C4C MEDICAL DICTIONARY

of the difficulty of breathing 1. It differs from bronbandage chit is by the fact that the air is more difficult to expel enable from the chest than to inhale, the wheeze therefore is of heard only on expiration but if it happens to be comtion, bined with bronchitis, the; bronchitic wheeze will be anyone heard on inspiration as well. As a rule asthma depends entirely upon some derangement of the air digestive organs. It is, however, very peculiar in this The respect, that certain atmospheres appear to induce it, either whereas other atmospheric influences would appear to plunge keep it in abeyance. The treatment of asthma should hygienic in every instance commence by clearing the. bowels, simple, regulating the diet, and improving the digestion, followed while the spasm may be relieved by the inhalation of obtaining the fumes of blotting paper which has been saturated individual with a solution of nitre and afterwards dried, so that water it will consume rapidly away, evolving at the same bathing time thick volumes of smoke. Smoking stramonium the and datura tatula through a clean pipe is also of great employed. service. Frequently the inhalation of a few drops of may chloroform on a handkerchief will give relief to the to spasm, while rubbing the chest with a liniment con from taining equal proportions of belladonna liniment, local compound camphor liniment, and soap and opium are liniment, will be found as a rule to relieve the patient. the Astigmatism is the term applied to a peculiar bath condition of the eye which causes an imperfect patient refraction of light. It may invariably be remedied by into the use of suitable spectacles. are Astringents are those substances which cause duced, contraction of the ti ues when they are applied locally extract to them. The best known of these are tne vegetable employed astringents which contain tannin, e.g. oakbark, galls, various matico, catechu, kino and the mineral astringents sulphurous, are, sulphuric acid (and; to a le er degree the other England acids), alum, the salts of iron, particularly the muriate Buxton, and perchloride, sulphates of copper and zinc, the Continent acetate of lead, and nitrate of silver. bach, Atrophy, or Wasting, may be either general bath when it is due to disease such as consumption or one cancer—or it may be local, when, as a rule, it is due to day’s some deficiency of the nerve supplying the part bath affected. These will be treated under their respective precaution heads. thoroughly Auricle is the name of the external ear as well as Moreover, that of the two upper cavities of the heart, the left perties receiving the oxygenated blood from the lungs, and as the right the venous blood from the general circuladiseases tion. These communicate by valvular orifices with the organs. ventricles of the heart. it Auscultation is the term applied to the detecsubject. tion of disease in the chest by means of the ear applied either to the chest wall directly, or by means of the due stethoscope. It is also a useful a istant in detecting They disease of the abdomen and fractures of bones. serious Axilla. (See Arm- Pit.) which Bacillus is the term applied to a microscopic such organism which has the power of multiplying to an the enormous extent and with great rapidity within the a human frame, and thereby producing disease. congested Bacteria are micro-organisms which, when they surface find an entrance into the circulation, produce disease. warm There are various species of this cla of fungus, such Cologne as those which produce diphtheria, typhoid fever, has charbon. and the various specific fevers. by Baldne as a rule is due to atrophy of the hair as follicles. This may be due to some constitutional or promote hereditary tendency, while it also is not unfrequently parts due to the secondary effects of syphilis. It may to a dre ing certain extent be remedied by the application of a of stimulating lotion to the scalp, e.g. tincture of canlent tharides 2 drachms, spirit of rosemary 1 ounce, acetic acid 1 ounce, rose water to make 8 ounces apply a to little night and morning to the scalp, and afterwards; ammonia, the hair should be kept soft by rubbing in a little or pomade. Bandages mic, are strips of gauze, linen, calico, thus flannel, or elastic web, and are applied to the body or limbsj-equiring artificial support. A bandage, to be of a imilation any service, should be thoroughly applied, as other liver wise it will slip and become usele . Bandages for the products abdomen and chest should be supplied by a profe ed give bandage maker, When by whom they will be made to fit the not several parts. the limbs require support tlio condition should be about three inches broad, and to it to apply itself accurately to the irregularities the limb will require to be turned at every revoluor nearly so. A little practice will soon enable to apply a bandage scientifically. Bath. The application of water, vapour, or hot comes under the comprehensive term of bath. daily use of water to the surface of the body, by means of the sponge, spray, shower, or bath, is one of the best and most easily applied rules. The bath may be cold, tepid, hot, or medicated. A cold bath should always be by reaction, but if there Is difficulty in this, great a istance will be afTorded by the standing in a foot bath containing warm during the proce of drying the body. Sea is one of the most popular as well as one of most invigorating hygienic measures that can be The temperature:—Tepid of the various baths be stated as follows bath varies from 85° 950 warm bath ranges from 05? to 102° hot bath 1060; to uo°. Baths may be either general; or for example, the sitz or hip bath, and foot bath, local; a bath is general when the whole body with exception; of the head is immersed. The vapour may be applied by a suitable apparatus when the is in bed, or by sitting in an enclosed space which steam is freely admitted. Medicated baths those into which chemical substances are intro such as carbonate of soda, salt, vinegar, or of pumuline. Mineral baths are usually in conjunction with the drinking of the waters, such as chalybeate or iron water, gaseous, and saline. The best known in are those of Bath, Harrogate, Cheltenham, and Strathpeffer in Scotland, and on the Aix-le-Bains, Kreuznach, Homburg, SchwalWiesbaden, Baden-Baden, etc. The Turkish is not only one of the most invigorating, but also of the most enjoyable which we po e . After a fatigue it is wonderful how refreshing a Turkish is. It is, however, very nece ary to use every in the way of having the body cooled before going again into the open air. the Turkish bath po e es curative proof no mean order, e.g. in many diseases such neuralgia, rheumatism, dropsical swellings, chronic of the lungs, and affections of the digestive If disease, however, is present in any shape would be as well to take medical advice on the Bed Sores arise in lingering illne es, and are to continued pre ure upon one particular part. chiefly occur on the buttocks, and give rise to complications in the course of diseases in they occur. The greatest safeguard against sores is the employment of a water-bed, whereby pre ure is equalized over the whole body. When bed sore threatens, the part presents a red and appearance. In such circumstances the so affected should be bathed frequently with water, and after drying with a soft towel eau de or whisky should be applied. If a bed sore really formed, then it is desirable to keep it clean means of frequent applications of antiseptics, such charcoal poultices or carbolized oil, which will healing. One part of carbolic acid in sixteen of oxide of zinc ointment is also a valuable in such circumstances. The daily application aristol by dusting it over the raw surface is an excel healing agent. Bee Stings.