RC 51 T"3 Oopyrigfit^?- COEfRIGHT DEPOSE / THE SOLDIER'S MEDICAL FRIEND THE SOLDIER'S MEDICAL FRIEND A GIFT TO THE SURGEONS IN THE SERVICE OF THE UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT AND THEIR ALLIES BY m/o: TERRY, M.D., M EX-SURGEON GENERAL S. N. Y., EX-PRESIDENT U. S. BOARD OF PENSION SURGEONS OF UTICA, N. Y.J MEMBER OF THE ASSOCIATION OF MILITARY SURGEONS OF THE UNITED STATES, HONORARY MEMBER OF THE SURGICAL AND GYNECOLOGICAL SOCIETY OF MASS., ETC. THE PLIMPTON PRESS NORWOOD, MASS. 1917 %v COPYRIGHT, I Q I 7, BY M. O. TERRY, M.D. All rights reserved / OCT -4 1917 DGU473827 "W© ( PREFACE THE body machine requires for perfect health systematic attention, which the soldier cannot always give, but a few things borne in mind may save his life. It is up to each individual, therefore, to keep in mind the essential principles for the preservation of normal physiology. Appendicitis can be avoided by adopting as near as possible the same hour each day for disposing of the ashes created by existenc^ and activity. It should be thorough and regularly performed if he wishes to avoid gall stones, obstruction, and many of the serious functional disturbances which upset the whole animal economy, as stomach and heart symptoms, and toxaemia, which may turn the tide of health into all sorts of complications ending fatally. Arteriosclerosis may be considered as harden- ing of the arterial walls of vessels and is largely the result of overnourishment and a laggard circulation which contains more or less toxins, the products of meat fermentation. Increase the peristalsis by lessening meat diet, substituting vi Preface as much as possible cereals, fruits, and vegetables. This diet will give strength, muscle, and pure blood, instead of the enervation resulting from bacteria in the intestines, largely the result of meat fermentation with its suspended stasis in the bowels. Germs coming in contact with a mucous membrane will be inhibited in their growth if a spray be used for the nose and throat each day, frequently, if possible, of liquid petroleum preferably to which is added oil of eucalyptus, apinol, or pineoleum. This means that la grippe, influenza, or contagious diseases will gain no footing and that infection will not ensue. So, in typhoid fever, if olive oil or petroleum purified be taken internally at least three times a day it will not only prevent perforation, but will aid greatly in recovery. Horse epizootics is prevented in the same way by using even crude petroleum if necessary. Study and try Bromine mentioned and illus- trated for poisoned wounds and as an antiseptic. In the War of the Rebellion it proved its superi- ority in gangrene. It has no superior for infected wounds. CONTENTS PAGE Preface v The Philosophy of Oil Treatment for Appen- dicitis, with Maxims for Ready Reference . i Treatment of Appendicitis 2 Oil Treatment of Appendicitis .... 8 The Prevention of Degenerative Changes of Living Tissues — How to Forestall Old Age; Arteriosclerosis with Its Incidental Compli- cations — How to Look Young and Feel Young 11 Diphtheria Successfully Treated without An- titoxin 15 Nature and Uses of Bromine in Medicine and Surgery, Especially in Septic Conditions . 18 Food Value of Fruit, Its Antiseptic Bearing on Health and a Regulator of Physiologi- cal Functions 27 Practical Observations on Treatment of Pneu- monia and Pleurisy 32 Cancer 37 Conservative Methods with Special Referen- ces to Medicated Galvanic Current in Treatment of Tubercular Glands, Goiter and Uterine Fibroids, with Suggestions for Treatment of Prostatic Hypertrophy ... 40 vii viii Contents -Cpage Observations on Care of Children . . . . L Treatment of Typhoid Fever 52 The Specific Action of Drugs and Not " Simi- LIA SlMILIBUS CURANTUR" NOR SYMPTOMATOL- OGY, The Scientific Basis of Law of Homeo- pathic Therapeutics 54 What is the Matter with Doctors and Sur- geons ? . 56 Some Common Sense Suggestions 58 Preventive Features of Difficulties Merging into Surgical Necessity 63 Invaluable Prescriptions and Measures for Various Difficulties 76 Invaluable Prescriptions and Measurements for Various Ailments i Index 85 The Soldier's Medical Friend THE PHILOSOPHY OF THE OIL TREAT- MENT FOR APPENDICITIS, WITH MAXIMS FOR READY REFERENCE TREATMENT OF APPENDICITIS FOR many years I have been treating appen- dicitis in a most radical manner and on a nonsurgical plan. My efforts have been directed in line with the cause of more than 95 per cent of the cases as they come to the surgeon. Vitiated physiology, in the form of constipation, due to unsuitable diet, or to neglect of the bowels, the failure to follow a system of regularity which nature invariably demands for the healthful performance of her functions, are the most frequent causes of this almost unnecessary yet direful difficulty. As it is almost impossible to instruct the public as to the importance of this statement and, therefore, as we must necessarily 2 The Soldier's Medical Friend have these disorders to contend with, the question arises, How best can we manage these cases as emergencies? The principles involved in the treatment of appendicitis by the nonoperative plan are as follows: Catharsis, colon or high enema, fomentations with flaxseed poultices, and applications of hot sweet oil, the prolonged use of sweet oil taken internally, and a pultaceous diet. It really does not matter what cathartics are used (each surgeon may have his own sweet dose) so long as the results are accomplished. My experience has led me to use, whenever possible, castor oil and sweet oil combined. The former is cathartic and the latter is soothing and relaxing to a congested mucous membrane, including the entire bowel tissue. The dose of the former must necessarily vary from half an ounce to an ounce and a half. Of the latter I give double the quantity of the former. The sweet oil should be continued in doses of from one ounce to a wineglassful, followed by a glass of hot water, repeating the same every three or six hours, according to degree of soreness and pain. But supposing the patient cannot take the oil? If none of the mineral waters will produce the The Soldier s Medical Friend 3 desired result, give from five to ten grains of calomel with ten to twenty grains of bicarbonate of soda dissolved in a glass of hot water, repeating every three hours until the desired result is ob- tained. I have never given more than twenty grains. At the same time, however, it must be borne in mind that the external applications must be made of flaxseed and hot olive oil. Also that the enemas must be given without delay. At times I use three or four ounces of glycerine, followed by soap and water. Then, again, I use from half to a pint of olive oil, followed by the enema. I always try to send the oil up as far as the ileo-caecal valve for its relaxing effects, for this will assist in relieving pain. It will be well in severe cases to place your patient in a Trendelenberg position. Sometimes it will be best to use the knee chest position. So long as there is any sensitive condition in the region of the appendix I continue the olive oil, giving about half an ounce to a glass of hot water half an hour before meals three times a day. The diet should be of oatmeal gruel (strained), milk with salt or peptonized, and a free allowance of water. If it be asked if any recurrence takes place 4 The Soldier s Medical Friend after this treatment I say, most emphatically, "Yes," through neglect to observe the instruc- tions given, by which the same causes are set in motion which first induced the attack. It is with appendicitis as with other conditions, like pneumonia, tonsillitis, etc., a patient once having it is more liable to a recurrence than one who has not. If, however, by neglect, or from a cold, pain ensues, an immediate attention to the difficulty, using poultices, taking the olive oil and hot water and clearing the bowels is under- gone, a speedy relief has in my observation followed. Gradually the predisposition to the recurrences will disappear, but by neglect nothing but disaster awaits the patient. This is also true in regard to the operative procedure, for other- wise why do cases return to the hospital for an operation after the appendix has been removed? It has not been necessary to operate on any of the cases which have come under my notice in the acute stages, or in the recurrent stages, owing to the fact that I have been particular to instruct each of my patients in detail as to the importance of attending to his case in the manner above suggested. In conclusion, I will give the treatment in the form of appendicitis maxims — The Soldier s Medical Friend 5 1. Remember that constipation and irregu- larity of the bowels are the factors to be con- sidered, and that diarrhoea is simply an effort on the part of Nature to relieve impaction, conges- tion, and inflammation. 2. That cathartic medicine in some form should be administered at once, but that half an ounce of castor oil and the same quantity of olive oil is to be preferred, followed immediately by a glass of hot water, which dose is to be repeated in three hours unless a thorough evacuation has been induced. 3. That the condition of the bowels desired is a stool free from hard lumps and yellow in character. 4. That morphine or opiates in any form should never be given in any state of the difficulty, as it smothers symptoms and arrests the peristalsis of the bowels, a condition found in impaction, which at times Nature tries to relieve by diarrhoea. 5. That for pain speedy relief is obtained by repeated hot flaxseed poultices covered with hot sweet oil, or the oil may first be applied to the abdomen. Also that enemas of soap and water, or bicarbonate of soda, in the proportion of a teaspoonful to a quart of water, preceded 6 The Soldier s Medical Friend by six to eight ounces of olive oil, will prove of marked value. At times half a pint of olive oil thrown up by the colon tube and allowed to remain from three to six hours will aid in reducing the inflammation and assuage the suffering. 6. That in sharp attacks the high or colon enema should be given, and at times the patients should be placed in the Trendelenberg position. 7. That glycerine and water, in the propor- tion of 1 to 4 is to be used at times to dissolve impaction. 8. That food in acute attacks should be omitted and only water allowed and that freely. Later, oatmeal gruel strained, milk peptonized, mutton or chicken broth with strained rice gruel. 9. All of the above suggestions should be carried out as indicated, vigorously, systemati- cally, and perseveringly. 10. The remedies used throughout as indicated, are: aconite, veratrum viride belladonna, bryonia phenacetin, calomel and soda tablets, pulsatilla, and arsenicum. Tinctures are given in doses graded to the inflammation and idiosyncrasy of the patient in hand. 11. The calomel is given for two purposes in conjunction with the soda: (a) For its cathartic effect when the castor oil cannot be taken. It The Soldier s Medical Friend 7 will be necessary in these cases to give from two and a half grains with three times the amount of soda, followed by a glass of hot water, to five and occasionally ten grains. 12. (b) For chronic recurrent appendicitis with marked thickening, and plastic exudate into the surrounding tissues. 13. If you ask when to operate, I advise following the indicated line of rational surgery. If the quick pulse and pain do not subside speedily, or show improvement within a few hours, it will be good surgery to operate — if the patient will allow you to do so. If they do not, continue the "Oil Treatment" vigorously. 14. The easily diagnosed pus case requires speedy surgical attention. 