_Gentlemen_--Seeing the picture of the Invalids' Hotel and Surgical

Institute in our local newspapers, called to my mind the treatment I

received there in 1887. I had been suffering for ten or twelve years

with bladder trouble, and our home physicians did not seem to understand

the cause or the trouble, and I finally corresponded with your faculty,

and their advice was to come and have an examination. I had been a great

sufferer and was so weak that I could hardly walk from the hotel to the

depot, and those who saw me start said that I would be brought home in a

box. Soon after my arrival an examination revealed a stone in my

bladder. After a few days' treatment to strengthen up the system, the

stone was taken out, weighing 530 grains. Four or five others were

afterwards taken out of smaller size, and I am still alive. Will soon be

seventy-six years old, and I cannot speak too highly of the care and

attention I received from the physicians and nurses while there.

Everything that was provided was of the best; good food, glean

apartments; and no better place can be found for treatment of the many

diseases they advertise to cure.

Anyone suffering from bladder or kindred trouble can find relief at the

Invalids' Hotel, Buffalo, N.Y.

Respectfully,

C.A. CHURCH,

New Berlin, N.Y.

CASE 620,258. STONE IN THE BLADDER--GREAT SUFFERING FOR

YEARS--HEART-FELT GRATITUDE.

[Illustration: Wm. H. Miller, Esq.]

WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION, Buffalo, N.Y.:

I would not be a true man If I did not acknowledge at this time (as I

should have done long ago), with words of gratitude, the wonderful

relief I received at your Institution five years ago. It affords me the

greatest pleasure to say to you and to the world at large, that the

treatment and operation I received at your Institution was an entire

success and a miraculous cure. After twenty-five long years of suffering

such as few people endure, caused from exposure while in the military

service of the United States, I contracted kidney and bladder disease,

which shortly afterwards resulted in the formation of a calculus or

stone. I experimented with medicines. Special Prescriptions, etc., from

some of the most eminent physicians in the world, in fact everything

that promised relief and help for my kidneys was used, but received no

relief, until the bladder discomfort became unendurable. As a last

resort, knowing full well that life with me would be very short unless I

could receive immediate relief, I went to your famous Institute, where I

was treated and operated upon and a large stone was removed from the

bladder. The old method of cutting, which is so dangerous, was not

employed, but the new and painless process of crushing; this process was

an agreeable surprise to me, no pain and no risk, as in the old method

of cutting. From the day of the operation I began to improve, and in a

few weeks thereafter I returned home to my wife, family and friends, a

well and happy man, and I have spent the last five years with ease,

comfort and pleasure--a living, walking testimonial for your renowned

Institute. Believe me, when I say that words fail me to express to you

my sincere gratitude for your marvelous and almost miraculous cure

effected in my case. I feel sure no invalid could receive more skillful

and kindly attention anywhere in the world. I would urge every sufferer

to take treatment at the Invalids' Hotel and Surgical Institute,

believing it to be the most skillful, and feel sure that it is the most

advanced of the age.

Sincerely and gratefully yours,

WM. H. MILLER,

Stoyestown, Somerset Co., Penna.

CASE 720,402. STONE IN BLADDER ONE AND A HALF INCHES IN DIAMETER

SUCCESSFULLY REMOVED WITHOUT CUTTING OR PAIN.

[Illustration: Thos. Daltry, Esq.]

From severe exposure when in the army, I brought upon myself an acute

attack of rheumatism, from which I suffered terrible pain. Following

this I began to be troubled with my bladder and kidneys. For three years

I experienced considerable discomfort. There was severe burning and

scalding, and urination caused much pain. I passed two pieces of gravel

and became convinced that I had stone in the bladder. Was examined by my

home physician, who said there was no stone. I was not satisfied,

however, and went to the Invalids' Hotel and Surgical Institute. I was

examined by their specialist. After an injection of cocaine and

carefully cleansing out the bladder, a stone was found about one inch

and a half in diameter, probably similar in its composition to the

pieces already passed. I was advised to have it operated upon and

removed, which I arranged to do. The process used was their new and

painless one of crushing, no knife or other cutting instrument being

employed. The stone was readily grasped by the crusher and reduced to

small fragments. The evacuator was then introduced and the stone

entirely removed. After a few weeks' careful attention my health was

entirely restored and I was able to leave for home. I take great

pleasure in making public my wonderful cure. I could not speak in too

high praise of those who took charge of my case, nor recommend too

highly this famous Institution. It is about three years since I was

operated on, and pave not felt any bad effects since.

THOS. DALTRY,

Huntington, Huntington, Co., Ind.

CASE 820,539. GRAVEL OR STONE WITH CHRONIC KIDNEY AND BLADDER DISEASE.

CURED NINE YEARS AGO AFTER BEING GIVEN UP TO DIE.

WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION, Buffalo, N.Y.:

[Illustration: Mr. O. Thompson.]

In 1884, at the age of fifty-four years. I was prostrated with Kidney

and Bladder complaint and told by the best physicians that I was but ten

days out of the grave. I applied to your Institute for help and received

treatment, and now after nearly nine years am in comparatively good

health. All this time I have been able to do much work and to oversee my

farm. Two stones or gravel were passed while under home treatment. No

further formations have developed. The many cases I have recommended to

you have all been more than satisfied with the results of their

treatment. I wish to thank you for the great benefit and care I received

at your hands.

Yours truly,

ORVILLE THOMPSON,

Avoca, Steuben Co., N.Y.

CASE 859,612. A STRONG ENDORSEMENT.

[Illustration: H.E. Bankston, Esq.]

_To whom it may concern:_

This is to certify that I took treatment at the Invalids' Hotel and

Surgical Institute, Buffalo, N.Y., and I was cured of a chronic trouble

that had been maltreated by other physicians. While there I saw a man

who had been cured by the specialists, who had before been given up to

die by the best doctors in Troy, N.Y. Of course, the case must have been

a very stubborn one. I afterwards saw a man here, in Georgia, die, who,

if he had been in Pierce's Surgical Institute under the treatment and

care of his skilled doctors and nurses, I know would have most assuredly

got well. Why? Because it was only a case of _stone in the bladder_, and

they are easily cured at Dr. Pierce's Surgical Institute. I think almost

any chronic disease can be cured there, if taken in time, judging from

my observations while an inmate of that Institution.

H.E. BANKSTON,

Barnesville. Pike Co., Ga.

CASE 820,260. COMPLICATION OF DISEASES.

WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION:

[Illustration: J.F. Ritter, Esq.]

_Gentlemen_--It is now about six months since I discontinued your

treatment, and as I have had no return of the old symptoms, I consider

it unnecessary to take more medicine. When I visited your Institution

some two years ago, I had but faint hopes of ever being restored to

health, as I was suffering from a complication of diseases. My case was

an unusually obstinate one, yet I am satisfied that a cure could have

been accomplished in half the time, had I been able to follow your

directions in regard to diet more closely. I hereby tender you my

sincerest thanks for the kind treatment received while at your

Institution. Those days will always be the happiest in my memory. I will

close by giving your faculty my sincere thanks, and hope success will

crown your business.

Yours very gratefully,

J.F. RITTER,

Medford, Jackson Co., Oreg.

Stricture, the result of injury from falls and accidents, is

particularly difficult of permanent cure. The following gratuitous

recommendations are from cases belonging to this class who entirely

approve of the publication, with full name, photo-gravure and address.

CASE 820,507. STRICTURE CURED AFTER MANY OPERATIONS BY OTHER SURGEONS

HAD PROVEN TO BE FAILURES.

WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION:

[Illustration: Archie Ritchie, Esq.]

I would state that I am an architect, fifty-two years of age, that about

seventeen years ago I fell from a scaffold, a distance of eighteen feet,

across a beam, striking upon the perineum. A physician was immediately

called and I was treated by him for about eight or ten weeks. A catheter

was introduced into the bladder, but caused such intense pain and

anguish that it had to be withdrawn. It was tried again but could not be

introduced on account of the lacerations in the urethra, caused by the

violence used. A consultation was held and an operation recommended. An

anæsthetic was used and a cut made through the perineum from the outside

into the bladder. A catheter was inserted into the bladder, tied in

place and left in position for about eight weeks. After eight or nine

weeks the catheter was removed, but it was four or five weeks before the

wound in the perineum healed. After a few months I began to have a

urinary difficulty, and symptoms of urethral stricture. This condition

continued until the urethra was entirely closed, and it was impossible

to make water. A physician attempted to pass a catheter, but could not

do so. He continued to treat me by the process of dilation for five or

six months. I began to feel more comfortable, but the symptoms of

stricture would manifest themselves again. I then went to a hospital at

Toronto. There I was treated also by the dilating method. The treatment

was continued for about four weeks, but became so very painful, and

there was so much irritation in the urethra, that it was impossible to

endure it longer. They then called an electrical specialist and he began

treatment by electrolysis. In about three weeks I went home, but in a

short time the stricture again manifested itself; the contraction was

very marked, and micturition very difficult. It grew gradually worse and

I could not receive any comfort or benefit. I returned to Toronto to

take further treatment from the electrical specialist. During the

operations of dilation of the urethra, I passed some gravel. After four

weeks treatment I returned home, but in about two months was as bad as

ever, and last October went back to Toronto and was again treated by the

electrical method. The doctor had much difficulty in inserting the

smallest catheter, and it caused intense pain and suffering. The last

time he attempted to insert a catheter, there seemed to be something

give way, and a large amount of pus and fluid passed from the rectum.

The physician told me an abscess had formed. I returned home and tried

to keep as comfortable as possible, but could not micturate with any

degree of satisfaction or comfort. I gradually began to grow worse and

there was a return of the stricture with inflammation of the bladder. In

March, 1892, there began to be formed gravel in the bladder. They would

at times obstruct the flow of urine entirely. I kept going from bad to

worse, until the urethra appeared to be entirely closed. The physician I

called found it impossible to pass a catheter Into the bladder, and

advised me to go to some hospital where I could receive proper

treatment, and where proper appliances for this class of cases were

used, as he felt satisfied nothing could be accomplished for me at home.

I then came to the Invalids' Hotel and Surgical Institute in Buffalo to

receive treatment, and the treatment has been so successful that the

urethral stricture as well as the gravel have been removed. After I

returned home I felt as if a great load had been lifted from my

shoulders. I have no irritation at all as I used to have, and I can keep

my water for six or seven hours without any trouble, and the water seems

to be clear and free from sediment of any sort, and in general I feel as

I never expected to again. The doctors here were dumb-founded at the

short time I was in getting fixed at your Institution, and feel ashamed

to ask any questions as to treatment. Many months have passed and I

continue well and active in my profession. Any one I can send the way of

your Institution you may be sure I shall do so, and thanking you

personally for your kind and successful treatment of my case,

I remain ever your well-wisher,

ARCHIE RITCHIE, Architect,

Mount Forest, Ont.

GRATEFUL LETTER FROM A PROMINENT ARCHITECT.

TO THE WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION:

_Gentlemen_--It is again with the greatest of pleasure that I write you

after twelve months since I was treated in your Institution, to add to

my former testimonial. With the blessing of good health I have been able

to attend to my business as well as ever, and have the greatest of

comfort in every respect, and feel about ten years younger than I was

when I came to your Institution for treatment, and I have still again to

thank you, gentlemen, for the kind and courteous attention I received

from every one I came in contact with in your Institution, while under

treatment, and shall ever remember my visit to your Hotel with pleasure,

and shall advise any one suffering under the same trouble, with whom I

may come in contact, to come to your valuable Institute for treatment,

where they can have the best of attention and skill. Again thanking you,

gentlemen, for what you have done for me, I hope that your Institute may

long be kept up to minister to suffering humanity. God bless your staff

of physicians, and may success attend you, is the wish and prayer of

ever your well-wisher and grateful patient,

ARCHIBALD RITCHIE,

Mt. Forest, P.O., Ont.

[_See Mr. Ritchie's former communication, on page 857._]

CASE 2A-126. PAINFUL IMPEDIMENT TO THE ACTION OF URINARY ORGANS.

[Illustration: Edward Compton, Esq.]

WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION:

This is to certify that I have been to the Invalids' Hotel and Surgical

Institute, at Buffalo, N.Y., for treatment, and cannot speak in too high

terms of the staff of physicians and surgeons, or of the treatment which

I received. I consider the Hotel one of the best in the country, the

table being excellent, and the treatment the very best to be found in

the land. It is a most pleasant place to stay. The attention which is

given by the nurses could not be better. As surgeons I think your

specialists possess the finest skill that can be found. Any person

suffering should not delay, but go at once and be treated and get well.