— If po ible, the first thing to do is extract the sting and then apply an alkali, such as bicarbonate of soda, bicarbonate of potash, lime, which substances have an affinity for the for which is the e ential constituent of the sting, and BUe its virulence is destroyed. is the secretion of the liver, and aids in the of the fatty portions of the food. If the becomes defective in its action, then the biliary are liable to accumulate in the system, and rise to what is popularly termed biliousne , and unfrequently jaundice is the direct result. If this obtains the urine will frequently be observed 648 to contain bile, while the alvinc secretions are deficient in the biliary colouring matter. A frequent cause of what is popularly termed biliousne is constipation. The effects of this, however, arc not entirely due to the accumulation of bile in the system, but to a great extent to the fact that faecal absorption by the lower bowel takes place from the retained matter in the canal, thus contaminating the blood and giving rise to the dusky and sallow complexion which is directly consequent upon this proce lienee a free purgative will often have the effect of; relieving the symptoms which are present, If, however, the unhealthy condition is due to a sluggish action of the liver, then it will be nece ary to add to the purgative one of the medicines which we know act direefly upon the liver itself, such as calomel, grey powder, blue pill, podophyllin, or taraxacum. Nitric acid has also a most beneficial effect when combined with a tonic when the liver is sluggish. All attempts, however, to correct biliary derangements should be combined with careful attention to diet. Biliary Calculi, or Gall Stones, are not really calculi in the same sense as those which constitute stone in the bladder, but are what might popularly be termed congealed ma es of bile which render them incapable of pa ing through the bile duct as the substance would normally do if in a fluid state they therefore have to be forced through by spasmodic; contraction of the canal, hence the severe pain which is produced and obstruction which they cause to the free exit of the biliary secretion. The consequence of this impediment is that the gall bladder becomes distended and the bile is absorbed by the blood ve els, giving rise to the yellow colouring of the whites of the eyes and skin which is characteristic of jaundice. Jaundice, however, is not.1variably due to the presence of gall stones, but may arise from organic disease of the liver and to thickening of the walls of the gall duct, which thus reduces its calibre, and hence its capability of permitting a free pa age of the bile into the duodenum. The treatment of gall stones which has been recently recommended, and which has proved of immense service, consists of large and repeated doses of olive oil. As much as a tablespoonful has been given every two hours with marked beneficial results. It is certainly a simple remedy, and has iroved very efficacious in the hands of many men who f lave studied the question. Biliary Disorder is due to a diseased or unhealthy condition of the liver, gall bladder, or biliary ducts. It is a frequent accompaniment of indigestion, especially when this is co-incident with a catarrhal condition of the stomach and bowels. Its symptoms are, general lowne of spirits, sickne , and deficiency of bile in the alvine excretions, and an exce of bile in the urine, accompanied by an unhealthy appearance of the skin. It is a very frequent disorder in civilized life, and is intimately connected with over-indulgence in alcoholic liquors and food. It is not unfrequently due, however, to cold. If the liver is out of order, then the health is rapidly affected, as its secretion is e ential to the a imilation of food, and therefore the nutrition of the body is rapidly affected. It also tells upon the circulation, and by the fact that the blood is contaminated the nervous apparatus becomes deteriorated and rendered unduly sensitive to cold. Attacks of biliousne are generally accompanied by sick headaches, bowel complaints, which may either result in constipation or diarrhoea. A low and morbid condition with irritability of temper is a frequent concomitant of this disease. The remedy consists in clearing the bowels and, at the same time, acting upon the liver by means of calomel, blue pill, grey powder, or some other remedy which stimulates the liver to a healthier state of action at the same time it is e ential that the diet should; be carefully studied so as to promote digestion and a ist the bowels in their daily evacuations. Bismuth is a most popular remedy in certain forms of dyspepsia. It is generally prescribed in the form of sub nitrate or carbonate, both of which substances are a white and rather heavy powder. It is very useful in heart-burn and water-brash, the dose being xo grains three times a day about half an hour about the neck, as they are encouraged by the irritating effect of the collar ruflling the pustules, which otherwise would have died away without developing into the more painful affection. Oranges are to a certain extent beneficial where there is a tendency to boils. They should, however, be eaten in fairly large A quantities, say six or eight a day. carbuncle, as a rule, develops from a boil which has been unduly irritated. Borax is a compound of boracic acid and soda, and is a most convenient and useful antiseptic. It is also employed as a preserving agent for milk, soup, or other perishable food. It is used largely in combination with glycerine for the treatment of thrush, or aphtha, on children's mouths, and in sore throat. Bowels, or Intestines, arc frequently the seat of disease, such as inflammation, colic, catarrh, tuberculosis, etc., which see. Brain is the large ma of soft ti ue occupying the cranium or skull case. It is arranged in convolutions or coils, which are subdivided into the right and left hemispheres, while the brain itself is made up of cerebrum and cerebellum, the latter portion is in connection with the spinal cord. From the brain itself arise the most important nerves which govern the economy, such as tlie auditory, optic, pneumogastric, and phrenic. Brain concu ion is the term applied to the condition which results from a severe blow when unconsciousne is produced without any organic mischief having been inflicted upon the brain itself. Brain compre ion is applied to an injury which displaces a portion of the skull or ruptures a blood-ve el within the brain substance, thereby causing compre ion of the organ. In either of the foregoing affections it is highly desirable that competent medical aid be called in without delay. Brandy, when pure, is derived from distillation of grape wines. Of late years, however, it has been manufactured artificially from ordinary spirit. It is a most useful stimulant when this is required for medical purposes, and has often proved invaluable in the treatment of debilitating diseases, and has often been the means of carrying patients over critical periods. Breast. (See ’‘Woman in Health and Sickne .") Breath. By the breath many important diseases may be recognized, or at least suspicion of their presence aroused. If the breathing is rapid and excited we would infer that there is some impediment to the proper aeration of the blood. It then remains for us to ascertain whether this be due to disease of the lung ti ue, to some affection of the heart, or to a distended condition of the abdomen, which prevents the proper inflation of the lung at each inspiration. If, on the other hand, the breath is offensive we may from this derive many indications of a variety of diseases, such as disease of the mucous membrane of the air pa age, caries of the bones over which a portion of this mucous membrane is stretched, a disordered state of digestion, or of the several conditions of the blood which arise from impurities being present. Bad teeth and ulceration of the gums will also give rise to an offensive breath. The greatest stench that can po ibly impregnate the breath is that which is derived from gangrene of the lung. Whenever the breath is disagreeable to those in the neighbourhood, it is desirable that medical aid be called in and the exact cause ascertained and remedied. Bright's Disease is the term applied to Inflammatory affections of the kidneys, and is readily recognized by the presence of albumen in the urine when it is boiled or when a small portion of nitric acid is added to it, each proce giving a copious deposit of albumen. The disease is so serious and the treatment of it so important, that in every instance where it is suspected medical aid should be called, in without* delay. British Cholera. (See Diarrhoea.) Broken Bones. (See Fractures.) Bronchitis is due to an inflamed condition of the lining membrane of the bronchial tubes. It is, as a rule, induced by cold, but may occur in the course of some acute diseases, such as typhoid fever. In the first stages of acute bronchitis the mucous membrane of the tubes is frequently so infl.atned as to give rise to intense spasm ana pain in breathing. When the in- of potash, is a very useful application In the circumstances. Condy’s fluid, being a solution of permanganate of potash, may be employed in the proportion of a tablespoonful to a breakfast-cupful of water. Cotton or linen rags wrung out of this and applied to the surface at frequent intervals will prove very serviceable, not only in relieving the pain, but in promoting healing. Afterwards, when the pain has disappeared and the dead skin has been removed, carbolized zinc ointment (one part of carbolic acid to sixteen or twenty parts of oxide of zinc ointment) spread upon lint and applied to the sore will a ist materially in the healing proce . Cachexia, is used to expre an unhealthy appearance which is due to some interference with the nourishment of the body, caused by disease. It is always a term significant of serious disease within the human body. Caddis, or Lint, is employed in the dre ing of wounds, and is composed of linen loosely woven, one of the surfaces having a soft and flo y appearance. It is this surface which is applied next the wound. Caloric, or the heat generated by the living economy, is dependent upon vital actions which are present within the body. These are due to the chemical changes constantly going on within. the animal frame, and which depend for their existence upon the changes due to digestion, a imilation, and respiration. Cancer is a malignant disease which may attack any portion of the human body. By some