going to sleepi and after a time, when this has apparently been accom- plished, the direction of the patient's thoughts is changed to a considera- tion of his maladies and the prospects of their disappearance. In put- ting the patient in a favorable or hypnotic condition, which is practically an artificial sleep, all that the operator does is to suggest incidents which occur in the usual way when a person is going to sleep, and no attention is at that time given ta the malady. An epitome of tlie conversation which takes place in the ordinary tone of voice may be interesting. It is as follows : " You are beginning to feel drowsy, and your ej'es look heav}' ; a feeling of general comfort is experienced, as if 3'ou' were going to sleep, and gradually my voice seems farther and fartiier awa3\ until now 3'ou can scarcely hear me talking. "J'our eyes are beginning to close." The operator touches the eyelids and presses them togetlier, when he says, " There ! your eyes are closed, and you are asleep.'' Then, directing the attention to the disease which may affect the patient, the physician may, if he thinks best, place his hands on the affected part or parts, and, in recounting all the troubles which it lias brought, will sug- gest that shortly the disease may be made to disappear ; that the pain and torture which has racked the patient for so many days will cease, 328 HYPNOTISM AND SUGGESTION. and in this way tlie patient maj- be bronglit baclc to a state of health which he had been accustomed to enjoy in childhood or manhood, and that his nights will be given up to peaceful slumbers instead of sieges of pain. After a period varying from five to fifteen minutes, more or less, a sharp word is spoken to the patient, or it may be accompanied by a movement of the hand or a touch upon some part of the person, and the patient is immediately aroused, and often expresses himself as feeling greatly benefited. Whether he is benefited or not, he comes on the day- following and goes through a similar performance, and this is kept up from day to day. The class of persons who are benefited by operations connected with hypnotism, as a rule, will be found to be recruited from every social ramification. Naturally, we would suppose that only those of feeble mental attainments would be susceptible to influences of the kind, or that the eflfects should be manifested largely in children, but it is said this is not actually the case. Both poor and rich are found to kneel at the shrine, and we cannot gainsay the fact that many are improved and others permanently cured by the procedure, and to this we shall now direct attention. The class of diseases wliich yield to this form of treatment covers a wide range, but notably those of a chronic character, and it is even claimed that through its influence, under the direction of Charcot, many have been reformed and are now leading upright lives. Digestive trou- bles, nervous aff'ections, and brain diseases are said to he amenable to treatment of this kind, and it is asserted that paralysis of h^'sterical origin and rheumatism are especially susceptible to treatment, but it is admitted that no eflTeet is produced in the case of hystero-epilepsy. It will best serve our purpose to take up the list of affections seriatim. which have been subjected to this treatment, and upon which reports of a general character have reached us. The indications for the adoption of hypnotism in cases of hysteria are not altogether clear, although it is admitted, as stated, that it is of service in certain forms of hj-sterical paralyses and convulsions of an hysterical character, as well as for the relief of h3rsterical ar(ibl,yopia and amaurosis. In the treatment of chorea the benefits are said to be marked, but the manipulations must be continued for a considerable length of time, — several months. Delirium tremens and the alcohol habit are distinctly benefited, and if for no other reason we should be disposed to regard favorably the method. The assertion tliat hypnotism exercises an important infiuence upon the genito-urinary sj'stem will not be surprising to those who are aware of the slight effects which may be productive of marked changes in both a direct and reflex manner. Cases of masturbation have been cured by HYPNOTISM AND SUGGESTION, 329 iiypnotism, as well as incontinence of urine, and it is claimed that inen- Btruation is modified by it to an extent wliich is often surprising, tlie periods becoming regular and the continuance of the molimen made to coincide with that of health. In the treatment of migraine, and other forms of neuralgia, the method is said to be only moderately successful, and probably we may account for this on the theory that cases of this nature are often due to an impoverished condition of the blood or to the condition of the liver, and of course nothing but increased nutrition can reach them. In parturition this method may be used instead of anaes- thesia, but is not recommended when other modes are not contra- indicated. The uterine contractions are not affected by hypnotism, nor are there any dangers from post-partum haemorrhage, but no claim is set up tiiat it will sinijersede chloroform and other anaesthetics. As an anaesthetic for surgical operations, while it can be used successfulh^, tliere does not seem to be any disposition on the part of the promoters to extend its usefulness in this special direction, and this is probably well for the plan, as, when too much is claimed, the resulting failure will more than counterbalance the gooS which has been accomplished. The most susceptible patients are those who have been brought up under instructions to obey, and, whether strong or weak, whether the disease is acute or chronic, this is a matter of the first importance in talcing into account the probable effect which the treatment will have. Tills is one of the special features to which we desire to call attention, and along with it maj' also be noted the fact that those who yield most readily to the action or influence range in age from three to thii-teen years, and that lunatics and idiots are not sensibly affected by any influ- ences which can be brought to bear upon them. The peculiar influence which the operator has over the actions of the patient may also be used for the purpose of preventing any bad effects following upon treatment, it is said, and this seems to be more wonderful than all the other features combined. "While we can gravely consider the possibilitj'^ of a physician affecting the mind of his patient so that he will be led toward recovery, and while it is not beyond the range of possibilities that a vicious person may be thus reformed, not only by physicians, but by others who give it their attention, it appears to be incredulous that a doctor should be able to give medicine, or hypnotic treatment, which is but a remedy, if not a drug, and in doing so should arrange that, whatever the result, no bad effects should attend upon its administration. Tliere is still another peculiarity about the method which, if true, may lead to its abuse in the hands of unprincipled operators. We refer to the fact that any one can so dii'ect his patient that no other operator can have the least influence over him in the way of producing 330 EAETH DKESSING. hj'pnotism, — a fact which has been demonstrated by the admission of patients while under treatment. To place an estimate upon the method here outlined without some practical exhibition of the power would be in the nature of attempting an impossibility ; but there are two things which demand consideration because of the power which it is said one person thus gains over another. The first is, that no one should be subjected to the operation without having given full consent, or, if a minor, the consent of parents or guar- dians ought to be obtained. The second matter for consideration is, that no directions or suggestions of any character whatever should be given to the patient