15. That half an ounce of olive oil followed by a glass of hot water, taken half an hour before meals, should be continued until pain or soreness ceases, which may be three months. As im- provement ensues take two doses a day, and finally one. OIL TREATMENT OF APPENDICITIS 1 Editor Medical Summary: /^\N January 21, 1885, I gave a public utter- ^^ ance which I can authenticate to The Dangers Incident to Promiscuous Kissing. Six months later the article in substance was appro- priated by a Baltimore physician without refer- ence to mine, he publishing it in pamphlet form. I sent him mine and challenged him to antedate my public utterance, which was ignored. In 1889 I gave public utterance to the Dangers Incident to the Communion Cup. My authority for this advanced thought has been accredited by Dr. Anders of Philadelphia in the Medical Record when he gave the history of this advanced step in hygiene. My success in The Oil Treatment of Appendi- citis has been so great that Dr. Schrady, Editor of the Medical Record, in an editorial, said that in line with Dr. Terry's success Dr. Pavy of Australia had cured 206 cases of typhoid fever by using olive oil either internally or by giving 1 Reprint from the August Medical Summary. The Soldier's Medical Friend g enemas. This article was written perhaps more than fifteen years ago. These references are given, first, to show that I have been a believer in the microbe origin of diseases; and, second, that I intend to make a bold statement in regard to the cure of them. La grippe, infantile paralysis, diphtheria, pneumonia, and other admittedly germ diseases can be prevented and arrested by medicated oil nebulizations. The Educational Bulletin No. 2, on "How Colds are Contracted and How Immunity May Be Secured," as issued by The Mulford Com- pany, gives the up-to-date treatment of specific bacterial vaccines. It is very interesting and instructive. But I am making the statement that a medicated oil inhibits the growth of these various bacteria, or germs, and that the systematic use by nebulization at least morning and night will prevent all sorts of contagious diseases. It is the oil given in typhoid fever that pre- vents perforation by inhibiting the growth of typhoid germs. It is the oil taken that cures appendicitis by suspending the activity of various microbes, relaxes the tissues, and then by mod- erate intelligence on the part of the patient and io The Soldier s Medical Friend physician, permanently cures; for any one knows the importance of clearing out the bowels, and keeping them regular. As to the air passages use the following: liquid petroleum (such as alboline) ounces two; oil of eucalyptus, or apinol, drams one or two. It may be necessary to use it every two or three hours when under an exposure. But before going to the city and when returning; and when traveling, especially if using a drawing room or compartment, use thoroughly, as the microbes are there. The most convenient nebu- lizer is No. 38, Whitall Tatum Company. But pineoleum sets are good. THE PREVENTION OF DEGENERATIVE CHANGES OF LIVING TISSUES — HOW TO FORESTALL OLD AGE; ARTERIO- SCLEROSIS WITH ITS INCIDENTAL COM- PLICATIONS—HOW TO LOOK YOUNG AND TO FEEL YOUNG 1 In the morning: Take a hot bath lasting five to ten minutes, massaging the entire body by rolling muscles, elevating legs, and with open fingers pulling from feet to thighs, thus unload- ing the tissues of the structural changes incident to metamorphosis; also deeply knead the bowels by rolling motion from right to left following line of colon. It is believed that half of the work of the kidneys will be shifted by this procedure. Calisthenics adapted to one's age lasting ten to fifteen minutes following the rub will be found efficacious and to prepare you for the day. The imitation of horseback riding, swimming, sailor pulling, double-hip swinging motion, or a peristaltic twist motion are most excellent for the bowels. The bowels: No lasting health can exist 1 Published in the Medical Summary, of Philadelphia, Pa., for October, 1915. 12 The Soldier s Medical Friend without daily evacuations at a regular hour in the morning, and two are better than one. Keep mind on desire, and do not read, as it switches off concentration. Nature will awaken you each morning, if you will only heed the internal monitor which awakens you by a pleasant or startling dream. Rise at once. You will find the dial of the clock always the same. Wonderful is nature to show you the way to physiological health. Position in bed, in our opinion, is of much importance. On retiring turn to the right, and to the left during the morning hours. The changed positions facilitate intestinal movements. Arteriosclerosis is due to the degenerative changes caused by overfeeding. The supply and demand are not physiologically balanced. Physical and mental occupation are not in- telligently considered. Age and temperament are features of introspection which are not wisely looked into and therefore proper differentiation made. Diet suited to the conditions named; the quantity and quality; the systematic disposi- tion of effete material, thus forestalling its accumulation in the various organs and tissues of the body resulting in their degeneration, it The Soldier s Medical Friend 13 is thought should be borne in mind, if youthful tissues, a sprightly gait, and the alacrity of an exuberant soul be desired. Blood pressure readings, without organic lesions of the heart, will drop to about normal, from say 180 to 145 or 150, within a fewmonths without medicine or other treatment than the measures herein recommended, provided that beef, sweet- breads, pork, ham, sausage, and other red meats be dispensed with, and that only the require- ments of the body in each case be met from a diet taken from fruits, vegetables, cereals, nuts, and salt-water food or fish. As stated in other words, it is for the in- dividual to select from this diet, with few varieties at a given meal, just the requirements of his or her body and that the instructions be carried out as previously outlined. Appendicitis, beyond question, can be traced in nine cases out of ten to the violation of the admonitions set forth. The apparent strengthen- ing by a diet of beef and the like is more than offset by the enervation resulting from the putrefaction and the formation of various bacteria in the intestinal tract, the toxinic effect of which leads to sluggish inflammation of which the appendix is one factor. If you will but try a 14 The Soldier s Medical Friend diet without meat for five days, with free move- ment of the bowels, the awful odor of the in- testinal remains of that diet will give place to one of which there is scarcely a noticeable feature. Olive oil, Mt. Clemens Salts, and the bichloride of mercury cor. i-iooo tablets I advise all to understand. Olive oil with a glass of hot water for its soothing effects in the bowels — and this is probably true of stanolax or liquid paraffin, alboline, and other refined petroleum products — is most valuable, as irritating substances are soothed away and bacteria are removed and their growth inhibited in the intestinal tract. Mt. Clemens Salts appears to me to be a most mar- velous evaporated preparation as a laxative, for after-constipation does not ensue, and septic conditions are made aseptic. This is a strong statement, but my observation is based on years of its use in practice. Poisoning from any form of diet, as lobster, fish, and the like, can best be treated by the suggestions in the above paragraph, but the i-iooo of a grain of bichloride of mercury taken with some water will prove to those who try it an almost infallible life-saver. It may be neces- sary to repeat the dose at intervals of two or three hours for two or three doses. DIPHTHERIA SUCCESSFULLY TREATED WITHOUT ANTITOXIN 1 AS many thousands die of this difficulty, notwithstanding the use of antitoxin, the treatment I am suggesting can be used with the antitoxin or without it. When in practice, I saw all of my patients recover without the injection plan. I have called it "The Night and Day Treat- ment. " Get the following prescription put up: Tincture of muriate of iron, drachms two; sul- phurous acid, drachms three; chlorate of potash, drachms three; glycerin, ounce one; pure water, ounces five. Sig: One teaspoonful taken in a glass one- third full of water every 2, 3, or 6 hours, accord- ing to severity of case. Take through glass tube. Swab throat thoroughly, so as to keep the emulsion on as constantly as possible with the following: 1^ Flour of sulphur and glycerin triturated into an emulsion, ounces six; also 1 Reprint from Medical Summary, March, 1916. 1 6 The Soldier's Medical Friend tripsin one drachm and peroxide of hydrogen two drachms. Use clean swab each succeeding time and burn when used. If the glands are enlarged biniodide of mercury i-ioo tablet every two or three hours until better, dissolved on tongue. Without such enlargement: 1^ Mercury cyanuret, one- third grain; honey, four ounces. Sig: A teaspoonful every three hours between other prescription. Use bromine for evaporation as for typhoid, Bss to water Oi, or can use the formaldehyde and apparatus for diphtheria. There should be no odor from throat after first treatment. It de- stroys the germs if treatment is kept up day and night. In carrying out the treatment systemati- cally the patient is not allowed to sleep over half an hour at a time without one of the suggestions being carried out. I have made the interval 15 minutes in desperate cases. The membrane will either slowly slough off, or will roll up and come away in large leathery pieces. When the membrane gets into the trachea do not forget the calomel vapor. With difficulty of breathing apply hot Trask's ointment, and heat it in with a hot coal shovel or an electric light. This gives wonderful relief in addition. The Soldier s Medical Friend 17 Diphtheria demands the best and most loyal nursing day and night. The philosophy of the treatment consists in the destruction of the diphtheritic microbe which will prevent septicaemia or blood poison- ing, caused by the absorption of ptomains, the latter being due to the action of the microbes on tissue. The internal medication is a most wonderful antiseptic combination, the sulphurous acid being one of the most powerful antigermicides in existence that can be taken internally. Strange as it may seem, the usual weakness and pallor is not noticeable after this treatment, which is tonic and antiseptic. How to Prepare Bromine 1^ Bromine 5ij Pot. bromide 3j Aqua O j Sig. Mark 1-64 ON THE NATURE AND USES OF BROMINE IN MEDICINE AND SURGERY, ESPE- CIALLY IN SEPTIC CONDITIONS I BELIEVE bromine to be the most valuable in the list of those remedies which are to be thought of in various septic conditions, especially those which always endanger life by the inten- sity and rapidity of their action on the animal economy. Bromine. — Bromine is a dark red liquid of an exceedingly pungent odor, not unlike chlorine and analogous to it and iodine in many respects. It is a nonmetallic element found in sea water and some saline springs; also in certain marine animals and vegetables, in various aquatic plants, such as the water cress; in the mineral kingdom, and in the coal gas liquor of gas works. It is separated from the mother liquors of the salt wells with the dioxide of manganese by oxidization in West Virginia and Ohio, chlorate of potash being used as the agent in Michigan. It boils at 145-4 F. It evaporates readily, a single drop being sufficient to fill a large flask with its peculiar vapor. By the aid of bromine The Soldier s Medical Friend 19 of potash it dissolves in water very rapidly to any extent. In alcohol it loses its color in a few days and becomes acid from the generation of hydrobromic acid. It bleaches vegetable substances like chlorine and decomposes organic matters. Its combinations are decomposed by chlorine, while in turn in its intermediate affinity it decomposes iodine. It combines with chlorine, forming bromine chloride. This is formed by passing chlorine through bromine, condensing the vapors at low temperature. Chlorine and iodine are frequently found in bromine, the former in the American and the latter in the German preparation. It has been authentically stated that one part of bromine to 875 will prevent the reproduction of spores in boiled meat infusion; 1 to 5397 will prevent development of spores; 1 to 336 will prevent development of reproduction of bacteria; 1 to 2550 will kill bacteria; 1 to 769 will prevent the undeveloped bacteria. Bromine was used during the War of Re- bellion in the military hospitals of the United States principally for gangrene. Its record was 2.6 per cent mortality as against 38.4 and 51.5 per cent by other methods. For such a purpose it can be prepared by dissolving 160 grains of 20 The Soldier s Medical Friend potassium bromide in two fluid ounces of water, adding one Troy ounce of bromine and stirring diligently, pouring in sufficient water to make the solution measure four ounces. It should be kept in glass-stoppered bottles. This is a suitable strength for gangrene and may be diluted by simply the addition of water. If it be thought best to give it internally, make a solution by adding 30 drops of the bromine solution to four ounces of water. Give a teaspoonful in water every three or six hours. I have used it exter- nally in diabetic, senile, and traumatic gangrene with uniform success; also in sphacelation due to frozen feet. My preference for it has been due to comparative tests in every instance of which it has shown superiority. Bromine is a remedy to become familiar with if you wish to secure its best virtue under the varying circumstances of poisoned conditions. At times you desire its most caustic effects; on other occasions simply its gentle stimulating yet antiseptic action. To get its whole range of usefulness so that one can temper the dose to meet the stage of the phlegmon should be the aim of those who desire to become thoroughly acquainted with this most valuable remedy. In the use of bromine for the treatment of The Soldier s Medical Friend 21 gangrene the strongest preparation should be applied in the first instance, after which the part should be kept continually moistened with a solution the strength of which may be measured by a solution of the color of light amber; or use one ounce of the preparation as prepared to a quart of water. As the destructive process ceases weaken the solution, but the part should be moistened unremittently until heat and septic inflammation abates entirely. Septic wounds, such as dissection cuts; punctured wounds, caused by rusty or ordinary nails; the poisoned teeth of animals, such as dogs or cats; the sting of poisonous insects, or any misunderstood focal center of inflammation starting up, having gained entrance through a small fissure or abrasion, may be treated under the same head by following the general