Chapter XXI: Preface: iii (20)

Symptoms.--Dull constant pain behind the ear and tenderness on pressure, more severe at night, the tenderness is very apt to be followed in a short time by redness and swelling of the skin in the same region. The pus may drain from the mastoid into the middle ear cavity. If this does not happen it may swell behind the ear and break through some other place. It may involve the structures within the brain. If meningitis develops, the patient has headache and later it becomes very severe. Lights hurts the eyes, The patient is restless, sleepless, may have nausea and vomiting and a constant high temperature. The neck is stiff and rigid. If there is more brain involvement (phlebitis) there will be sudden rise of temperature, followed by a rapid fall of temperature and attended by profuse sweating and chills,--a dangerous condition. There can be abscess of the brain also. In abscess of the brain symptoms are less severe and localized; the rigid neck and fear of light and vomiting are absent.

[366 MOTHERS' REMEDIES ]

Treatment.--If seen early it may be aborted. If an examination of the drum shows bulging, an incision of the drum head should be made. If an opening is there it should be enlarged, if necessary. Cold applications are valuable and should be applied directly over the mastoid behind the ear. Sometimes hot applications are better, hot poultices, cloths, etc., syringing the canal with hot water. These applications, etc., should be constantly used for a day or, so, unless unfavorable symptoms set in, when if a marked improvement, especially in the local tenderness and pain, has not occurred, an operation should be done and the mastoid opened.

The diet should be liquid (milk), nourishing and sustaining. Bowels should be kept open.

This disease must be carefully watched. It is not only dangerous to life, and very quickly, but it is full of disagreeable and dangerous possibilities, lifelong discharge from the ear, an external fistulous opening, a permanent paralysis of the facial nerve, abscess in the brain. Brain symptoms, paralysis and pus symptoms do not now preclude an operation on the mastoid for mastoid disease. The patient should be closely watched and an operation performed as soon as called for.

I have given a longer description of the diseases of the ear than I intended when I began this part of the work. Diseases of the ear are becoming quite frequent, and the subject is important. I did not give much general medical treatment because I consider the local treatment is of more importance in a work of this kind. In treating the baby, I shall give more medical treatment. I shall treat the disease also, especially in relation to the baby. There can be more local applications used than those given. If the hot treatment is thought best, not only hot water and poultices of many kinds can be used, but fomentations of hops, etc., and hot water cloths alone. The intent of such treatment is to keep hot moist applications to the part continually. The use of laudanum in poultices used for ear trouble is not recommended because its soothing power may obscure symptoms that might appear and be dangerous in themselves and need quick and thorough treatment. The syringing of hot water into the external canal is often of great help. Five to ten grains of boric acid can be used in an ounce of water. If there is much odor to the discharge, you can use one part of carbolic acid to fifty parts of boiled water. The water should not be used too hot. One teaspoonful of the acid to fifty teaspoonfuls of water, or that proportion. After using the hot water, the canal should be filled with gauze for protection and drainage. For the fever, the first twenty-four hours, one-tenth to one drop of aconite can be used every one to three hours. By putting one drop in ten teaspoonfuls of water you get one-tenth of a drop at a dose.

[EYE AND EAR 367]

DEAFNESS.--This is usually the result of a disease and is merely a symptom. Diseases of the middle ear, rupture of the drum membrane, and large ulceration of this membrane cause it. Ear wax causes temporary deafness. Diseases of the throat and nose cause it very often, and deafness frequently accompanies catarrh of the nose. Adenoids cause it sometimes, especially in children.

Treatment.--The only way to prevent this trouble is to treat the disease that causes it. Discharge from the ear, due to ear disease should be treated from the first or it may cause permanent deafness in that ear. Many cases of scarlet fever leave deafness behind in one ear at least. This trouble should be closely watched during an attack of scarlet fever, and in other infectious diseases and proper treatment given.

Chronic deafness is hard to cure; so often some of the deeper parts of the ear are diseased. When a person recognizes that his hearing is growing less acute he should have his ear examined. People often let the trouble go too long before beginning treatment.

MOTHERS' REMEDIES. Deafness. 1. Quick and Effective Remedy for.--"Five or ten drops of onion juice put in the ear several times a day is very good. If there is any pain in the ear, add a drop or two of laudanum, or you may just use two or three drops of glycerin with the other ingredients. In about an hour after treating the ear in this manner, syringe it well with warm castile soap suds or warm milk."

2. Deafness. Often Tried Remedy for.--"Take one dram each of tincture of lobelia, tincture of gum myrrh, oil of sassafras, tincture of opium and olive oil, mix and apply lint wet with the liniment in the ear, night, and morning, then syringe out with warm water and castile soap."

3. Deafness, My Mother, in Galt, Found Mullein Good for.--"Small blossoms of mullein, fill bottles and cork, hang in sun till oil forms, drop three drops every third day in the ear for three or four weeks. We tried this successfully in our family."

EARACHE.--The general belief exists that earache is something which is quite harmless and entirely different from a genuine inflammation of the ear. This belief is strengthened by the fact that the great majority of earaches subside without inflicting any harm upon the ear. As soon as a discharge appears, in many cases, there is relief. If a discharge appears, the earache was the result of an inflammation in the ear. So-called earache lasts but a short time, and can be relieved by either hot or cold applications; but when the earache continues for a day or more it is an indication of more than pain in the ear and if a thorough examination is made there will, no doubt, be found disease of the ear that is causing the earache. Then the disease proper should be treated.

[368 MOTHERS' REMEDIES]

Treatment.--Hot or cold applications are of benefit. With the patient lying upon the well ear, fill the canal with hot water (105 degrees F.). Then place over the ear a flaxseed poultice or a roasted onion poultice, four to five inches square and one-half inch thick and spread over all a folded shawl. Bread and milk makes a good poultice also. A hot bran bag or a hot salt bag is good. The heat must be continuous.

