_November_ 16th. Mrs. F----, AEt. 53. In _August_ last was suddenly
seized with epileptic fits, which continued to recur at uncertain
intervals. Her belly had long been larger than natural, but without
any perceptible fluctuation. Her legs and thighs swelled very
considerably the beginning of this month, and now there was evidently
water in the abdomen. The medicines hitherto in vain directed against
the epileptic attacks, were now suspended, and two grains of the Pulv.
fol. Digital. directed to be taken every six hours. The effects were
most favourable, and the dropsical symptoms were soon removed by
copious urinary discharges.
The attacks of epilepsy ceased soon afterwards. In _February_, 1781,
there was some return of the swellings, which were soon removed, and
she now enjoys very good health. Does not the narrative of this case
throw light upon the nature of the epilepsy which sometimes attacks
women, soon after the cessation of the menstrual flux?
1781.