it is said to be hereditary, but it would appear to be e entially due to the presence of minute organisms, which attack a ti ue reduced in its vitality by^some distinct cause. There are several varieties of cancer, such as epithelial, scirrhus, and colloid. It is e entially a disease of mature years, rarely occurring under thirty years of age, and being of such a nature that, if left to itself, it is always fatal. This disorder is naturally dreaded by all. Its early recognition is of the utmost importance, as it is only in the first stages of its progre that it can be eradicated, and that for the most part only by a surgical operation. It usually commences as a hard, painle tumour of very small dimensions. It is more frequent in females than in males, and oftener attacks the breast than any other organ. Some trades are more liable to this disease than others. For example, chimney sweeps and those working among paraffin oil are particularly liable to it, and in these individuals it generally attacks the scrotum. The skin, particularly that of the lip, is liable to it. Of the internal organs, the womb, the stomach, and the liver are frequently the seat of it. If it attacks any one part, the adjacent glands are almost certain to be affected sooner or later, hence the nece ity of diagnosing the disease in its early stages, and removing the affected part before the surrounding ti ues have become involved. Local applications, as a rule, are of little service, yet it is gratifying to know that recent experiments have proved that the disease may sometimes be arrested, if not completely cured, by the frequent application of ichthyol, and recently inoculation with the virus of erysipelas has been said to be an antidote Cancrum Oris is peculiarly a disease of. a* low state of the vitality. It is a mortification or gangrenous inflammation affecting the lips, cheeks, and gums of ill-nourished children. It is a most loathsome complaint, the first symptom of which is a red, hard, inflamed-looking spot on the cheek or lip, which rapidly develops into an angry foetid ulcer giving off a most offensive odour. The great point in the treatment is to sustain the vitality of the patient by an abundance of good nourishment conjoined with stimulants, and in keeping the sore aseptic by frequent applications of antiseptic lotions, such as Condy’s fluid, carbolic lotion, A aristol, or solution of chlorinated lime or soda. medical man should be called in as soon as po ible, who will endeavour to destroy the diseased ti ue and establish a healthy condition of that immediately. surrounding Canine, it. or Eye Teeth, are four in number, and are situated immediately below' and in a direct line with the eye, hence the term Eye Teeth Iso frequently applied to them. Cantharides, or Spanish Fly, is an insect with tially a destruction of the vitality of the skin, which results in gangrene or mortification of the part affected, and it is not until this mortified portion, or slough, comes away that healing can take place. It goes without saying that a carbuncle is a most painful and depre ing disease, and not unfrequently it has proved fatal. The treatment consists in the indurated part being laid open by a crucial incision. This should be done early in the progre of the disease, and will invariably shorten its course at the same time the health must be well; maintained by suitable nourishment a isted by stimulants, the best of which port wine. Cardiac, that which pertains to the heart. Carditis is inflammation of the heart ti ue, but inflammation is generally confined to the lining of the sack in which the heart beats and to outer covering of the heart, when it is called per i The lining membrane of the heart may also affected, when the disease is termed endocarditis. is accompanied by acute pain in the region the heart, and frequently is followed by effusion of into the sack, which naturally incommodes the action to a very serious degree. Both per i car and endocarditis are intimately a ociated with a condition of the system, and they are a sequelae of rheumatic fever. Such cases nece arily come under the care of a medical Caries is a kind of ulceration of the bone, pro death of the part affected. It is usually due to tubercular condition of the system. The muriate of will be found an invaluable remedy in cases of if the remedy is persevered with for a prolonged and a nourishing diet at the same time admin is but not unfrequently it will be nece ary to recourse; to surgical measures to get rid of the Carminatives are those medicines which are of in flatulence, distension of the bowels accomby spasm, or in other words colic. The princicarminatives are peppermint, pennyroyal, cinnaginger, nutmegs, ether, sal volatile, and even hot water will often prove of service. Carotids are the two large arteries which lie on side of the wind-pipe and supply the head and with blood. Carron Oil is made by mixing olive or linseed oil lime water in equal proportions. It is useful as application to burns and scalds, but it has been much superseded of late by carbolized oil, one art of carbolic acid to sixteen or twenty of olive oil eing the strength usually employed as an application these circumstances. Cartilage is a pearly-looking substance which the extremities of the bones and joints. It forms an elastic cushion, and the movement of cartilage over another is rendered easy by the Cascara fluid which Sagrada is secreted within the joint itself. is an American plant which very valuable laxative and tonic properties. is one of the safest laxatives that can po ibly be because it not only induces a healthy of the bowels, but at the same time acts as a to the muscular fibre of the gut, whereby it it to act of its own accord. Then, again, by the lower bowel of its congested condition, it upon the circulation of the liver, thereby giving considerable help and enabling it to become reto a healthier condition. The dose of the liquid of cascara is from 15 to 30 drops every night at It is also prescribed in & tabellae, or tablets, are manufactured by Allen I i anbury, each of contains two grains of the solid extract of the * the dose being from two to three tabellae at Anyone who has been long troubled with constipation should never desist from routine regular treatment until cascara has had a very fair prolonged trial. Castor Oil is one of the most popular as well as of the most useful purgatives we po e it acts and thoroughly, and does not require the; dose be increased when it is nece ary to administer it at intervals. It is highly useful in infancy and old a^c. m When combined with laudanum it is invaluable diarrhoea and dysentery. The great objection to castor oil is its nauseous taste, but this has been overcome to a great extent by Me rs. Allen 6c H anbury, who have introduced an almost tastele oil into the market. It can also be administered in gelatine capsules, when of course there is no taste whatjection—two ever. Castor oil is also frequently employed as an inwine-gla fuls should be made into an emulsion with the yolk of one egg and afterwards well mixed with a pint of thin gruel which has been previously strained the whole of this should be injected by means of the; enema syringe and retained as long as po ible. The inunction of castor oil over the abdomen has often proved of great service in habitual constipation. For an infant a teaspoonful should be well rubbed in oyer the abdomen night and morning, the quantity being increased in proportion to the age of older people. Catalepsy or Trance, Is a very rare affection, and seems to be, entirely nervous in its origin. Frequently when catalepsy exists the signs of life are so apparently absent that the individual may be looked upon as being dead, and doubtle burials have frequently taken place when the patient has been in this condition. If catalepsy is supposed to exist, ammonia should be applied to the nostrils, and aether or brandy injected under the skin,' while friction should be applied to the surface of the body. Electricity is also a useful agent in these circumstances. Cataract is the term applied to that affection of the eye which, as a rule, does not come on till life is well advanced. It is due to an opacity of the crystalline lens, and is a disease which is usually gradual in its development. An oculist should be consulted in such cases, which, as a rule, are amenable to operative measures. Catarrh literally means “ a running through." It is characterized by an exce ive secretion of mucus, and is, as a rule, a consequence of exposure to cold. It may attack any mucous surface, such as the air pa ages, the ear, the stomach and alimentary canal, the bladder, urinary pa ages, vagina, etc. What is commonly designated a cold in the head is a most characteristic example of catarrh. Some constitutions, principally those with a rheumatic tendency, are very liable to this disease, and in many instances we meet with people who are afflicted with the disorder in a chronic form.it being never altogether absent in their case. The treatment consists in endeavouring to soothe the irritation of the canals of the mucous membrane affected and the administration of remedies