In this disease, the pia mater, arachnoid membrane, or the brain itself,
may be inflamed. It matters very little which of the above are deranged,
for the means of cure are the same. We have no method of making direct
application to either of the above, as they all lie within the cranium.
Neither can we act upon them medicinally except through the organs of
secretion, absorption, and circulation. Post mortem examinations reveal
to us evident marks of high inflammatory action, both in the substance
of the brain and in its membranes; and an effusion of blood, serum, or
of purulent matter, has been found in the ventricles of the brain.
_Treatment._--The indications are, to equalize the circulation by warmth
and moisture externally, and maintain the action to the surface by
rubbing the legs with the following counter-irritant:--
Vinegar, 1 quart.
Common salt, 2 ounces.
Set the mixture on the fire, (_in an earthen vessel_,) and allow it to
simmer for a few moments; then apply it to the legs. After the
circulation is somewhat equalized, give the following drench:--
Extract of butternut, half an ounce.
Tea of hyssop, 1 pint.
A stimulating clyster may then be given, composed of warm water, into
which a few grains of powdered capsicum may be sprinkled.
If due attention be paid to counter-irritation, and the head kept cool
by wet cloths, the chances of recovery are pretty certain.