procedure, described above. Let us first make a solution which may be easily and mathematically weakened as may be required as follows: Bromine, drachms 2 Pot. bromidi or iodide, drachms 2 Aqua O j, Mark 1-64 22 The Soldier s Medical Friend Diphtheritic Poison. — A surgeon having be- come inoculated from a cut in his left hand desired to know if it were best to be treated by serum. The thumb was slightly swollen, painful, and hot. Extending up the arm to the axilla a very distinct red line was shown. There were heat and darting pains up the entire arm. Bichloride of mercury had been used and whisky and quinine taken in full doses. The focal center in the thumb had also been cauterized with carbolic acid. Having accepted my sugges- tion of bromine instead of other procedures, the finger was cauterized with a solution i to 64, and a weak solution, half an ounce to a pint of water, was kept constantly swathed over the entire arm. Relief was experienced immediately, and within three days all treatment was stopped. Whisky and quinine were continued in moderate quantities. A Dog Bite. — A boy having his wrist severely torn by the teeth of an ugly dog it was treated by cauterizing with the strong solution of bromine and afterward dressed with the same in a weaker form. Later on eucalyptol cerate was applied. Recovery was prompt. Shot through the Center of Left Hand by Toy Pistol. — Two boys were shot on a Fourth The Soldier s Medical Friend 23 of July by toy pistols. The one I saw suffered much pain and the hand was very greatly swollen. After a thorough cleansing, it was dressed in a solution of bromine, using one drachm of the 1-64 to four ounces of sterilized oil. The oil was used in this case for its relaxing effects. In fact I feared tetanus, a fate which followed in the other case. A Nurse with Hand Poisoned. — Perhaps nothing excites the hospital service more than to have one of 30 nurses suddenly announce that the surgeon states she has an infection or " blood poisoning." Such apprehension can very speedily be quieted by an immediate recourse to bromine dressing. Cauterize finger and apply gauze bandage, keeping same constantly moistened with a strong solution, using drachms one to two- thirds glass of water. Hold finger in solution occasionally. A speedy relief will follow. It may be taken internally as directed, and whisky with quinine used if it be thought best. I seldom include them. For very severe cases it would be wise, perhaps, to do so. Dissecting Wounds. — Treatment the same as last case. When I note the deaths which occur occasionally at our large colleges as a result of dissecting wounds I feel assured from my ex- 24 The Soldier s Medical Friend perience that if bromine were kept on hand ready for use that the early application of it would in every instance save life. Poison Ivy. Rhus Toxicodendron. — I have been poisoned many times and have never found any application equal to this. Carbonate or bicarbonate of soda should be added to a weak preparation. For instance to a pint of water add one ounce of soda and half an ounce of the bromine solution 1-64. The soda will be grateful to the part affected and the bromine perma- nently curative. Care must be exercised in not touching parts of the body not involved from the poisoned area. Keep parts wet as constantly as possible. Recovery will take place in from five to fourteen days, if all details are observed. For Sinuses in Various Regions. — Openings from and in connection with carious bones, including the spinal vetebrae, ribs, ankle, knee, and various sinuses in connection with suppura- tive processes incident to phlegmonous conditions wherever located can be treated with bromine solutions from the 1-64 using 1 drachm to a pint of sterilized water. This may be increased in strength to 4 if necessary; or as the tissues become accustomed to it. Usually it will be well to add to the solutions for such purposes The Soldier s Medical Friend 25 just sufficient of bicarbonate of soda to make the water slippery so that the infective pus cells will readily dislodge, returning with the solution. For Purifying and Asepticizing the Hands. — After the usual cleansing, bromine and soda will be found an excellent combination for destroying various bacteria and removing the same. Two drachms to the pint of 1-64, to which add drachm 1 of bicarbonate of soda, will, with proper scrub- bing, followed by alcohol, prepare the surgeon for any operation. After examination wherein the hands have come in contact with any form of poisonous secretions the wash afterward will insure safety to the individual exposed. Formerly I was frequently infected, making slow recovery. Septic Peritonitis or Tubercular Conditions. — After opening the abdomen I have on several occasions used the soda with boiled water to which has been added a bromine solution be- ginning with m. 15, finally increasing to drachms 1-2 to one quart of water. The soda will aid in breaking up the adhesions while the bromine exerts its good offices. This treatment can be given each day. For Fumigation. — It will be readily seen, in view of the volatility of bromine and its an- 26 The Soldier s Medical Friend nihilating influence over septic conditions, that if placed in a ward room in which there were cases of diphtheria, typhoid fever, erysipelas, or where any poisonous atmosphere was suspected, such a condition would soon be under control and made inert. Half an ounce of the strong preparation to a saucer of water would be a proper mixture for a room 20x20. It should be renewed every six hours. If the room be venti- lated as it should be, the powerful disinfecting properties may be secured without the dis- agreeable irritating odor so characteristic of it. Care should be exercised not to inhale any of the fumes directly from the bottle containing the strong solution. The best antidote for bromine is said to be ammonia. Ulcers of Various Kinds. — It should be useful for ulcers of an indolent sort needing purification and stimulation. Drachm one of the 1-64 mixture to 4.6 or 8 ounces of water would be a proper proportion. FOOD VALUE OF FRUIT, ITS ANTISEPTIC BEARING ON HEALTH AND A REGU- LATOR OF PHYSIOLOGICAL FUNCTIONS FRUIT is an antiseptic and meat is a putre- factive; fruit is a laxative and emolient, while meat constipates and engorges tissues; fruit dissipates odor, while meat generates stench in intestines. With regulated bowels, excluding meat, no appendicitis. Much has been written in recent years of the effects of bacteria ; or toxins, as they circulate through the intestinal tract. Unquestionably, many diseases have their source by this method of infection. There are a great many bacteria in the feces which are nonpathological, but streptococci, staphylococci, and bacilli exert their systematic effects and, again, they are kept under control by the phagocytes. Organized food from an animal source more quickly becomes seriously unfit for sustenance, ' owing to the tendency to putrefaction; therefore, if much meat be eaten and constipation exist, toxins are developed, and the poison exhausts the 28 The Soldier s Medical Friend strength of the individual as well as saps the life and energy so essential for the performance of valuable work. The stench of the stools often shows the grade of infection of the alimentary canal. In most instances it is a barometer which should be carefully watched. If it be noticed, meats should be omitted and laxative food substituted. It is one of the peculiar gifts of location that the fruits and vegetables which thrive the best are the best food for the region. All fruits and vegetables are complex in makeup, varied in constructive elements, and so arranged in their respective elements as to be adapted to various conditions in health and to correct aberrations of the same. Limes, lemons, grape- fruit, oranges and the like contain antiseptic oils in the skins, and citric and malic acids according to their sourness. There is a form of fungi, the penicillium, which forms on fruit of this class which, it appears to me, makes it advisable to wash the skins well before biting it. Grapes are rich in tartaric acid and the skins in tanrin. The food value of the grape is, perhaps, greater than most fruits. It contains from 12 to 28 per cent of sugar and about 2 to 3 per cent of nitrogenous substances. The seeds contain tannin, starch, and fat. The skins The Soldier's Medical Friend 29 contain tannin, cream of tartar, and coloring matter. The stems contain tannin, divers acids, and mucilaginous matter. The value of the juice made from any grape is determined by the relative proportion and composition of these various parts. Pineapples have 13.9 per cent solids, .056 per cent protein, .576 per cent acidity expressed, 9.10 per cent reducing sugar, and 7.40 per cent cane sugar. Oranges range between 13 and 14 per cent solids, .627 per cent acidity, .486 protein, 10.66 reducing sugar, and 5.25 cane sugar. Grapefruit has .381 per cent of protein, .540 per cent, acid, citric, alkalinity and potassium carbonate, .589, 3. n reducing sugar. Limes have 5.26 per cent of acid and 2.33 of sugar. Tamarind or tamarindo contains the highest per cent of acid and of sugar, the latter being 30 per cent, which is marked by the amount of acid to such an extent as to scarcely be detected, except by the after taste. This fruit, used largely for refreshing summer drinks, and flavoring soda-water sirups, contains mild purgative prop- erties. We believe it is used in preparing the confection of senna. A preparation called Tamar 30 The Soldier s Medical Friend Indien I formerly used, which is, undoubtedly, made of this fruit. The banana (Plantano) is the principal food used by a class in Cuba, and its use has extended greatly in this country. It contains 1.7 per cent proteids, 1.6 fats, 25.7 starch and sugar, or total food units of 28.8 per ounce. It is stated that owing to the varied nature of reducing sugars found in fruit products it is, at times, expressed as dextrose, but in no case is reducing sugars pure dextrose. With pure fruit and fruit juices the reducing sugars are made up of practically equal parts of dextrose and levulose. Constipation is a fearful blockade of the physiological processes. It is the cause, in my opinion, of more than three-fourths of the cases of appendicitis. I almost dare say 95 per cent for assuming that bacterial infection produces toxicity, and appendicitis being the sequela, as many surgeons have asserted, you can readily see the importance of an active peristalsis. " Now it is just here where fruit plays an important part. Its watery elements and acidity in a complex state appears not only to arrest putre- faction, but by its solvent action allays irritation and acts favorably as a laxative. It will be noticed by an experimenter that grapefruit for The Soldier s Medical Friend 31 breakfast without meat will be a good beginning. That some sort of fruit or a variety should be on the table. It should be there as a reminder of its efficiency for your well being. By par- taking of it you will avoid the temptation of eating too much solid food and it will be a sentinel protecting you from the plethora of excessive nourishment. Yes, fruit should always be on the table as an indispensable auxiliary for the maintenance and continuance of healthy physio- logical life. Remember that the stench of the stool means the suspension of meat products and the resort to the more laxative fruits. Certainly cereals and nuts will take the place of meats, especially if a good selection be made from the vegetable kingdom. Begin the day with a glass of hot water, with vichy, if you want your stomach cleansed and your kidneys cleared of uric acid or other products separated through this important organ, then follow with the antiseptic, health-giving fruits and your toxins will largely vanish and good spirits will take place of depression as will activity supplant lethargy. PRACTICAL OBSERVATIONS ON THE TREAT- MENT OF PNEUMONIA AND PLEURISY * TWO general conditions will now be con- sidered. First, a septic process, which may be initiated by influenza, la grippe, or a diplococcus; and, second, the inflammatory form which is initiated by exposure. The latter may contain among the elements diplococci. Whether such be the case or not, it will not matter in its treatment. The first stage of the pneumonia process, whether septic or inflammatory, has about the same characteristics, commencing with a chill, fever, rapid breathing, etc. One distressing symptom, however, is the lack of moisture in the respiratory tract. It is just here that great damage can be done by a misapplication of remedies, the two capable of performing the most being quinine and morphine, for the reason that each of them not only arrests the normal secretions, but seriously embarrasses respiration, thus throwing extra work on the heart, a con- 1 From the Medical Summary, February, 191 6. The Soldier s Medical Friend 33 dition which frequently terminates a case by so-called " heart failure." A remedy like quinine, which in full doses is a congestant, causing cerebral hyperemia, and in excessive doses especially poisonous and capable of producing unconsciousness, a remedy which also decreases reflex action by its depress- ing effects on the spinal cord, and even going so far as sometimes to cause cardiac paralysis, must be looked upon with suspicion. It is said that quinine prevents the oxygen- bearing powers of the corpuscles/ But it is thought that this refers more particularly to poisonous doses. If it were in very small doses, in conjunction with expectorants, in the latter stages of pneumonic inflammation, or during the time of resolution, it is quite probable that the depressing condition so marked by its use in the beginning would not follow. No one has a more exalted opinion of this remedy than the writer of this paper when used as indicated, noting well the difference between the primary and the secondary effects. In regard to morphine there is but little to be said in its favor in any condition pertaining to the inflammatory action affecting either the lungs or pleura. 