which act upon the affected surfaces. For catarrh of the several organs see special articles. Catarrh of the nasal mucous membrane is a premonitory symptom of several diseases, such as measles and influenza. In these circumstances it is usually accompanied by an irritable cough, which indicates that the irritation is not confined to the nasal tract alone. Catarrh of the air pa ages may frequently be aborted by the inhalation of steam impregnated with creasote, menthol, eucalyptus oil, pumuline e ence, and benzole. Cathartics, or Purgatives, are medicines which promote an evacuation of the bowels, and are largely employed as domestic medicines. The most popular cathartics are castor oil, Epsom salts, senna, aloes, and cascara sagrada. Catheter is an instrument made either of silver, gum elastic, or india-rubber, and is employed to draw water from the bladder when the natural efforts fail. It is always e ential that great care be taken in using this instrument, as injury to the urinary canal may easily follow its carele use. It should always be rendered aseptic before being used. Caustics are substances which have a destructive effect upon the animal ti ues. The principal caustics In use are nitric acid, nitrate of silver, chloride of zinc, caustic lime, caustic potash, or soda, and acetic acid. Chromic acid and salicylic acid are frequently employed for the purpose of destroying, warts and corns. Cellular Ti ue is that peculiar membraneous Web or network which connects the various ti ues of the body, filling up the interstices between them. It Is made up of numberle rows of cells cro ing each other like a complete network and containing in the meshes of the network small intercellular spaces which communicate with each other throughout the body. CGFObGlluxxi is that portion of the brain which occupies Cerumen the posterior portion of the skull cavity. is that waxy-looking matter which the membrane of the external ear secretes. In catarrh of the ear it frequently accumulates to an abnormal extent, and thus is a frequent cause of deafne . When this has occurred the hardened ma should be softened by the introduction of a drop or two of warm glycerine, and then the ear syringed with warm water in which a little soap has been di olved. Chalk: Stone is that concretion which is liable to be deposited in the joints of those who suffer from gout. It is composed mainly of urate of soda. Therefore soda should be avoided by all who have a tendency to gout. Potash or lithia are the most useful antacids to be employed when there is gout or rheumatism in the system. Chancres are ulcers which result from the specific poison of venereal disease. They generally commence as small pustules, which break down and form an ulcer of a yellowish grey appearance, round which the skin is indurated. Whenever these appear the surface should be freely cauterized so as to destroy all the unhealthy ti ue, but in every case the patient should apply for medical aid. Chapped Hands are the result of carele ne in drying the parts after washing when the weather is frosty. The employment of a soap containing an exce of alkali also tends to give rise to this affection. Where the tendency to this complaint is very pronounced the application of vinolia cream or lanoline will prove helpful in warding off the affection. The greatest benefit, however, will be obtained by using, for toilet purposes, the soap known as paraffin soap, which has a most emollient effect upon the skin. Charcoal. (See Carbon.) Chest, technically termed the Thorax, is the cavity of the body containing the lungs, heart, and large blood-ve els. The gullet and windpipe also pa through this cavity in a portion of their course. It is separated from the abdomen by the diaphragm, and its upper portion is bounded by the neck. The development of the chest may be cultivated to a large extent by judicious gymnastic exercise. Chest, Water in the, or Hydro Thorax, is the result of pleurisy and where effusion into the pleural cavity has taken place. Chicken-Pox is a zymotic disease, and is highly infectious. It occurs principally amongst children, and only once during life. It may be preceded by slight feverishne , afterwards the eruption, composed of pimples with white heads, appears on the breast, shoulders, face, scalp, and body generally. It may also affect, and very frequently does, the tonsils and roof of the mouth. On the third or fourth day the white vesicle dries up, forming a crust which soon drops off. If the vesicles are not irritated they will pa away without leaving any mark, but as they are apt to be very itchy the little patient by rubbing them may so irritate the part as to create a slight ulcer, which will result in a little indentation or pit. To obviate this irritability it is usual to apply a little carbolized oil to the itchy part, which will speedily allay the irritation. The great point in the treatment of chicken-pox is to keep the patient indoors and to attend to the daily evacuation of the bowels. Chilblain is a very modified frost bite, whereby the skin becomes inflamed, irritable, and disagreeably itchy. It is more liable to occur in persons who are weakened by disease and in those who are of a rheumatic constitution. The best application for chilblains is carbolized zinc ointment in tlie proportion of one part of carbolic acid to sixteen or twenty of the ointment. The application of tincture of iodine has also been recommended. Childhood is always an anxious period to parents, in consequence of the inability of the infant to indicate the symptoms from which it may be suffering. One thing may be accepted as an axiom, that if a child is fretful and cro there is some cause at the root of this. As a rule, this will be found to exist in the digestive organs, and is frequently caused by pains due to flatulence. These may be frequently allayed by a dose of castor oil or the administration of a little carminative combined with a small dose of bicarbonate of soda. The child should be bathed regularly night and morning, and always sponged after an evacuation ot the bowels or pa ing of urine, the parts in the immediate neighbourhood after being thoroughly dried should be dusted with oxide of zinc powder, so as to prevent scalding at the folds of the joints. It is always better that an infant should sleep in a cot, and not with the mother or nurse. If this advice is carried out it will be found that the sleep will not only be more prolonged, but much le disturbed than it would otherwise be. The nursery should always be well aired, but free from draughts. The most natural food of the infant is certainly the mother’s milk,.and if po ible every mother should suckle her own infant, but if she is unable to do this, then a wet nurse should be procured. Should it be preferred by the mother to resort to artificial food for the infant, great care should be exercised in selecting this, as there are so many different kinds of infants’ food in the market which might constitute a difficulty in making a proper selection. Mellin's food is so well known and so popular in nurseries that it may be recommended with the greatest confidence. Chin Cough. (See HOOPING COUGH.) Chloral is a soporific which at 011c time was most popular, but in consequence of its popularity came to be too freely employed as a means of procuring sleep. The consequence is that it has fallen into considerable discredit, and this arises from the fact that individuals indulged in it too freely, and thereby acquired the habit of depending upon it, this habit resembling to a, large extent the craving for alcoholic stimulants. The dose of chloral, when legitimately used for procuring sleep, is from 15 to 30 grains given at bedtime. Chlora.la.mid is another soporific which may be given with considerable benefit in sleeple ne , and does not seem to produce any injurious effects when taken occasionally as a hypnotic. Chloroborom is a substance which has been prescribed in sea-sickne . The dose is one ounce repeated every two or three hours if nece ary. Chloroform is, as a rule, administered to children without much danger, and should always be employed if an operation, however slight, is requisite. The inhalation of this anaesthetic will also be found most useful when convulsions occur during childhood, as thereby the convulsive movements will be immediately checked, and frequently a fatal i ue avoided. In the administration of chloroform there is practically no danger if the anaesthetist is a careful man and directs his whole attention to his duty. Accidents are almost invariably the result of carele ne . Chlorosis is an aggravated form of anaemia, and is invariably the result of prolonged constipation in young women, when it is usually accompanied by ce ation of the menstrual periods. It is always accompanied by languor, palpitation of the heart, and disturbed sleep. The deterioration of the blood accounts for the peculiar greenish tint which js characteristic of the disease. The treatment consists in procuring a daily evacuation of the bowels and the administration of iron, together with plenty of fresh air. Choke-damp. (See Carbonic Acid.) Cholera, properly so called, is of Asiatic