You are at liberty to use this endorsement in any way that will do the

most good.

With gratitude, I remain,

EDWARD COMPTON,

Chillicothe, Ill.

CASE 620,380. STRICTURE, THE RESULT OF INJURY--CURE PERMANENT.

[Illustration: Mr. Fay Sawdy.]

The stricture, which resulted from an injury, had been greatly

aggravated by uric acid crystals which were continually forming in the

urine. Patient had rheumatism, causing this acid state of the system. He

had been a great sufferer for many years, continually experiencing the

nervousness, smarting, pain and burning, with occasional attacks of

urethritis, common to the malady in this form. This made the stricture

almost unbearable, and he was practically incapacitated for his labor at

the time that treatment was undertaken in our Institution. He had been

to the Hot Springs and in the care of other physicians with no

satisfactory results. The relief of the stricture by our new and

painless method was followed by very great improvement in his condition,

after which appropriate remedies for the rheumatism were administered,

and the result was a very gratifying and satisfactory relief from his

difficulty. Patient afterwards embarked in business as a proprietor of a

hotel of his own, and has been ever since very active in carrying on the

business, and extremely successful. The stricture showed no tendency to

recur, as is commonly the case where it is cured by other methods than

employed by us. Many years elapsed from the time that it was treated

before the testimonial appended was written.

WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION, Buffalo, N.Y.:

_Dear Doctors_--I want to thank you, but words cannot express my

gratitude, for your treatment white at your Institution, but I will say

for the benefit of persons afflicted with stricture, that I was entirely

cured by you, and after several years have not seen any signs of its

returning.

Yours truly,

FAY SAWDY, Proprietor Hotel Sawdy,

Earlville, Madison Co., N.Y.

CASE 551,864, URETHRAL STRICTURE--NASAL CATARRH--CURED IN TWENTY DAYS--A

PREVIOUS OPERATION BY A NASHVILLE (TENN.) SURGEON UTTERLY FAILED.

[Illustration: S.A.D. Smith, Esq.]

WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL, ASSOCIATION. Buffalo, N.Y.:

In September, 1886, I was examined by one of your able staff of

physicians and was found to be suffering with a bad form of nasal

catarrh and with two strictures in the urethra (water passage). After a

few days' general treatment, I was operated upon and turned over to be

cared for by the nurse, from whom I received all the attention that was

necessary. To my utter astonishment I was dismissed in twenty days from

the Surgical Institute, cured of the stricture. I had been operated on

by one able surgeon of Nashville, Tenn., and was worse after the

operation than before. I have never had a symptom of the stricture since

I was dismissed from the Invalids' Hotel and Surgical Institute, and

have been in better health than ever before in my life.

Very truly,

S.A.D. SMITH,

Laurel Hill, Tenn.

CASE 820,201. STRICTURE OF THE URETHRA OF THREE YEARS' STANDING--COULD

PASS URINE ONLY IN DROPS AND WITH GREAT PAIN.

WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION:

[Illustration: Frank Brendell, Esq.]

_Gentlemen_--Wishing to add my testimony as to your great skill in

surgery, I will say that I suffered with stricture of the urethra, due

to an injury, for about three years. It became so bad that at times I

could pass water only in drops and with great pain. I went to a doctor

here, who used sounds which helped me for a time, but in less than six

weeks I was worse than ever. Hearing of your place, I came to you and

had a painless operation performed, and have ever since been thoroughly

cured. I experience no trouble or pain. It is three years since I had

the operation, and the cure has proved permanent. You have my deepest

gratitude.

Yours truly,

FRANK BRENDELL,

Olean, Catt. Co., N.Y.

CASE 820,472. COMPLICATED AFFECTION OF NERVOUS SYSTEM AND URINARY

ORGANS.

[Illustration: E.J. Archer, Esq.]

_To the afflicted with chronic Diseases:_

It is with great pleasure that I refer to the successful treatment,

together with the kind care and attention received at the hands of the

professional staff, both physicians and nurses, of the world-renowned

Invalids' Hotel and Surgical Institute. In every way It verifies their

statement--"Not a hospital but a pleasant remedial home," and as such I

add my name to the thousands who know and recommend it to the afflicted.

Not only was this true in my own case, but in many which came under my

observation while there, so I say to the afflicted--visit them if you

can and if your case (no matter of what character) is Within human

skill, you will never have to regret it.

Very sincerely yours,

EDWARD J. ARCHER,

Plainwell, Mich.

CASE 520,408. STONE IN THE BLADDER.

WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION:

[Illustration: Rob't Worthington, Esq.]

_Gentlemen_--For six years I had been a great sufferer from stone in the

bladder. The discomfort increased, until it almost became unbearable.

Hearing of the universal success of the specialist at the Invalids'

Hotel and Surgical Institute, in similar cases, I went there and

submitted to an operation. The method employed was their new and

painless one of crushing, no knife or cutting instrument being used. I

felt no pain afterward, there was no fever, and I could have gone home

the day after. The operation was witnessed by one of my friends, who

says it was very artistic and done with skill. It was a complete

success, for I have not been troubled in the least, although nearly

seven years have passed.

I feel that I cannot speak in too high praise of this renowned

Institution and its staff of skilled physicians. No invalid need fear to

place himself under the skillful treatment and kindly care to be

received there, for I am confident that all the benefit known to medical

science, can be obtained at the Invalids' Hotel and Surgical Institute.

ROBERT WORTHINGTON,

Staunton, Fayette Co., Ohio.

CASE 114,747. NERVOUS DEBILITY, DYSPEPSIA, KIDNEY AND LIVER

DISEASE--CURED.

WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION:

[Illustration: B.V. Wright, Esq.]

_Gentlemen_--I take pleasure in informing you that the treatment you

gave me for the relief of an affection of the spine and nervous system,

disease of the digestive organs, kidneys and liver, has been entirely

successful. I had feared that my health was gradually being undermined,

prior to entering your institution, and I can testify to the perfect

appointment that you have, the excellent apparatus for the

administration of electrical and other massage treatment and baths. My

relief was most satisfactory, and the cure has remained permanent.

I take pleasure in recommending your institution to the afflicted,

believing that you have the very best treatment for chronic diseases

known, and I have had an opportunity to satisfy myself, from

conversation with other invalids in your Institution, of the care and

skillful treatment that you administer, and its excellent effects. I

believe that it is fully abreast of the times, and equal to any

institution in the world.

With many good wishes and thanks for my cure,

I remain, Yours truly,

B.V. WRIGHT,

Graniteville, Middlesex Co., Mass.

CASE 790,698. DIABETES CURED BY HOME TREATMENT.

[Illustration: Mrs. Woodruff.]

_To whom it may concern_:

This is to certify that for a number of years I was a constant sufferer,

and what was many times termed a hopeless victim of that terrible

disease, diabetes. The symptoms were indeed alarming; my strength being

so completely exhausted that my walking from room to room was attended

with difficulty. My nerves were in a constant tremor, and in fact no

other words than that, "I was completely out of fix all over," will

express my condition. Having purchased a bottle of Dr. Pierce's Favorite

Prescription for my daughter, and in looking over the directions of the

accompanying circular and finding my own case so thoroughly described, I

decided at once to give his special home treatment a trial, which I did

during the three months that followed. This proved to be all that was

required for the restoration of my usual health, and during the four

years which have since elapsed I have had not the slightest reason for

believing otherwise than that a perfect cure has been effected, and can

most heartily recommend Dr. Pierce's medicines and treatment to any or

all who may be suffering with kidney complaint in any form.

Very sincerely yours,

MRS. MARY A. WOODRUFF,

Columbus Junct., Louisa Co., Ia.

CASE 795,590. INCONTINENCE OF URINE--CURED BY SPECIAL HOME TREATMENT.

WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION, Buffalo, N.Y.:

[Illustration: Miss Richman.]

_Dear Sir_--I consider myself duty-bound to you and suffering humanity

to acknowledge the benefit that I have received from your treatments.

From babyhood till I was twenty years old I was continually bothered

with a weakness of the muscles of the bladder, that gave me much

trouble, both by night as well as day. I doctored with several

physicians and tried all patent medicines, but could not get any relief

until I took your medicine about six months, and now I am sound and

well. It has been over two years since I quit taking your medicine, and

have had no symptoms of the disease returning.

Yours most gratefully.

Miss MOLLIE RICHMAN.

North Cove,

Pacific Co., Wash.

CASE 4A-2,226. BRIGHT'S DISEASE AND GRAVEL CURED BY SPECIAL HOME

TREATMENT.

WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION, Buffalo, N.Y.:

[Illustration: J.W. Thompson, Esq.]

_Dear Sir_--You have my thanks and best wishes for your success, as you

cured me of what the doctors here called Bright's Disease and Stone in

the Bladder. They did me no good, so I concluded to write to you, which

I did, and am happy to say your medicine worked like a charm. God and

myself only know how I suffered. I lost fifty-six pounds of flesh in six

weeks and I thought my time had come, but when I commenced taking your

medicine, in three days I saw a change for the better was taking place,

and in one month I considered myself cured. I am still in good health

and can do as hard a day's work as any man. Again I thank you. Your

charges were reasonable and any one suffering as I was should write you

at once.

Any person writing to me must send stamped addressed envelope if wanting

an answer.

J.W. THOMPSON,

St. John, Whitman Co., Wash.

CASE 2A-223. INFLAMMATION OF THE BLADDER. RETENTION OF URINE.

WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION, Buffalo, N.Y.:

[Illustration: E.A. Brown, Esq.]

_Gentlemen_--I had been a terrible sufferer for many years with Bladder

trouble. I had experienced the greatest discomfort, and tried in vain to

find relief. I was persuaded to go to the Invalids' Hotel and Surgical

Institute, I went and while there submitted to a course of treatment

that gave me relief, and was entirely satisfactory. Three years have

elapsed and I continue well. I take the greatest pleasure in making

public my cure. No sufferer going there can fail to receive all the

benefit to be derived from medical treatment. The staff of physicians

are skillful and of large experience; the attendants kind and attentive,

and the Institution, in all its appointments, not to be excelled in the

country. I had been told by other physicians, Jealous at your success,

not to go to your place, but I am now more than pleased that I

disregarded their advice.

E.A. BROWN,

Corfu, N.Y.

* * * * *

RUPTURE. (BREACH OR HERNIA.)

By the term _Hernia_, we mean a tumor, which is formed by the

displacement of the intestines, the omentum (covering of the bowels), or

both, and which protrudes from the abdominal cavity. The most common

varieties are _umbilical, inguinal_ and _femoral_ hernia. Children are

most subject to umbilical, males to inguinal, and females to femoral,

hernia.

[Illustration: Fig. 1.

Indirect Inguinal Hernia.

Sketched from a case subsequently

cured by our improved method

of treatment. ]

CAUSES. These are either _predisposing_ or _exciting_. Any thing which

occasions general or local muscular debility, as dropsy, pregnancy,

abscesses, wounds, obstructions to natural evacuations, etc., is a

predisposing cause of hernia. The exciting cause is pressure applied to

the contents of the abdomen, as straining in evacuating the bowels and

bladder, lifting heavy weights, or violent physical exertion.

SYMPTOMS. The only characteristic symptom of hernia is the presentation

of an elastic, or doughy tumor of variable size, which either gradually

or suddenly makes its appearance. There is flatulence, uneasiness, and

sometimes pain in the abdomen.

Sharp and dull pains frequently recurring and confined to the locations

where ruptures appear should receive attention. Examination will not

infrequently reveal a small enlargement. If a hernia, this will usually

disappear after a night's rest and may not be again noticed until the

next day, or for several days. On coughing, with the finger applied to

the enlargement, a sensation of an impulse (succussion), or slight

additional protrusion will be felt

The trouble appears at any time of life, an analysis of seventy thousand

cases indicating that it is most common in debilitated persons, and that

there is a constant decrease in the frequency of the affection from the

first to the thirteenth year, after which rupture is more and more

frequently met with as age advances.

[Illustration: Fig. 2.

This figure illustrates a case of Femoral

Hernia which was radically cured by our

improved method. This tumor is a little

lower on the thigh than in cases of inguinal

hernia. Femoral Hernia is most common

to females, and inguinal in males.]