34 The Soldier s Medical Friend Contrary to the idea, which seems to be quite generally accepted, that heat and moisture upon the outside of the chest ought to be relegated into obscurity and considered as primitive in the treat- ment of these difficulties, it is still thought best to adhere to the flaxseed poultice, or antiphlo- gistine applied hot and repeating its use as often as may be necessary, say every three or four hours, and oiling the skin to prevent excessive hyperemia and soreness. The modern cotton jacket in a few cases has been tried, but its use has not been satisfactory. It is an advanced measure only so far as the ease with which it can be accomplished. When the case has arrived at the stage of resolu- tion and expectoration is free, a cotton jacket may then be substituted as a procedure to pro- tect the patient from changes of temperature. The first treatment by medication in pneu- monia is combating inflammatory action. If it be of the strictly inflammatory variety, such remedies as aconite, belladonna, veratrum vir., and gelsemium, in small and frequently repeated doses, according to the susceptibility of the patient, are the proper ones. There need be no hesitation to use from the beginning in connection with them remedies which stimulate secretions from mucous membrane surfaces in this locality, The Soldier's Medical Friend 35 namely, tartar emetic, ipecac, chloride of am- monia, bryonia, and lobelia. By giving these remedies, selecting and combining if you wish, according to the necessity of the case, inflamma- tion will be placed under control, free expectora- tion established, and resolution reached safely. More than 95 per cent of cases treated in this manner from the beginning will terminate favorably. In septic or contagious pneumonia, such as la grippe or influenza, remedial measures should be applied locally in addition to the treatment outlined. It is also well to have constantly evapo- rating in the room of the patient antiseptics, such as creolin, etc. Thirty drops of eucalyp- tus or pine-needle oil in one pint of water is the proper strength to be used, placing the same in an nonoxidizable receptacle. These should be changed every three hours in rotation or two of them in alternation. The air cells of the lungs are, therefore, constantly medicated with anti- septic vapor. In an inflammatory process of germ origin the respiratory tract is less liable to moisture than by the inflammatory process strictly by reason of the local irritation incident to the millions of microbes. It is for this reason that 36 The Soldier s Medical Friend an antiseptic moisture is supplied to counteract local effects. This form of difficulty also demands stimulants usually earlier than the inflammatory form, in which case it is not always needed, and the cough is apt to continue longer, harassing the patient by that local teasing irritation which is similar in character in its effects with the germs of pertussis or measles. An antigermicidal treatment throughout in this form is thoroughly advocated. An acute pleurisy may be a complication or a distinct process. Morphine in such a case is no more necessary for the acute pain than for the other form of inflammatory action. Heat and moisture with small doses of aconite, veratrum vir., bryonia and belladonna as indicated, singly in or by combination with some of them, will be quite sufficient to promptly relieve the patient. It will be noticed that nothing has been said about effusion in the pleural cavity. If a physical diagnosis shows such a condition continuing without improvement to an extent demanding aspiration it should be done without hesitation. There has been no mortality in the line of treat- ment laid out for over thirty years. Ex-Surgeon General W. H. Watson had a longer record of no losses in this disease using same line of treatment. CANCER * THERE are degenerated moles, and small skin cancers, on the face and other parts of the body having an area of not over one inch which can be permanently eradicated by the Marsden's Paste, formerly used in the London Skin Hospital, but I think now discarded. The paste appears to have an affinity for the morbid cells and will be much more efficacious as to per- manency in such conditions than the knife. I am positive in regard to this, as I have succeeded after the knife had failed. I am speaking as a surgeon who has operated on cancers in various parts of the body. Perhaps I can do no better than to confine myself to these cases, illustrating my methods rather than simply to give the prescription. The prescription is: Arsenious acid and pulverized acacia in the proportion of one to three, yet at times I have used equal parts. Mix the powders with just enough water to make the consistency of cream. Do this after the case is ready for the application. In the case 1 Reprint from the October Medical Summary, 1915. 38 The Soldier s Medical Friend of a skin cancer of the leg so diagnosed by Dr. Chas. Heitzman the author of " Morphology " and instructor in microscopy, the following method was pursued: Area of cancer one inch, with an eleva- tion of granulating tissue encircling one-quarter inch. This was first removed with a knife and the specimen sent to Heitzman. It soon returned. I then encircled it with surgical plaster by cutting an opening in the plaster and fitting it just beyond the morbid tissue. The application was made with a small brush and allowed to dry, which takes but a few minutes. Sterilized gauze was then placed over all. I watched and cut away dead tissue, dressing with an antiseptic cerate like eucalyptus. When inflammation had sub- sided I simply applied dry gauze ascepticized. The healing was without contraction, as will be the case in most instances if judgment is exer- cised. In this case uncovered bone to the extent of three-quarters of an inch made it necessary to make a transplantation. Until I was assured of healthy healing the uncovered bone was preserved by a constant coat of oil or cerate. Then between the sliding flap and grafting a permanent cure was made. The illustrated case shows how to remove The Soldier s Medical Friend 39 degenerated moles, or skin cancer on the face and there will be less of a cicatrix than with the knife, and the cure, owing to the affinity of the arsenic for morbid conditions, will be less liable to recurrence. A nodule the size of an ordinary marble, following removing of the breast, for cancer, resulted in a permanent cure. CONSERVATIVE METHODS WITH SPECIAL REFERENCES TO THE MEDICATED GAL- VANIC CURRENT IN THE TREATMENT OF TUBERCULAR GLANDS, GOITER AND UTERINE FIBROIDS, WITH SUGGESTIONS FOR THE TREATMENT OF PROSTATIC HYPERTROPHY IT is a great blessing to humanity that surgery has been perfected to the extent to which it is. Humanity may well greet the self-sacrificing surgeon with unsparing thanks for the greater improvements to come. This article is not, therefore, calculated to take away any honor from that branch of medicine for attempting to relieve advanced pathological conditions mani- fested in so many ways, but to use more con- servative measures during the early stages; to direct the attention of the surgeon to the causes, or early treatment of diseases by other meas- ures than the knife, instead of the effects of a disease; and, lastly, to promulgate treatment which can be carried out by the practitioner in the hamlet, town, or city as, in the wisdom of the physician or surgeon, would seem best. It is The Soldier s Medical Friend 41 to be hoped, therefore, from these preliminary remarks, that my position may be so clearly outlined that the surgeons will be likewise more moderate in their criticisms of conservative measures suggested than they would be other- wise. Most of the profession are inclined to look upon tubercular disease as one only measurably, if at all, curative. Perhaps all will concede that cases showing various characteristics of the disease get well, but to state any positive measure that will absolutely eradicate so tenacious a microbe as the tubercular bacillus many will hesitate to concede. I shall, therefore, without any such presumption, offer some thoughts for consideration, the same having been the result of observations extending over an interval of more than fifteen years. The intent of this paper to some extent is to strike at the tubercular microbe in, at least, one of its pathological manifestations and it is not intended to illustrate it by the use of the knife. I wish to illustrate and show the methods by which cervical tubercular disease can be made to disappear as well as other growths without the knife. Glands about to break down must be surgically treated, but cervical 42 The Soldier s Medical Friend enlargements, it matters not how many there may be, whether one or fifty, will quite readily disappear under the medicated galvanic treat- ment. By "readily" I mean in from three months to two years. The greater number will disappear within ninety days. There will be some which will extend well toward the latter period named. If it be true, by this treatment, one can get the results, which have been my observation for so many years, to note what a blessing to the young women who are ever on the alert, con- scious of deformity and desirous of avoiding scars. Deformities must more or less necessarily follow the use of the knife, as most practitioners^ and surgeons know, in order to eradicate these not at all uncommon growths. The water used for the electrode contains the chloride of ammonia and the tincture of iodine. I am not particular as to the quantity or strength of these solutions. Half an ounce of the chloride of ammonia and 15 drops of iodine to a quart of water will be sufficiently accurate for illustration. As to the Method of Application. — The posi- tive pole is to be placed at the back of the neck and the negative pole over the enlargements The Soldier s Medical Friend 43 on either side. The medicated current can usually be tasted at once by the person under treatment. As to the strength of the current it will depend largely upon the individual. Patients can take from 20 to 50 milliamperes. Without a galvanometer the patient can determine the proper strength of the current most suitable, for the sensation on application will be simply a mild degree of warmth to that of burning. From 10 to 15 minutes is usually the length of time for treatment and a repetition should be made, if possible, every five days, until marked improvement is noticed and then at intervals of one or two weeks. This same treatment is applicable in cases of goiter. Good results may be obtained in from three to twelve months; the same as for cervi- cal enlargements. In girls a goitrous condition will frequently disappear absolutely. In per- sons more advanced, changes for the better are slower and greater perseverance is required. As to the treatment of fibroids of the uterus by the medicated galvanic current, although it has been stated by some authors that this method of cure has been largely discontinued by many who formerly used it, yet I am quite sure that in well selected cases any surgeon who 44 The Soldier s Medical Friend has the patience to continue this treatment, awaiting the gradual disappearance, reduction, or arrest of the enlargement, before resorting to the more dangerous plan of excision, will feel as satisfied over the results as the patient will be grateful. The positive pole sponge is placed over the abdomen and the negative pole — a copper electrode — is passed into the uterus as far as it will go or against the curvex. The vaginal part of the electrode should be insulated, which can be done by slipping over it a piece of rubber tubing, pushing it up to the neck of the uterus after the electrode has passed in as far as it will go. In case of a bleeding fibroid or a hemorrhagic condition incident to fibroids the positive pole is used for the uterine cavity until that feature of the case is corrected. For the reduction of the growth, however, I depend more upon the negative pole in the uterus, for this is really the dissolving pole. The electric pad used for the abdomen should be of sufficient size to cover the borders of the growth. Patients can take from 200 to 500 milliamperes. Here, too, the patient is able to state the amount of current he can tolerate without the galvanometer. The interval of The Soldier s Medical Friend 45 treatment for these cases is from 20 to 25 minutes. I usually give them for 20 minutes and the last five minutes a small sponge is applied over the sacrum