other than those bearing directly upon the disease. In the absence of these precautions, the plan may be made to serve those who would conduct their business with mercenary motives, and un- doubtedly would lead to serious complications in our modern civilizatiou. EARTH DBESSINQ-. Earth dressing in surgery was first brought to the attention of the medical profession in this country through the investigations and writ- ings of the late Dr. Addinell Hewson, of this citj', about twenty jears ago, and, while these applications have now been almost wholly super- seded as topical remedies by recent antiseptic measures, there are certain directions in which the dressing maj' be employed to great advantage. The use of local applications of the kind are not, however, entirel}'^ discarded bj'' the most active surgeons who are fully cognizant of the value of antiseptic precautions ; the use in Germanj' and some other countries of common peat is much on the same principle as we use clay in this country, and, while there may be reasons at one time for a particular dressing, there may at another time be a demand for something else. In the earlier history of the use of clay, it was far more popular than can ever be expected again, as the microbiotic mania had not then attained such wide-spread prevalence; then again, there was an objection to the use of a dressing which could cause so much inconvenience to the patient, and this diflSculty was not readily overcome. Often the use of clay might be substituted for a poultice, but when the application is to be removed tiie clay dressing is decidedly objectionable. The result is that frequently the affected tissues are treated to a poultice as a routine method, instead of a suitable clay dressing, by which sickness is unduly prolonged and the life of the patient endangered. For the reasons mentioned regarding the effect which the advance EAETH DEESSING. 331 of antisepsis has had upon this method of treatment it would not be advisable to study in detail the numerous applications which Hewson made in a general surgical practice, and it wUl be sufficient for the scope of this article if we take a brief survey of the conditions to which it is now applicable. The cheapness of the product, and the convenience with which it can be applied and removed by anj- one, to say nothing of its anodyne properties, its value as a deodorant and antiseptic, all combine to make its use of great service to the general practitioner. A considerable proportion of the chronic, rheumatic, and gouty affec- tions which may be seen in persons of all ages are decidedly benefited by mud-baths, such as used in Pistyan, in Hungary', a resort which has gained a world-wide reputation. For the relief of the_ above diseases, and also the cure of bone diseases and metallic poisoning, this plan is highly recommended by Sir Spencer Wells and other well-known author- ities. A feature of these baths is that not only the water but also the mud contains an appreciable amount of sulphuretted hjdrogen. Lukashevich has used white modelling clay in epididj'mitis witli success, and Maizel has adopted the same method for the treatment of mastitis, and reports a number of cases in which it was used with ap- parent satisfaction. This application is also said to be useful for over- coming the distress attending unusual fullness of the breast, and, being readily obtained, is well adapted for country practice. A preparation called infusorial earth has recently been recommended by a contributor to one of the German journals as an antiseptic dressing, and it has been suggested that this may be combined with salicylic acid, salol, iodoform, or corrosive sublimate for dressing wounds, or it may be used in the pure state. This product is sterilized by being subjected to heat sufficient to cause it to glow, and, it is said, will absorb from five to seven times its weight in water. Fullers' earth is a popular domestic remedy, and is used principally as a dusting powder in weeping eczema and in the intertrigo which often occurs in childi'en. Kaolin is a pearly-white powder used in the same class of cases as that just mentioned. It is a product obtained from the decomposition of feldspar and quartz. May be used as a pill excipient for nitrate of silver, permanganate of potassium, etc. Wherever clay for the manufacture of bricks can be found, there also will be found the clay best adapted for the relief of local affections presently to be mentioned, and all that is required is that the patient shall proceed to the brick-yard and obtain a supply as wanted. As a topical application for the reduction of swellings and inflam- mations, whether of acute or chronic character, few methods of treatment 332 EAETH DRESSING. will be found to surpass the use of clay. An illustrative case will serve to impress this ^ore firmly upon the mind of the reader, and is herewith appended. Mrs. B. is a lady j ust sixty j-ears of age, and for more than twenty j-ears has sufiered from a leg-ulcer situated anteriorly at the junction of the lower with the middle tliird of the tibia ; when the sur- face is unbroken there is lameness, but every year the cicatrix is ruptured. aHd there is a discharge of more or less pus, and until within the past two years she has always, by the directions of her phj'sician, poulticed the affected area, with the result of removing large quantities of very disagreeable and foul-smelling pus. In this instance, however, the poultices were discarded, and the earth dressing applied, fresh daily, and was kept up for a period of two weeks. During this time numerous pimples and some large vesicles appeared upon the leg, botli anteriorly and posteriorly, and the neighbors had very little difficulty in making her believe that the limb was in great danger, owing to the actual de- velopment of erysipelas. In a short time, however, the whole aspect of the ulcer changed for the better, and the clay applications were discon- tinued for the time, to be again renewed at the end of a fortnight, al- tliough during this second application there was no one to object to the treatment because the general improved appearance enforced silence. It will be sufficient to say that the ulcer healed and has remained well, the leg feeling strong, and, besides, the cicatrix does not adhere to the bone, so that for twenty years past her condition has not been so favorable as at present. There is a general belief that cases of this kind should not be healed, from the fact that when the sore has acted vicariously in carrjnng off diseased products from the system any interference with this condition is liable to be followed b3r untoward symptoms in some other part of the economy. While this assumption may be true in some.probabl}' in many cases, it is not applicable to all ; and it should be added that suitable measures must be adopted with a view to favor tlie functions of excretion, thereby anticipating any trouble of this character, and that matter was duly attended to by the constant administration of the preparation known as calcium sulphide, a more complete reference to which will enable the student to estimate its value in this class of cases. The method of treatment here outlined is eminently successful in the case of boils, carbuncles, and in felon (paronychia). Wlien a boil or car- buncle has been treated in the usual manner for several days, and has become very tender, it may be required that some local application of a sedative eliaracter should lirst be used, and it may be so tender that the clay treatment cannot be adoj^ted; but if taken in the early stages the i-e- sults of treatment will be far superior to the so-called antiphlogistic BAUNSCHEIDTISMUS. 