INGUINAL HERNIA (see Fig. 1) is more common than all other forms of

rupture. It is more frequently met with in men, and when severe there is

usually a mass of intestine which falls into the scrotum and has an evil

effect, by pressing upon the testicle. The protrusion follows the

spermatic vessels and hence it usually appears low down in the abdomen

and on one or both sides of the pubic bone.

FEMORAL HERNIA (see Fig. 2), most common in women of mature life, is

felt as a lump below the strong ligament in the groin which forms the

line of separation between the thigh and the abdomen. On its outer side

and close to it can be felt the beating or pulsation of the large artery

of the thigh.

UMBILICAL HERNIA (see Fig. 3) appears at or near the navel and is most

common in children. It may be present from birth, or it may result from

fretting and crying at any period of childhood.

[Illustration: Fig. 3.

UMBILICAL HERNIA.

Sketched from a case subsequently

cured by our new method.]

Sufferers from any form of rupture are constantly subject to the danger

of strangulation. This occurs when, from any cause the free return of

the contents of the protruded part of the intestine is prevented. It is

an accident of a serious nature, inasmuch as nearly fifty per cent. die

if not carefully operated upon, and with the most skillful treatment,

one in four cases terminates in death.

Every individual should guard against rupture by maintaining, by proper

exercise, diet, and rest, a condition of vigor and tonicity of the

muscular system.

When debilitated, all strains and exertions should be care fully avoided

until the health is built up, and the relaxation overcome.

TREATMENT. The palliative treatment of hernia is by _reduction_ and

_retention_. Reduction consists in returning the protruding intestine to

its proper place through the opening by which it escaped. This is

accomplished either by manipulation or by a surgical operation.

Retention is effected by wearing a mechanical appliance called a

_truss_.

As soon as the tumor protrudes, or the "bowel comes down," the patient

should assume the recumbent posture, with his shoulders and feet

elevated. The patient or an attendant should grasp the hernia, and with

gentle, but gradually increasing pressure upon the tumor attempt to

replace it. At the same time let the patient knead the bowels upward by

pressing upon the integument, so that the intestine may, as far as

possible, be pushed away from the point of protrusion. Sometimes the

contraction of the muscular fibres at a point where the hernia makes its

exit is so great that the tumor cannot be replaced. In this case the

system should be relaxed with lobelia (not given in doses to produce

vomiting), and as soon as the patient is thoroughly under its influence,

the manipulations may be resumed. When there is any difficulty

experienced in putting back the "breach," or rupture, professional

assistance should be promptly summoned. After the reduction of the

rupture, a truss should be properly adapted, applied, and constantly

worn, to prevent the protrusion of the intestine.

[Illustration: Fig. 4.

The above cut fairly illustrates a case of Double

Inguinal Hernia, complicated with Hydrocele,

cured at the Invalids' Hotel

and Surgical Institute.]

Of the latter instruments there are several hundred varieties for sale

throughout the country. With the exception of about one-half dozen

forms, which embody the true principles of a proper truss, they are,

without exception, harmful. Unless proper support be given to the walls

of the abdomen, and that without constant pressure, a truss does harm;

then, too, the shape of the pad must be such as to avoid pressure where

it is not required; otherwise, as in the case where a small ring is worn

upon a finger, there is a gradual loss of strength and a depression

formed in the healthy tissue, which can be plainly seen and felt. In

this way trusses do harm, and such evil consequences may follow the

_improper_ application of a _good_ truss.

SURGICAL TREATMENT. When the hernia has become strangulated and cannot

be returned by manipulation, a surgical operation is necessary. Whenever

the necessity for such a procedure is apparent, it should be performed

_immediately_, for the greater the delay the greater the liability to

fatal results. The operation consists in cutting down upon the

strangulated bowel, thus relieving it of its constriction and

facilitating its replacement. It is a delicate operation, and must be

skillfully performed. After the operation, the patient requires

appropriate hygienic treatment.

[Illustration: Fig. 5.

This figure illustrates a Double Inguinal

Hernia, of large size, which was permanently

cured by our improved method of

treatment. The left side (_b_) shows the _direct_

descent of the bowel into (_c_) the scrotum,

while on the right side (_a_) the rupture

is indirect, the bowel descending through

the internal ring and inguinal canal.]

THE RADICAL CURE. A small percentage of cures will follow the proper use

of a good truss, and the advertisements of the so-called rupture cures

are founded upon such cases. These impostors pretend that the use of

some vaunted salve, ointment, or styptic lotion, applied on the outside,

will heal and cure the deep-seated separation of the muscular fibres.

The truss in these cases is the curative means in the small number that

are relieved, and for it but few dollars should be charged instead of

the exorbitant prices demanded by these impostors.

Improvements in surgery in this age of wonders, have kept apace with the

advances in electricity and other branches of science. Diseases and

deformities which only a few years ago were considered incurable are now

overcome and cured with certainty and without risk or suffering.

Especially is this true with reference to hernia or rupture.

Our specialists have devoted much attention to the radical cure of

rupture, or breach, with the most gratifying results. Formerly we

employed and advocated the use of the injection treatment only. This

method was tested and brought to a most efficient and practical stage,

so that we now apply it in the treatment of over eighty percent. of the

cases that are presented at our Institution. This plan of cure, as used

by us, is a great advance over that of any similar one in use,

throughout the country. Our fluid is much more safe in its effects,

never gives rise to the troublesome abscesses and inflammation that is

common to the use of the injection fluids that have been advised on the

Heatonian method. The fluid we use is a bland and healing agent, which

produces an exudation behind the cords that surround the inguinal rings,

and forms a well defined truss pad of moderate size in such position

that the rupture cannot pass by it and appear externally. It causes also

an adhesive inflammation limited to the hernial sac, that completely

closes it.

This treatment is rendered _entirely painless_ by the use of a solution

which is injected underneath the skin with a fine hollow needle attached

to a small syringe, and which tends to produce complete local

anæsthesia, or loss of feeling so that the procedure is thoroughly and

carefully carried out without any risk or discomfort.

The needle used by us for the treatment of the hernia is so perfected

that any possible injection of the fluid into the abdominal cavity, or

upon the coating of the intestine, is an impossibility, and in no way

can an injection be made into a blood vessel or nerve so as to produce

any discomfort or trouble. We thus avoid all the risks that pertain to

the usual plan of injection.

There is a small percentage of cases, as before stated, in which this

form of treatment is not likely to give a permanent cure, from the fact

that the omentum or intestine has become adherent externally, to the

sac, or in the scrotum, to the coverings of the testicle. This makes the

complete replacement of the rupture without cutting an impossibility,

and in such cases even where the hernial opening is closed, treatment by

injection only would not result in a permanent cure.

Our aim is to treat all cases of rupture that we undertake in such a

manner that _by no possibility can the deformity return_. We therefore

have for the cure of these cases another method, by which with our local

anæsthetic fluid, we are able to perform a surgical operation without

any distress whatever to the patient. The greatest risk of the old

operation for rupture was the danger of general anæsthesia with

chloroform or ether, or some similar agent. The great majority of

individuals cannot bear the inhalation of the large quantities of these

anæsthetics necessary to secure loss of feeling without consequent

nausea, and at times an effect upon the heart that often results

seriously. The risk from the anæsthetic is much greater than from the

surgical procedure. By our method, this risk is entirely done away with.

The pain dispelling fluid enables our operator to pursue his method

WITHOUT GIVING THE PATIENT ANY PAIN OR DISCOMFORT WHATEVER. During the

operation he is in full possession of all his faculties, and can assist

in any way desired by coughing, or straining, in order, at any time, to

complete the protrusion of the rupture and show its entire extent of

surface when the sac is laid bare. We then replace the rupture

completely; suture the sac so that the rupture will have no pocket into

which to descend, and then firmly unite the rings by a plan that we have

invented, and BY WHICH THEY ARE MADE MORE STRONG AND FIRM THAN IN THEIR

ORIGINAL STATE.

Early in our experience, and while using the plan of treatment that is

usually employed for the radical cure of rupture, we had occasional

relapses of the difficulty, but since using our improved method we have

had no such trouble. We can assure our patients that there is less risk

of the appearance of the rupture at the point where the operation is

performed than there is of a new breach forming. The success of this

treatment has been invariable. None of the plans of treatment that we

pursue for the cure of rupture tend to keep the patient in bed more than

a few hours. There is little or no pain, after either of our plans of

treatment, and out of the many hundreds which we have treated and

perfectly cured, in no instance have we had any inflammation or serious

manifestation--there being no fever or general reaction. It is a matter

of great surprise to our patients, who undergo our treatment for the

radical cure of rupture, that by our varied methods, the object is

accomplished with so little discomfort and with no pain whatever.

From two to three weeks' personal attention of our specialist, is

usually all that is required even in the worst cases.

NO TRUSS IS NEEDED AFTER OUR TREATMENT. WE CONSIDER A CASE CURED ONLY

WHEN THE PATIENT IS ABLE TO DO WITHOUT A TRUSS OR SUPPORT IN ALL THE

USUAL WALKS AND VOCATIONS OF LIFE.

* * * * *

TESTIMONIALS.

The testimonials that we append are but a small number out of the great

mass that we have received. A very large percentage of individuals who

have been treated by us for rupture desire that their disability be held

a matter of sacred confidence and with all such we take pleasure in

guarding their confidence with the greatest care. Others are quite

willing that their experience may be made public in this manner for the

benefit of similar sufferers.

If the following letters had been written by your best known and most

esteemed neighbors they could be no more worthy of your confidence than

they now are, coming, as they do, from well known, intelligent and

trustworthy citizens, who, in their several neighborhoods, enjoy the

fullest confidence and respect of all who know them.

A LOCOMOTIVE ENGINEER

TESTIFIES TO HIS CURE OF RUPTURE. THE CONSTANT JAR OF A LOCOMOTIVE IS

ONE OF THE SEVEREST TESTS THAT CAN BE APPLIED TO A RECENTLY CURED CASE.

WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION, Buffalo, N.Y.:

[Illustration: F.W. Frost, Esq.]

_Gentlemen_--After suffering a number of years from a painful Rupture, I

went to the Invalids' Hotel and Surgical Institute, at Buffalo. While

there, I submitted to an operation which was not painful. It was done

without chloroform, ether or any dangerous anæsthetic. Under the

skillful treatment of your specialists and the very close and kind

attention of your nurses, in less than a month, I left the Institution

feeling like a new man. I have every reason to believe that the Hernia

will never return, and that I am permanently cured. It it a great relief

to go without a truss.

Very respectfully,

F.W. FROST,

Rotterdam June, Schenectady Co., N.Y.

A LOCOMOTIVE ENGINEER'S

ADVICE TO SUFFERERS FROM RUPTURE. THE CONSTANT JAR OF A LOCOMOTIVE IS

ONE OF THE SEVEREST TESTS THAT CAN BE APPLIED TO A RECENTLY CURED CASE.

THROW AWAY TRUSSES.

WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION, Buffalo, N.Y.:

[Illustration: F.S. Auchenpaugh, Esq.]

_Gentlemen_--I am an engineer--running an engine on the Western Division

of the Fitchburg Railroad. I had a severe case of double Hernia; still,

have always worked along with them until this winter. One side was of

twenty-five years' standing--the other of about eight years. This winter

I was laid up sick with pneumonia; in coughing so much, which of course

was made necessary by that terrible disease, I strained myself so that

after getting up from my sick-bed, I was not able to go to work, as I

could get no truss that would hold the rupture. I was talking with

Brother Stagg one day. He asked me "why I did not go to the Invalids'

Hotel and Surgical Institute, at Buffalo, N.Y., and get cured?" I went,

and in three weeks was cured, so that I could dispose of my truss

entirely.

I wish to say this comes from me direct; it was my own proposition that

this letter be made public.

Yours respectfully,

F.S. AUCHENPAUGH,

Rotterdam, N.Y.

RUPTURE FROM BOYHOOD.

WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION, Buffalo, N.Y.:

[Illustration: A. Sauvain, Esq.]

_Gentlemen_--I am glad to say that I was cured at the World's Dispensary

Medical Association after suffering from boyhood until the age of

twenty-five from a hernia, or rupture, by a treatment of twenty days. It

is now five years since I was cured, and can say that I was permanently

cured. You have my most sincere gratitude for your skillful operation

and the good care received in your Institution while there. I can

recommend your nurses and physicians most highly, and I think your

Institution unequaled in this country.

Yours truly,

ALBERT SAUVAIN,

Silverton, Marion Co., Oreg.

HERNIA--LEFT INGUINAL--PRESENT EIGHT YEARS WITH NERVOUS PROSTRATION.

WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION, Buffalo, N.Y.:

[Illustration: A.J. Kidder, Esq.]

_Gentlemen_--I take greatest pleasure in making public the most

wonderful cure I received at the Invalids' Hotel and Surgical Institute

of Buffalo.

I had suffered severely for eight years with a left inguinal hernia; had

tried many physicians and medicines, but found only temporary relief. I

was greatly run-down, and my nervous system considerably shattered. My

friends persuaded me to go to the Invalids' Hotel and Surgical

Institute. While there I was operated on by their specialist, and in a

few weeks began to gain strength and energy so that I could return home,

and have since felt entirely well.

Words could not do justice to my feeling in regard to this institution.

There is no place like it for medical aid, and I would urge all invalids

to go there, feeling confident that they could no where receive more

skillful treatment or more kind attention and care.

Respectfully,

A.J. KIDDER,

North Yam Hill, Yam Hill Co., Oreg.

HERNIA. CURED SEVERE PAIN.

WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION, Buffalo, N.Y.:

[Illustration: J.H. Riemer, Esq.]

_Dear Sirs_--Your favor received and found that you would like to have

me give you a testimony of my case I will say in reply that I was

treated at the Invalids' Hotel and Surgical Institute, for Hernia on the

left side. It was not large but it gave me severe pain while working. I

wore a truss but it did not relieve the pain very much. I read in the

paper one night your advertisement and a week after I started for the

Invalids' Hotel, and took the treatment for rupture and went home sound

and happy, like a new man, and I can work harder than ever and can

assure anyone interested that it is no humbug.

With the best wishes,

JOHN H. RIEMER,

Zion, Wis.

P.S.--If any one would like to inquire about my case give them my full

address and I will inform them about it, if they enclose return stamped

and addressed envelope for reply. J.H.R.

"SOUND AS A DOLLAR."

WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION, Buffalo, N.Y.:

[Illustration: B.F. Hook, Esq.]

_Gentlemen_--Am greatly pleased to report that the operation for the

radical cure for rupture received at your Institution in May, 1889, has

proved entirely successful. I am sound as a dollar. My case was an

extremely troublesome and dangerous one. Many times I required the

assistance of a surgeon to reduce it. No truss would hold it a whole

day. My two weeks' stay with you was worth thousands of dollars to me.

Will gladly answer any inquiry and would advise any one suffering from

hernia to take the radical cure.

Very truly yours,

B.F. HOOK,

Holmesville, Holmes Co., Ohio.

RUPTURE, DYSPEPSIA OR INDIGESTION, AND KIDNEY DISEASE.

[Illustration: A.N. Kingsley, Esq.]

The following is from the widely-known and popular proprietor of the

Kingsley House at Ashuelot, N.H.: "It may seem useless to add testimony

to the overwhelming mass already given of the many remarkable cures

performed at your Institution, but I deem it a pleasure and a duty to

add mine to your long list as _very remarkable_. I had a rupture of

twenty-seven years' standing, with hemorrhage of the kidney for six

months, preceding my visit to your Institute, and was also troubled

badly with indigestion, all of which ailments had reduced me in strength

and flesh to a mere skeleton. Had been treated by many local physicians,

who failed to do me any good. I could walk but a very short distance

when I left my home on the 8th of July, 1892, for treatment at your

Institution, with but little faith or hope of ever being any better. But

through your skillful treatment I was able to return to my home on the

9th of August, 1892, and consider myself permanently cured, having had

to take no medicine since. Considering my case _almost a miracle_, I

cannot speak too highly of your Institute and skillful treatment, to

which I feel that I am indebted for my continued existence. You are at

liberty to refer to me, and to use this as you see fit.

Very respectfully,

A.N. KINGSLEY,

Ashuelot, Cheshire Co., N.H.

RUPTURE.

WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION, Buffalo, N.Y.:

[Illustration: H. Keifer, Esq.]

_Gentlemen_--About four years ago, when working on a scaffold it gave

way, and I fell a few feet and the strain and jar caused a rupture in

the right side. I did not pay very much attention to this until I

noticed that it was enlarging. It finally grew so that I could not work.

I used several kinds of trusses that did me no good.

I went to the Invalids' Hotel and Surgical Institute, and submitted to

an operation which was entirely painless and proved most satisfactory in

every respect. Since then I have been well and able to do hard work for

a man of my age (72). I feel no inconvenience from the rupture.

I take pleasure in recommending the Institute to all who are in need of

help. I can highly recommend the physicians and nurses and the kind

attention I received while there. I am now well and sound as ever.

Yours truly,

HENRY KEIFER,

Spring Green, Sauk Co., Wis.

HERNIA AND PILES CURED WITHOUT PAIN.

WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION, Buffalo, N.Y.:

[Illustration: J.J. App, Esq.]

_Gentlemen_--I have been successfully treated at your institution for

piles and also rupture of the left side.

Your institution is all it claims to be, and the treatment of my case

was accomplished without pain and apparently any risk. Your method of

using locally cocaine as an anæsthetic is such a decided improvement. I

did not have to take any dangerous ether or chloroform, but had a small

quantity of medicine injected that made the operation as painless as

though it was being done on some one else. At the same time I knew

everything and could see what was being done.

You have my kindest thanks for the good care and many attentions given

me. Your nurses and physicians all give kind and skillful care.

Yours very truly,

J.J. APP,

Bolivar, Tuscarawas Co., Ohio.

HERNIA OR RUPTURE.

LARGE PROTRUSION OF SIXTEEN YEARS' STANDING.

WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION, Buffalo, N.Y.:

[Illustration: M.G. Hartzell, Esq.]

_To the afflicted_: For sixteen years I was troubled with Hernia, caused

by heavy lifting. It was on the right side and the protrusion sufficient

to extend into the scrotum. I purchased trusses, but none of them could

be worn with comfort, and I suffered very much. I concluded to go to the

Invalids' Hotel and Surgical Institute and see if I could not obtain

relief. While there I submitted to an operation. The result was entirely

satisfactory. The pain in my back subsided; my general health began to

tone up, and in a short time, thanks to the skill of their specialist

and the kind attention of their nurses, I felt like a new man. I take

pleasure in highly recommending the Institution to all the afflicted. I

feel confident that all the benefit to be derived from medical or

surgical treatment is to be received at the Invalids' Hotel and Surgical

Institute.

Yours respectfully,

M.G. HARTZELL,

Deadwood, So. Dakota.

DOUBLE RUPTURE.

WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION, Buffalo, N.Y.:

_Gentlemen_--It is with much pleasure that I write you this testimonial

of the wonderful cures you have performed for me.

[Illustration: D. Hartley, Esq.]

In the year 1883, I became ruptured on the _left_ side. I immediately

wrote you (having heard of your fame in curing all kinds of diseases)

for your terms of treatment which I received by return mail, you also

stating you were positive you could cure me. Through unavoidable

circumstances I was unable to come to your Institution until December,

1886. During this time I had tried wearing a truss, which only made it

worse, and very much aggravated my complaint as it was impossible to

hold the rupture in its place. However I arrived at the Invalids' Hotel

on December 8th, 1886. On being examined by one of your staff, I was

pronounced a bad case, but by your mode of treatment you could cure it.

I was therefore, operated upon by one of your specialists, without any

cutting however and comparatively little pain, by your scientific

method, and in thirty days returned home cured. The time I had to remain

there, I believe, was much longer than most persons treated for the same

complaint.

Since then I have worked very hard sometimes (my occupation being that

of a farmer,) so much so that I became ruptured on the _right_ side

three years ago,--the other side remaining perfectly sound without any

protection. I considered myself very unfortunate in being in this

position again, fortunate in knowing where to go for relief, and very

soon was back in your Institution where I was successfully treated and

perfectly cured and am to-day a sound man and able to do any kind of

work on my farm.

I write this testimonial for the sake of suffering humanity, and wish

you to use it in any way that the greatest number of persons may read

it. As for myself, I would not be in the condition I once was and not

know of your Institution for all I could see. I not only recommend your

Institution for the complaint of which I was cured but for all chronic

diseases or anything requiring a skillful surgical operation, believing

your Staff of Physicians and Surgeons to be second to none anywhere.

Your nurses and attendants, and every accommodation, also, being all

that is necessary to make your Institution everything that its name

implies--a complete Invalids Hotel and Surgical Institute.

Respectfully yours,

DAVID HARTLEY,

P.O. Box 84, Wyoming, Out.

P.S.--I have also received much benefit from taking your "Golden Medical

Discovery" for dyspepsia and liver complaint, and being broken down

generally. A few bottles worked wonders, and I have been well ever

since, and that was quite a number of years ago.

D.H.

RUPTURE.

A GRATEFUL PATIENT'S WORDS OF PRAISE.

WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION, 663 Main Street, Buffalo, N.Y.:

[Illustration: W. Henkel, Esq.]

_Gentlemen_--Having been in your Institution as a sufferer from two

distinct chronic diseases of years' standing, and having been placed

under the charge of your specialists, I was speedily relieved of my

afflictions. The Invalids' Hotel is a place as much like home as it is

possible for such an institution to be. The physicians and surgeons are

all expert specialists and thoroughly efficient; the nurses are very

competent, attentive and kind; and, in fact, the whole _personnel_ of

the Invalids' Hotel endeavor to do their best to make the patients feel

like being at home. I always felt while there as if I was one of the

family. I gladly recommend your Institution to all persons who are

afflicted with any kind of chronic disease, for from my own experience I

_know_ the professional staff will do all which they promise to do.

Please accept my thanks for the speedy benefits and perfect cure of my

diseases, and I think your Institution is worthy of the highest

endorsement.

Yours truly,

WILLIAM HENKEL,

No. 1917 Congress Street,

St. Louis, Mo.

STRANGULATED RUPTURE OR BREACH

IN A CHILD TWO YEARS OLD, CURED.

WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION, 663 Main St., Buffalo, N.Y.:

[Illustration: Rev. R. Krause, Esq.]

_Dear Sirs_--Our boy is, since the operation, quite well and healthier

than ever before, so that I presume, the rupture, or a part of it, may

have existed since his birth. Even that small lump in the groin has, as

much as I can feel by touching, completely disappeared. I take this

opportunity of expressing my heart-felt thanks for the kind and

christian-like treatment my wife and boy experienced from you and the

nurses. God bless you and let you live long for the welfare of suffering

men. Dr. Pierce's Invalids' Hotel of Buffalo, N.Y., deserves to be

recommended to every sufferer of whatever disease. Eight years ago I

underwent a successful operation, saving my body a member. The dangerous

outgrowth, which made the operation a necessity, never returned. In

regard to your specialist, I wish to remark, that his skillful way of

performing operations reminded me very much of Bernard von Langenbeck,

professor of surgery in the University of Berlin, where I was a student.

He is just as tender and sympathetic with his patients as that famous

director of the Prussian Royal Clinical Hospital has been. As to the

medicines of Dr. Pierce, I recommended them to members of my

congregation, who told me that they did them good. Dr. Bastian, of

Dansville, N.Y., a druggist, told me that your medicines are bought by

the same persons again and again. I consider this to be the best

recommendation. A medicine which is of no effect will not be bought a

second time by the same person.

Yours, REV. RICHARD KRAUSE, Portway, N.Y.

[Illustration: Mrs. Krause.]

[Illustration: Master H. Krause.]

Mrs. Mary Krause, the mother of the little boy whose case is above

reported, writes: "In respect to your medicines I can only say that they

have done me and others much good, especially when I suffered with

chronic catarrh and doctored with your physicians. I shall never forget

the kind treatment I received from your physicians and nurses during the

time I had to stay in your house, while our Herman had to go through

that dangerous operation which was necessary to cure his strangulated

rupture. I can recommend your Institute and medicines to all suffering

people."

HERNIA OR RUPTURE

[Illustration: B. Galland, Esq.]

OF FOURTEEN YEARS CURED "SOUND AS A DOLLAR."

WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION, Buffalo, N.Y.:

_Dear Sirs_--In reply to yours of the 29th ult., in which you kindly

make inquiry in regard to my physical condition, I would say, that I am

now, I think, as sound as a dollar, and consider that after I had bad

fourteen years of suffering with Hernia, and being cured as I was last

winter at your Institute, makes me under great obligations to the

science and skill of the World's Dispensary Medical Association.

Very respectfully yours,

ROBERT GALLAND,

Orangeville Mills, Barry Co., Mich.