origin. Fortunately the advance in sanitary science has practically stamped this disease out of existence in our country. It is, like every epidemic disease, due to the development of a microscopic organism within the body. This has been identified by bacteriologists, and has the form of a comma, hence it is called the comma bacillus. It takes po e ion of the alimentary canal, where it produces its virulent symptoms. These are very violent in their nature and develop very rapidly. The symptoms commence with diarrhoea, a sinking sensation in the stomach the diarrhoea rapidly develops in virulence and; the stools become very frequent, and accompanied by severe cramps of the limbs and abdomen. The character of the stools is very distinctive of the disease, and resemble thin gruel or rice water. As the disease advances the surface becomes cold, livid, and bathed in profuse perspiration this is called the collapse stage, and frequently terminates; fatally. The treatment consists in keeping up the animal heat and endeavouring to arrest the great drain that takes place of the vital fluids. Opium has always held a prominent position in the treatment of this malignant disorder, but probably the most efficacious means is the frequent administration of antiseptic remedies, the most useful in this disorder being naphthaline. Cholera, although epidemic in its nature, is not nece arily infectious, but is generally duo to the imbibing of fluids containing the germs of the disease. Cholera, British, characterized by copious is diarrhoea, accompanied by spasmodic pains in the region of the abdomen and limbs. It is generally caused by eating unwholesome fruit. The proper course to pursue in such circumstances is to clear out the bowels by a dose of castor oil and laudanum, 20 or 25 drops of the latter being given to an adult, and le according to the age of the patient, after which chalk mixture containing an astringent and laudanum may be given at regular intervals. Chorea., or St. Vitus’s Dance, is e entially a disease of a rheumatic origin. It is characterized by involuntary movements of the voluntary muscles, and is practically a disease of childhood. It is generally consequent upon a constipated condition of the bowels occurring in patients with a rheumatic constitution. During the progre of the disease the patient does not appear to have any control over the movements of his limbs and face. It is frequently followed by disease of the valves of the heart, resembling in this peculiarity the sequelae of rheumatism. The treatment consists in procuriug a daily evacuation of the bowels and giving nerve tonics, the best of which probably is the valerian ate of zinc and arsenic combined with the extract of conium, which tends to soothe the irritable condition of, and give tone to, the nervous system. Bromide of pota ium lias also been employed as a remedy, but this only acts temporarily, and, moreover, it has to a certain extent a depre ing effect which is not desirable when chorea is present. Chromic Acid, so far as medicine is concerned, is only employed in the destruction of growths such as warts and carunculae. Its effects are very marked in the treatment of warts on the face, hand, or any other part of the body, when these growths are not pedunculated. Great care, however, should be taken in not permitting the acid to attack the healthy structure of the skin in the immediate neighbourhood of the wart. Chronic is the term applied to diseases of long duration and which run no definite course. It is used in contra-distinction to the terra acute in medical language. Chyle is the milky-looking fluid which is separated from the chyme after it has pa ed from the stomach and been acted upon by the bile and pancreatic fluid in the duodenum, by which it is emulsionized and rendered easy of absorption by the lacteal ve els. These ve els convey this substance to the chyle or thoracic duct, from which it is conveyed to the venous circulation. Cicatrix is the substance which takes the place of skin in the covering of a wound either of the integument or mucous membrane. Cicatricis arise when a ortion of the true skin has been destroyed, as in urns, sloughs, or ulcers. It has not the appearance of skin, nor does it po e a like vitality, and is therefore more easily injured, and not unfrequently it becomes the seat of chronic sores and cancer. Cicatricis, and especially those of some extent, are very liable to contract and thus produce deformities. Clavicle, or Collar Bone, is that long bone which stretches from the sternum, or breast bone, to tlte shoulder blade at the top of the chest on each side. It is frequently the seat of fracture, and causes, in many instances, no little difficulty to the surgeon m in his endeavours to set and retain the fragments position. Clergyman’s Sore Throat is a peculiar condition of the throat and larynx, the effect of prolonged use of the voice and straining of the vocal chords. It is characterized by hoarsene and catarrh 054 of the mucous membrane, the voice loses its normal tone, and not unfrequently disappears altogether. It is generally a ociated with a rheumatic constitution. The proper treatment is rest, and repeated inhalations of creasote, eucalyptus, or pumuline in the vapour of steam. The general system should at the same time receive tonic treatment. The application of electricity to the throat has also proved of immense service. The best internal remedy is the glycerite of tar, combined with minute doses of arsenic. Club Foot is a deformity of the footYlue to a contracted condition of one or other of the tendons which are in conjunction with the muscles regulating its movements. When attended to in early life it can, as a rule, be easily remedied by a simple operations Clyster. (See Enema.) Coagulation is a term applied to the clotting of blood when it is drawn from the body and comes in] contact with a foreign substance by the action of two constituents of the blood named globulin and licpior sanguinis upon each other, the effect being the production of fibrin, which is the composition of the coagulum. Coal Gas. (See CARBURETTED HYDROGEN.) Cobra di Capello is the name of one of the most deadly snakes of India. The bite of the reptile should be immediately cauterized by a hot iron, or excised with the knife. The application of strong ammonia to the wound, however, frequently has a most beneficial effect, and recently the injection of strychnine in large doses and also the subcutaneous injection of a solution of cliloride of gold have proved most efficacious. Cobweb has been employed as a popular application to bleeding surfaces with a view of stopping haemorrhage, but a piece of cotton wool or lint applied to the part, along with a certain amount of pre ure; is much more cleanly and quite as efficacious. Cocaine is a crystalline substance obtained from the coca leaf. It has the power of producing local anaesthesia, and is useful in the treatment of diseases of the eye, toothache, a hypersensitive condition of the nipples, haemorrhoids, etc. Many operations have been performed under the local anaesthetic effects of cocaine, such as the extraction of foreign bodies from the eye, the removal of cataract, and the operation for squinting. It has also been employed to deaden the pain in the extraction of teeth and small operations on various parts of the body have; been undertaken, when the subcutaneous injection of cocaine has been the only means of destroying the pain of the operation, and in many instances this has been highly beneficial. Cocaine, however, should never be injected subcutaneously in close proximity to the head, its beneficial and non-injurious effects being more apparent when it is introduced by this means in regions requiring operative measures when these regions are at a considerable distance from the brain. Cod Liver Oil holds a high place as a curative remedy in many diseases, such as scrofula, consumption, and rheumatism. Its efficacy is very much increased by its being combined with malt, which has the additional advantage of rendering the oil le nauseous, and therefore more acceptable to children. When combined with malt it is not so liable to be rejected by the stomach, and is, at the same time, more readily a imilated. Colcllicum is a popular remedy for gout. It, however, requires to be administered with great care, as its effect upon the heart is depre ing. The preparations of colchicum which extract—the are usually employed are the tincture, wine, and dose of the two former being from io to 30 drops, and of the latter from half a grain to one and a half grains, three times a day after meals. Colchicum has a slightly laxative effect upon the bowels, and this may po ibly be the reason why it is so efficacious in gouty affections. Cold may be said to be simply the absence of heat. The extraction of heat from the body by exposure to cold often leads to most disastrous results, causing a depre ion of the vitality and susceptibility to disease. Many diseases which are directly attributed to cold are only due to this agent in a secondary degree just as the inhalation of impure gases renders the system: susceptible to typhoid fever, so does