333 method, which consists in tlioroiighly dividing the tissues, then using emollient applications and opiates to relieve pain. Few are willing to have active operations of this kind attempted, and will suffer for months great torture, until by means of poultices the tissues have been rotted and spontaneous evacuation takes place. This is all wrong ; in the treat- ment of these cases and also that of felon, the free use of the clay will answer as .a support to the inflamed tissues, while reducing the active circulation, and for the time being will assuage the pain, as it can be kept moist by repeated applications of cold water. Systemic remedies may be used temporarily to control the circulation, and the patient should be restricted in the use of the affected hand in felon, but the continuous use of the calcium sulphide must not be omitted. B}^ its use we prevent the formation of pus, and where pus is present the drug has the effect of liquefying it promptly, when all that is necessary for the surgeon to do is to provide a means of exit by a simple puncture. The escape of laudable pus is followed by the filling up of the cavity with healthy granulations, and in an incredibly short time all traces of the affection will be removed. Many of these cases will come under the observation of the phy- sician after great d.image has been effected b}' the indiscriminate use of poultices, and in order to obtain a healthy condition of the tissues with a sufficient quantit3' of blood to make the necessary repairs clay dress- ing is demanded. No improvement can be expected when the tissues present a white, soggj^, and lifeless appearance, and the best way to secure the desired object is by the judicious use of the clay. Whatever antiseptic measures may be indicated afterward, this preliminary treat- ment will not affect, and it will be found that healing will go on promptly and all unfavorable sj'mptoms rapidly disappear. In selecting a suitable clay, it is only necessary that it should be free from septic influences and all gritty substances, and, when properly pre- pared and applied, it will not cause the least untoward symptom to the most delicate skin. BAUNSCHEIDTISMUS. The popularitj' which attended the first announcement of the treat- ment of various diseases by the use of the instrument invented by Charles Baunscheidt is of sufficient importance to attract the attention of the modern investigator wlio wishes to take advantage of all those measures which are calculated to advance the interests of the medical profession. Baunscheidt gave hia discovery to the world in the form of a small 334 BAUNSCHEIDTISMUS. brochure in the j'ear 1851, and within a short time no less than six edi- tions had been called for, and translations followed into English and other languages. Thousands of people from all parts of the world visited him for the purpose of having him apply the " Lebenswecker " (life- reviver), although it was well known that he did not claim to be a quali- fied physician, and, while all of the cases were not successful, enough of them recovered to form a strong popular current in his favor and against the common practice of using drugs for the relief of disease. The method is simply a peculiar form of counter-irritation, which will be better understood when it is related that the discovery resulted from the inventor allowing a number of gnats to sting one of his hands, which was at the time suffering from ulceration and swelling connected with gout. The disappearance of the pain suggested the idea of making punctures similar to those which had followed the work of these insects, when the tissues should be anointed with an oily substance as near as possible like that secreted by the gnats. It was believed then that the oil would penetrate the punctures and that the disease would thus be relieved, but of course we cannot accept any such notions at the present day. The prompt disappearance of pain from acupuncture — to be con- sidered presently — in lumbago, and its instantaneous subsidence in the case of paron3'chia when a needle or sharp-pointed knife is thrust deeply into the affected tissues, demonstrates that the oil has nothing of much consequence to do with the relief which follows. This is practically true of the Lebenswecker, although, as a rule, it has been found more efficient in many cases when some slight counter-irritant was added by applying with a brush over the spots which have been left bj- the instrument. It may be noted here that one Dr. Terc, of England, has latelj' rec- ommended the sting of bees for rheumatism, and claims to have treated successfully one hundred and seventy-three cases, administering in all no less than thirty-nine thousand stings. As at present constructed, the instrument is composed of a small disk, which contains probablj' twenty-five needles, so connected with a coiled spring that when it is compressed and then loosened the recoil causes the needles to penetrate the tissues to the depth of five-sixteenths of an inch. Only a small quantity of blood oozes through the skin after one of these applications, and almost any number can be made at a sit- ting, but care must be taken to avoid bony prominences and large blood- vessels, from the fact that ecohymosis, or even active hsemorrh.ige, might follow. There are a large number of both acute and chronic maladies which yield readily to these applications, and the promptness with which some of the most obstinate cases are subdued is at times marvellous, but, in order to be successful, judgment must be exercised in their selection. BAUNSCHEIDTISMUS, 335 THERAPY. — In the selection of suitable cases for the studj^ of Baunseheidtismus, we mast bear in mind that it can have no possible influence over organic affections, nor upon diseases which are dependent upon a lowered vitality connected with or due to chronic organic disease. It can only act as a revitalizer through its influence as a revulsive and counter-irritant except through its effect upon the mind, — a matter of no small consideration. Tlie effects of a rheumatic element in the system are often more promptly relieved (which may include sciatica, lumbago, and neuralgia) by this than by any other application, not excepting the actual cautery. The number of so-called " spots " that are made at one time, and the frequency of the applications, will, of course, have to be determined by the physician, and it does not seem warranted that we must discontinue all other treatment. Glandular swellings are often re- markably affected by this treatment. The same applies to the treatment of simple toothache and earache, a single application being suflBcient to silence the pain for the time. Occasionally there will be found a depressed condition of the whole system, in which the skin and underljing tissues seem to partake, where medicines are ineffectual, and where electricity and clay-batlis are not at hand, when " spots " to the number of several hundred can be made over the surface of the body, not only without danger, but with the very best results. Baunseheidtismus may be used for the removal of tattoo-marks by Yariot's method, which consists in first painting the part with a strong solution of tannin, then pricking the skin to permit the tannin to pene- trate. This latter operation may be performed by means of the instru- ment under consideration. [To complete the treatment the area is then slightly cauterized with silver nitrate, the punctures turning black, when the surface is cleansed. The inflammation subsides in from ten days to two weeks, and leaves no indications of an operation having been performed. Great care is necessary in the use of such an instrument to avoid septic and contagious influences, but, with our present antiseptic appli- ances, no one would think for a moment of omitting measures of this kind. As an external application, any irritant oil may be used in small quantity with a camel-hair pencil. Either cajuput-oil or a solution of one to four of croton-oil answers the purpose admirably. Acupuncture may be called a modified form of the treatment which has just been described. It consists in the use of needles with hard rubber, wax, or metal heads, which are introduced