IRREDUCIBLE HERNIA.

PRESENT FROM BOYHOOD--PROTRUSION OF ENORMOUS SIZE.

WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION, Buffalo, N.Y.:

[Illustration: D. Nitschke, Esq.]

_Gentlemen_--I take pleasure in reporting that I have not worn the truss

for a long period, and that I have been at work steadily at my business

of binding and printing, running a large establishment, for over four

years, without any trouble whatever from the rupture. It has remained

permanently and perfectly cured. You will remember my case as a most

severe one. I am a man of sixty years of age, and the disease had been

the source of serious discomfort to me since childhood. The protrusion

was the size of a man's head, and could not be replaced. I was forced to

give up all exercise, and suffered much at my daily work from

inconvenience and pain. Any injury upon the protrusion, which could not

always be protected, was followed with much discomfort, and my general

health was seriously affected. The passage of the food through the

confined intestines was a painful process often times, and kept me in

great misery. I am thankful to state that since your operation the

rupture has remained sound and well, and I have been relieved of all

difficulty of the kind. I now enjoy excellent health, and am at my

business daily from twelve to sixteen hours, and on my feet constantly,

yet without any manifestations whatever of the re-appearance of the

rupture. You have my most sincere gratitude for the skillful operation

and the good care received in your Institution while there. I can

recommend your nurses and physicians most highly, and think your

Institution is unequaled in this country.

With many good wishes, I am,

Very truly yours, DANIEL NITSCHKE,

2067 Franklin Ave., Toledo, Ohio.

COMPLICATION OF DISEASES.

[Illustration: A. Holes, Esq.]

Without solicitude or hope of pecuniary reward, with heart-felt

gratitude and a desire to aid my fellow-man to health and happiness,

allow me to state, that as an inmate for more than a month of the

Invalids' Hotel and Surgical Institute at No. 663 Main Street, Buffalo,

N.Y., I feel warranted in its highest recommendation. While there I saw

and talked with a great number of people who came there as a last

resort, to be cured of almost every chronic disease to which flesh is

heir, and they were unanimous in their praise of the Institution and the

skilled specialists who constitute its professional staff.

ANDREW HOLES,

Moorhead, Minn.

HERNIA OR RUPTURE OF 11 YEARS' STANDING.

[Illustration: L. Crist, Esq.]

WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION, Buffalo, N.Y.:

_Gentlemen_--Allow me to express my thanks to you for the attention and

benefits received at the hands of your skillful staff of surgeons and

nurses. I had been a sufferer from Hernia for eleven years and tried

everything, but was no better. I finally went to the Invalids' Hotel and

Surgical Institute, and am now entirely cured and enjoy splendid health.

I heartily recommend yours to be the most skillful treatment of the age.

With best wishes,

LEWIS CRIST,

No. 67 Frankston Ave., Pittsburgh, Pa.

RUPTURE,

AGGRAVATED BY OCCUPATION AS A LOCOMOTIVE ENGINEER--COULD NOT BE HELD IN

PLACE--AFTER TREATMENT SUBJECTED TO THE TRYING TEST OF THE CONSTANT JAR

OF THE LOCOMOTIVE YET PROVES RELIABLE.

WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION, NO. 663 Main Street, Buffalo,

N.Y.:

[Illustration: J.M. Keach, Esq.]

_Gentlemen_--It has long been my desire to make a statement of my cure

for the benefit of all those persons who have suffered in like manner. I

had a rupture that was very large and difficult to hold in place.

Trusses of all kinds were tried. They were painful and would not hold

it. The rupture would come down constantly when at my engine and give me

fearful pain. I was cured at the Invalids' Hotel and Surgical Institute,

Buffalo, N.Y., by a treatment that is safe and certain. My cure has been

permanent, although I have worked steadily.

Yours sincerely, JAMES M. KEACH.

No. 68 Bissell Ave., Buffalo, N.Y.

FEMORAL HERNIA.

[Illustration: Miss M.V. Thomas.]

This patient, aged thirty-four years, was always delicate; suffered from

malarial fever each year for ten years past. The hernia was caused by

lifting her father, who was on his sick-bed, during five different

times, causing terrible suffering. The hernia was treated by our

Specialist, and in eighteen days the lady was able to return home.

She reports:

_Gentlemen_--I am grateful to you for a permanent cure of the hernia,

and happy to inform you that I have felt no signs of rupture since I was

at your Institution.

Respectfully yours,

Miss MATTIE V. THOMAS,

Albion, Noble Co., Ind.

"A LIVING DEATH FOR YEARS."

WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION, 663 Main St., Buffalo, N.Y.:

[Illustration: H. Wood, Esq.]

_Gentlemen_--In the hope that some sufferer from hernia may be induced

to take your treatment for that disease, I send you this certificate,

containing a synopsis of my case and cure of the same. My life was a

living death for years. I had almost lost all hope of ever being cured,

and was plunged in despair, as I had tried so many trusses, appliances

and remedies, each one in successive repetition, a failure. In January

and February of the year '89, I entered your Institution for treatment,

my malady being an inguinal hernia on the right side, of twenty years'

standing--from childhood. I was then impressed with the feeling that it

was my last chance, and that it would be my last effort, and to be

candid I had very little hope that a cure would be effected. To me my

condition seemed appalling, as I dare not eat, drink, laugh, exercise or

perform any of the functions of life without having to reduce my

rupture, frequently as often as forty or fifty times _per diem_, while

on occasions the reduction would occupy hours of untold agony. No truss

or appliance that I could get would retain the rupture, and I had tried

all sorts as fast as they came to my knowledge. Marvelous as it may

appear to all sufferers from this distressing affliction, I was

discharged from your Institute in thirty days, a well and sound man, and

only from memory and the record do I know that I was ever ruptured. I

have at times since performed some of the hardest kinds of work for long

periods, but no sign of weakness has ever appeared. I do not consider

the necessary operation performed as attended with any danger; it is no

comparison to the chances a person takes who in the daily walks of life

is tortured with a rupture.

While an inmate of your Institution, I was accorded the kindest and most

considerate treatment from all members of your staff and employees with

whom I came in contact. I consider the appointments and cuisine of the

establishment as perfection. You are at liberty to make the fullest and

freest use of this testimonial you may see fit in your judgment, and I

will cheerfully answer any communication from any sufferer referred to

me for more explicit testimony.

I am, Sincerely yours, HENRY WOOD.

Mason Valley, Nev.

* * * * *

CROUP, MEMBRANOUS AND SPASMODIC.

[Illustration: Fig. 1.

False Membrane in Croup. From a specimen

in Dr. Gross' cabinet.]

Every family should be made acquainted with the symptoms and treatment

of this disease. Especially is this true in the case of those living

remote from a physician. From the lack of this knowledge on the part of

parents, many a little one has perished before medical assistance could

be obtained. In some of its forms its progress is very rapid, and,

unless relief is obtained in a few moments, or hours at the most, death

ensues.

There are several quite distinct pathological conditions of the vocal

and respiratory organs which have, in popular parlance, been designated

as croup. But two of these are worthy of consideration here. These are

_true_ or _membranous_ croup, in which a false, semi-organized membrane

is formed, and _spasmodic croup_. Both may result fatally, but the

former is much the more dangerous.

MEMBRANOUS CROUP is supposed to originate in the trachea, from which, as

it progresses, it often extends upward to the larynx, and downward to

the bronchial tubes. It is the result of severe inflammation of the

mucous membrane, and is characterized by the formation of a false

membrane, which covers or lines the inner surface of the true structure

(see Fig. 1). It is formed of a coagulable, semi-fluid exudation from

the mucous membrane. On being brought to the surface and into contact

with the inspired air, this substance grows thick and tough, or

leathery, as we find it. It is the obstruction in the respiratory canal

which this foreign matter causes that gives rise to the labored

breathing, and the ringing, brassy cough, together with the crowing or

whistling inspiration characteristic of croup. Before recovery can take

place this membrane must be detached and expelled. The cough is nature's

effort to accomplish this work.

The formation of this adventitious membrane in the larynx is attended

with more danger than when it is confined to the trachea. In most cases

in which the disease has had a very speedily fatal termination, an

examination has shown that the larynx was its chief seat.

SYMPTOMS. True croup is generally preceded by what is known as "a cold."

The child coughs, sneezes, and is hoarse. It is the hoarseness and the

peculiar _character_ of the cough which indicate the tendency to croup.

This has been already described. In addition, the child is restless,

fretful and feverish. The disease makes rapid strides. Finally the cough

ceases to be loud and barking, and is very much suppressed; the voice is

almost gone; the face is very pale; the head thrown back; the nostrils

dilated and in perpetual motion, the pulse at the wrist very feeble,

great exhaustion, more or less delirium, and, finally, death comes to

the relief of the little sufferer. Convulsions sometimes occur in the

last stages, and soon terminate fatally.

TREATMENT. No time should be lost in commencing treatment. Hot

fomentations should be applied to the throat and upper portions of the

chest. The free inhalation of steam should be employed early. The

following treatment has been found very effectual in membranous croup,

and is recommended by the highest authorities: Yellow subsulphate of

mercury, or turpeth mineral, three to five grains, depending upon the

age of the child, for one dose. If it does not cause vomiting in fifteen

minutes, give a second dose. This, however, is seldom necessary. If the

turpeth mineral cannot be obtained, sulphate of copper or sulphate of

zinc may be given instead, as directed under the head of Emetics, in

Part III, Chapter II. If there be a quick pulse, hot skin, a hurried

breathing, and an occasional ringing cough, the child should be kept in

bed, comfortably covered, but not overloaded with clothes, and the

tincture or fluid extract of veratrum viride administered as follows:

Take fluid extract of veratrum, five drops; sweet spirits of nitre, one

teaspoonful; pure water, twenty teaspoonfuls; mix, sweeten with white

sugar, and give a teaspoonful of the mixture every half-hour to two

hours, according to the age of the child and the severity of the case.

If there be great prostration, with cold extremities, the carbonate of

ammonia should be administered, in doses of from one to two grains,

every second hour, in gum arabic mucilage. Quinine is a valuable remedy,

and is tolerated in large doses. The patient's body should be frequently

sponged with warm water in which a sufficient quantity of saleratus or

ordinary baking-soda has been dissolved to render it quite strongly

alkaline. If the bowels be constipated they should be moved by an

injection of starch-water. Beef tea and other concentrated, supporting

diet should be administrated. In those cases in which there is a

tendency to croup, the Golden Medical Discovery, together with iron and

the bitter tonics, should be given to build up the system and counteract

such tendency. The treatment which we have advised has been put to the

severest tests in the most severe forms of the disease, and has resulted

most successfully. If, however, in any case it does not give prompt

relief, our advice is to lose no time in summoning a physician who is

known to be skilled in the treatment of diseases of children.

SPASMODIC CROUP. In this affection no false membrane is formed. It seems

to have a nervous origin. Most frequently the child is awakened in the

night by a sense of suffocation. He may cry out that he is choking. The

countenance is livid, the breathing is hurried and each respiration is

attended by a crowing sound. The child has fits of coughing or crying,

and makes vehement struggles to recover his breath. This complaint,

unlike croup, is unattended by fever, it being of a purely spasmodic

character with no inflammation.

Apply hot fomentations to the throat, and give frequent small doses of

tincture or fluid extract or syrup of lobelia, to produce slight nausea;

or, better still, an acetic syrup of blood-root, made by adding one

teaspoonful of the crushed or powdered root to one gill of vinegar and

four teaspoonfuls of white sugar. Heat this mixture to the boiling

point, strain, and administer from one-fourth to one teaspoonful every

half-hour or hour. Slight nausea should be kept up, but it is

unnecessary to produce vomiting. This is usually all the treatment that

is required.

WHOOPING-COUGH. (PERTUSSIS.)

This is primarily a disease of the nervous system, involving the

respiratory organs through the medium of the pneumogastric nerve. It is

considered a disease of childhood, though we have met with it in _old

age_. It is eminently a contagious affection, and occurs generally but

once during life.

SYMPTOMS. It is at first manifested by a catarrhal cough, gradually

developed. After a while it becomes paroxysmal, generally worse at

night. The cough is severe, and long-continued; when a prolonged

inspiration occurs, it is accompanied by a peculiar shrill sound, the

characteristic _whoop_, which, when once heard, is never forgotten. The

cough is attended by a copious secretion of glairy mucus, which is

brought up at the latter part of the paroxysm. During, or at the end of

the paroxysm, vomiting frequently occurs, and sometimes nosebleed. The

cough is so severe at times, that the patient turns purple, gasps for

breath, and presents all the symptoms of suffocation. Bronchitis

sometimes is a troublesome complication. Immediately preceding a

paroxysm of coughing a sense of impending danger appears to seize the

child, and it runs to its mother, or grasps some support, as if for

protection. Until the paroxysmal character and peculiar _whoop_ is

developed, the disease is diagnosed with difficulty.