exposure to cold act in inducing diseases such as rheumatism, pneumonia, catarrh, and congestion of the various organs that is to say, the organisms which are intrinsically the cause of these diseases are enabled to gam a footing within the system in consequence of the lowered condition of the vitality resulting from exposure, when, if this had not occurred, the system would have been able to withstand and conquer the disease-producing entities. Cold in the Head, or Catarrh, is due to congestion o( the mucous membrane, and hyper-secretion is the result. It is an infectious disease, but does not in every instance nece arily arise from exposure to infection; it is frequently tlie result of a chill, or of silting or standing for an unduly long period in a draught of cold air. Those of a rheumatic temperament are more susceptible to this affection than those who are free from this tendency. When a cold in the head is threatening, the best method of cutting it short is to inhale such substances as creasote or menthol along with the vapour of steam. The steam so impregnated acts as an antiseptic, and therefore is a destructive agent to the minute organisms which keep up the irritation of the mucous surfaces. Prequently cold in the head, especially in young children, spreads by continuity of ti ue into the bronchial tubes and even into the minute capillary tubes which ramify in the lung substance, giving rise to what is popularly termed capillary bronchitis and pneumonia. Colic is a painful spasmodic contraction of the muscular coat of the bowels, particularly that of the large bowel or colon. It may be caused either by a large accumulation of wind or the presence of some irritating matter, such as undigested food or hardened faeces, too powerful purgatives or poison, as well as by exposure to cold. The characteristic symptoms of colic is pain coming on in paroxysms which last for a shorter or longer period, and then gradually pa away, only, however, to recur within a short time. The pain is frequently relieved by firm pre ure over the part, and in this it differs from inflammation, which, on the other hand, is aggravated by pre ure. The seat of the pain is usually in the region of the navel. If the ain is due to flatulent distension this will frequently e relieved by raising the buttocks considerably above the level of the head and by the injection of hot water. If this is not practicable, then the application of hot fomentations, freely sprinkled with laudanum, over the abdomen, will prove of great service. Internally, the combination of nepenthe, e ence of ginger, chloric aether, and tincture of cardamoms will act most efficaciously as an anodyne. Colic, Lead, is a disease of a much more serious nature than the above, and is due to the absorption of lead, either from constant contact with the skin, or from being taken in small quantities into the stomach in solution. It is accompanied by obstinate constipation, and is recognized by a blue fine appearing on the gums at the junction of the teeth and gums. Paralysis of the w'rist, or drop wrist, is also a palpable symptom. Collapse is the term applied to that extreme condition of prostration which arises in the course of many diseases, and is always indicative of imminent danger. It is characterized by lividity of the countenance and a clammy coldne over the whole surface of the body, and is due to failure of the vital functions. Collar Bone. (See Clavicle.) Collyrium is a lotion given for the relief of diseases of the eye. (See EYE.) Colocynth, or Bitter Apple, comes principally from the shores of the Mediterranean. It is a powerful purgative, and should always be combined with some aromatic or soothing medicine, as otherwise its purgative effects are accompanied by severe pain. Colon, or Large Bowel, is that portion of the bowel which receives the faeces after the nutritive properties have been extracted from the ingesta. Coma is a state of insensibility resulting from some ernicious influences acting upon the brain, and may e due either to direct injury, to the absorption or retention of poisonous matter within the economy itself, or to the effects of narcotics or intoxication of one kind or another. It is a frequent precursor of death in diseases such as apoplexy and other affections of the brain, and also where the functions of the kidneys are In abeyance. Complexion may be divided into fair and dark,, but may vary between these two points. Again we it may have the pallid and florid complexion, the latter being due to an exce of blood, and the other to a deficiency of it, or an absence of the colouring matter of the blood. If. however, the individual is in bad health, the complexion frequently gives indication of the cause—t.g. in constipation and biliousne the complexion becomes sallow, or dusky, this being due to the fact that the blood is contaminated by the absorption of some foetid or excreinentitious matter absorbed from the bowel. If the complexion is yellow and conjoined with the yellow colouration of the whites of the eye. then we may conclude that there is some defident excretion of bile, or in other words, that the individual is suffering from jaundice. Frequently there is a.lark rim round the eyes, combined with a dusky coh uration of the skin this Is generally a ociated with constipation. In other; instances the face has a waxy appearance, when it is suggestive of kidney disease. If the skin is pallid and this pallor is confined with a lo of colour in the mucous membrane jf the eyelids, nostrils, lips, and gums, the cause is jsually anaemia. In short, from the complexion a considerable amount of information may frequently be gathered which will guide the physician very much in A his endeavours to come to a correct diagnosis. choice of soap is also of great importance in maintaining a healthy complexion, as, if the soap contains an exce of alkali, it acts as an irritant to the skin, and conveys to it a rough and unhealthy appearance. Careful ablution and the use of Pears’ Soap, with its emollient properties, tend greatly to clear and brighten the complexion. This soap is generally recommended both on account of its cleansing properties and its innocuous effects upon the skin. Concretion means an unusual aggregation of any of the secretions within the body, such as the gall and urinary bladders, kidneys, joints, and also in the intestines, the latter arising from taking some substance in exce ive quantities into the stomach. In many instances hair in large balls has been found in the stomach, also pieces of thread. Magnesia, when partaken of too freely, is liable to accumulate within the intestinal canal. Concu ion is the effect of a severe blow upon the head or spine. In concu ion of the brain the consequences are alarming at first, but usually they are of a transient nature and soon pa off. The immediate effects of concu ion are insensibility, frequently followed by vomiting. The treatment of such cases consists in endeavouring to remove the shock which Is the immediate cause of the attack. This is best done by the administration of stimulants, such as ammonia, brandy, or whisky, and the application of ammonia to the nostrils and cold to the head and face immediately following these, the application of mustard and hot water to the feet and over:he stomach. Congestion means an overloaded condition of the blood-ve els in any one part. This may lead to effusion of the liauid portion of the blood into the ti ues immediately surrounding the seat of disease. In the popular mind it is usually synonymous with inflammation, and is marked by a sensation of heat, pain, and swelling of the part—e.g. congestion of the throat, of the lungs, or the kidneys are all due to inflammatory action in these organs. The proper treatment in such circumstances' is to endeavour to counteract the morbid proce by means of poultices, blisters, or sometimes even cold applications, and, at the same time reduce the temperature of the body by suitable antipyretics. Conjunctiva, is the membrane which covers the eyeballs and eyelids. It is of a white pearly colour, and over the cornea and iris is a perfectly transparent membrane. It is liable to inflammation, which is termed conjunctivitis. This may arise either from direct contagion or exposure to cold. Until a medical man is called in great relief may be obtained by bathing the eyeball with a strong infusion of tea to which a few drops of laudanum have been added, while one or two grains of quinine may be given every three hours. The introduction of a drop or two of a five per cent, solution of cocaine gives immediate relief to pain, and frequently cures the disease. Constipation, or Costivene , is one of the most frequent predisposing causes of diseases. This can bo readily understood when it is pointed out that if the faecal matter is permitted to remain for a lengthened period within the colon, or lower bowel, absorption of the fluid constituents of the faeces rapidly takes place, and has the effect of contaminating the blood and producing a form of blood poisoning. In consequence of this, the functions of the body at large become more or le prostrated, while, at the same time, the quality