in place of the abdomen. This has the effect of relieving backache, and its passage through the uterus posteriorly adds value to the efficiency of the treatment. When applied from the sacrum to the uterus it is always given much weaker; usually from. 50 to 70 milliamperes. Hemorrhages are frequently stopped after two or three treatments and uterine fibroids have been reduced to such an extent that they remain as innocent growths, not causing any trouble. I can now recall one of nine inches being reduced to four and a quarter; one of six inches to three; and since August, 1901, to August, 1902, I have given a woman 25 treat- ments for a fibroid of six and one-half inches internal measurement, which has been reduced to two and seven-eighths inches. Much has been written of late in reference to the treatment of prostatic hypertrophy in men advanced in life. The chronic cystitis, the decomposed residual urine, the catarrhal diffi- culties, which extend up the urethra to the kidneys, all have a tendency to undermine the constitution of the man, making him a subject 46 The Soldier s Medical Friend for commiseration and one of marked interest to the profession. The ingenuity of surgeons has been well taxed in their efforts to relieve so annoying and many times fatal a difficulty. Prostatectomy, in my opinion, is the only surgical procedure to be undertaken for the radical cure of these difficulties. The enuclea- tion of the gland from its capsule is not a proce- dure wherein great danger is involved, and the relief and results following the operation have given the greatest satisfaction to surgeons. I am not prepared to state that every case of hypertrophied prostate — the far advanced, for instance — can be reduced to its normal size by the medicated galvanic treatment, yet it should be tried. The earlier condition, however, of enlarged prostate is that of hyperplasia and absorbable, and it is just this stage of change wherein I wish to recommend this medicated galvanic current. See also prescription in this book. The two following methods may be tried: The first one is by placing the positive pole over the sacrum and the negative over the perineum. The surer and possibly better method would be to place a covered positive electrode in the rectum, by the aid of a speculum, the negative pole or The Soldier s Medical Friend 47 urethral electrode being placed in the prostatic portion of the urethra. By this latter method a very week current should be used, similar to that by Newman's method for urethral stricture, namely, about ten milliamperes for an interval of five minutes. This treatment was suggested by me about a year ago to a physician, which he used in case of himself with marked relief. Within six weeks I have been permitted to try it, using the negative electrode in the prostatic portion of the urethra, and although only one treatment was given the relief was most satisfactory. Before the treat- ment it was with difficulty that a small catheter, No. 8, was passed; now it can be done with the greatest of ease, thus giving proof of the absorp- tion of hypertrophied tissue, which must have taken place. There are times when we can afford to defer, and carefully and in a painstaking manner give the patient the full benefit of the doubt, and in a certain per cent of cases obtain results more gratifying than by surgical methods. OBSERVATIONS ON THE CARE OF CHILDREN * CHILDREN are sensitive plants and require gentle methods to deal with their deli- cate mechanism. The hot season has its special disorders. We will now show the importance of sterilized milk, and the importance of using evaporated cream. The foods for the young have been given thorough attention, and the manufacturers such as, Horlick's, Nestle's Eskay's, Mellin's, and the like crave your in- vestigation of all that pertains to the elementary constituents of each and how the results are obtained. Bread from the whole wheat and the intel- ligent selection of fruits and vegetables, eggs and sea food, as the age will admit of it, is the best way to forestall disease. I have mentioned no meat — which appears unnecessary for them, as it is largely the source of putrefaction, toxaemia, and the surgeon's pet operation, appendicitis. Regularity of the bowels each day at the same 1 Reprint from the Medical Summary, June, 19 16. The Soldier s Medical Friend 49 hour is as essential to children as to adults, for neither can escape intestinal, stomach, or physio- logical disorders, the beginning of functional disturbances which so often lead to organic conditions — and the surgeon's knife, or the sud- den ending of his or her career unless these important facts be considered seriously and acted upon and carried out continually and faithfully. The principles above enunciated have to do with health, strength, and longevity. There is nothing more advantageous than, fresh air, night and day, nor the hot bath to clean out the skin tubes — so many miles long — which cover the body. If the hot bath is not taken it is an incomplete performance, for meta- morphosed products of waste, if not cleared from the skin, produce a toxaemia, to an extent de- pending upon the energy and v^gor of the kidneys and the bowels. Cold water to close up the pores or as an invigorator finishing the bath may be done in a variety of ways and there is no objection. Of course the teeth and tongue are regularly brushed at least twice a day, and ten to fifteen minutes of calisthenics should be gone through as a part of the morning care of the machinery. As this is a general article adapted to the 50 The Soldier s Medical Friend varying ages of children, it will take little gray matter to elect what is adapted to and what is intended for each age. As for remedies for intestinal difficulties, if they occur in the form of diarrhoea (believe me, it is Nature trying to cure conditions induced by imperfect dietetic knowledge or neglect), there are two things to consider: (i) The causes; (2) the condition, and here is where we depart from ancient methods. Instead of astringents for the diarrhoea, and anodynes for the pain, clear out the bowels, ridding the canal of bacteria of every form, and there is nothing so good as olive oil to do it, yet petroleum purified may be considered. The old method of tying up the microbes for more deadly work, and to arrest peristalsis for better opportunity, has been supplanted in this article by smothering the germs or inhibiting their growth, and then casting them out into the world for burial or incineration. Now the oil insinuates itself into the rugae of the lumen of the intestines, stops the formation of toxins, and the entire lining is made uninhabit- able for bacteria and restored to a normal condi- tion until erroneous methods are taken up in dietetics. The Soldier s Medical Friend 51 For the quantity of oil and hot water at each dose; the frequency, whether every three or six hours; the dose, whether it be 30 drops, with a little lemon juice and a glass of hot water, or half an ounce; conditions and the age must be the criteria. TREATMENT OF TYPHOID FEVER The following has been my method for treat- ing typhoid fever for many years past, and it proved so successful in my hands that I have not lost a case. i. First clear out the bowels. 2. As it is the typhoid microbe that causes perforation of the intestines, give a tablespoon- ful of olive oil, followed by a glass of hot water every 3 or 6 hours. Five drops of essence of peppermint can be added to hot water if so desired. If unable to retain it, give an enema of half a pint of the olive oil, using rectal once each day. 3. Need not urge nourishment for a few days if patient can retain the oil. 4. When beginning feeding give peptonized milk in alternation with cereals, but no meat broth. 5. Compress of water kept constantly over region of Peyer's glands. 6. Bichloride of mercury tablet 1-1000 three times a day until bladder irritation (antiseptic), then discontinue. 7. Sponge off patient every 2, 3, or 6 hours, as seems necessary for reducing temperature. The Soldiers Medical Friend 53 8. The tooth brush is most important to scrub the tongue and teeth to clear off the various microbes, and sordes. It should be used 2 or 3 times a day at least. In the water use an anti- septic or tooth paste, such as zymole or similar preparations, like listerine, carbolic acid, iodine, and sodium bicarbonate. 9. There will scarcely be a mortality with this treatment, provided the best of nursing, pure air, the discharges and kidney secretions be received in antiseptic receptacles and properly removed. 10. Every effort should be made to remove the cause of the infection. 11. To purify the air should there be any odor or impurity, burn sulphur, use the small formaldehyde apparatus, or evaporate bromine. 12. Give your druggist this: 1$ Bromine two drachms; bromide of potash two drachms; water one pint. Keep in glass-stoppered bottle and do not inhale it directly from bottle. Mark it 1-64 Poison, For External Use. Now use, putting about a tablespoonf ul in a bowl of water, allowing it to be placed in some part of room, changing twice a day. You have in this one of the best antiseptics. It will permeate the entire room and region and will not be unpleasant used in that way. THE SPECIFIC ACTION OF DRUGS AND NOT "SIMILIA SIMILIBUS CURANTUR," NOR SYMPTOMATOLOGY, THE SCIEN- TIFIC BASIS OF THE LAW OF HOMEO- PATHIC THERAPEUTICS THE proving of remedies by giving them in appreciable doses to healthy human beings establishes the individuality of each of them, and such provings are of use in that they point out in no obscure manner the tissues and organs for which they have an affinity. Tissues and organs give out characteristic symptoms when diseased, and the same tissues and organs will give out the same cry when not diseased when they happen to be connected by peripheral nerves with ganglia, or roots of nerves, which are receiving impressions from distant regions involved in functional or organic disturbances. "Similia Similibus Curantur" cannot be true, therefore, in a reflex difficulty, and sympto- matology must be deceptive and unreliable. The law of specific medication, then, is only applicable in cases where the symptoms proceed directly from the part involved, as in pleuritis. For the numberless pains incident to spinal The Soldier s Medical Friend 55 hyperesthesia, which condition may be due to traumatism or to a reflex disturbance from a diseased organ, the " indicated" remedy must ever prove futile. Such prescribing is not in ac- cordance with the law promulgated by Hahne- mann, for the proving of remedies indicates their specific action, and a reflexed condition, although apparently within the limits of the law, is not, as already shown. The practice of medicine to-day is being directed to its proper channel, namely, the removing of the causes of symptoms. Hereafter we shall consider symptoms not so much as indicating certain remedies, but as a peripheral line to be taken up and traced like the thread of Theseus into the subterranean cavern, following it to its root, and from thence into the various branches of a given plexus, or ganglia, for the cause of the reflexed pain if such it be. Home- opathy is not " similia Similibus Curantur," symptomatology, nor small doses, but a law having a scientific basis from the fact that each remedy has a specific action on certain tissues and organs in the animal economy. When morbid conditions have been found to exist and the causes removed, remedies given in appre- ciable doses will usually produce favorable results. WHAT IS THE MATTER WITH THE DOCTORS AND SURGEONS? WHAT is the matter with the doctors and the surgeons? One has but to watch the weekly reports in medical journals to become aware of the fact that members of the profession are either wanting in physiological knowledge or that they are sacrificing themselves to the imperative duties incident to it. Gallstone operations as well as appendicitis are common, with an occasional fatal result. One member of the profession passes on from pneumonia each day in the United States — and this is an under- estimate. The first two unnecessary conditions can be prevented by avoiding food which develops putrefaction in the intestinal tract, as shown by the awful odor in the stools, which is prin- cipally, if not wholly, from the ingestion of beef, ham, veal, sweet breads, and mutton or lamb in conjunction with the feature of stagnation, or suspended peristalsis due to the irregular at- tention given the bowels. As a result of this there is an opportunity given the development of The Soldier s Medical Friend 57 various kinds of microbes of a more or less deadly character. It is here that pathological results are created in the gall bladder and appen- dix, so unnecessary, as stated. Let the doctor determine upon the hour for the physiological and systematic demands of the bowels — then keep that hour regardless of duties. The best time to select is between six and eight in the morning, as other dates cannot well be arranged during the day. As for pneumonia, discontinue for yourselves as well as for your patients that destroyer of lives opiates in all forms — which kills by drying up the secretions, creating a condition so fre- quently reported under the head of " heart failure." If my admonitions will be