TREATMENT. We have found the Golden Medical Discovery to modify the

disease and cut it short. The philosophy of its action can be readily

understood by its effect on the pneumogastric nerve, as explained under

consumption and bronchitis. Jaborandi, described under the head of

diaphoretics, often speedily arrests this disease. The employment of an

infusion of red clover blossoms, in small doses, is of undoubted value

in modifying the irritation of the air-passages, and may be used to good

advantage with, or in alternation with the Golden Medical Discovery.

Exposure to cold and wet should be avoided.

NOSEBLEED.

Hemorrhage from the nose is commonly the result either of a catarrhal or

an inflammatory condition of the nasal mucous membrane. Individuals are

susceptible to it who are oppressed by fever or constitutional diseases

that reduce the strength. There is also a condition of the nervous

system in which there is congestion of the nerve centres which favors

manifestations of this somewhat troublesome difficulty.

CAUSES. In some instances an examination of the nose will reveal the

presence of a small point of congested vessels, usually about the size

of a split pea. Upon this portion of the mucous membrane small scabs

form, and at any time when they may be dislodged, by accident or

otherwise, a hemorrhage will ensue.

The constitutional conditions that produce the tendency to hemorrhage

are most important. In individuals of a debilitated condition, it

results from the lack of a proper amount of fibrin in the blood. Where

the blood becomes thin, or loses a large share of its red corpuscles,

the individual is pale, and hemorrhages are frequent from the mucous

surfaces of any portion of the body, the nasal mucous surface being

especially liable to such attacks.

TREATMENT. This is local and constitutional. Where there is

constitutional imperfection, it should be remedied. Usually in young

women there is some difficulty with the ovarian or uterine circulation,

and the attack of hemorrhage from the nose is reflex in its character,

appearing just before or at the time of the menstrual flow, accompanied

with troublesome headache. The correction of this form is by the use of

the "Favorite Prescription" and "Golden Medical Discovery," using of

each a teaspoonful three times a day, taking the "Prescription" before

meals and the "Discovery" after meals. If the bowels are constipated,

the "Pellets" should be employed, in order to overcome any congestion of

the liver which favors the manifestation of nosebleed. In children there

is usually a debilitated state of the system, which is best remedied by

the use of a half teaspoonful dose of the "Discovery," taken three times

a day, after meals, with sweetened water. This treatment should be

continued for a month or six weeks. By this means the blood-making

organs rapidly improve in their activity and functions, the blood

becomes rich in corpuscles and fibrin, thus strengthening the walls of

the blood-vessels and tending to prevent a hemorrhage following undue

excitement or injury. With men the use of laxatives is of great

importance. One or more of the "Pellets," taken on retiring at night,

are most beneficial. Where the blood is not up to the standard of

purity, even though the individual be fleshy, the "Discovery" should be

used, a teaspoonful or two, three times a day, after meals, in

conjunction with plenty of outdoor exercise and the best of food. Where

the hemorrhages occur in those having too much blood, the diet must be

corrected by the use of vegetables and fruit, diminishing the amount of

meat and pastries to a minimum. The amount of fibrin should also be

increased by the use of the "Golden Medical Discovery."

LOCAL TREATMENT. Of those applied directly to the membrane, Dr. Sage's

Catarrh Remedy, used according to the directions which wrap the bottle,

is excellent in bringing about a normal condition of the mucous

surfaces. Following this, a small amount of Subnitrate of Bismuth may be

snuffed into each nostril. Usually the amount required to cover a

three-cent silver piece is sufficient. The powder dries the surface and

favors the speedy formation of a coagulum, or clotted covering, which

effectually checks any further hemorrhage. The application of a firm

compress to the upper lip will also diminish the flow of blood through

the arteries that run to the anterior portion of the mucous surface.

Good effects often follow the use of a small piece of ice applied to the

nape of the neck. This, with a reclining posture, will cause contraction

of the blood-vessels. If the Subnitrate of Bismuth is not to be readily

obtained, the use of any other powder such as starch, finely divided and

baked so as to be free from a tendency to form starch paste when applied

to a mucous surface, is equally good. Well-browned flour is also

serviceable. The use of the contents of a puff-ball, which contains many

millions of fine spores, has been employed from time immemorial. The use

of such drying powders tends to favor the speedy formation of clots.

Where the small points of engorged vessels are to be readily reached,

use a solution of the Tincture of Chloride of Iron, one part in four of

water, applying with a small pledget of soft cotton wrapped about, or

fastened to, the end of a pencil or stick. In this way the solution may

be applied in very small amount to the spot where the hemorrhage

appears, and will give immunity from future attacks. Any of the styptics

(see pages 320-325) can be called into service. Those who have the

advantage of the city drug store may use a solution of basic ferric

sulphate (Monsell's solution), or the spray of a three or four percent.

solution of cocaine. The latter is one of the most pleasant and

effective remedies in these emergencies. Before its administration the

nasal cavity should be cleansed by snuffing up the nostrils salt and

warm water. When washed, immediately apply the spray. If the

constitutional condition which led to the hemorrhage continues, the

general remedies--of which the "Golden Medical Discovery" is the most

efficacious--should be administered. This agent increases the number of

red blood corpuscles, and enriches the blood in fibrin, so that the

relief obtained is absolutely permanent.

INFLAMMATION OF THE STOMACH. (GASTRITIS.)

Gastritis is generally defined as an inflammation of the mucous membrane

of the stomach. However, the cellular, muscular, and serous tissues are

all liable to be more or less affected. Gastritis may be either _acute_

or _chronic_. Either form is a distinct modification of disease,

manifesting peculiar symptoms and requiring special remedies.

_Acute Gastritis_ generally occurs as a result or complication of other

diseases. It is an occasional feature In scarlatina, serious cases of

bilious fever, and in cutaneous affections of every description. The

mucous membrane of the stomach is placed in intimate communication with

all the vital organs, by means of the nerves of the solar-plexus, hence

the sympathy between the stomach and skin, and the morbid condition of

the stomach occasioned by disease of other organs.

THE EARLY SYMPTOMS of acute gastritis are a burning sensation in the

stomach, accompanied by nausea and frequent vomiting. The respiratory

movements are rapid and shallow, the pulse is hard and short, and as the

disease progresses, becomes small, frequent, and thready. The tongue

usually retains its natural appearance, but it is sometimes dry and

tinged with a vivid scarlet at the tip and edges. Intense thirst and

hiccough are occasional symptoms. The facial expression is haggard, and

indicative of the most intense suffering. The stomach will not retain

the mildest liquids. In the early stages of the disease, the ejections

consist of chyme and mucus, streaked with blood. As it progresses, the

vomiting becomes a sort of regurgitation, the contents of the stomach

being ejected without any apparent nausea or effort. The ejections then

consist of a dark-colored granular matter, resembling what is known in

yellow fever as _black-vomit_.

CAUSES. Formerly it was supposed that this was a very common disorder,

and the term _acute gastritis_ was applied to every development of

symptomatic fever. But late clinical and pathological investigations

clearly indicate that acute gastritis is of rare occurrence. It may be

caused by the excessive and habitual use of alcoholic drinks, especially

if taken without food, by copious draughts of cold water, or by intense

emotions. But its _general_ cause is the ingestion of irritating and

corrosive poisons.

Where the former causes are known not to exist, the presence of poison

should always be suspected. As the cause sometimes becomes a matter of

legal investigation, it is very important that the practitioner should

be able to determine the _real_ origin. If caused by poison, the disease

is very suddenly developed, the patient complaining of a very intense

burning sensation in the throat and the lining membrane of the mouth,

which will generally show the action of the poison. A diarrhea is also

more apt to accompany the disease. If inorganic or vegetable poisons are

known or suspected irritants, the appropriate antidotes should be

promptly administered. For a list of the principal poisons and their

antidotes, with practical suggestions for treatment, the reader is

referred to the article in this volume, on Accidents and Emergencies.

TREATMENT. The inflammation should be allayed, and a tea made of

peach-tree leaves is very serviceable. Small pieces of ice, swallowed,

will generally allay the thirst and vomiting, and a mucilage of

slippery-elm is very soothing to the inflamed mucous membrane. This is

an important disease, and its management should be entrusted to a

skillful physician.

CHRONIC INFLAMMATION OF THE STOMACH.

_Chronic Gastritis_ is sometimes mistaken for dyspepsia or gastralgia.

It is very necessary to discriminate between these diseases, as the

appropriate remedies of the latter will often only aggravate and augment

the former.

A chronic inflammation of the stomach is a very common affection and has

many phases, but the term chronic gastritis is applied only to that

species of inflammation occasioned and accompanied by irritation. It is

seldom a result of the _acute_ form.

THE SYMPTOMS of chronic gastritis are various and sometimes vague. Among

those which are prominent we may mention an irregular appetite. At times

it is voracious and the patient will consume every available article of

diet, while at others he will experience nausea and disgust at the sight

of food. Even when very hungry, one mouthful of food will sometimes

produce satiety and cause vomiting. The appearance of the tongue is

variable, sometimes natural, at others thickly coated. The desire for

drink is capricious, varying from intense thirst to indifference.

Another prominent symptom is a sense of heaviness and heat in the

epigastric region, after partaking of food. Often a small quantity, as a

teaspoonful of milk, will produce a sensation of weight, as a heavy ball

lying at the pit of the stomach. This symptom is frequently accompanied

by a frontal headache, and a small and wiry pulse. Dull or shooting

pains are experienced in the stomach and between the shoulders, and the

patient becomes weary, melancholy, and emaciated.

CAUSES. The general cause of chronic gastritis is excess in eating or

drinking, and the use of alcoholic liquors. We have known it to be

produced by drinking _hard_ cider. Great mental excitement predisposes

the system to this affection. Occasionally it is a result of febrile

diseases, as scarlatina, typhoid fever, etc. In some families there is a

constitutional tendency to its development.

TREATMENT. All medicines which tend to irritate the stomach, should be

studiously avoided. The bowels should be kept regular, and the skin

clean by frequent bathing. Stimulants of all kinds must be avoided. As a

principle article of diet, we would recommend milk and farinaceous

articles. If these precautions be observed, nature will sometimes effect

a cure. Lime water and the subnitrate of bismuth, in twenty-grain doses

three or four times a day, are useful to allay irritation. Other

suggestions applicable to its domestic management, maybe found under the

hygienic and medicinal treatment of dyspepsia, to which we refer the

reader.

NEURALGIA OF THE STOMACH. (GASTRALGIA.)

Gastralgia is a neuralgic affection of the stomach, unaccompanied by

inflammation. It is sometimes mistaken for chronic gastritis, although

there is a marked difference in the symptoms.

A PROMINENT SYMPTOM OF GASTRALGIA is a _paroxysmal_ pain radiating from

the epigastric region, to all parts of the thoracic cavity. The pain is

sometimes lessened by walking, lying on left side, or by gentle

pressure, and usually abates after eating, but is renewed in a few

hours. The patient occasionally experiences a sense of heaviness at the

pit of the stomach, nausea, and frequent salty eructations. The tongue

is white, the appetite variable, and there is no desire for liquids. The

sleep is usually refreshing, and when not suffering from acute pain, the

patient is apparently well.

The _distinguishing_ symptom of this disease is a feeling of intense

despondency, and, sometimes, a morbid fear of death.

An effectual method of distinguishing between gastralgia and chronic

gastritis is by the administration of an alcoholic stimulant. If

gastritis be the affection the pain will be augmented; whereas, if it be

gastralgia, it will be relieved.

CAUSE. The cause of gastralgia is a local or sympathetic irritation of

the nerves distributed to the stomach.

TREATMENT. The pain of gastralgia is sometimes allayed by using half a

teaspoonful of subcarbonate of bismuth, and repeating the dose, if the

attack is not relieved. The following is a very effectual remedy: take

twenty grains of quinine, combined with one drachm of prussiate of iron,

and divide it into ten powders, and administer a powder every three

hours until the pain is completely arrested. Temporary relief may be

given by administering one-quarter of a grain of morphine, or ten to

twenty drops of chloroform in a teaspoonful of glycerine, slightly

diluted, taken in one dose. One of the most effective remedies for

preventing a return of the attacks is that invigorating tonic and

alterative, the "Golden Medical Discovery." The patient should be

careful in diet, and not eat too much food, which should not only be of

a nutritious kind, but easy of digestion. Cleanliness, suitable

clothing, bodily warmth, exercise, and rest must not be neglected.