of the blood becomes deteriorated. The consequences of constipation are very varied—c.g. it renders the individual more susceptible to infectious disease secondly, it interferes with digestion thirdly, it interrupts the excreting power of different; organs, such as the liver and kidneys and lastly, it has a most pernicious effect upon the; nervous apparatus, causing depre ion of spirits, irritability of temper, disturbed and unrefreshing sleep, and an undue sensibility to cold. Consumption is a disease which is due to the development within the ti ues of the tubercle bacillus. It is probably the greatest scourge that ever visited mankind, and is responsible for more suffering and deaths than almost any other disease; in fact, its ravages produce about one-fifth of the death rate of the adult population, and in children it is equally fatal. It is considered a hereditary disease, so far as the. facts and deductions at our command seem to indicate. At the same time it must be looked upon as a specific disease, and due, in its e ence, to the presence of a particular micro-organism which has the power of attacking and invading ti ues such as the lungs, glands, and bones, in which it develops its virulence. Consumption is usually the term applied to pulmonary disease where tubercle is the power at work. It is manifested by a cough accompanied by copious expectoration, which comes away chiefly in the morning. Unlike the usual expectoration of bronchitis or catarrh, which, as a rule, is frothy, the expectoration of tubercular disease is characterized by its purulent nature, which may sometimes be streaked with blood, or even accompanied by spitting of blood. Technically, the expectoration is termed nummular, in consequence of its resembling somewhat in shape and form a coin. Its consistence is denser than that of any other form of expectoration. Another is—wasting symptom of consumptive or tubercular disease of the body, tne emaciation proceeding in some instances to an extreme degree. It is frequently accompanied by profuse perspiration, especially at night. The extremities of the fingers become clubbed, the face pallid with a hectic flush on each cheek, and in many instances there is profuse diarrhoea, and if the mucous membrane of the larynx is also attacked there is hoarsene , in some cases proceeding to actual lo of voice. Consumption, to be curable, must be detected in its very earliest stages, when a change to a dry, bracing, and cold climate, such as is found in some parts of the Engadine, will have a most beneficial effect a long sea voyage is also a popular remedy which has; proved of great service; conjoined with these a good nourishing diet must be prescribed. Cod liver oil, syrup of hypophosphites, muriate of calcium, creasote, and other remedies of a like nature have proved most efficacious in enabling the constitution to overcome the disease and expel it from the system. As is well known, Koch has recommended the subcutaneous injection of a substance which he calls tuberculin, while others have advised the employment of a compound of cantharidin with some mineral salt others, again, have recommended the subcutaneous injection; of chloride of zinc but all these local applications can in reality have little; effect upon the disease, which is e entially a constitutional affection. The grand point in treating consumption is to strengthen the organism attacked, so that each individual cell composing that organism will be rendered capable of exerting its powers to the full, and so resist the multiplication of the entities which constitute the real e ence of the PEARS’ CYCLOPAEDIA. disease, and thus prevent them petting a footing and a hold upon the individual. Muriate of calcium would appear to have the most powerful c fleet in accomplishing this end, and it seems to me beyond doubt to be the great remedy which in future we will depend upon in the treatment of this disease which has hitherto proved to be a most fatal affection. Of course no treatment of a disorder of this nature can of itself cure or arrest Medical treatment must therefore be accomit. A panied by strict attention to the laws of health. pood and nourishing diet must be partaken of, whilst the body should be well and comfortably clothed, flannel in every instance being worn next the skin. The apartment which the patient sleeps in should be airy and well ventilated. It is a curious circumstance connected with this disease, that patients suffering from it never seem to realize its danger, but invariably are buoyed up by most optimistic views. It should always be borne in mind that consumption is to a considerable extent an infectious disorder, and therefore it is desirable that those who are in a healthy condition should avoid occupying the same bed, or even the same apartment, with a patient suffering front this affection. Contagion means literally the contracting of disease by touch. The term is applied, however, to all infection contracted either by breathing the air exhaled from a patient, or by drinking out of the same ve els, or using the same clothing as that which has been utilized by patients suffering from infectious disorders. This power of propagating disease is due to the fact, that the organisms which are the disease-producing entities are transferred from one individual to another, and it is then called epidemic disease. Endemic, on the other hand, is applied to those diseases which come and are spread independently of infection — e.g. influenza, which appears to come in a wave and attacks whole communities without any evidence to indicate that it is spread by infection or contagion. There are certain forms of contagion which, if antiseptic precautions are not thoroughly and efficiently employed, may linger about a piece of furniture or clothing, or a bedroom, for months after the disease has apparently disappeared, thus showing the great nece ity of employing disinfectants, not only to the individual, but to all his surroundings, immediately that convalescence has been established. The most virulent form of diseases, such as scarlet fever and small-pox, have been known to develop months after all fear of infection had been apparently removed. No precaution, when the disinfecting proce is being carried out, should be overlooked, and the most minute details with regard to this sanitary measure should be rigidly enforced. are—carbolic The best antiseptics to employ in the circumstances acid, chlorine, sulphur, eucalyptus, etc., and one or other of these ought to be freely employed, not only when the house is being disinfected, but during the progre of the disease. A good plan is to have a sheet over the doorway of the apartment where the infected patient is lying, and to keep this freely sprinkled with a saturated solution of carbolic acid in water. By this means the air that pa es out of that apartment will be disinfected before it gains acce to the other parts of the house. The ventilation of the room should also be made certain by keeping a fire constantly burning. Contusion is applied to injuries arising from bruises, and is generally followed very rapidly by swelling of the part which has suffered from the blow. This swelling arises partly from rupture of the minute ve els which permit the exudation of blood into the ti ues of the parts, and by the effusion of lymph which also takes place. The treatment which is most useful in these circumstances is, to apply cold to the part, in the form of cloths w-rung out of cold water, as rapidly as po ible after the injury has been inflicted, thereby keeping in check the effusion of blood, and thus permitting the ruptured ve els to become closed by the formation of clots within their orifices. Convalescence is that period which intervenes between the ce ation of disease and restoration to health. It commences at the point where the disease proce has completely ceased to act, and is as a rule characterized by a feeling at its commencement of great prostration, which very slowly or rapidly, as the case may be, gives place to the re-establishment of health and strength. In convalescence it is of the utmost importance to endeavour to restore the vital energies by the judicious yet frequent administration of suitable nourishment and stimulants, where the latter are thought to be advisable. A change of air in these circumstances is frequently of considerable service, but the grand point is to insist on the patient taking food, and that of the most nutritious ana eagly digested character, at frequent intervals, which should be continued even during the night, that is if die patient is not asleep. It must be observed, however, that sleep is one of the best restorers, or is the best restorer, that a convalescent can command, therefore this should never be disturbed on any pretext. Sometimes it will be found that, where there is rest les me and wakefulne during the night, if an egg flip or a cup of strong nutritious soup be taken, sleep will speedily ensue, and that of a most refreshing natare. In convalescence from acute disease which has nece arily prostrated he vital energies to a considerable extent, it will be found that taking food frequently a id