the stomach and bowels may induce a morbid action in a part of the
medulla spinalis, yet taught by the instruction of Mr. Abernethy,
little hesitation need be employed before we determine on the
probability of such occurrence. The power, possessed by sympathy, of
inducing such disordered action in a distant part, and the probability
of such disordered action producing derangement of structure, can
hardly be denied. The following Case seems to prove, at least, that
the mysterious sympathetic influence which so closely simulates the
forms of other diseases, may induce such symptoms as would seem to
menace the formation of a disease not unlike to that which we have
been here treating of.
_A. B._ A man, 54 years of age, of temperate habits and regular state
of bowels, became gradually affected with slight numbness and
prickling, with a feeling of weakness in both arms, accompanied by a
sense of fulness about the shoulders, as if produced by the pressure
of a strong ligature; and at times a slight trembling of the hands.
During the night, the fullness, numbness, and prickling were much
increased. The appetite had been diminished for several weeks; and the
abdomen, on being examined, felt as though containing considerable
accumulation.
Before adopting any other measures, and as there appeared to be no
marks of vascular fulness, it was determined to empty the bowels. This
was done effectually by moderate doses of calomel, with the occasional
help of Epsom salts; and in about ten days, by these means alone, the
complaints were entirely removed.
Before concluding these pages, it may be proper to observe once more,
that an important object proposed to be obtained by them is, the
leading of the attention of those who humanely employ anatomical
examination in detecting the causes and nature of diseases,
particularly to this malady. By their benevolent labours its real
nature may be ascertained, and appropriate modes of relief, or even of
cure, pointed out.
To such researches the healing art is already much indebted for the
enlargement of its powers of lessening the evils of suffering
humanity. Little is the public aware of the obligations it owes to
those who, led by professional ardour, and the dictates of duty, have
devoted themselves to these pursuits, under circumstances most
unpleasant and forbidding. Every person of consideration and feeling,
may judge of the advantages yielded by the philanthropic exertions of
a HOWARD; but how few can estimate the benefits bestowed on mankind,
by the labours of a MORGAGNI, HUNTER, or BAILLIE.
FINIS.
End of Project Gutenberg's An Essay on the Shaking Palsy, by James Parkinson