MOTHERS' REMEDIES. 1. Earache, Hot Raisin for.--"Hot raisins sometimes relieve earache. Soak them in hot milk and change frequently." This is an excellent remedy. The raisins should be placed in the ear canal, and they are sure to give relief.

2. Earache, Flax and Cornmeal for.--"Flaxseed and cornmeal in oil." Take equal parts of flaxseed and cornmeal and mix together, then add enough sweet oil to moisten this mixture. This should be applied hot and kept so by repeating as each poultice is cold. This will be found very beneficial.

3. Earache, Soothing Home Remedy for.--"Glycerin and laudanum heated and dropped in the ear. Hot poultice of hops inclosed in cotton bag and applied to the ear is very soothing." The glycerin and laudanum will give temporary relief and the hops poultice retains the heat, which is one of the essential things in earache.

4. Earache, Horse-radish Leaves for.--"Steaming the face and ear with crushed horseradish leaves will give relief and soothes one to sleep." When through steaming the face the horseradish leaves should be applied to the face and ear as a poultice. This is very soothing.

5. Earache, Onion Sure Cure for.--"The heart of an onion." Roast the heart of an onion and put in the canal of the ear. Then apply heat to the outside of the ear and relief will soon be obtained.

6. Earache; Temporary Relief for.--

"Gum Camphor 1/2 dram
Olive Oil 1/2 ounce
Glycerin 1/2 ounce

Mix and drop in ear."

This is good to relieve, but should not be continued, as this oily substance lodges in the ear and may cause trouble.

7. Earache, Sweet Oil and Pepper for.--"Take a piece of cotton batting, cover with sweet oil, then cover that with black pepper, inserting into ear." This is a good remedy.

8. Earache, Steaming With Hot Water for.--"Steam the ear and side of the head with cloths wrung out of hot water; put feet in hot mustard water; do not put anything in the ear but keep steaming it and you will find relief in a few hours, even if it is a gathering."

[Illustraion: SKELETON.]

[DEFORMITIES 369]

9. Earache, Castor Oil for.--"Put a drop of castor oil in the ear. Fill hot water bag and warm the ear that aches."

10. Earache, Fresh Warm Milk for.--"The warm milk from a cow will cure earache and has also been known to cure deafness." While still warm from the cow drop a little in the ear.

DEFORMITIES.

HARE-LIP.--This is due to the fact that the flesh or bony parts do not quite properly unite. It may form a single or double hare-lip, or complicated, or it may involve the soft parts, or the hard (bony) and soft parts at the same time. It is always to one or the other side of the middle line. It is double hair-lip in about one-tenth of the cases, and when double it is frequently complicated with cleft palate.

Symptoms.--Upon examination you notice that there is a split in the lip, either partly through the lip or entirely, so that the bone is exposed; or the slit goes not only through the lip, but also through the bone.

Operation.--This is necessary, and it is quite successful. The best time is between the third and sixth month, especially when it is a simple case. In some cases of double hair-lip, when the child cannot take the breast and has to be fed, early operation should be done if the child is strong. The operation for a simple hare-lip is very easily and quickly done. For complicated cases it takes longer, and of course is not without some danger. It should be done, for a child is a pitiable sight with this deformity. When grown up it is a source of great annoyance and shame.

CLEFT PALATE.--The bones that form the hard palate do not unite in the median line and a longitudinal opening is left in the roof of the mouth. This is called Cleft Palate.

Symptoms.--Of course, upon examination this split is seen. It may involve not only the hard palate, but also the soft palate and uvula. It is then generally accompanied by single or double hare-lip. When the severe forms occur they cause great trouble. Fluids pass freely into the nose, and unless the child is carefully fed by hand it will soon die, as it is unable to suck. In the less severe forms the child soon learns to swallow properly, but when he learns to speak he cannot articulate properly and his voice is nasal.

Treatment.--For this reason an early operation is advisable, not so early as for hare-lip, but before the child has learned to speak, say between the age of three and four when faulty speech (articulation) may be overcome by successful closure of the palate. When the operation is done late, the patient will not be able to overcome the bad habits of articulation acquired in his childhood.

[370 MOTHERS' REMEDIES]

Operation.--The anaesthetic is necessary. The end of one-half of the cleft palate is seized with an instrument and the edge freely pared with a thin bladed sharp knife; same with the other half. Then the stitches are put in of silk worm, gut or wire. The patient is fed on liquid food for three or four days, and afterwards on soft food until the stitches are removed. They are removed about the sixth or eighth day, and the wound should be completely healed.

CROOKED FEET. Talipes.--There are many varieties. The treatment should be begun, under the instructions of a physician, and continued from infancy and many a good foot can be obtained.

KNOCK KNEE. (Genu Valgum).--This is due to an overgrowth of the internal knuckle (condyle) on the knee joint, and curving inward of the shaft of the thigh-bone (femur) in its lower parts, with relaxation and lengthening of the ligaments of the knee joint.

It usually shows itself soon after the child begins to walk, but may not do so until puberty,--rarely later. It is due in the child to rickets; in the latter form, it is caused by an occupation that requires continued standing, by a person of feeble development of the muscles and ligaments. "Flat-foot" is often associated with it and, at times, may be the real cause. It may affect one or both knees, may be so slight as to escape detection, except upon a very careful examination, or so severe as to separate the feet very widely and render walking difficult and wobbling. In children other symptoms of rickets can generally be found. If not severe it may often get better spontaneously as the rickets condition improves and the general strength increases. This result is common in the cases occurring later, from standing if the general condition improves.