several inches into the affected tissues. The great depth to which they are inserted makes their use much more formidable than that of the instrument previouslj' de- scribed, but by adopting a slight rotary movement their introduction 336 CLIMATOLOGY, may be accomplished with but little pain. One or more may be used, and in the cases just mentioned the relief which is afforded is often sur- prising. Aquapuncture is a method of counter-irritation, having for its object the introduction of a quantity of water into the cellular tissues or into the muscular substance. It may be conducted with an ordinary- hypo- dermatic syringe, or a special instrument which permits of the introduc- tion of water at several points may be used. In the use of water tbe suggestion is made that the contents of the syringe be deposited in the immediate vicinitj' of the affected nerre, and the effect should be watched that the pain, on disappearing at one point, may promptly reappear in the same form at another not far distant, in which case the injection will have to be repeated. From what has been said of Baunscheidtismus, of acupuncture, and of aquapuncture, it will be evident that much of the benefit derived from these applications results from the revulsive effect which attends upon the introduction of the needles or needle, but we are scarcely willing to admit here that only so much good results from the hypodermatic injection of morphine and other alkaloids which have for their object the relief of pain. There are times when the proper use of the hypodermatic needle without Water or medication will answer the purpose as well as if it con- tained the most powerful medicine that could safely be used. This state- ment will apply to many cases of neuralgia affecting superficial nerves, and to cases of sciatica which have not become chronic; but too much confidence should not be placed upon simple measures of this kind unless the cases are properly selected, as they are not always successful. CLIMATOLOGY. The word climate is used to designate the exceedingly complex in- fluence of varying conditions of the atmosphere as regards temperature, moisture, purity of composition, and electrical tension. Currents of movement prevail more or less constantly, by which the temperature and moisture of the air are markedly affected. Climatic states are also closel}' dependent upon the physical configuration of the earth's surface, the nature of the surface and soil, tlie presence of large bocjies of water, the variety and abundance of vegetation, length of the day, and, no doubt, upon many other less known but powerful agencies. At the equator the rays of the sun fall vertically upon the earth's surface and its aerial envelope, and upon this line, therefore, we meet with maximum temperatures, since the more oblique the angle which tlie CLIMATOLOGY. 337 sunbeam forms with the surface, the greater is the area submicted to its influence, and the less is tlie quantitj' of heat actually received. If, then, the surface of the earth were plane, and if the atmosphere were motion- less, the temperature at a given latitude might be determined by mathe- matical calculation. Temperature, however, steadily declines with the elevation above the sea level. The rate of this diminution is quite variable, but has been estimated at one degree Fahrenheit for every three hundred feet of per- pendicular ascent. Upon lofty mountains a line is reached at which the moisture of the air is permanently frozen, and the lowest point at which this congelation occurs is termed the snow-line, or line of perpetual snow. The height of the snow-line is greatest at the equator, but is a variable point even upon the same parallel. Its position is not determined solely by altitude, but is governed, to some extent, by other circumstances, such as habitual dryness or moisture of the atmosphere, form of the mountain, etc. ' The sun's rays strike upon the earth much more obliquely in winter than in summer at latitudes distant from the equator. Temperature is likewise modified by winds. Currents of motion are excited in the atmosphere by the expansion of portions of air in contact with the heated surface of the earth. The heated air is borne upward to higher strata, while its place is taken by colder air which rushes in from above. Thus the temperature of the earth's crust, of the atmos- phere, and of the aerial currents act and react upon each other. The direction in which winds blow depends upon the distribution of heat upon the surface of the globe, — the rarefaction and displacement of the heated air and the rotation of the earth upon its axis. It has been shown by Buchan,* that prevailing winds are due to diflference of atmospheric pressure, and that they flow from a region of high to one of low pressure. Air always contains some aqueous vapor. When capable of holding no more it is said to have reached its point of saturation. The higher the temperature of the air, the more moisture it is capable of absorbing. This capacity is doubled for every twenty-seven degrees Fahrenheit of temperature above the freezing-point, the temperature increasing in an arithmetical and its absorbent power for moisture in a geometrical ratio. The quantity of water in a given volume of air is called the absolute humidity. The degree of dampness is termed relative humidity, and represents the mutual influence of absolute humidity and temperature. Over large bodies of water, as the ocean and great lakes of North America, the atmosphere is constantly charged with a large quantity of moisture; hence ocean winds are laden with moisture. If they ♦ '• On the Mean Pressure of the Atmosphere and the Prevailing Winds over the Glohe." Trans. Roy. So. Edinb., 1868. 22 338 CLIMATOLOGY. blow from the north they are cold ; if from the south they are warm. The converse of this proposition is true of Southern latitudes. Winds which traverse sandy plains part with moisture and become hot and dry. On account of its different absorbent capacity for moisture at dif- ferent temperatures, if a warm atmospheric current be rapidly chilled the excess of moisture is precipitated as rain or snow. This is what happens when a warm ocean wind comes in contact with the cooler atmosphere of a mountain side. If the course of the mountain range of a countr3' be perpendicular to that of its prevailing wind, the moisture is lost from the latter and the climate upon the opposite side is dry ; but if the direction of the mountain chain and prevailing wind be parallel, or nearly so, the climatic diff'erence between the two sides is not marked. The atmosphere exerts, at the level of the sea, a pressure of fifteen pounds upon each square inch, but as we rise above this elevation the pressure diminishes at the rate of one pound for every two thousand feet. It may be surmised, therefore, that the elevation of a country above the sea has an important influence upon organic life. The nature of the surface and soil has a notable effect upon the tem- perature, moisture, and purity of the aii\ Sand is a poor conductor, as heat accumulates at the surface and is radiated. During the night it parts with much heat; the climate of sandy deserts is, therefore, hot by daj'' and distinctly cold by niglit. Loam and clay are better con- ductors, heat falling upon their surfaces being quickly conveyed down- ward ; consequently, these soils are neither so hot by day nor cool by night. Ground covered by vegetation does not become heated to the same degree as that which is bare ; there is, consequently, a more equable distribution of heat throughout the twenty-four hours. Forests protect the earth from the influence of the sun ; they also diminish evaporation and increase humidity. It has been stated that large bodies of water communicate an abun- dance of moisture to the atmosphere; they also affect climate through the absorption of heat. Water is remarkable for its great specific heat; it absorbs atmospheric heat slowlj^, and parts with it similarly by radiation, and thus acts as a conservator of temperature, moderating the heat of summer and the cold of winter. Warm ocean currents, par- ticularly the Gulf-stream, which flows like a river through the ocean, produce a considerable effect upon the climate, not only of the ocean itself, but also that of the coasts which it approaches. The compara- tively moderate climate of the British Islands is, in part, due to this cause. The same effect is produced l)y the Japan-stream upon the climate of our Pacific coast. To acquire the benefit of an ocean climate one must CLIMATOLOGY. 