accepted, mortality will almost cease in your cases as well as that of your patients. Pain does not kill — only the wrong treatment. SOME COMMON SENSE SUGGESTIONS 1 LIVES are daily sacrificed and diseases are daily communicated by the promiscuous habit of kissing. As a custom it should be abandoned by women in their greetings. It is within my remembrance that a boy was suddenly stricken down with that direful mal- ady, diphtheria. The mother kissed the son most affectionately, but it was the kiss of death for her. I have no doubt that other physicians have noted similar observations. In the sacred precincts of the fireside when death has laid its relentless hands on one of its members, the common practice of kissing is liable to induce septicaemia, and thus other precious lives be exposed to the venomous sting of death. As you can see more easily the action of a drug when given in a large dose, so you will see more pointedly the danger arising from kissing by giving an illustration of a malignant disease. There is no longer any doubt in regard to the inocculability and infectiousness of consump- 1 The Paper Read by Dr. M. O. Terry on Kissing as a Medium of Communicating Diseases. (1889.) The Soldier's Medical Friend 59 tion. It is an established fact that it is con- tagious. When you remember that more die by its insidious hands than from any other cause, but few families or relatives of families can be exempt from it. This being true, should not persons visiting such unfortunate individuals do away with the accustomed mode of greeting by kissing? A disease which has resisted the treatment of the most skilled up to the present day should be prevented, if possible. Is human life to be sacrificed for the sake of conforming to a custom? Change the custom, and other ways of greeting will be equally popular and much more sensible and safe. The bacillus of phthisis is a minute form of organized life, which acts so subtlety that the introduction of it into the system would not be manifested by any immediate symptoms. As surely as "a little leaven leaveneth the whole lump," just as surely will the microscopical germs multiply in the organism in the most marvelous manner. Soon there will be a hacking cough, some elevation of the temperature, hoarse- ness or shallow voice, and the work of destruction, now noticeable, goes on until its victim can no longer resist its invasion and death claims the victory. 60 The Soldier s Medical Friend There is a disease more terrible than the two previously mentioned. It is peculiar to no grade in the social world; it is handed down "unto the third and fourth generation/' when it gets thoroughly seated in the system, unless treatment be continued for years. It is more terrible than cancer, for that is not hereditary. It is constitutionally destructive, while cancer is more locally so. It eats away the palate, destroys the hearing, softens and disintegrates bones, and in its hereditary descent produces malformations of brain and body. It is known as syphilis. It exists very extensively in this country, but more so in other parts of the globe. A person may have the appearance of health, yet the system may be poisoned by it. Such a person kissing another upon the lips free from the disease could communicate it. Every physician has seen these cases in hospitals or in private practice. Laying aside the question of heredity, a dissolute husband may convey it to his wife, and she in turn to her children or lady friends through kissing. Care should also be exercised in handling money, as it is frequently filthy and poisoned. The fingers coming in contact with the eyes, nose, or mouth, are liable, under circumstances The Soldier s Medical Friend 61 mentioned, to be the starting point of a consti- tutional disease. Do not touch mouth when handling money. Again, a frequent source of danger is traceable to saloons, where promiscuous drinking out of glasses, not properly washed, has caused sores on the lips. The habit of washing glasses in a common sink is uncleanly, and cannot be too severely criticised. Every glass should be thoroughly showered with fresh water before being used by a second person. Cups used at public watering places are dangerous unless thoroughly washed. I feel called upon to refer to one other way of receiving disease. It is a degrading practice peculiar to young and middle-aged ladies. I refer to the handling, caressing, and kissing of dogs. Think of it! Not only is this a method of introducing disease into otherwise healthy families, but it has its social effect; it makes bachelors and spinsters. I have wondered, when I have heard of engagements being broken, if the young man had not become disgusted by seeing his dear one give her little poodle a fond embrace and kiss before greeting him. Dogs have their places in this world, as other animals. They are not responsible for the fact that their 62 The Soldier s Medical Friend anatomical make-up was not more complex, so that they could use a handkerchief when neces- sary, and a tooth brush after eating. Much more might be said in reference to the objections already raised on this subject. Re- forms generally move slowly and it is best not to hasten them too rapidly. ON THE PREVENTIVE FEATURES OF DIF- FICULTIES MERGING INTO SURGICAL NECESSITY i I INTEND simply to treat of the etiological factors — of difficulties which usually end in the necessity for the surgical procedure. This subject, which it is not my aim to elaborate to its fullest extent, will be dealt with in its relation to operations which have been a special source of study, observation, and experience, and which have required the most delicate technique of our most skilled surgeons in hospitals and in private practice up to the present time. The surgery dealt with and discussed at meet- ings, it will be noted, is confined almost, if not quite exclusively, to the history and most mod- ern technique of the surgical operation under discussion. The thought which is to prevail through this paper is to trace severally the diseases which 1 Read at the Annual Meeting of the Surgical and Gynecological Section of the A. I. of H., held at Chicago, June 26 to July 1, 1905. 64 The Soldier s Medical Friend will be referred to, showing the physiological and other causative factors leading up to morbid conditions. One side word right here — appropriate even to the young and brilliant graduate with a marked predilection to surgery as a life work: We believe that it is impossible to develop the best sort of surgeon without the preliminary training of general practice. At the period of graduation the young surgeon would be biased on operative lines. He would not have had time to scan the length and breadth, the height and depth, of the human organism, a mechanism so intricate that a life-long study must even fail to fathom its mysteries in its psycho-physiological and anatomical structure. It would seem, therefore, important that not only the normal relations of this intricate structure should be studied for at least ten years, but that the various morbid processes should be thoroughly understood by experience in actual practice, so that the surgeon in question may ever be on the alert for reflexes — in their relation to any morbid process which might be under consideration. This rule cer- tainly holds good in regard to any specialty, and I believe the safest and most scientific surgeon or physician of to-day is the one who has pursued The Soldier's Medical Friend 65 that course of development before his fixation period into a specialty. The whole trend of scientific thought to-day is to amend or to improve everything pertaining to the activities of life. Your health boards find it incumbent upon them not only to arrest the deadly epidemic of some contagious or in- fectious disease, but to probe deeply into the cause of the same. At your ports of entry your country is protected by methods of inspection, fumigation, and isolation if necessary. Other illustrations might be given, but sufficient has been shown to picture the progress that has been made for the better by removing causes of disease and thus making it possible to have a far better average condition of health than in earlier times, when such painstaking methods were neglected. This is Preventive Medicine, but our theme is Preventive Surgery. If I were to select alphabetically the various surgical diseases which you gentlemen are called upon to treat — I would not succeed in emphasiz- ing so well the subject under discussion any better than by selection of those difficulties which have been brought to the surgical profession of more recent years. 66 The Soldier s Medical Friend In order to anticipate morbid conditions lead- ing up to the demand for surgical procedure, let us first refer to the mysteries with which we have to deal, namely the physiological process of life; and secondly, to the retrograde processes of metamorphosed tissue which finally develop into various forms of malign and malignant diseases and other inflammatory conditions re- quiring surgical intervention. I have been convinced for a long time — and my convictions are becoming stronger each day — that the physiology of life is not sufficiently understood and is most sadly neglected. In order to prevent the hardening of tissues, in order to avoid the permanency of indurations, which — as you all know — after a term of years are liable to undergo morbid and progressive changes developing into medically incurable conditions, such as arteriosclerosis, it is neces- sary that each individual set apart a sufficient time each day for the proper care of the body. There is really so much to this subject it is quite difficult to select a point to enter upon. It has been well said that "we are a mass of tubes/' and unless the contents of these canals, vessels, tubes, or ducts are kept in motion, the equivalent of stagnation would result. Take, The Soldier s Medical Friend 67 for instance, gall stones. Search your books on gall stones and what do you find? All sorts of theories as to the cause of the formation of these stones, and among the clinical reports it is not unusual to find members of the profession therein tabulated, and what does this prove? Either that the real cause is not understood or that physiological laws have been intentionally neglected. To show the importance of the regularity of physiological functions let me refer to an article recently published, in which it was stated that a man during every twenty-four hours makes, by the activity of the liver alone, a quantity of poison sufficient to kill in twenty-four hours three men of his own weight. Man forms in eight hours enough poison to kill himself by this hepatic secretion. In twenty-four hours the urine does not eliminate half the quantity neces- sary to poison a man — the urine of two days and four hours would be required in order to do this. I quote this from Studebaker — who further states that the volume being equal, bile is nine times as poisonous as urine. And we might go on in detail and show how wonderful indeed is the process by which such a deadly poison is manufactured for physiological uses 68 The Soldier s Medical Friend and yet is disposed of as normally as urea by the kidneys. It is stagnation or the arresting of what we might denominate tubular vibration (a condition brought about by constipation — in most in- stances the result of neglect and inattention) which is the foundation of causes leading up to conditions which ultimately demand the operative procedure. In gall bladder disease, as in others I shall mention, operations have as etiological factors diverted physiology, as just explained. Now let us consider hypertrophy of the pros- tate. 1 Here we have to consider a process due to senile changes, and therefore in some respects we may consider it normal; or a condition of arteriosclerosis, a change gradually brought about by advancing age. Notwithstanding this, however, we are offering the suggestion that this condition can be anticipated and the sclerosis prevented by selected diet which has in view a more marked acidulation of the tissues. Acid fruits have a dissolving effect upon calculus formations. As an illustration of this thought you have noted the marked action of lemon juice upon the dentine of the teeth; in fact the state- 1 See prescription in book. The Soldier s Medical Friend 69 ment has been made that the action of this acid will dissolve even an agate button. Undoubtedly, by the regular use of a goodly quantity of liquids, acid fruits, and watery vegetables, the tissues will remain more mellow, as it were, and there will be less liability to congestions, hypertrophy, and tumor formations, often, we believe, the product of inordinate eating of a class of foods which take in the heavy meats. The reason why the latter diet cannot be as well tolerated as in the early years of the individual is due to the fact that muscular activity is greatly lessened, and as a result elimination is less perfectly performed, resulting, as a consequence, in all sorts of engorgements. But let us for a moment direct your attention to a difficulty not depending upon physiological neglect. I refer to various trauma received upon the external surface of the body. To illustrate — a woman receives a slight blow on the breast, and this injury, or an