Treatment.--Should be begun early and both general and local treatment should be given. The quicker the treatment is begun, the quicker will be the recovery and the deformity will be less. The ordinary medical and hygienic treatment should be given for rickets.

Local Treatment.--This is mechanical, supplemented by baths, rubbing, friction, electricity and preceded, if necessary, by attending to the bones. If the rickets is still active, and the bones are soft and yielding, standing and walking should be forbidden, the limb should be straightened by manipulation and the correct position secured and maintained by an outside splint and bandage. Sometimes operative measures are needed.

BOW LEGS. (Genu Varum).--This is the opposite of knock knees, and the deformity usually affects both limbs, the knees being widely separated. The disease begins in early childhood; the cause is rickets, and the deformity is the direct result of the weight of the body and muscular action.

[DEFORMITIES 371]

Treatment.--Spontaneous recovery occurs; but if the case is at all severe, and the child is young enough that the bones have not become firmly set in the abnormal curves, mechanical treatment should be employed to bring the limbs to a better position. This may be done by plaster of paris or braces. This must be used intelligently and continuously. Children should not be allowed to walk so early, especially those of slow development.

CLUB FOOT (Talipes).--Varieties:

1. The heel may be drawn up and the foot extended (Talipes Equinus).

2. The foot may be flexed, bent up, (Talipes Calcaneus).

3. The foot may be drawn inward, adducted, (Talipes Varus).

4. The foot may be drawn outward, abducted, (Talipes Valgus); or, two may be combined, extended, and drawn inward (Equino Varus).

In the congenital (born with it) variety the displacement is almost always one of adduction, that is, drawn inward, with commonly some elevation of the heel. It generally affects both feet, but it may be confined to one and if only one is affected, the right is oftener affected than the left. The deformity varies. At the time of birth and for some months afterwards the deformity can usually be corrected by proper manipulation, but later, if left to itself, it becomes in greater or less measure fixed, because of the muscular contraction, and developed changes in the shape of the bones.

Cause--It is not known.

Treatment is successful if it is begun early. Each case should be treated as it needs. The treatment should be varied to suit each case. Bandaging or adhesive straps properly applied has been used with success. Sometimes the leg must be kept motionless by plaster of Paris or gutta-percha bandages. They must be frequently removed and reapplied. In older cases the tendons must be cut and braces applied. Parents are careless who neglect such a case for even one month.

INTOXICANTS AND SUN STROKES

ALCOHOLISM. Acute Symptoms.--The face is flushed, the breath has the odor of liquor, the pulse is full and bounding with deep respiration. Reason, memory, judgment and will are first stimulated and then blunted. The drinker's peculiarities are exaggerated, the person becoming affectionate or quarrelsome. There is a loss of coordination as shown by the staggering, swinging, the relaxation of the muscles, and finally deep sleep, with snoring breathing. The person is unconscious, but can be partly aroused and will mutter when questioned or disturbed. The pupils are contracted or dilated, and they will dilate when the face is slapped. The urine is increased, but it is often retained.

[372 MOTHERS' REMEDIES]

CHRONIC ALCOHOLISM.--This results from protracted or periodic "sprees."

Symptoms.--The face is red, the capillaries are dilated, eyes are watery, conjunctiva is congested. There is chronic inflammation of the stomach, which is characterized by morning vomiting; there is often hardening of the liver, trembling of the hands and tongue; the memory is weakened and judgment and will as well, especially until a stimulant has been taken; often the person is irritable, careless, with loss of moral sense and in extreme cases dementia. Peripheral neuritis is more common in men than in women. It begins with sharp pain and tingling in the feet and hands; paralysis affects the lower extremities, then the upper, and is most marked in the further muscles of the limbs. The pain may be very severe, with great tenderness. There is Arteriosclerosis (hardening of walls of the arteries); often heart dilation.

DELIRIUM TREMENS.--This is a brain manifestation of chronic alcoholism occurring in steady drinkers after excessive drinking or sudden withdrawal of alcohol, or after sudden excitement or accident, pneumonia or other illness, or lack of food.

Symptoms.--There are restlessness, insomnia (sleeplessness), mental depression, then active delirium with great restlessness, talking, muttering, hallucination of sight and hearing. He thinks he sees objects in the room such as rats, mice, or snakes, and fancies that they are crawling over his body, has them in his boots, etc. The terror inspired by these imaginary objects is great, and has given the popular name of "horrors" or "snakes" to the disease. You must watch the patient constantly, or he may try to jump out of the window or escape. The patient may think he hears sounds and voices, threats of imaginary enemies. There is much muscular "shakings," the tongue is coated with a thick white fur and, when protruded, trembles. The pulse is rapid and soft, sleeplessness is a constant feature. Favorable cases improve in the third or fourth day, the restlessness abates, the patient sleeps and the improvement sets in. The shakings persist for some days, the hallucinations disappear gradually, and the appetite returns. In the more serious cases, the sleeplessness (insomnia) persists, the delirium is incessant, the pulse becomes more frequent and feeble, the tongue dry, the prostration is extreme and death takes place from gradual heart failure.

Treatment.--In acute alcoholic cases special measures are seldom required, as the patient sleeps off the effect of his "spree." If there is deep profound alcoholic coma, it may be proper to wash out the stomach and if symptoms of collapse occur, the limbs should be rubbed, and hot applications made to the body.

[INTOXICANTS AND SUN STROKES 373]

Chronic Alcoholism.--This is different; withdraw the alcohol and substitute strychnine, one-thirtieth of a grain three or four times a day, nourishing food, confinement in a sanitarium if necessary. Give the bromides for the restlessness and sleeplessness. Drugging of the liquor with apo morphine or tartar emetic.