339 take a sea-voj^age, but residence upon a small island situated at some dis- tance from the main land approximates the same conditions, provided the locality is favorable. The climate of different regions differs in respect to the amount of free electricity present in the atmosphere. The electricity of the air is of a positive quality, while that of the earth is negative. The origin of the former is, therefore, supposed' to be by induction from the latter. Free electricity is most abundant in cold, dry climates, and at a high alti- tude. In situations where the air is but little exposed to contamination, as at sea or upon mountain sides, a portion of the oxygen is thought to exist under the form of ozone. An exact estimate of the effect of climate upon the health of man is very difficult and perhaps not even possible ; for, not the least important feature of a climate is its favorable or unfavorable influence upon habits conducive to health and strength. On the other hand, human races are found subsisting in every variety of climate. The shores of the Arctic Ocean; the damp forests of South America; the hot, low coast of Guinea; the jungles of India, and the frozen plains of Siberia and British America are found peopled by indigenous tribes, each of which seems to flourish in its native habitat. As a rule, mountaineers and Northern men are larger .and possessed of more vigor and endurance than lowlanders and Southern races. "Climates which prove extremely deadly to white men seem com- paratively innocuous to the native races, who seemingly inherit an adapta- tion to their atmospheric and physical environment ; although, possibly, we have heretofore overestimated the immunity enjoyed by natives. The paludal fevers which prevail in Cochin China during the rainy season spare neither natives nor strangers. In Senegal, though fewer blacks than whites are admitted to hospital, yet the former remain five times as long as the latter, and the mortality is somewhat higher. Again, in attempting to determine the influence of climate, it is doubtful how far we are jastifiied in ascribing the grave, specific diseases of the tropics to climate per se. The drainage of marshes is capable of abolishing malarial fevers, and preventive medicine is not without hope that disorders hitherto considered as peculiarly of climatic origin may eventually yield to prophjdactic measures based upon scientific researches. By modifications of the earth's surface man has undoubtedly been instru- mental in affecting marked climatic alterations ; and it is not improbable that, stimulated by colonizing or commercial enterprise, he may yet succeed in rendering habitable to civilized races tracts of country in which they have as j-et been unable to dwell. The fact, however, that a constitutional adaptation to climate does occur and'maj' be either inborn or acquired is shown by the observation that a 340 CLIMATOLOGY. change of climate is attended by a period during which the system is uneasily accommodating itself to its changed surroundings. During this time the resistant powers are diminislied, as Americans or Europeans fall an easy prey to tropical fevers. Even a less-marked contrast, as from the Atlantic to the Pacific seaboard, the Rocky Mountains, the prairies of the Northwest, or to the Gulf coast, gives rise to certain perturbations of health. This gradual habituation to unaccustomed climatic influences is termed acclimatization. Accurate comparative observations upon the effect of climate are especially desired. Dr. Rattray, of the British Navy,* has demonstrated that, contrarj' to the opinion usually entertained, the rate of respiration diminishes in persons passing from a temperate to a hot climate. The. variation was not always the same ; in some cases the rate fell from 16.5 in England, in winter, to 12.74 and 13.74 in the tropics. A consequence of this was a notable reduction in the quantity of air respired. The average in the temperate zone at 54° F. is 239.91 cubic inches per minute, while in the tropics at 82° F. only 195.69 cubic inches were inspired, — a differ- ence of 38.65 cubic feet in twentj'-four hours. Rattray also found that the heart's action was slower in the tropics, and that the average pulse- rate was 2| beats per minute less than in temperate climates. The same observer estimated that in hot countries the functional activity of the skin is increased by 24 per cent. The appetite is diminished, the taste for animal food is impaired ; that for cool fruit is increased. The quantity of bile is not increased, judging by the amount passed with the faeces. The effect of moist heat is especially depressant. In Tonquin bodily or mental effort is almost impossible to Europeans in summer, as m.ay be seen from the following conditions : Drowsiness is unintermitting,the skin is constantly covered with perspiration, and, spite of drowsiness, sound sleep can only be obtained after repeated cold baths. During the hottest period there is a difference of only 3°-4° 0. (5.4° to 7.2° F.) between day and night, and the humidity adds to the suffering produced by the high temperature. At the same time it has been noticed that the ansemia and depression due to summer heat leaves the system remarkably susceptible to the impression of cold. After a year's residence, however, a tem- perature of 12° C. (53.6° F.) can scarcely be borne without fire.f Experience convinces us that, whether we are able or not to give a rational explanation of the fact, improvement takes place in an invalid's condition simply by a change froja one climate to another— exchange of climate. We should endeavor to be judicious in influencino- the choice * " On the Effects of Change of Clin;3,t3 on the Human Economy," by A. Rattray, M.D. Surgeon R. N., in Proceedings of the Royal Society, Nos. 122-126, 139 (1869-72). . ' • ■' t Annual of the Universal Medical Sciences, 1888 : "Medical Climatology and Balneology," by George H. Roh^, of Baltimore, Md. CLIMATOLOGY. 341 of climate. It is probable that certain atmospheric and telluric con- ditions are peculiarly beneficial in certain diseases. We receive less aid than might be expected from a study of prevalent diseases. Those char- acteristic of hot countries are, for the most part, of infectious origin, and therefore largely preventable ; and in temperate climates we find phthisis develop in the natives of the very regions to which consumptives are sent as health resorts, e.g.