Phthisis

(thi’-sis). Consumption; tubercular disease of the lungs. The patient must be weighed, the diet must be nourishing, chills must be avoided, temperature taken, and the sputa must be noted as to colour and amount. The night sweats are often a distre ing symptom, leaving the patient weak and wretched, and nece itating much patience and care in providing warm, dry changes. Inhalations of eucalyptus or menthol, spray of ipecacuanha, and other local remedies may be ordered. Cod-liver oil, if ordered, should be given in coffee after food. In cases of pyrexia, take the temperature with care during the attack. Make the patient wear wool only; see that the bed-clothes are light, and, if po ible, have a water-bed. Before washing and dre ing the patient, and immediately after, give some stimulating food. If hæmorrhage comes on, give ice to suck, and turpentine to inhale. Note if the urine is scanty. Where po ible the open-air treatment is now ordered. The patients live more or le always out of doors, take regular exercise, rest a great deal. The diet consists chiefly of milk and all nourishing food. — s. 121 —