MOTHER'S REMEDY. Drunkenness. 1. Effective as Cure for.--

"Arsenious Acid 19 grains
Bromine Water sufficient
Tribromide of Gold 14 grains
Distilled Water sufficient

Ten drops of this solution for injection, which equals one thirty-second grain of gold tribromide." This is an active tonic, powerful sedative and destroys the appetite or cravings for alcoholic stimulants; the medicine is to be taken regularly four or five times a day for several weeks until the alcohol is out of the system even though he may appear cured. This is a good remedy, but should be given under the supervision of a doctor.

Treatment.--The patient must be put into a bed and carefully watched; withdraw alcohol at once unless the pulse is too feeble. Procure rest and sleep for the patient. How? In mild cases, thirty grains (one-half dram) of bromide of potassium, combined with tincture of capsicum five to ten drops, may be given every three hours. Call a doctor for the rest. One hundredth grain hyoscine hypodermically is sometimes good; one-fourth grain morphine hypodermically is sometimes given. For heart weakness: Aromatic spirits of ammonia.

MORPHINE HABIT. (Morphinomania--Morphinism).--This is usually acquired by the repeated use of the hypodermic syringe for pain. It is also used by the mouth or opium smoking.

Symptoms.--At first it causes a sense of well-being and exhilaration, but it must be gradually increased to produce the result; when the effect wears off, the person feels weary, mentally and physically; has nausea, slight distress in the stomach region or pain like intestinal colic. Another dose relieves these feelings, eventually the person becomes thin, his face is sallow, the pupils are dilated or unequal, except when he is under the influence of the drug. His appetite is poor with indigestion. Sometimes itching of the skin, restlessness; irritable, disturbed sleep, and a tendency to lie about everything.

Treatment.--The patient must be taken from home and friends and be constantly watched. The drug should be withdrawn gradually and nourishing food given at stated intervals.

COCAINE HABIT.--The drug is taken as a snuff, hypodermically, or in sprays and often the habit is formed when given as sprays, etc., in disease.

Symptoms.--Large doses cause great excitement, sometimes convulsions, followed by weak heart and respiratory weakness, general prostration, convulsions and coma.

The cocaine habit causes emaciation, anemia, disturbances of the stomach, etc., disordered heart action, weakness of the body and mind, nervous and great depravity.

Treatment.--Same as for the morphine habit.

[374 MOTHERS' REMEDIES]

CHLORAL HABIT. Symptoms.--After a slight primary exhilaration there is depression of the mind and body; skin eruptions, bad breath, spongy gums, poor appetite, indigestion, bad nutrition, permanent dilation of the cutaneous (skin) blood vessels, intermittent pulse, blunting of the higher mental faculties, restlessness, sleeplessness, irritability, sometimes dementia.

Treatment.--Same as for morphine.

LEAD POISONING. (Plumbism-Saturnism). Causes.--It is common in lead smelters and grinders, painters, glaziers, and plumbers, whose hands are not washed before eating. The lead is absorbed by the mouth, skin and lungs. It may be taken into the system by drinking water, cider, etc., in new lead pipes, or from hair-dyes or cosmetics containing lead.

Symptoms of Acute Case.--These develop rapidly from continued exposure. There is rapidly progressing anemia, with acute neuritis, epilepsy, convulsions or delirium or with severe stomach and bowel symptoms.

Chronic Cases. Symptoms. 1.--Anemia, lead line on the gums, paralysis, colic, and brain symptoms.

2. Blue-black line of lead in the gums near the teeth.

3. This is preceded by an obstinate constipation. It resembles severe intestinal colic. There may be vomiting.

4. Paralysis. This is the result of peripheral neuritis, localized or generalized. Wrist drop and many other symptoms of local and general paralysis.

TREATMENT. Prevention.--The hands and finger nails of the lead workers should always be thoroughly cleaned before eating. Use respirators if lead is present in the form of dust.

For chronic poisoning remove the cause. Potassium iodide, five to ten grains three times a day. Not to be given in acute cases or when the symptoms are very severe, until what is in the bowels is removed.

Constipation.--For this give a half ounce of epsom salts before breakfast when needed, or repeat in small doses.

For pain.--Heat over the abdomen and give morphine, if necessary.

FOOD POISONING. (Bromototoxismus).--Food may contain the specific organisms of disease, as of tuberculosis or trichinosis; milk and other foods may become infected with typhoid bacilli, and so convey the disease. Animals (or insects or bees) may feed on substances that cause their flesh or products to be poisonous to man. Meat poisoning. Eating sausage or pork pie or headcheese has caused poisoning. Poisoning from impure milk, shell fish, pellagra, from using altered maize, etc.

[INTOXICANTS AND SUN STROKES 375]

Symptoms.--Acute inflammation of stomach and bowels, with great prostration, ending in collapse. In shell fish poisoning, there are numbness, weakness, dilated pupils, rapid and feeble pulse, temperature under the normal and collapse.

Treatment.--In all cases empty the stomach by emetics or stomach tube and the bowels by cathartics. Stimulate if necessary.

HEAT STROKE.--Called also heat exhaustion; thermic fever, coup de Soleil. A condition produced by exposure to excessive heat.

Heat Exhaustion.--This is caused by continued exposure to high temperatures, especially while working hard.

Symptoms.--Prostration with cool skin, temperature often below normal, 95-96, pulse is small and frequent, sometimes restlessness and delirium. The person need not necessarily be exposed to the direct rays of the sun, but the condition may come on at night, or while at work in close, confined rooms.

Treatment of indoor heat exhaustion.--Aromatic spirits of ammonia one to two drams and strychnine; avoid alcohol. If the temperature is below normal, (98.6) a warm bath can be given. Rest in bed in a well ventilated room.