^ Switzerland and Minnesota. The United, States furnishes us with a great number of health re- sorts of every variety of climate. Our extensive coast, chain of great lakes, and immense river system enable us to take advantage of an ocean climate or of the pure air found over large bodies of water. The purest air is found at sea, on mountains, on elevated table-lands, and in pine- forests. These are, therefore, the localities which suggest themselves when change of climate becomes desirable. But a change of clijnate involves, or should involve, much more than altered atmospheric conditions. Ciiange of scene, of interests, of occupation, and of habits result from change of place, and each of these factors has its eflTect in promoting im- provement. Increased activity out-of-doors is a very important essential of the new mode of life. To secure the advantage of change the invalid , must freelj' expose himself to the influence of the climate. A temporary change is of undoubted benefit after a severe attack of acute illness. The nature of the disease and the season of the year are circumstances which should govern our choice of a place to be visited ; but chronic disorders demand permanent or, at least, long- continued residence. Pulmonary tuberculosis is the affection, above all others, to which the climate cure is applicable. Whenever possible, the patient should be sent away as soon as the disease has manifested itself. Nothing is more pitiable than to see one far advanced in the second stage compelled to take a long and tiresome journey, to leave home and friends and go among strangers, to arrive exhausted at his destination only to die far away from home. In the first stage, however,, phthisis is susceptible of remarkable improvement from suitable climate, aided by out-of-door life and exercise. The progress of infection is de- layed or checked, the bacilli perish or become inactive, the products of inflammation are absorbed, the symptoms are ameliorated, cough lessens or disappears, appetite and digestion improve, the sleep becomes sound and refreshing, and the strength and weight are increased. Tliese results, it is true, cannot always be expected, j^et thej' occur in a considerable pro- portion of cases. But it cannot be asserted that any variety of climate is of specific efficacy in consumption. Some cases will do better at sea ; others in the mountains or woods, upon high plains or upon a Southern searcoast. Nor is it possible to decide infallibly in a given case which 342 CLIMATOLOGY. resort will be found most beneficial. The previous condition and habits of the patient may assist us in forming a conclusion. If a man has been tolerably robust and active, invigorated by cold weather, a cold, dry climate, such as that of Minnesota, will probably be found of advantage. It is prudent not to make the change to a cold climate in winter. Colo- rado is also beneficial in cases of the same type. On account of its ele- vation and diminished atmospheric pressure, Colorado should not be recommended where a disposition to haemoptysis is present, where the heart is weak or diseased, or where an active pneumonia or emphysema is present. If the patient is of delicate build, averse to cold weather and physical exercise, a mild climate, either moist or drj^, is preferable. The Adirondaeks in summer ; Thomas ville, Ga. ; Asheville, N. C. ; Aiken, Ga. ; Florida, and the Gulf coast in winter ; and Southern California at all seasons, oiTer a wide selection, by which other considerations than that of health may be met. The emanations from pine -forests are held by some to possess direct antiseptic properties. We are not able, however, to place much reliance upon this consideration. As a rule, men are more likely than women to be benefited by a cold climate. Also, a dry is more generally advantageous than a moist atmosphere, as a rule, although not infrequently a moderately-warm moist air is decidedly beneficial to cough. An ocean voyage in warm latitudes is one of the best modes of climatic treatment. Patients seldom fail in obtaining relief, and haemoptysis has proved no contra-indieation. As scrofula is generated or, at least, nourished by unsanatory modes of life, it is susceptible of improvement by climatic influences. A warm and dry air, with out-of-door life, is that to which we should recommend such patients to resort. Syphilis may also be benefited by the same conditions. Catarrhal affections of the respiratory passages are often markedlj'' benefited by changed atmospheric surroundings, although we maj- not always predict the locality which will be found most suitable. Some cases are relieved by moisture, others by dryness. These troubles are apt to become worse ill cold climates. Asthma is not seldom ameliorated by a total change, — from moist to dry or vice versa, from low to high, or from coast to inland region. Diabetes mellitus requires warmth. The temperature is depressed in this disease. The patient does better in a warm, uniform climate. This serves the further purpose of promoting the action of the skin, — always au important requisite in the treatment. The same is true of diabetes insipidus. Chronic rheumatism, muscular rheumatism, and rheumatoid arthritis often derive more alleviation from a change to a warm, dr}- climate than LIGHT, 343 from any remedy or combination of remedies tliat can be devised. The indication to leave a malarious district seems plain. Chronic forms of malarial poisoning not only linger indefinitely, but they also predispose to secondary ailments dependent upon impaired nutrition. The patient should be transferred to a high, cool, dry region, destitute of swamps. Mountain air exerts a very favorable influence upon anaemia, whetlier de- pendent upon simple loss of blood (haemorrhage), malaria, digestive failure, or even lead and mercury poisoning.* The more inveterate forms of slof Europe were visited in search of every advantage of travel and recreation, but nothing touched the settled gloom of the patient until, in Vienna, we resorted to the grand opera. While listening mechanically to dulcet sjanphonies intertwined with the mellifluous notes of enrapturing cadenzas, following each other in rapid succession and harmonic progression, there appeared in the patient's face and demeanor the first manifestation of interest that had been noticeable for months. Subsequent visits not only confirmed the opinion first enter- tained, but continued and augmented the impression thus produced, until within a few weeks we had the satisfaction of witnessing a complete recover}'. The distressing tension of the nervous system and the restlessness engendered by business cares and rivalries, or continued suspense, which are often productive of insomnia, are sensibly modified and soothed by music. The chronic dyspeptic is very apt to be sad, morose, irritable, or hypochondriacal ; such should be encouraged to resort to the concert and the opera for entertainment and improvement. Those who have become weary from continued pursuit of an engrossing intellectual occupation may be most happily refreshed through the instrumentality of music. In short, this beautiful art is a most valuable restorative to physical or mental energies enfeebled by too assiduous employment. BLOOD-LETTING. "While the practice of blood-letting is not wholly confined to surgery, it is more distinctly connected with the practice of medicine than with therapeutics. It is, however, a remedial agent which the practitioner may be called upon to adopt, and in some respects is complementary to the practice of transfusion ; and, although the scope of the present work does not permit its consideration in detail, the authors feel warranted in directing attention to the conditions which seem to demand it, together 348 BLOOD-LETTING. with some remarks regarding the advantages to be gained therefrom, as ■well as the dangers to be avoided. The methods employed for this purpose are various, but ordinarily they may he divided into general and local blood-letting. In the former is included venesection, arteriotora}-, and cardiocentesis, or cardiac punc- ture ; while in the latter may be mentioned cupping, puncturing, scarifi- cation, incision, and leeching, — all methods which have special indica- tions, but which are so well known that but little attention need be given to them. The subject of local blood-letting will therefore be referred to briefly at the close of the present article. General blood-letting is usually practiced by means of venesection, and the opinion as to its value has undergone many and material changes within the past century. At present tliere is a consensus of opinion that this practice, once so highly prized, should not be wholly relegated to oblivion, although it should be noted that there is still a popular prejudice against the custom, which has doubtless