abscess there during the process of nursing, or an irritation of the nipple, may be the foundation of an indura- tion terminating in a morbid growth which ultimately becomes malignant. Now as we look at the various stages through which this injured part may pass, we have, first, an induration; 70 The Soldier s Medical Friend second, adenoma and fibroma; and then usually sarcoma or carcinoma. Early and painstaking attention to these conditions would have pre- vented, in our opinion, the first tumor formation or the adenoma, an innocent growth. To the practitioner, I say, therefore, do not toy with a process of this kind unless you feel qualified to attend the case properly. Consult your surgeon rather than inform your patient that it will amount to nothing. Lastly, but not by any means the least, we are led to mention appendicitis. The name has become synonymous with surgery, but this should not be the case. It matters not what the surgeons may' think — what experiences they have had as practitioners, clinicians, or as pro- fessors of the art of deftness with the knife, I am quite as convinced now as I was in my early observations of the etiological factors leading up to appendicitis, that there must be something wrong in the life or habits of man which has brought upon him such a direful infliction. This we believe to be true; as true as in morbid processes connected with the stomach, bile tracts, and duodenum, which now demand surgical intervention. We fear that we have been too much inclined The Soldier s Medical Friend 71 to a routine train of thought, considering results as of greater importance than causes. The artistic operator finds in the appendix the coma bacillus, with possibly one or two other varieties of microbes, an occasional seed, or enterolith, and to these he ascribes the cause of appendicitis. The surgeon who practices his art exclusively is sure of one thing in regard to this sensational malady and that is that nothing but the knife can permanently save the patient afflicted. He is sure that medical relief must be palliative and that recurrence will happen until appendectomy has been performed. Of appendicitis Dr. Osier states: "All colics mean appendicitis nowadays and are admitted on the surgical side, much to the detriment of the patient as a rule, with the sacrifice of several weeks in bed and the loss of his appendix, when perhaps his pain was due to a lobster salad of the night before. Pain in the stomach nowadays is always appendicitis and is recognized by the doctor's wife over the telephone." We are glad to note some conservative remarks made in the section of surgery quite recently at the Illinois State Medical Society by Dr. Arthur Doane Bevan. On scanning the field, taking in the stomach and intestinal tract and while 72 The Soldier s Medical Friend referring to the various conditions from a gastric irritation and ulcer to a carcinoma, his plea was "that the cases must be carefully selected and the surgeon must be sure that an operation is strongly indicated. Cases that can be cured by a summer's outing or by carefully selected diet should not be operated upon; nor should hopeless cases be operated upon. As to stomach ulcers, where intelligent treatment fails and they return and persist, then — and not until then — does the uncomplicated stomach ulcer become a surgical problem." Now, let us mentally picture a human being in all the activities of circulatory life and then consider what effect the arresting of the normal action of an organ would have. Is it not true that we have successively hyperemia, congestion, inflammation, and then destruction or a morbid process set up, or still worse? As soon as one organ becomes affected, immediately the whole system begins to sympathize or becomes involved to a greater or less extent. If it be the liver, at once the stomach and associate organs begin to feel the impress of diverted functions, which is followed by an arrest frequently of normal peristalsis. Or the difficulty may begin in the intestinal canal, when the individual, for business The Soldier s Medical Friend 73 reasons, neglects nature's laws for a more con- venient season, and this is the fatal moment, for it may be the beginning of a stagnation of various secretions, or a congestion of some of the organs, or an impaction in the colon — the initiatory steps to an inflammation, suppuration, and possibly gangrene of the appendix. In this age of preventive medicine, it would seem to me the duty of the practitioner, and of the surgeon as well, to instruct the families with whom they come in contact on the importance of a regular system of hygiene. This would take in regular and frequent hot baths, which would relieve the kidneys of much of their work. Also the importance of an absolute regularity of the intestinal functions cannot be overestimated, for it is the neglect of this latter which is the cause of most cases of appendicitis. Just in proportion as the people are educated to give time and attention to themselves, so that the machinery of the body will perform its duties without the assistance of the various cathartics so generally in use, — just so sure and in that proportion will appendical difficulties decrease in number, until it will be brought to the attention of the physician and surgeon as only an occasional malady. 74 The Soldier s Medical Friend The medical profession is too humane and too advanced in higher education to encourage ignorance, but should rather take the position of instructors, which, we must admit, might be unwise from a mercenary standpoint, — yet a physician's duty to himself and to the public, and the responsibilities incident to his calling, would seem to demand a personal sacrifice for the philanthropic ends in view. Finally — how best can this education be carried on? By unity of effort on the part of the medical profession — a bureau elected for that purpose, composed of men especially gifted in dietetics, could formulate a system of diet and management of our bodily structures. This could be given to the press from time to time as coming from this organization and as representing the most recent thoughts on the subject. I have been glad to note during my professional career the marked willingness of the press to print gratuitously anything per- taining to the welfare of the people at large. I am sure that the public, regardless of educa- tion or social standing, afflicted as they are alike with the multitudinous processes of various diseases, — would welcome the magnanimity and the humanitarian instincts which would cause The Soldier s Medical Friend 75 the medical profession — as a body — to issue instructions which would have in view the prevention of the same, the outcome of which the title of my paper foreshadows, and which lead up to morbid or organic changes, incurable or demanding surgical intervention, for palliation or for permanent eradication. INVALUABLE PRESCRIPTIONS AND MEAS- URES FOR VARIOUS DIFFICULTIES 1 Pyo-nephritis and Chronic Cystitis 1$ Fid. ext. pichi 5ij Liq. potassii 3 j Aqua dest 3 vj M. Sig. — One teaspoonful t. i. d. For Flies or Mosquito Bites 1^ Oil of pennyroyal one part Oil of pine tar three parts Oil of castor two parts Mix. Apply. Septic or La Grippe Bronchitis 1^ Apinol or Eucalyptus oil (antiseptic and stimulating expectorant) 5 j Sig. — Take 3 to 5 drops on lump sugar, re- peating every 2, 4, or 6 hours. 1 Reprint from the August Medical Summary. The Soldier s Medical Friend 77 Summer Fruit Mixture 1$ Half glass shredded pineapple Half an orange Half a lemon Sugar syrup, jig of gin, seltzer, and cracked ice. Sig. — Eat. For Brain Fag, Paralysis of Aged, Senile Dementia, a Wonderful Rejuvenator Brain Emulsion (how to make) No. 1 1$ Calves' brains Oiv Glycerine Oiij Spts. frumenti Oj Sodii chlorid 5 iv No. 2 To prepare for taking: 1^ Fid. ext. gaultheria B j No. 1 Oij Tinct. nux vomica 3iij Tinct. hydrastis 5iv 78 The Soldier s Medical Friend Tinct. eucalyptus 3ij Rect. spts § j Glycerine Oj § iv Trommer's extract of malt q. s. gal. j Mix. Sig. — One to four drachms t. i. d. TESTED FORMULAS Snake Bites The horror of the hunter, dog, or any beast should be treated quickly: Few have read Calmettes' book on "Venoms" and will have at hand the serum recommended. Wonderful re- sults have followed the use of iodine internally and externally: Ten drops in glass half full of water taking the equivalent of one or two drops repeated as seems necessary. Five-drop doses well diluted have saved hopeless cases in animals. Florida Indians cure themselves by opening freely the place bitten and keep part immersed in water. Iodine locally, and permanganate of potash to be used. Permanganate of potash internally | to | grain every two hours. The Soldier's Medical Friend 79 Warts Caustic potash moistened and applied to two or three of the most seedy will cause the "crop" to disappear usually within two weeks. Just allow the warts to drink in — as it were — the caustic. No dressing will be required. Toothache from Cavity Caries 1$ Camphor gum, Chloral hydrate aa 5 ss Mix. Insert cotton pledget — which gives almost instant relief. It is antiseptic. Another: 1$ Tinct. camphor 3j Tinct. aconite gtt. v Fowler's sol. arsenic gtt. v Mix. Apply same way. Headache and Indigestion Tablet, especially good in Menstrual Headache 1$ Nux vomica gr. 1-10 Belladonna gr. 1-1000 Cimicifuga gr. 1-10 80 The Soldier s Medical Friend Pulsatilla gr. i-ioo Papain gr. i Soda bicarb gr. 2 Pulv. charcoal (for each tablet) . . . . gr. 2 Sig. — One repeated every three or six hours — if necessary to repeat. INVALUABLE PRESCRIPTIONS AND MEAS- URES FOR VARIOUS DIFFICULTIES 1 Rheumatism 1$ Tinct. aconite 5j Tinct. cimicifuga rac, Tinct. colchici, Tinct. cinchona, Valerian aa 3 iij Sat. sol. potass, iodidi 5 ss Syr. limonis ad q. s. § viij Sig. — One teaspoonful taken in water every three, six, or twelve hours as seems necessary. Auxiliary recommendations: Hot baths with deep rubs in tub each day. No meat. Fruits that agree, but lemon juice and hot water and grape fruit excellent. Bowels moved each day; 1 Reprint from the July Medical Summary , 1916. The Soldier s Medical Friend 81 Mt. Clemens salts the best, as it is antiseptic. Take in morning. Carbuncles Paint hyperaemic area with collodion but leave central one-fourth inch space. Inject a few drops after making crucial opening towards the peri- phery from opening, radiating as the spokes of a wheel in five or six directions the following: 1$ Acidi carbolici sat gtt. xx Glycerine 5ij Aqua dest. . 3ij Dress with gauze sat. with bromine, 1-500, or chlorinated soda in 10 to 25 per cent solution. Cut away the sloughing tissue. Dyspepsia with Flatulency and Weakness 1$ Soda bicarb 3ij Tinct. nucis vomicae 3 j Fairchild's ess. pepsin 5 ij Spts. f rumen ti 5 ij M. Sig. — One teaspoonful in water after meals. 82 The Soldier s Medical Friend Rhus Toxicodendron Poisoning, and Ezcema 1$ Resorcin grs. xl Pulverized starch . . . 5iv Zinc, oxide 3iv Lanolin 3iij Vaseline 3vj M. Sig. — Apply. Mastoid Disease to Avoid 1$ Alboline, or any refined liquid petro- leum 5 ij Oil of eucalyptus or apinol 3 j M. Sig. — Use nebulizer, inhaling well up the nose, and use in the throat. This will also prevent contagious diseases, as la grippe and the like. The antiseptic oil inhibits growth of germs. Acute Otitis and Acute Otalgia Of course the otalgia is the beginning of otitis, or may be a reflex. Remove the cause. The pain must be stopped at once and everything must be set in motion for the immediate relief. The Soldier s Medical Friend 83 1$ Cosmoline or petroleum oil § j Tinct. aconite gtt. v Tinct. belladonna gtt. v M. Sig. — A few drops in the ear as warm as can be borne. Apply fluid extract belladonna around the ear. If not relieved quickly use leeches on the tragus and behind the ear. An electric pad over ear is excellent. Internally: Put gtt. x of Pulsatilla, v of aconite, and v of bell, into a glass two-thirds full of water. Give two teaspoonfuls every 15, 30, or 60 minutes, as the case goes. This treatment will, with scarcely an exception, prevent abscess or rupture of the drum. 84 The Soldier s Medical Friend INVALUABLE PRESCRIPTIONS AND MEAS- UREMENTS FOR VARIOUS AILMENTS Some people think that fruits cannot be taken in cases of rheumatism, not being familiar with the opinion of Dr. Gantier — but which any one can prove who lives largely without meat — that "the citric acid combines with the carbonates in the blood and alkaline carbonates are formed which are beneficial in all overacid conditions." Catarrhal Inhalent 1^ Tinct. iodine 5 ss Crys. sol. acid carbolic 5iv Aq. ammonia 5 iss Tinct. camphor 5iv (Oil of eucalyptol or apinol could be added, 5ij.) M. Sig. — Cotton inserted into a small vial and saturated with this will act as an antisep- tic, arrest acute colds in the head, and by grasp- ing the nose, closing nostrils, and making the blowing of the nose process just sufficient to feel the air enter the Eustachian tubes will often arrest tinnitus aurium and catarrhal deafness. INDEX Acacia, pulverized, used in cancer, 37 Acidity, in fruit, 29 Aconite, use of, in appendi- citis, 6; in pneumonia and pleurisy, 34, 36 Ammonia, antidote for bro- mine, 26 Anders, Dr., of Philadelphia, 8 Antidote, for bromine, 26 Apinal, used in spray for nose and throat, vi, 10 Appendicitis, how to