SUNSTROKE. Heat Stroke, Thermic (heat) Fever.--This occurs in persons chiefly who, while working very hard are exposed to the sun. Soldiers who are marching with their heavy accoutrements are very liable to be attacked. In large cities the most of the cases are confined to workmen who are much exposed and at the same time, have been drinking beer and whisky.

Symptoms.--The patient may be struck down and die very soon with symptoms of failure of the heart, difficult breathing and coma. This kind is most frequent in soldiers. In ordinary cases there may be failure to perspire, premonitory headache, dizziness, sometimes nausea and vomiting, colored or poor sight (vision); insensibility follows, which may be temporary or increased deep coma. The face is flushed, the skin is dry and hot, the pupils are temporarily dilated, then usually greatly contracted, the pulse is rapid and full, and the temperature ranges from 107 to 110 degrees or higher. The breathing is deep, labored and snoring (stortorous). Usually there is complete muscular relaxation, with twitchings, jerkings, or very rarely convulsions may occur. In fatal cases, coma (deep sleep) deepens, the pulse becomes more frequent and feeble, the breathing becomes more hurried, shallow and irregular and death may occur within twenty-four to thirty-six hours. In others, the consciousness returns, the temperature falls, the pulse and breathing become normal and recovery may be complete or leave bad results. The patient may be predisposed to future attacks or suffer from weakness or headache, and disturbance of the mind when ever the weather is warm.

[376 MOTHERS' REMEDIES]

Prognosis.--The death rate is higher when treatment is delayed, and when alcohol has been used as a beverage.

MOTHER'S REMEDY. Sunstroke, Quick Method to Relieve.--"Apply alternately hot and cold applications to forehead and base of the brain or back of the neck, place the feet in warm mustard water, and apply mustard to the stomach and calves of legs. This remedy was tried by my brother's wife, who is a trained nurse. She says it is very effective," The hot and cold applications help to draw the blood from the brain. Placing feet in warm mustard water will help to give relief.

Treatment.--Avoid exposure and alcohol. For a mild case--Rest in a cool place, cool sponging, aromatic spirits ammonia or strychnine if needed for the prostration.

For severe cases.--The temperature must be reduced as rapidly as possible. Pack the patient in a bath of ice. Rubbing the body with ice is an excellent procedure to lower the temperature rapidly. Ice water enemata (injections in bowel) may also be employed. If ice cannot be obtained strip the patient and sprinkle him with water until the temperature is reduced. Use a thermometer to see it does not go too low. Ice cap or cold water to the head. Keep working for hours.

Medicine.--Glonoin, 1/100 to 1/200 grain is of help in severe cases.

ACCIDENTS, EMERGENCIES AND POISONS

COLLAPSE.--1. Place the patient flat on his back.

2. Raise the feet and lower his head, unless blueness of the face occurs.

3. Make the patient warm by applying warm coverings and hot water bottles, bricks or wood.

4. Enema of strong coffee.

5. If necessary the legs and arms can be bandaged beginning at the feet and hands and then bandage up. Use above in order given.

FAINTING.--Place the patient on her back, with the head low and feet raised unless the face is flushed. The face is generally pale.

Loosen the clothing about the waist, throat, etc.

Plenty of air and no crowding around the patient.

ACCIDENTS AND POISONS 377

Cold water on the face with cloths. It is not necessary to wet her all over. Ammonia or camphor near the nostrils to inhale. Lie still for some time and do not attempt to rise while still feeling dizzy or faint.

MOTHERS' REMEDIES.--1. Sea Sickness, Red Pepper and Molasses Relieves.-- "A teaspoonful of red pepper mixed with molasses and taken in one dose is considered one of the best remedies for this trouble."

2. Sea Sickness, Peppermint an Excellent Relief for.--"A teaspoonful of essence of peppermint put in a tumbler of hot water, sipped occasionally, is both a preventive and cure for sea-sickness."

Sea Sickness.--Dr. Hare, of Philadelphia, says: "The bromides should be used in the dose of five to ten grains three times a day for several days before the patient sails to quiet the vomiting center." After sea sickness begins the following combination is good:

(a) Citric Acid 2 drams
Distilled Water 4 ounces
Make a solution.

(b) Bromide of Potash 1 dram
Bicarbonate of Potash 1 dram
Distilled Water 4 ounces
Make a solution.

Then a tablespoonful of each of these solutions should be added to one another and taken during effervescence. Lemon juice can be used in place of citric acid in the first combination.

DOG BITES (Not Rabid).--Treat the same as for any torn wound, wash out thoroughly with hot water and an ounce of salt in a pint of water. There is no danger of hydrophobia from the bite of a dog, cat or any animal unless that animal has hydrophobia. No one can take hydrophobia from an animal that does not have it. (See Hydrophobia).

POISONED WOUNDS. Mosquito Bite.--Remove the sting in the wound. Diluted vinegar applied to the bites is sometimes of help. Camphor is also good.

Snake Bite.--Naturalists have discovered twenty-seven species of poisonous serpents and one poisonous lizard; eighteen species of these are true rattlesnakes; the remaining nine are divided between varieties of the moccasin, copperhead or the viper. The poisonous lizard is the Texan reptile known as the "Gila Monster." In all these serpents the poison fluid is secreted in a gland which lies against the side of the skull below and behind the eye, from which a duct leads to the base of a hollow tooth or fang, one on each side of the upper jaw; which fang, except in the case of vipers, is movable and susceptible of erection and depression. When not in use the fang hugs the upper jaw and is ensheathed in a fold of mucous membrane. In the vipers the fang is permanently erect. In the case of biting the contents of the poison sac are forcibly ejected through the hollow fang.