been fanned into activity by those who would make capital by their opposition to established usages. That venesection is a valuable procedure under certain conditions there can be no question in the minds of experienced physicians, but that the remedy may be abused by its adoption when uncalled for we shall not attempt to deny. Before pointing out the indications for its emplo3'ment, therefore, it will be appropriate to give some attention to the conditions which it counteracts, together with some reference to the eifects that may be secured. Venesection may be employed either for its general or for its local action. In the case of a general pletlioric condition of the system, ac- companied b^- lassitude and mental hebetude, the withdrawal of blood from a vein will be followed by an improvement wliich will manifest itself throughout the entire system. Having admitted this much, we are pre- pared to understand and appreciate the advantages that miglit accrue in similar cases cliaracterized by general turgescence of the blood-vascular system, in which the more highly organized structures, like the cerebral tissues, stand in imminent danger of being injured should the congestion continue. Again, reasoning from analogj^ we are warranted in assum- ing that, as the whole of a thing is greater than any of its parts, special organs or parts of the human system may receive proportionate good from the same influence which benefl.ts the entire organism. Thus, acute congestions affecting the liver, the kidneys, the lungs, or that resulting from contusions and other injuries, may be relieved in part, if not wholly overcome, by the timely withdrawal of an amount of the circulating fluid which shall perceptibly modify the activity of the circulation. This proposition is true, however, only so far as it applies to those organs and BLOOD-LETTING. 349 tissues ■which are within the range of the general circulation, and would not apply witli equal force to parts that are in some respects isolated, such, for instance, as the extremities, or to congestions affecting the organs of vision. Here it would be requisite, to obtain local effects, that local blood-letting should be practiced, and experience is fully in accord with these conclusions. In this connection it will be useful to note that the principles jnst outlined are more especially applicable to what are known as sthenic cases, in which acute congestions may be relieved without seriously em- barrassing the vitality of the patient. The force and frequency of the pulse are lessened, and an artificial antemia is tlius created, wliich, in the asthenic, might result disastrously to the patient. The convulsions which are liable to follow in these cases are supposed to be due, in part, to a want of oxygen when the progress of active inflammation begins to sub- side, although we must not forget that the accumulation of carbonic acid in the system has the effect of partly subduing the pain. After free venesection has been practiced there is a notable impairment of all the functions except that of absorption, which is largely augmented, although this depression is but temporary ; and it is under these conditions that we are able to observe the marked benefits wliich attend upon the exhibi- tion of certain remedies, — for example, stimulants. The relation which venesection bears to transfusion will be apparent from a study of the uses which may be made of these two methods in the case of poisoning. By the first we are enabled to rid the economy at once of a considerable portion of a poison which affects the nervous sys- tem through its presence in the blood, and thus the alternate use of venesection and transfusion will at times enable the physician to carry his patient over a critical period which could not be fully met by the administration of physiological antagonists. Substitutes have been offered for general blood-letting in tlie treat- ment of the Initial period of various affections, notably that of pneu- monia, and, without trenching upon the contagious character of this disease, some of them may be referred to as follows : Ergot has been 1 strongly re(!?)mmended because of its property of contracting the smaller blood-vessels, and thus preventing the congestion and engorgement of tlie capillaries of the delicate pulmonary tissue. Upon the same prin- ciple, barium chloride has been given, as well as digitalis, but it is doubt- ful if these remedies alone, in well-marked cases, can control and counter- act the progress of the disease, because their successful use depends upon their power over the heart. Whenever the effect of the drug is such that the vis a frontis is suflBcient to overcome the vis a tergo, then the activity of the circulation will subside; but so long as the powerful 350 BLOOD-LETTING. contractions of the cardiac muscle are not modified there will be the danger that the delicate structures of the lung may give way. Tlie theory is an excellent one, and may serve a good and suflfieient purpose in a large number of cases, but it cannot altogether be relied upon. On the other hand, we have to note the use of aconite, gelsemium, and veratrum by some practitioners, these remedies being given in the expec- tation that the force of the heart will be so modified that resolution will take place through the influence of the vis medicatrix naturae, and the general principles Involved in this method, it must be confessed, appear to be more practical than those of the former. Tlie danger on this side is that the remedy may be continued to an extent that the heart-muscle will be so affected that failure is threatened, and either plan, therefore, must be carried out with the greatest caution. Cold applications have ' also been used, as well as hot fomentations, but these have already been considered under their appropriate heading. THERAPY. — The use of the lancet in all cases of pulmonary conges- tion was for many years an established custom, and Hartshorne, of Philadelphia, has very industriously collected a vast array of statistics going to show that the mortality in pneumonia has materially increased since the discontinuance of the practice. Due allowance, however, is to be made for all conclusions based upon statistics alone, for it is an ac- knowledged fact that' such deductions are notoriously misleading. It cannot be gainsaid, however, that under the conditions just outlined the use of the lancet will be the means of affording marked benefit in the initial period of pneumonia, before consolidation has taken place. Although it may appear paradoxical, venesection is nseful in cases ef pulmonary haemorrhage. By means of a ligature the supply of blood may be artificially cut off from the general circulation, and occasionally this may be the only means at hand. In cerebral congestion, both active and passive, blood-letting may be practiced with advantage, but in the passive variety care is required that the amount of blood withdrawn affords perceptible relief, as a sufficient amount might be permitted to flow to cause untoward sj^mp- toms without anj' advantage to the patient. Puerperal eclampsia is the affection which has formed the bone of contention for more than a generation, and as it is a subject of great importance its consideration merits more than a passing notice. This accident is met with in various forms, the chief of which are hysterical, epileptiform, apoplectiform and ureemic, and it will be required that some attention should be given to these different phases, else we shall be imperfectly prepared to cope with so formidable a malady. The hysterical form may be classed as physiological, and hewce it would be useless, BLOOD-LETTING. 