Sometimes it is lingering and requires long persistence in hygienic and

medicinal treatment. Everything tending to promote the tone of the

digestive organs, and improve the functions of the system generally may

be considered advantageous in this neuralgic affection.

PERITONITIS.

The _peritoneum_, or serous membrane which lines the abdominal cavity

and invests the intestines, is liable to become inflamed. When this

occurs, the affection is termed peritonitis, and may be divided into the

_acute_ and _chronic_ forms.

ACUTE PERITONITIS. This form may be circumscribed; that is, confined to

one spot, or it may extend over the entire surface of the peritoneum,

when it is known as _general_.

SYMPTOMS. There is headache, quick pulse, tongue coated white,

countenance pallid, features pinched, respiration difficult, nausea and

vomiting, severe pain in the abdomen, which is extremely sensitive to

pressure and becomes very much distended. There is also pain in the

limbs, the bowels are constipated, and, in exceptional cases, diarrhea

is a prominent symptom. The urine is deficient in quantity, and there is

sleeplessness, chilliness, and great general prostration. Vomiting and

coughing or sneezing increase the pain. An erect position occasions

intense suffering. The patient is compelled to assume a recumbent

posture and is inclined to lie on the back, for in that position the

sufferer experiences the least pressure of the vital organs against the

peritoneum. There is also an inclination to draw up the lower limbs and

retain them in a flexed position.

CAUSES. Prominent among these are injuries which have been inflicted

upon the intestines, compression of the colon, or rectum, perforation of

the stomach or bowels, either by violence or some pre-existing disease,

thus allowing the discharge of blood, urine, bile, or fecal matter into

the abdominal cavity; also abortion, over-exertion, and exposure to wet

or cold. As acute peritonitis is always a grave disease, involving more

or less danger to life, it is the wisest course to employ a physician

and trust the case to his management. The same remark is equally

applicable to the chronic form of the disease.

CHRONIC PERITONITIS. Like the acute, it may be either _circumscribed_ or

_general_. This form is sometimes, though rarely, a sequel of the acute.

When it appears independently of the acute, it is generally associated

with some cutaneous affection pertaining to the abdominal cavity, and

the inflammation is induced by the tumor. If chronic peritonitis be

connected with the _tubercular_ diathesis, tubercles may be discovered

upon the surface of the stomach and alimentary canal, and may also be

found in the lungs and brain.

When the affection is not tubercular there will appear in the abdominal

cavity an effusion of serous fluid of greater or less quantity, mingled

with blood and pus. When such an effusion takes place, the abdomen

gradually increases in size, or becomes smaller than is natural. There

is pain, attended by soreness upon pressure, and the patient becomes

emaciated.

Inflammation of the peritoneum is frequently an accompaniment of

_puerperal fever_, which is a disease peculiar to childbirth, and which

may arise from cold, or be communicated from one parturient patient to

another by midwives.

TREATMENT. In the remedial management of acute peritonitis, it is

obviously necessary to use some agent which will at once influence and

change the congested state and inflammatory condition. One of the best

agents employed to make a decided impression upon the vascular system,

subdue inflammation, and modify its action, is the fluid extract of

veratrum viride, administered in full doses, and repeated until the

system shows its effects in a decided manner. Warm fomentations applied

to the abdomen are sometimes very serviceable, and are objectionable

only because of their liability to dampen the bed-clothes. When the

abdomen will bear a thick, warm poultice, apply it, and then cover the

entire surface with oiled silk. The tincture of opium, in doses

sufficient to relieve pain and quiet the peristaltic action of the

intestines, is generally necessary.

EPIDEMIC CHOLERA.

This is an epidemic disease, supposed to be due to an impalpable

specific poison, but as to the exact nature of this poisonous matter

nothing definite is known.

This plague first made its appearance on our continent in 1834. Owing to

its great fatality, it is a disease much to be dreaded.

SYMPTOMS. These are well defined. It is characterized in its earlier

stages by pain in the stomach and bowels, especially in the umbilical

region, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea; later, the purging is excessive, and

the matter dejected resembles rice-water, and contains white, solid,

curd-like matter. The patient loses strength, and sinks rapidly. The

secretory organs fail to perform their functions normally, the skin is

sometimes moist, but oftener cold and dry; but little if any bile is

found in the excretions, and the urine voided is very scanty. There is

general nervous derangement, as indicated by the spasmodic contraction

or cramping of the muscles. This first attacks the extremities, but soon

affects the entire body, and gives rise to excruciating pains. The head

is affected by singing, roaring, disagreeable noises in the ears, the

pulse is feeble, but quick, the nails are of a bluish color, the tongue

is coated white, the eyes are sunken, and the patient has a corpse-like

appearance; the temperature of the body rapidly falls, the surface

becomes deathly cold, and, unless the disease is promptly arrested in

its course, speedy dissolution follows. The disease is rarely prolonged

beyond twenty-four hours, and sometimes terminates within three or four

hours after its first attack.

TREATMENT. The kind of medicine required depends upon the severity of

the attack and stage of the disease. In all cholera epidemics, there are

premonitory symptoms, such, as an uneasy sensation at the pit of the

stomach, and a rumbling of the bowels. This is apt to be followed by a

painless diarrhea, which occasions no alarm, and the patient pays but

little attention to it. Herein is the great and dangerous mistake. The

patient is already in the stage of _invasion_, which must be promptly

arrested, or he will suddenly be precipitated into the stage of

_collapse_. The patient should lie down, and have placed about him

bottles filled with hot water, thereby exciting warmth upon the surface

of the body. At the same time, administer two teaspoonfuls of the

Extract of Smart-weed. If the symptoms are urgent, repeat the dose every

fifteen minutes. Brandy, thickened with sugar, may also be given. In

either the stage of _invasion_ or _collapse_, the leading indication is

to establish _reaction_ by promoting perspiration. Bathe the feet in

water as hot as can be borne, give the Extract of Swart-weed freely, and

thus endeavor to excite profuse diaphoresis. No time should be lost, for

delays are dangerous. When the reaction is established, the patient

should remain quiet, and not attempt to exert himself.

After reaction has taken place, the sweating should be maintained for

twelve hours, and the patient should drink slippery-elm tea and

toast-water, and partake sparingly of soft toasted bread and chicken

broth. The food should be fluid and nutritious, but taken in small

quantities. Do not disturb the bowels with laxatives until the third day

after the patient begins to improve, and then they may be moved by an

injection of warm water. Great care should be taken that the patient

does not indulge too soon or too freely in the use of food. When a

skillful physician can be had, no time should be lost in securing his

services, but since in epidemics of this nature, medical men are

generally overworked, and not always easily and promptly to be had, we

have been quite explicit in giving full directions for treatment.

CHOLERA MORBUS, also known as _sporadic cholera_ and _simple cholera_,

usually occurs during the summer months. The attack may be sudden,

although it is usually preceded by a sensation of uneasiness and colicky

pains in the stomach.

SYMPTOMS. Nausea, vomiting and purging are the most prominent symptoms.

The discharge from the bowels is at first of a thin, yellow appearance,

but finally it becomes almost colorless. Sometimes, after the contents

proper of the bowels have been evacuated, the dejections have a bilious

appearance. Severe cramps and pain accompany the vomiting. The vomiting

and purging usually occur in paroxysms, but finally become less

frequent, a reaction takes place, the extremities grow warm, and the

patient gradually recovers. It may be accompanied by intense thirst and

a quick pulse, yet the surface may be cool.

CAUSES. Cholera morbus is most prevalent in warm climates, and

especially in malarial districts. It is generally the result of eating

indigestible articles of food, such as unripe fruit or uncooked

vegetables. Stimulating drinks, or those articles which furnish the

elements for fermentation, also favor the production of this disease.

TREATMENT. If the attack be superinduced by eating unripe or stale

fruit, it may be proper to give an emetic or a cathartic, but ordinarily

first give a full dose of the Extract of Smart-weed, and, if the vomited

matter is very sour, give the patient a weak, alkaline drink, which may

be made by dropping a few live, hard-wood coals into a tumbler of water.

This will not only assist in neutralizing the acidity of the stomach,

but will help to allay the thirst and accompanying fever. If the patient

throw up the first dose of the Extract of Smart-weed, a second should be

given. Do not allow the patient to drink cold water, and give only

tablespoonful doses of the alkaline solution every thirty minutes. If

the thirst is great, occasionally give a tablespoonful of a tea made

from scorched Indian meal, which not only allays the desire to drink,

but also the irritation of the stomach. If to be obtained, give a tea of

the leaves or bark of the peach tree. The patient should be well covered

in bed and kept warm. Laudanum by the stomach, or by enema, may he

necessary in severe cases to relieve the pain and check the purging. Hot

fomentations applied to the bowels are very valuable. A mustard plaster

applied over the abdomen will assist materially in relieving the nausea

and vomiting. It should not be left on sufficiently long to blister.

When the affection is promptly treated as we have suggested, the patient

generally quickly recovers. If, however, it does not yield to these

measures, the family physician should be called in.

ACCIDENTS AND EMERGENCIES.

Accidents and emergencies which require immediate attention frequently

occur. Professional aid cannot always be quickly obtained and hence

fatal results often follow. It is, therefore, important that all persons

should not only know how to proceed under such circumstances, but that

they should be able to exercise that deliberation and self-control so

necessary in emergencies of all kinds. Most persons are more or less

affected by the sight of blood or severe wounds, and it requires an

effort to maintain self-possession. One should act resolutely; otherwise

he will find himself overcome and unable to render any assistance.

WOUNDS.

Wounds may be classified as _incised, punctured, contused, lacerated_,

or _poisoned_.

_Incised_ wounds are those which are made with a sharp, cutting

instrument, and are characterized by their extent of surface.

_Punctured_ wounds are made with a pointed instrument, and distinguished

for their depth rather than breadth.

_Contused_ wounds are those produced by bruises.

_Lacerated_ wounds are those in which the flesh is torn and mangled.

_Poisoned_ wounds are made with a poisoned instrument, or by some

poisonous reptile or insect or rabid animal.

[Illustration: Fig. 1.

The field Tourniquet as applied. ]

In all cases of wounds, the immediate danger is in the _shock_ produced

upon the nervous system, and in the liability to _hemorrhage_.

SHOCK. If severe, the shock is attended with symptoms of extreme

prostration, such as a feeble pulse, shivering, partial unconsciousness,

fainting, hiccough, vomiting, and involuntary discharges of the urine

and feces.

[Illustration: Fig. 2.

Mode of employing flexion for the

arrest of hemorrhage from a wound

located below the elbow. ]

TREATMENT OF SHOCK. The clothing should be loosened immediately after

the accident, so that the blood may have free circulation, and the

patient should be kept in a recumbent position. He should have plenty of

fresh air. Camphor or ammonia may be inhaled. If he can swallow,

stimulants may be given, as whiskey or brandy, but with care that they

do not run into the trachea, or windpipe. If he be unable to swallow,

they may be administered as injections, but should gradually be

discontinued as reaction takes place. A warm pillow placed at the back

and the use of electricity may be beneficial.

HEMORRHAGE, or bleeding, may generally be controlled by a _compress,

tourniquet, flexion of the joint_, or _styptics._ A _compress_ consists

of several folds of cloth laid upon a wound, the edges of which have

been brought together, and made secure by a moderately tight bandage.

[Illustration: Fig. 3.

Mode of employing flexion for the arrest of hemorrhage from a wound

below the knee.]

_A tourniquet_ may be extemporized by rolling a handkerchief into a cord

and tying it around the limb, over a compress, between the wound and the

heart. A stick should then be thrust between the handkerchief and skin

and twisted around several times, until the pressure is sufficiently

great to arrest the circulation of the blood in the wounded part. A

representation of this operation may be seen in Fig. 1.

[Illustration:

Mode of employing flexion for the arrest of hemorrhage from a wound

located between the thigh and knee.]

_Flexion of the joint_, as represented in Figs. 2, 3, and 4, is adapted

to many cases of hemorrhage. As water cannot flow through a rubber tube

bent at a sharp angle, so the acute flexion of a limb prevents the free

flow of blood through the arterial tubes.