[378 MOTHERS' REMEDIES]

Symptoms of a Snake Bite.--The symptoms are similar in bites of poisonous snakes. Pain in the wound, slight at first, but becoming more severe, with rapid swelling and spotted discoloration in the vicinity of the wound. Symptoms of heart and lung depression soon show themselves by feeble and fluttering pulse, faintness, cold sweating, mental distress, nausea and vomiting and labored breathing. Death may occur very soon in intense poisoned cases, but more frequently the struggle extends over a number of hours.

Treatment.--First thing to do.--When the bite is on a limb, tie the limb above the bite toward the body and twist the ligature so tight that the circulation is cut off, or checked. Then cut the wound open very freely. When the bite is on the body, make a free cut, and when this cannot be done suck the wound vigorously, which can done without danger, if there are no cracks or abrasions of the lips or mouth, as the poison is harmless when taken into a well mouth. If a hot iron is at hand apply it freely within the wound and this may take the place of the knife or suction. Salt put in the cut wound will be of help, or fill the wound with permanganate of potash and inject a solution of the same, diluted three-quarters with water, around the wound. Strychnine one-fifteenth of a grain every two hours until the symptoms are better. This is not given until the symptoms of snake poisoning have shown themselves.

If such agents are not at hand, brandy or whisky should be given freely. The pulse will show when the patient has had enough.

MOTHERS' REMEDIES. INSECT AND OTHER BITES.--1. Simply Use Pepper for Dog Bite.--"My son had his hand bitten by a dog and it was over a week before it was brought to my notice. The sore was then filled with green pus and the pain went up to his jaw, so we were afraid of lockjaw. I had him cleanse it thoroughly in a basin of warm saleratus water, then filled and thickly covered it with black pepper. The pain stopped almost instantly. It seems as though pepper would smart a cut terribly, but it does not." This is a good remedy and worth trying. The black pepper did not smart the wound because the flesh was dead.

2. Bites, Tobacco Good for Dog.--"Immediately wash the parts with clear water; then take leaf or cut tobacco and bind over the part bitten, changing it two or three times a day for a week. This effectually absorbs the poison. It is a good prevention of any future trouble."

3. Bites, Ammonia Good for Insect.--"Rub the affected parts with ammonia, which will draw out the poison. For mosquito bites have often used baking soda. This always gives relief and is very cooling."

4. Bites, Baking Soda for Insect.--"Cover the affected parts with baking soda and keep moist." A mud poultice is an old tried remedy.

[ACCIDENTS AND POISONS 379]

5. Bites, Hartshorn Old Time Remedy for.--"Apply hartshorn or spirits of ammonia to part which neutralizes the formic acid, the active principle of the poison." This is an old-time remedy and will always give relief if applied immediately.

6. Bites, Carbolic Acid Draws Poison from.--"Bathe frequently in a weak solution of carbolic acid." The carbolic acid is a very good remedy and seldom fails to cure, but if you do not happen to have the acid, use vinegar, and it will have practically the same effect.

7. Bites, Alum and Vinegar Good Remedy for.--"Alum and vinegar. Purchase five cents' worth of powdered alum and dissolve in a pint of vinegar and apply freely. This is a very good remedy."

8. Bites, Salt Water for Mosquito.--"Take salt and water in a little dish and keep wetting the bite for a few moments. This will soon destroy the poison," This will be found a very simple but effective remedy, especially in children or small babies, as we mothers all know how very annoying a mosquito bite is to children. The salt water will remove all the poison and at the same time relieve the itching and swelling. Care should be taken not to make it too strong for a small baby.

9. Bites, Spirits of Ammonia for Snake.--"Strong spirits of ammonia applied to the wounds of snake bites or rabid animals is better than caustic. It neutralizes the poison." Enough of the ammonia should be used to irritate the parts. It is harmless treatment and should be used freely.

STINGS, MOTHERS' REMEDIES.--1. Leaves of Geranium Good for Bee or Wasp.--"Bruise the leaves of geranium and bind on the affected part. This has proved an excellent, though simple remedy."

2. Stings, Simple Remedy for.--"Take a dresser key or any with a good sized hole and press over the sting. If used very soon this will remove the stinger, then cover with wet salt."

DISLOCATIONS.--A dislocation is the putting out of joint some bone, such as the elbow or shoulder bone or bones. The bone has slipped out of its socket. They are called after the joints involved.

General Causes.--Blows, sudden contraction of the muscles; also due to some diseases of the joints.

General Symptoms.--There is a deformity at the joint, pain and sometimes it is not possible to make all the joint movements.

General Treatment.--Of course it is to replace the bone, as soon as possible, before there is much swelling, inflammation and consequent adhesions.

DISLOCATION OF THE JAW.--It is not possible to close the mouth. The chin is too far forward. The jaw may turn toward the other side in one-sided dislocation.

[380 MOTHERS' REMEDIES]

Treatment.--Hold something hard between the teeth in front so that when the jaw snaps in place your thumbs will not be bitten. A piece of wood as thick as your fingers will do. Stand in front of the patient, who should be sitting in a high chair. Put your thumbs in the mouth upon the lower jaw two-thirds of the length backwards, and your forefingers directly underneath the jaw; with the thumbs press down and with the fingers pull forward.

Sometimes it is necessary to hold the jaw in place for some days. For that purpose the bandage for a broken jaw can be used.

SHOULDER JOINT DISLOCATION.--There is a depression of the skin over the cavity. The shoulder is flattened. The bone of the arm points to where the head of the bone is.

Treatment.--Carry the elbow to the side with the forearm at right angles to the arm: turn the arm around until the forearm points away from the body. Then carry the arm up from the body until it is level with the shoulder. In this position gradually rotate the arm again and then bring the arm to the side, with the forearm across the chest, hand pointing to the other shoulder when it should be bandaged by pieces of bandages three inches wide passing around the arm, elbow and body. A pad should be placed under the hand to keep it from making the flesh sore.