351 if not harmful, to bleed ; the treatment would naturally suggest the use of those remedies that are adapted for the relief of the condition in the absence of pregnancy. The epileptiform and apoplectiform may be classed as anatomical ; at least, they are due to anatomical changes, and the first verjf quickly passes to the latter when not relieved, which may be sen- sibly lessened by the removal of pressure. No agent is so well calcu- lated to do this as the prompt use of the lancet, and the use of anaesthetics and drugs to control the activity of the circulation is merely palliative and often a waste of valuable time. To be sure, the consent of the patient's friends or relatives must be obtained if the physician has time, but it is a manifest duty, and no delay should occur unless special reasons can be urged. Ursemic convulsions are strictly pathological ; their appearance can sometimes be anticipated and an attack averted by an examination of the water, and this method should alwaj-s be adopted in the later months of pregnane}' with a view to ascertain the condition of the kidneys. Pilocarpine has been strongly urged for the relief of uraemic toxaemia, and is efficient, but we cannot afford to neglect the immediate advantages that will follow a judicious use of the lance. Bleeding has been freely advocated for tlie relief of congestion of the. kidneys, in uterine engorgement, pleurisj', peritonitis, and other abdominal aflFections, and in cardiac embarrassment, and in all these instances the exigencies of the case will severely tax the ingenuity of the physician. He should not forget the great value of suitable purgatives in these cases, and this is especially true where symptoms of intestinal sepsis exist, as such a condition frequently but adds fuel to the flame. The decided value of nux vomica or some preparation of strychnine or strophanthus is often of advantage to meet the depression following venesection, but attention to the nutrition is often of greater importance. Absorption is rapid, and liquids can be freely administered if tlie stomach permits, but if that organ fails rectal enemata should be ordered. Arteriotomy has been practiced to some extent, and is said to be more easily managed in laboratory experiments, but it is so much more formidable that few are willing to undertake it, and, besides, there is some question as to the advisability of removing from the circulation Mood that has been oxygenated and allowing tliat to remain which has become contaminated through internal respiration. More recently puncture of the heart has been undertaken, but this must be considered rather experimental than practical, and, judging from tlie misdirected eflforts of the operators, we cannot regard this operation with favor, the uncertainty of the anatoniical relations rendering it a procedure of doubtful utility. 352 BLOOD-LETTINa. Local blood-letting is practiced in accordance with the same general principles governing the abstr^iction of blood for its constitutional effect, but we must not overlook the important fact already named, to wit., that the only function which it increases is that of absorption. Whatever method maj' be adopted for this purpose with a view to relieve a stag- nant condition of the circulation, or for the purpose of overcoming any more deep-seated affection through its revulsive action, the increased absorption by the tissues is the main object to be attained, as it is largely through this mechanism that nature effects repairs to diseased tissues. Cupping is a well-known method of procedure for the relief of local congestions, but is of more general value when the blood stasis is of the passive variety, which may be due to disease or injuries, as in the case of the eye, ear, the kidneys, or the lungs. Two methods are practiced, called " dry " and " wet cupping ;" the demand for eacli of these will manifest itself to the intelligent physician, and as they both belong more properly to surgery than a treatise like the present but little further need be said. Puncturing has a similar action, and may be used in like conditions, or, as in the case of " wet cups," both may be combined, but of course this latter is more formidable, and is attended with more or less pain, to which many patients will seriously object. In some skin diseases, such as chronic eczema, acne, erysipelas, and especially in the treatment of carbuncle, this method is of great value. Scarification, like puncturing, is intended to be more superficial in its action, but is Squally valuable in diseased conditions characterized by general depression of the cutaneous sj-stem. The same revulsive effects may be noted, and absorption of morbid products will be greatly facili- tated. Incisions are especially useful in irritable conditions, either general or circumscribed, where healing is prevented by what may be termed local trophic neuroses, of which irritable ulcers furnish an illustration. In such instances it will often be found that superficial incisions along the margin of the diseased area will be followed by prompt development of healthy granulations, although some surgeons would have us believe that this healing process is favored by permitting the detached area to occupy a portion of the excavation, — a theory wliich is scarcely tenable in view of our knowledge of tlie Influence of the trophic nerves. Leeching is often preferable to the cupping-glass owing to the fact that it is adapted to smaller areas, and can be used wlien it would not be available to practice cupping, as in the case of uterine engorgement, applications to the scrotum, and to the eye. SUSPENSION. 353 SUSPENSION. The latest remedy recommended for the relief of locomotor ataxia and kindred, affections is by means of suspension, which is a surgical rather thd,u a medical topic. The present work would, however, be in- complete without some reference to this important departure for over- coming a most intractable malady. A number of observers have con- firmed the first reports of Motchoukowsky, of Odessa, who first recom- mended it in 1883, amongst whom may be mentioned Professor Charcot, of Paris, and "Weir-Mitchell, of Philadelphia, although it appears in evidence that the latter had been aware of its advantages previous to the announcement of Motchoukowsky, and refers to its application by his father. Prof. J. K. Mitchell, many years ago. The method has doubtless been overestimated by some and under- rated by others, and, while its value cannot be denied in properly selected cases, the reader should be cautioned that it is not without danger, as a number of accidents have been reported within the past six months. Various views have been promulgated to account for the benefit accruing to patients subjected to the operation, some of which may be mentioned as follows : Dr. Julius Althaus suggests that as spinal meningitis gener- ally accompanies pathological changes in the nerve-tubes of the posterior columns, suspension produces a revulsive effect similar to that of cau- terization, and, further, that the stretching process has a tendency to break down adhesions resulting from chronic meningitis, and the fact tliat suspension has shown itself of greater value in advanced than in recent cases apparently confirms this view. In Prof. Charcot's cases it is said the gait of the patients promptly improved ; vesical troubles, when present, disappeared, and the lightning pains subsided with a return of sexual desire and capacity, although the knee-jerk remained absent, and there was no perceptible return of the pupil reaction. Althaus outlines the indications for suspension in the following affections : Locomotor ataxia in the second stage, paralysis agitans, spastic spinal paralysis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and func- tional nerve prostration. Weir-Mitchell speaks highly of its utility in Potfs disease of the spine, and insists that no case of Pott's paralysis should be considered desperate without its trial. It remains to be added here that when this method is inaugurated the comfort of the patient should be considered as of paramount impor- tance, and whatever the prospective benefits the endurance of the patient must not be exhausted. 23 •