avoid, v, 27; oil treatment of, 1- 10; diet in, 2, 3, 6; max- ims, 4-7; morphine and opiates not to be given in, 5 ; chronic recurrent, calomel given in, 7; pus case of, to be operated on, 7; causes of, 30, 48, 70; Dr. Osier quoted on, 71 Arsenious acid, used in cancer, 37 Arteriosclerosis, defined, v; causes of, v, 12; how to prevent, 68 Asepticizing hands, in opera- tion, bromine used for, 25 Aspiration, when to undertake, in pleurisy, 36 Banana, the, food value of, 30 Bath, hot, in the morning, 11; importance of, 49 Belladonna, used in appendi- citis, 6; used in pneumonia and pleurisy, 34, 36 Bevan, Dr. Arthur Doane, quoted, 71 f. Bicarbonate of soda, with bromine, 24 f.; with calo- mel, 36; in water for mouth wash, 53 Bichloride of mercury, used in poisoning from diet, 14; in typhoid fever, 52 Bile, more poisonous than urine, 67 Biniodide of mercury, used in diphtheria, 16 Bite, dog, bromine used for, 22; mosquito, prescription for, 76; snake, treatment of, 78 Brain emulsion, how to make, 77 Brain fag, prescription for, 77 Bromine, as antiseptic, vi; used for gangrene in War of Rebellion, vi, 19; for evaporation in diphtheria, 86 Index 16; how to prepare, 17, 21; nature and uses of, in medi- cine and surgery, 18-26; for evaporation in typhoid, 53 Bronchitis, septic or la grippe, prescription for, 76 Bryonia, used in appendicitis, 6; in pneumonia and pleu- risy, 34, 36 Calculus formations, effect of acid fruits on, 68 f . Calisthenics, in the morning, 11,49 Calmette, author of "Ven- oms," 78 Calomel, as cathartic in ap- pendicitis, 3, 6, 7; vapor, in diphtheria, 16 Cancer, treatment of, 37-39; not hereditary, 60 Carbolic acid, in water for mouth wash, 53 Carbuncles, prescription for, 81 Castor oil, with sweet oil as cathartic, 2, 5 Catarrhal inhalant, prescrip- tion for, 84 Cathartic, castor oil and sweet oil combined used as, 2, 5 Caustic, potash, used for warts, 79 Cervical enlargments, medi- cated galvanic treatment of, 41 Children, observations on care of, 48 ff . Chloride of ammonia, use in pneumonia, 35; in water for electrode in medicated galvanic treatment, 42 Colon, enema in appendicitis, 2, 6; olive oil thrown up in, 6 Common sense suggestions, 58-62 Constipation, cause of ap- pendicitis, 1, 5, 30; cause of stagnation of "tubular vibrations," 68 Consumption, is contagious, 59 Cotton jacket, use of, in pneumonia, 34 Creolin, evaporation of, in pneumonia, 35 Cystitis, chronic, in prostatic hypertrophy, 46; prescrip- tion for, 76 Diarrhoea, Nature's means of relieving impaction, 5, 50 Diet, strengthening, vi; in appendicitis, 2, 3, 6; best, for longevity, 12 f.; poison- ing from, bichloride of mercury used in, 14; for children. 48; in typhoid fever, 52; for prevention of prostatic hypertrophy and arteriosclerosis, 68 Index 87 Diphtheria, how to prevent and arrest, 9; treated with- out antitoxin, 15-17 Diphtheritic poison, bromine used for, 22 Dissecting wounds, bromine used for, 23 Doctors, advice to, 56 f. Drugs, specific action of, scientific basis of law of homeopathic therapeutics, 54 ff. Dyspepsia, prescription for, 81 Eczema, prescription for, 82 Education, in hygiene, how to promote, 73 ff . Emulsion, used in diphtheria, 15 f.; brain, 77 Enema, colon or high, used in appendicitis, 2, 3, 6; of olive oil, in appendicitis, 52 Eucalyptus cerate, used for dog bite, 22; used in cancer, 38 Eucalyptus oil, used in pneu- monia, 35 Fats, in fruits, 28, 30 Flaxseed poultices, used in appendicitis, 2, 3, 5; used in pneumonia, 34 Food omitted in acute attacks of appendicitis, 6; value, of fruit, 27 ff. Formaldehyde apparatus, use of small, in typhoid, 53 Formulas, tested, 78 ff. Fruits, food value of, 27 ff.; effect of acid, on calculus formations, 68 f.; effects of, in rheumatism, 84 Fumigation, bromine used for, 25, 26 Gall stones, how to avoid, v; many theories on, 67 Gangrene, bromine used for, in War of Rebellion, vi, 19; use of bromine in diabetic, senile, and traumatic, 20, 21 Gantier, Dr., quoted, 84 Gelsemium, used in pneu- monia, 34 General practice, preliminary training in, necessary for surgeon, 64 Glycerin, used in appendicitis, 3,6 Goiter, treatment of, with medicated galvanic current, 43 Grape fruit, food value of, 29 Grapes, food value of, 28, 29 Grippe, la, how to avoid, vi; how to prevent and arrest, 9; pneumonia and pleurisy initiated by, 32 Gruel, strained oatmeal, as diet, 3, 6 88 Index Hahnemann, law for prescrib- ing drugs, 55 .Handling money, danger of, 60 Headache, tablet for, 79 f. Heitzmann Dr. Chas., skin cancer diagnosed by, 38 Hepatic secretion, See Bile High (or colon) enema, used in appendicitis, 2, 3, 6 Homeopathic therapeutics, sci- entific basis of, 54 ff. Horse epizootics, how to pre- vent, vi Hygiene, education in im- portance of regular system in, 73 ff. Hyperemia, cerebral, quinine causing, 33 Hypertrophy, prostatic, treat- ment of, 45 ff.; cause of, 68 Ileo-ceecal valve, 3 Illinois State Medical Society, 7i Indigestion, tablet for, 79 f. Influenza, how to avoid, vi; pneumonia and pleurisy in- itiated by, 32 Iodine, tincture of, in water round electrode, 42; in water for mouth wash, 53; used for snake bites, 78 Ipecac, used in pneumonia, 35 Kidneys, work of, shifted by massaging, 11 Kissing, dangers of, 58 ff. Knee chest position, used in, severe cases of appendicitis, Laxative, fruit, 27, 30; food substituted for meat, 28 Lemon juice, action of, 68 f . Life-saver, bichloride of mer- cury a, in poisoning from diet, 14 Limes, food value of, 29 Listerine, in water for mouth wash, 53 Lobelia, used in pneumonia, 35 London Skin Hospital, 37 Marsden's Paste, used in cancer, 37 Mastoid disease, how to avoid, 82 Maxims, appendicitis, 4-7 Meat, as food, compared to fruit, 27; to be omitted in diet, 28; not necessary for children, 49 Medical Summary, 8 and note, 11 note, 15 note, 32 note, 37 note, 48 note Membrane, mucous, vi, 2; in diphtheria, 16 Mercury, bichloride of, 14, 52; biniodide of, in diphtheria, 16 Method, of application, of medicated galvanic current, 42 ff. Index 8 9 Milk, with salt, 3; pepton- ized, 3, 6, 52; sterilized, im- portance of, 48 Morphine, not to be given in appendicitis, 5; effects of, in pneumonia and pleurisy, 32 ff. Mosquito bites, prescription for, 76 Mt. Clemens Salts, as laxative, 14 Mucous membrane, how to inhibit growth of germs in contact with, vi; sweet oil soothing and relaxing to, congested, 2 Nebulization, medicated oil, prevents contagious dis- eases, 9 Nebulizers, different kinds of, 10 Neuman's method for urethral stricture, 47 "Night and Day Treatment, The," in diphtheria, 15 Oatmeal gruel, strained, as diet, 3, 6 Oil, of eucalyptus, vi, 10; olive, vi, 3, 4, 5, 7, 14, 50, 52; treatment in appendicitis, 1-10; sweet, 2, 3, castor, 2, 5; medicated, 9; pine- needle, 35 Old age, how to forestall, n Olive oil, taken internally, in typhoid fever, vi, 52 ; use of, in appendicitis, 3, 4, 5, 7; understanding of, 14; to be used for children, 50 Operation, not necessary in appendicitis, 4; when neces- sary in appendicitis, 7 Opiates, not to be given in ap- pendicitis, 5 ; discontinua- tion of, in pneumonia, 57 Oranges, food value of, 29 Osier, Dr., quoted, 71 Otalgia, acute, prescription for, 82 f. Paraffin, effect of liquid, on bowels, 14 Paralysis, infantile, how pre- vented and arrested, 9; cardiac, caused by quinine, S3; of aged, prescription for, 77 Pavy, Dr., use of oil in ty- phoid fever by, 8 Penicillium, a form of fungi, on skins of oranges, etc., 28 Peptonized milk as diet in ap- pendicitis, 3, 6 Perforation, how to prevent, in typhoid fever, vi; of in- testines caused by typhoid microbe, 52 Peristalsis, how to increase, v, vi; arrest of, by morphine and opiates, 5; importance 9 o Index of active, 30; should not be arrested, 50; arrest of nor- mal, 72 Peritonitis, septic, bromine used in, 25 Permangate of potash, used for snake bites, 78 Petroleum, liquid, in spray for nose and throat, vi; puri- fied, taken internally in typhoid fever, vi; to pre- vent horse epizootics, vii; products, effect of refined, on bowels, 14 Peyer's glands, compress of water on, in typhoid fever, 52 Phagocytes, control bacteria, 27 Phenacetin, use of, in ap- pendicitis, 6 Phthisis, bacillus of, in human system, 59 Physiological functions, fruit a regulator of, 27; im- portance of regularity of, 48, 67, 70 Physiology of life, not suffi- ciently understood, 66 Pineapples, food value of, 29 Pine-needle oil, used in pneu- monia, 35 Pinoleum, in spray for nose and throat, vi; nebulizer, 10 Pleurisy, how to treat acute, 36 Pneumonia, recurrence of, 4; how to prevent and arrest, 9; observations in treat- ment of, 32 ff.; first treat- ment by medication in, 34; no opiates, in 57 Poison, diphtheria, bromine used for, 22; made by activity of liver, 67 Poison ivy. See Rhus Toxi- codendron Poisoning, from diet, use of bichloride of mercury in 14; from poison ivy (Rhus- Toxicodendron), use of bromine in, 24 Position, Trendelenberg, 3, 6; knee chest, 3; in bed when sleeping, 12 Prescriptions in, diphtheria, 15, 16; how to prepare bromine, 17, 21; in cancer, 38; in typhoid fever, 53; invaluable, for various dif- ficulties, 76-84 Prevention, of degenerative changes of living tissues, 11 Principles, essential, for pre- servation of normal phys- iology, v, 48; in treatment of appendicitis by nonope- rative plan, 2 Promiscuous kissing, the dangers incident to, 8 Prostatectomy, for radical cure of prostatic hypertrophy, 46 Index 9 l Prostatic hypertrophy, treat- ment of, 45; cause of, 68 Pus cases, in appendicitis, 7 Putrefaction, tendency to, of organized food, 27; ar- rested by use of fruit, 30; meat source of, 48; avoid- ance of food causing, 56 Pyo-nephritis, prescription for, 76 Quinine, used for diphtheritic poison, 22; effect of, in pneumonia, 32, 33 Recurrence, of appendicitis, 3, 4; of pneumonia, 4; of tonsillitis, 4 Regularity of physiological functions, importance of, 48, 76, 70 Regulator, of physiological functions, fruit as, 27 Remedies, for intestinal dif- ficulties in children, 50; proving of, 54 Rheumatism, prescription for, 80; effect of fruits, 84 Rhus Toxicodendron poison- ing, treatment of, with bromine, 24; prescription for, 82 Schrady, Dr., quoted, 8 Scientific thought, trend of, to-day, 65 Senile dementia, prescription for, 77 Septic bronchitis, prescrip- tion for, 76 Septicaemia, induced by kiss- ing, 58 Shot wound, bromine used for, 22 f. "Similia Similibus Curantur," not basis of law of homeo- pathic therapeutics, 54 f Sinuses, in various regions, use of bromine for, 25 Snake bites, treatment of, 78 Soda, bicarbonate of, used with calomel as cathartic, 3, 6; as antiseptic in mouth wash, 53 Sodium bicarbonate. See Bi- carbonate of soda Sphacelation, due to frozen feet, use of bromine solution in, 20 Spray, for nose and throat, vi Starch, in fruit, 28, 30 Stool, desired, in appendicitis, 5; stench of, to be watched, 28, 31, 56 Studebaker, quoted, 67 Sugar, in various kinds of fruits, 28, 29, 30 Sulphur, burning of, in ty- phoid fever, 53 Sulphurous acid, used in treat- ment of diphtheria, 15, 17 Summer fruit mixture, 77 9 2 Index Surgery, uses of bromine in, 18-26 Sweet oil, application of hot, in appendicitis, 2, 3; taken in- ternally in appendicitis, 2; with castor oil as cathartic, 2 Symptomatology, not basis of law of homeopathic thera- peutics, 54 f. Syphilis, dangers of, 60 Tamar Indien, made of the tamarind, 29 Tamarind, food value of, 29 Tartar emetic, used in pneu- monia, 35 Teeth, importance of brush- ing, 49, 53 Tested formulas, 78 ff. Tongue, importance of brush- ing, 49, 53 Tonsilitis, recurrence of, 4 Toothache, from cavity caries, prescription for, 79 Toxaemia, how to avoid, v; meat source of, 48; cause of, 49 Toxins, products of meat putrefaction, in circulation v; when developed, 27 Trachea, membrane in diph- theria in, 16 Transplantation, in case of cancer, 38 Trask's ointment, hot, in diphtheria, 16 Trauma, development of, 69 f . Treatment, oil, for appendi- citis, 1-10; of diphtheria without antitoxin, 15-17; of septic wounds with bro- mine, 21-26; of pneumonia and pleurisy, 32-36; of cancer, 37-39; of tuber- culous glands, goiter, uter- ine fibroids, and prostatic hypertrophy with medi- cated galvanic current, 40- 47; of typhoid fever, 52, 53 Trendelenberg position, 36, Tubercular disease, how looked upon by physicians, 41; cervical, how cured 41 Tubercular glands, treatment of, 40 ff. Tumor formations, diet to prevent, 69 Typhoid fever, Dr Pavy's treatment of, 8; oil used in, 9; treatment of, 52 f. Ulcers, bromine used for, 26; of stomach, when to be operated on, 72 Urethral stricture, Neuman's method for, 47 Uterine fibroids, treatment of, 43 ff., reduced in size, 45 Valve, ileo-caecal, 3 Vegetables, as diet, vi Veratrum viride, used in ap- Index 93 pendicitis, 6; in pneumonia and pleurisy, 34, 36 War of Rebellion, bromine used for gangrene in, vi, 19 Warts, how to remove 79 Water, hot, used in appendi- citis, 2, 3, 4, 7; free allow- ance of, in appendicitis, 6; cold, after hot bath, 49; hot, in typhoid fever, 52; compress of, in typhoid, 52 Watson, Ex-Surgeon General W. H., success of, in treat- ment of pneumonia and pleurisy, 36 Whisky, use of, for diphthe- ritic poison, 22 Whital Tatum Company, nebulizer, 10 Wounds, bromine used for infected, vi, 21-26 Young, how to look and feel, Zymole, in water for mouth wash, 53 F" LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 022 190 014 5