In some cases, _styptics_ may be directly applied to the wounded

tissues. Cold acts as a powerful styptic, and may generally be made

available for arresting hemorrhage.

POISONED WOUNDS. The treatment of these should chiefly consist in the

prevention of the spread of the poison. This may be done by tightly

applying bandages above the wound and scarifying or sucking the parts.

Nitrate of silver may then be used and the ligatures removed. Alcohol,

in any form, is an antidote to snake poison. For the stings of insects,

apply aqua ammonia, fresh earth, raw onion, plantain, or spirits of

turpentine.

FRACTURES AND DISLOCATIONS.

The treatment of injuries received from the fracture of bones and the

dislocation of joints should never be attempted by the inexperienced,

nor should the management be left to incompetent physicians but

_skillful_ surgical aid should at once be summoned.

SPRAINS.

A sprain consists of a sudden and forcible stretching of the ligaments

and tendons connected with a joint, without there being any dislocation.

It is attended with severe pain and is followed by rapid swelling.

The treatment should consist of measures to prevent inflammation,

promote absorption, and restore a healthy action. The affected part

should be kept at rest in an elevated position, and hot or cold water

applied frequently. If there is much inflammation, fomentations of hops

may be used. The Compound Extract of Smart-weed is an excellent

application.

When the acute symptoms have disappeared, absorption should be favored

by systematic rubbing and the application of stimulating liniments, or

by the use of a well-adjusted bandage. Passive motion may be resorted to

gradually and the subject may use the joint moderately. Should any

stiffness remain, warm salt water douches should be employed and the

Extract of Smart-weed applied once a day.

BRUISES.

Bruises or contusions are caused by falls, wrenches, or blows from blunt

instruments, without breaking the skin. The soft tissues are lacerated

and blood is poured out into them, constituting _ecchymosis_. The

discoloration passes through various shades from a bluish-black to a

violet, a green, and finally, a yellow.

If the bruise is severe, the affected part should be kept at rest and

frequently bathed with the Compound Extract of Smart-weed or the

tincture of arnica. If inflammatory symptoms supervene, fomentations and

poultices should be applied.

FOREIGN BODIES IN THE NOSE.

Foreign bodies, such as beads, peas, coffee-grains, and small

gravel-stones are occasionally introduced into the nostrils of children,

becoming fastened there, and causing great anxiety and alarm. If allowed

to remain, they generally cause inflammation and suffering.

Such bodies may generally be washed out by gently injecting a stream of

tepid salt water with a syringe or Dr. Pierce's Nasal Douche. In no case

should force be used. If these means fail, a competent surgeon should be

consulted.

FOREIGN BODIES IN THE THROAT AND AIR-PASSAGES.

Foreign bodies are generally arrested so high up that they may be seen

by simply depressing the tongue, and removed with the finger or a pair

of forceps. The head should be thrown back in such a position as to

cause the chin to project as little as possible beyond the prominence

known as Adam's apple, in order that the finger or forceps may be

readily introduced and the body released and ejected. When the foreign

bodies are so small as to pass out of sight in the larynx, windpipe, or

esophagus, it is generally difficult to extract them, and the services

of a surgeon are required. Fortunately, however, there is not much

immediate danger from suffocation in such cases.

DROWNING.

Recovery from drowning sometimes occurs when life is apparently extinct.

The treatment, however, should be immediate and energetic, and should be

given in the open air, unless the weather be too cold.

TREATMENT. The patient should be gently placed upon the face with his

wrists under his forehead. The tongue will then fall forward and the

water run out of his mouth and throat, while the windpipe, or

air-passage, will be free. To restore respiration, he should be

instantly turned upon his right side, his nostrils excited with snuff or

ammonia, and cold water dashed upon his face and chest. If this

operation prove unsuccessful, replace the patient upon his face, care

being taken to raise and support his chest, turn the body gently on the

side and quickly again upon the face. Alternate these movements about

every four seconds, and occasionally change sides. When the body is

turned on the face, gentle but efficient pressure should be made along

the back, between the shoulder blades, to assist in forcing the air out

of the lungs, but this pressure ought to be removed before the patient

is turned back on his side. Persistently repeat this operation, and

success will often be the reward. As soon as respiration is established,

warmth may be promoted by the application of warm flannels to the body

and bottles of hot water to the stomach, armpits, thighs, and feet.

During the entire process of restoration, the body should be thoroughly

rubbed _upwards_. Turning the body upon the back or handling it roughly

should be avoided. The person should not be held up by his feet, or be

rubbed with salt or spirits. Rolling the body on a cask is improper, and

injections of the smoke infusion of tobacco are injurious. Avoid the

constant application of the warm bath, and do not allow a crowd to

surround the body.

FAINTING.

When a person faints, _he should be allowed to remain or be placed in a

recumbent posture_, and his clothing immediately loosened. The

extremities should be rubbed, the patient permitted to have plenty of

fresh air, and, if at hand, ammonia or camphor should be applied to the

nostrils.

BURNS AND SCALDS.

The danger arising from burns and scalds depends not only upon the

extent of surface involved, but also upon the depth of the injury. Burns

are most dangerous when occurring upon the head, chest, or abdomen.

TREATMENT. Soothing applications, and those which will exclude the air,

should be made. Grated potato, poultices of slippery-elm, sweet oil,

cotton saturated in a mixture composed of two or three grains of

carbolic acid and two ounces of glycerine, and linseed oil and white

lead, are all beneficial for the treatment of burns. If internal

treatment be necessary, it should be given under the direction of a

competent physician.

SUN-STROKE.

In cases of sun-stroke, the patient should be at once removed into the

shade. If the face is _flushed_, apply cold water to the head and neck,

and mustard to the feet. The body should be bathed in tepid water and

the head slightly elevated. If the countenance is pale, the symptoms

denote exhaustion, and the patient should be kept in a recumbent

position, the extremities rubbed, camphor and ammonia inhaled, mustard

applied to the spine, and stimulants, such as brandy or whiskey, should

be administered.

POISONS AND THEIR ANTIDOTES.

----------------------+--------------------------------------------------

POISONS. | ANTIDOTES.

----------------------+--------------------------------------------------

ACIDS. |

|

Acetic Acid. | Alkalies--carbonate of soda and potash--also

Citric Acid. | lime and magnesia are antidotes to these

Muriatic Acid. | poisons. As soon as the acid is neutralized,

Tartaric Acid. | mucilaginous teas, such as flax-seed, gum

| arabic, or slippery-elm, may be given.

|

Sulphuric Acid | Soap, in solution, or magnesia will counteract

(Oil of Vitriol). | its influence. Water should _not_ be given

| as it causes great heat when mixed with this

| acid.

|

Nitric Acid | Lime-water, carbonates of lime and magnesia

(Aqua Fortis). | in solution, are the only antidotes. Give

Oxalic Acid. | mucilaginous drinks.

|

Carbolic Acid. | There is no special antidote. Oil, glycerine,

| milk, flour and water, white of eggs,

| magnesia, and flax-seed tea may be used.

|

Prussic Acid. | Ammonia, by inhalation or in solution, may

Laurel Water. | be used. Apply a cold _douche_ to the head.

Oil of Bitter Almonds.|

|

These agents are |

speedily fatal. |

|

----------------------+--------------------------------------------------

|

ALKALIES. |

|

Liquor of Ammonia. | Vegetable acids, such as vinegar, lemon-juice,

Water of Ammonia. | citric and tartaric acids, neutralize this

Muriate of Ammonia. | poison.

|

Liquor of Potassa. | All the fixed oils, such as linseed, castor

Nitrate of Potassa | and sweet oil, also almonds and melted lard

(Saltpetre). | destroy the caustic effects of these poisons

Carbonate of Potassa | Mucilaginous drinks may be given.

(Pearlash). |

Salts of Tartar. |

--------------------+-----------------------------------------------------

POISONS. | ANTIDOTES,

--------------------+-----------------------------------------------------

|

IODINE. | Starch, wheat flour mixed with water,

In its | whites of eggs, milk, and mucilaginous

different forms. | drinks are excellent antidotes.

|

--------------------+-----------------------------------------------------

|

VOLATILE OILS AND |

AGENTS. |

| The same antidotes as in case of poisoning

Creosote | with iodine may be used in this, or the

(Oil of Smoke). | stomach may be evacuated with an emetic or a

Oil of Tar. | stomach-pump.

Oil of Turpentine. |

|

--------------------+-----------------------------------------------------

| A powerful emetic of white vitriol or mustard

| should be given at once, cold should be

ALCOHOL. | applied to the head, and the extremities

| vigorously rubbed.

|

--------------------+-----------------------------------------------------

ANTIMONY AND ITS |

COMPOUNDS. | If vomiting has not occurred, induce it by

| tickling the throat and giving large draughts

Tartar Emetic | of warm water, after which administer

Butter of Antimony | astringents, such as infusions of galls, oak bark,

Oxide of Antimony. | Peruvian bark, or strong green tea.

|

--------------------+-----------------------------------------------------

|

ARSENIC AND ITS |

COMPOUNDS. |

|

White Arsenic. | Oils, or fats lard, melted butter, or milk

Yellow Sulphuret of | should be given, then induce vomiting with

Arsenic | sulphate of zinc, sulphate of copper or

Red Sulphuret of | mustard; fine powdered iron rust or magnesia

Arsenic | may be given every five or ten minutes.

King's Yellow. | Mucilaginous drinks should be given as soon

Fly Powder. | as the stomach is evacuated.

Arsenical Paste. |

Arsenical Soap. |

Scheele's Green. |

Paris Green. |

|

--------------------+-----------------------------------------------------

COPPER AND ITS |

COMPOUNDS. | Avoid the USE of vinegar. Give albuminous

| substances, such as milk, whites of eggs, wheat

Blue Vitriol | flour in water, or magnesia; yellow prussiate

Verdigris. | of potash in solution may also be given freely.

|

--------------------------+-------------------------------------

POISONS | ANTIDOTES.

--------------------------+-------------------------------------

LEAD AND ITS COMPOUNDS. | In lead, or painters' colic purgatives

| and anodynes may be given, together

Acetate of Lead | with large doses of iodide of

(Sugar of Lead) | potassium.

White Lead. |

Red Lead. |

Litharge. |

--------------------------+--------------------------------

MERCURY AND ITS |

COMPOUNDS. | Albumen in some form should be

| given; if the poison is not

Corrosive Sublimate. | absorbed, follow with a mustard

White Precipitate. | or lobelia emetic.

Red Precipitate. |

Calomel. |

--------------------------+-----------------------------------

ACRONARCOTICS. |

| The general treatment indicated for

Ergot | this class of poisons, is to

Black Hellebore. | evacuate the stomach with a

Veratrum Viride | stomach-pump or an emetic composed

(American Hellebore). | of fifteen or twenty grains of

Aconite. | sulphate of zinc or copper, or large

Foxglove. | doses of mustard, repeated every

Gelseminum. | quarter of an hour until the full

| effect is produced.

|

Belladonna. | Morphine, sassafras, iodine, and

Stramonium. | stimulants.

|

Nux Vomica. | Large doses of camphor, chloroform,

Strychnia. | and tobacco, may all be beneficial.

|

Poison Oak. | Muriate of ammonia, in solution, may

Poison Vine. | be applied externally, and from ten

| to fifteen grains given internally;

| soda is also useful.

--------------------------+-----------------------------------

NARCOTICS |

|

White Henbane. | Sassafras may be used as an antidote

Opium. | for henbane. Belladonna is an

| antidote of opium; cold water should

| also be applied to the head

| of the patient, and the extremities

| should be well rubbed.

--------------------------+-----------------------------------

ANIMAL POISONS. | Excite vomiting by drinking sweet

| oil. Sugar and water, milk, or

Spanish Fly. | linseed tea in large quantities, and

Potato Fly. | emollient injections are valuable.

|

POSTERIOR SPINAL CURVATURE.

(HUMPBACK.)

Posterior curvature of the spine, sometimes known as Pott's Disease,

occurs most frequently in children, and is generally developed before

the seventh year. Children of a scrofulous diathesis are especially

liable to this affection. It is generally due to disease of the

inter-vertebral cartilages and bodies of the vertebræ. It comes on in a

slow, insidious manner, hence, it often makes serious inroads upon the

spine and system before its character is even suspected.

[Illustration: Fig. 1.

The above portion of the spinal column shows the manner of the breaking

down of the vertebræ from caries,

and the absorption of their bony

structure.]