FINGER OR THUMB DISLOCATION.--If the joint is dislocated forward pull the front part forward and backward. If it is dislocated backwards, pull the front part of the finger forward and upward. If reduced immediately this needs no bandaging.

FRACTURES.--They are simply broken bones or cartilage, usually applied popularly to a broken bone.

Varieties.--Simple fracture means a break of the bone only.

Compound fracture is where the broken bone sticks out through the skin.

ACCIDENTS AND POISONS 381

Comminuted is where the bone is broken into small parts.

Impacted is where one part of the broken bone is driven into the other part.

Green stick break. This is not really a break, but only a bending of the bone, seen mostly in children.

Bandages for fractures can be made of muslin. They should be six to eight to twelve yards long for large bones.

Width. For a finger one inch.
For arm or head two and one-half inches.
For the leg three to four inches.
For the body six to eight inches.

An old sheet can be used and the ends of the strips sewed together and then wrapped tight in a roll, with the ravelings from the sides removed. The bandage should be started from the end of the limb, wrapped towards the body. They should not be wrapped so tightly as to shut off circulation,

Padding.--This should be of cotton. In case of necessity, handkerchiefs, towels, pieces of muslin, cloths; hay or grass can be used temporarily.

Splints.--In emergencies splints can be made from shingles, pasteboards or even bark.

How to Take Hold of a Broken Leg or Arm.--Never take hold of it from above, but slip the hands underneath, and then take a firm but gentle hold at two points a short distance from the break on each side, and all the while making slight extension with the hand on the end part (distal part) so as to keep the ends from rubbing together, and lift with both hands at the same time slowly and evenly until the limb is in the required position. Then apply the emergency treatment. This is to help keep the broken parts in place until proper care can be given, or to assist in safely and comfortably moving the patient to the place desired. Support the broken limb with something smooth and stiff, such as a thin narrow shingle, three inches wide perhaps, or thin board, stout pasteboard, or the bark of trees, and padded with something soft, such as cotton, wool, hay, straw, leaves, which can be held by bandages of required width, or handkerchiefs folded in triangular shape, or by strips of linen, muslin, ribbon or anything with which the splint can be temporarily held fast.

For the Forearm.--Two padded splints three to four inches wide and long enough to take in the hand also should be applied, one to the thumb, and the other to the back of the forearm, slight extension being made by pulling on the patient's hand. This pulls the broken end in place. Tie on the splints over the hand, wrist and just below the elbow. Two or three wraps of adhesive plaster or five or six wraps of a bandage or handkerchief or towel folded and pinned will temporarily hold the limb in place. Put on a sling reaching from the finger tips to beyond the elbow.

[382 MOTHERS' REMEDIES]

For the Arm.--Put on two padded splints from the shoulder to the elbow, one in front and the one behind, and bind on at the bottom and top. Then place the forearm on the chest pointing to the well or sound shoulder and bind the arm with bandages or a long towel to the body.

For a Broken Leg.--Pull on the foot gently to make slight extension, and lift the leg on a pillow or some sort of pad, and tie this firmly about the leg; or broad strips of wood may be padded and placed on either side of the broken leg and securely tied.

For a Broken Thigh, Upper Leg.--The splint should extend from under the arm to the ankle, padded and bound to the body and to the leg by means of long towels or pieces of sheeting applied six inches apart. If the patient is in a wagon and no splint can be had, bags of dirt or sand applied around the thigh will hold some. But there is always something at hand to use as a splint and to bind the splint to the leg.

For a Broken Collar Bone.--Place the patient on his back if he is to be moved and put a firm pad in the arm pit and bind the arm to the side with the forearm across the chest; or if you have a roll of adhesive plaster two or three inches wide, after putting a pad in the arm pit (sometimes this is not necessary) put the adhesive strip around the arm midway to the shoulder. The arm should be lifted up and a little back. Run the strip of adhesive plaster around the body and fasten to the first part. Then put another strip fast to the band around the arm and run this down around the bent elbow and over the forearm placed on the chest, the fingers pointing to the sound shoulder. This strip can pass over the sound collar bone and fasten to the strip about the body. If it is put on properly, the injured part will feel comfortable.

Broken Ribs.--Put on a towel, about eight to twelve inches wide. This should go around the body and be pinned tightly; or, if you have a roll of adhesive plaster, two and one-half to three inches wide, use this. Start at the backbone, at the lowest point necessary, about two ribs below the broken one, and carry it straight across the chest to the breast bone; put on about eight of such strips, lapping each about one-half inch. Fasten the ends with a strip running up and down one-half on the flesh and the other half on the strip. This is to keep the strips from slipping any. The arms should be held up while the strips are being applied.

A Broken Jaw.--Take a strong piece of muslin, long enough to reach around the neck and eight inches longer. Split this through the center to within about seven inches of the center of the band. Put this unsplit part above, over and under the chin. Tie the upper tails around the neck and run the under tail pieces up in front of the ear to the crown of the head. Tie each end on the back part of the head to the pieces left over after tying back of the neck.

[ACCIDENTS AND POISONS 383]

Broken Nose.--Put the parts in place by pressure and moulding. It is easily done. Do not hurry. Put a strip of adhesive plaster across the bridge of the nose over the break reaching to the cheek.

If the injury causes bleeding, the wound should be washed with clean linen and boiled water and covered with clean linen. To wash the wound, one teaspoonful of salt to one pint of boiled water. Salt is usually at hand.

If an artery is cut, this bleeding must be stopped. The blood spurts out. Press your hands hard on the back of the thigh towards the body of the wound. Another should tie some cloth around the thigh above the wound tightly. It can be made tighter by putting a stick under the band and twisting it around as much as possible. Raise the leg high up and put the head low. If the cut is below the knee or on the foot, bend the leg back. First put a pad or your fist in under the knee joint and bend leg over the pad or your fist. Sometimes the spurting artery can be caught or pressed upon with your finger. If the arm is injured, bandage as for the thigh. If the forearm, the same as for the leg.

If a finger is cut clean off, pick the piece up and wash it and the stump clean and then place the cut off part against the stump and tie on, or stick on with adhesive plaster. It sometimes grows fast.

SPRAINS.--Sprains or wrenches of the joints are caused by a twist or a blow. The injury consists in the tear or rupture of a number of the fibres of the ligaments.

Symptoms.--Severe pain, the joint is practically useless for a time; swelling, heat and later the joint discolored from effusion of the blood into the tissues.

MOTHERS' REMEDIES.--1. Sprains, Ointment for.--"The bark of bittersweet with chamomile and wormwood simmered in fresh lard make an excellent ointment for sprains and swellings."

2. Sprains, Vinegar and Bran Poultice for.--"Make a poultice with vinegar and bran only, or with the addition of oatmeal, or bread crumbs. As the poultice becomes dry it should be moistened with vinegar."

3. Sprains, Turpentine Most Common Remedy for.--"Rub the injured part with turpentine and keep warm and you will find this remedy to be one of the best to keep proud flesh out that has ever been used. I always have turpentine in my home and find that I have to use it often, and it always does as I said above, if once used you will never be without it."

4. Sprains, Quick Relief for.--"Bathe the parts with hot water as hot as one can bear it and relief comes at once." This is an old tried remedy, but if hot water does not give relief use cold water.

5. Sprains, Relieves Pain of.--"Put warm woolen cloth over sprain, drip hot water as hot as can be borne on cloth for half hour. Bathe with spirits of camphor."

[384 MOTHERS' REMEDIES]

Bandaging and Photographs by DR. W. E. ZIEGENFUSS, of Detroit. Done expressly for this book.

[ACCIDENTS AND POISONS 385]

6. Sprains, Quick Application for.--"A poultice of stiff clay and vinegar." Add enough vinegar to the clay to make a nice moist poultice. The clay is exceptionally good for swellings and sprains.

7. Sprains, Turpentine Liniment for.--"Equal parts of spirits of turpentine and vinegar and the yolk of one egg make a valuable liniment in cases of sprains, bruises and rheumatism poultice. Take common salt, roast it on a hot stove till dry as possible. Take one teaspoonful each of dry salt, venice turpentine and pulverized castile soap. Excellent for felon, apply twice daily until open." This is a very good liniment and if applied often will draw, which is one of the essential things for a felon.

8. Sprains, Old English White Oil.--

"Alcohol 1/4 pint.
Turpentine 1/4 pint.
Hartshorn 1/2 ounce.
Oil Origanum 1 ounce.

For sprains and rubbing around sores."

9. Sprains, Arnica Much Used for.--"Tincture of arnica." This should be diluted with water about one and one-half for adults and one and three-fourths for a child. This is one of the best known remedies for sprains that can be obtained. Apply freely to the bruise or sprain.

PHYSICIANS' TREATMENT for Sprains.--Rest for a time (for some weeks). The parts should be raised to lessen the blood supply. Hot applications, through fomentations, or cold evaporations, lotions, massage later, and support with a pad and a firm bandage, in some cases. When there is not much swelling, a plaster of Paris bandage is sometimes applied at once in order that absolute rest can be secured.

1. Tincture of Arnica.--This is an excellent remedy for sprains When the part is much swollen and looks bluish is when it is especially beneficial. It can be used full strength by saturating cloths and applying either hot or cold, or diluted to half strength.

2. Hot Water.--Applied with soaked cloths on the part is very grateful in some cases. It should be kept hot and plenty of water on the part all the time. This should be applied for hours. Between the soakings, the parts should be dressed with the lead and laudanum wash, and rubbed with ichthyol ointment or camphor and laudanum liniment.

3. Cold Applications.--Cold water.--Some patients are more benefited by the cold applications. The part should be elevated and a cloth wrung out of ice cold water, or an ice bag should be kept on the part.

4. Lead and Laudanum Wash.--This should not be used if the skin is broken. Then the laudanum, three-fourths water, can be used alone. Composition of lead and laudanum wash, proportions four parts of undiluted lead water, diluted with sixteen parts of water to one of laudanum. This can be made stronger in the laudanum.

[386 MOTHERS' REMEDIES]

5. Fomentations of hops, or smartweed or wormwood, etc., are also good.

6. Vinegar and Hops--Turpentine Liniment.--This can be used later, for stimulating purposes.

Bandaging and Photographs by DR. W. E. ZIEGENFUSS, of Detroit. Done expressly for this book.

The following is a liniment made by an old gentleman I used to know. I was well acquainted with him while he was living, and I know he was a good, competent man. Following is the recipe:

"Oil of Amber l ounce.
Oil of Wormwood 1 ounce.
Oil of Tansy 1 ounce.
Camphor Gum 2 ounces.
Ammonia 2 ounces.
Oil of Spike 1 ounce.
Small piece castile soap.
Spirits of Wine 1 pint.

Rub in thoroughly. In some cases it should be diluted one-fourth to one-half strength. Full strength for much pain.

[ACCIDENTS AND POISONS 387]

BURNS. SCALDS.--

A Burn is caused by dry heat.

A Scald is caused by moist heat.

A superficial burn, upon a young child, that involves the third of the body will almost certainly prove fatal, while a very deep burn, provided it is localized, may not be so serious, unless important nerves and blood vessels have been destroyed.

Burns may be divided into three degrees:

First degree are those burns that only affect the outer or superficial layer of the skin, producing a redness with some small vesicles.

Second degree burns: These extend through the true skin and blisters result.