liberally will aid very much in shortening the period of restoration to health. The management of convalescence is sometimes even more important than the treatment of diseases, for these as a rule run a certain course, and if the vitality of the patient be well maintained, will do so without causing much anxiety yet, in some diseases, such as scarlet fever, measles, small-; pox, pneumonia, influenza, etc., so many complications may arise in the course of convalescence that the greatest care must be exercised, and the most extreme vigilance employed to counteract the tendency to inflammatory affections which so frequently prevail during this period. The excretions must be rigidly watched for example, the bowels should be acted upon at; least once a day, and the condition of the urine carefully observed. If constipation exists, it acts in a most pernicious manner, while an unhealthy condition of the kidneys may proceed to disease which may eventually prove fatal. During convalescence the bedroom should be well ventilated, the clothing be sufficient, and the diet and cooking most carefully attended to. Convulsions are those distre ing symptoms characterized by unconsciousne and Involuntary movements of the muscles of the body at large. They are always of an alarming nature, and give rise to great anxiety to those interested in the patient. They are characterized by twitching of the muscles of the face, contortions of the body, lividity of countenance, foaming at the mouth, and frequently biting of the tongue. They may arise from some reflex irritation, such as teething, constipation, or worms. On the other hand, they frequently are due to some organic mischief within the brain itself, such as epilepsy or congestion of the lining membrane of the brain, of ve els within the brain substance, or rupture of ve els within the cranium. An attack may come on without.the least warning, but, as a rule, there are generally premonitory symptoms. If in children (and they are probably more liable to this nervous disorder than older people), the convulsion will generally be preceded by moaning in the sleep, grinding of the teeth, starting in a fright, irritability of temper, squinting or rolling of the eyeballs in sleep, a startled look about the face, and a constipated condition of the bowels. In an adult they are sometimes preceded by restle ne at night, noises in the ears, giddine , depre ion of spirits, irritability of temper, confusion of the mind, and want of power of concentrating the thoughts, lo of memory, and headache. The digestive organs are very frequently involved, and vomiting without any obvious cause is also a frequent concomitant. There may be hiccough,' cramp of the limbs, and as a rule there is present a peculiar sensation which is called the " Aura,” which will be immediately followed by the attack. Convulsions are rarely fatal when due to a cause outside the nervous apparatus, that is to say, when they are not due to some organic disease within the brain or spinal cord. Convulsions of children should be treated by immediately emptying the bowels, either by medicine or by an enema a mustard poultice should then be applied to the nape; of the neck and to the calves of the legs. If the convulsion persists, the administration of chloroform should be immediately resorted to, when the spasm will be found to pa away as the patient conies under the influence of the anaesthetic. Ten grains of bromide of pota ium combined with an equal quantity of chloral di olved in water will generally prove very efficacious in keeping the attacks in abeyance. In some instances it may be nece ary to lance the gums. After the-attack has been succe fully combated, its recurrence should be guarded against by strict attention to diet and to the daily evacuation of the bowels. The warmth of the body should also be thoroughly maintained by judicious clothing. In every instance, however, where a convulsion occurs no time should be lost in having recourse to medical advice, as the treatment of such cases requires the best proto fe ional skill that can po ibly be obtained. source Cookery for invalids is of the greatest importance. majority Unle this is properly conducted the stomach of the effects patient will be sorely tried. Nothing aids recovery so the much as judicious cooking e.g. in dyspepsia food —Chlorodyne, tion should not be stewed or boiled, as by this proce the digestive salts are abstracted from the meat and the of food thereby rendered more difficult of digestion. ounces—a Roasted and grilled food, well, but not overcooked, or should be given in such cases. In convalescence from the fevers and other acute diseases the cooking is of no le importance, as the patient’s a petite is, during that irritant period, often very fickle and very difficult to please. nervous Milk puddings properly made should always enter deeper into the dietary of invalids, while articles containing a membrane large amount of gelatiue should invariably be avoided. then It is quite needle in a work of this kind to enter into will details with regard to the cooking enumerated—these of the various tation articles of diet that might be can the always be obtained in a book devoted to the subject— blisters, but at the same time it may be suggested that soups sidered contain little nourishment, whereas milk puddings with employ. the addition of eggs are highly nutritious, and animal require foods are much preferable in their cooked condition hours, than broth and soup made from them, which are err on irritant eously supposed to contain the nutritive properties. to Corn is an excrescence generally situated upon twenty-four one or other of the toe joints. It is a hypertrophied cautery condition of the cuticle or epidermis of the part, and is sarily as a rule due to friction or pre ure arising from two wearing tight boots. This, however, is not always the deeper cause, the tendency to corns being generally he red i haps tary. They therefore do not disappear when the tions apparent cause is removed, but may persist in spite of larity this. Sometimes what are called soft corns appear doubt between the toes, and these as a rule are due to an tions exce ive secretion of the skin, causing irritation. adopted. They are generally productive of considerable uneasine and pain. When corns are situated in this particular locality, they generally contain underneath the the hardened surface of the skin an accumulation of time fluid resembling in some respects the contents of an which absce . The treatment which gives the most speedy branes. relief consists in removing the indurated surface, accompanied and afterwards applying a solution of salicylic acid in insensibility, collodion along with the extract of Cannabis Indica, be the latter soothing the pain which the former is apt to application give rise to. The salicylic acid has a destructive cold eflfect upon the cuticle, and in proce of time is quite be effective.in eradicating the affection. Chromic acid poultices has also a powerful destructive effect upon this The thickened condition of the epidermis. The applicaquiet tion of caustic at frequent intervals has also been food advocated in these circumstances, but nothing seems to have the curative effect that salicylic acid combined all with collodion exerts. It, Cornea, is the transparent portion of the eyeball therefore through which light is transmitted to the retina. of Corrosive Sublimate. Of late years this has vaccinia, come much more into use, on account of its antiseptic vidual properties, than formerly. It is, however, given interdoubtedly nally in certain diseases where the action of mercury type, is cfesired. Its chemical name is bi-chloride of merthe cury. Its administration requires great caution, and the should never be employed except under medical supervision. insect of dirty people, and which gives rise to intolerable itching and sometimes to sores in the parts. It is easily destroyed by the application of mercurial ointment or carbolic oil, while afterwards the parts must be kept clean by means of carbolic soap and water. Cramp is a spasmodic affection of one or other of the muscular ti ues. It may affect the voluntary muscles, such as those of the leg or thigh, also the involuntary muscles, such as those of the intestines or stomach. When cramp occurs, the part affected contracts to such an extent as to produce a hard lump at the point of seizure. When it occurs in the bowels it is generally due to some indigestible food in the stomach, or which has escaped from the stomach into When the intestines. it occurs in the limbs it is generally due to some reflex irritation conveyed from the stomach or bowels. It is a symptom of British and Asiatic cholera. It is also frequently due to disea.se of the heart or the large blood-ve els of the chest. Exposure to prolonged cold frequently produces cramp, and this is particularly noticeable in the cramp which seizes those who have been too long immersed in cold water, and is in many instances the cause of death to bathers. The best remedy when cramp occurs is to use friction very energetically to the part affected. Bromide of pota ium given internally is also a useful remedy, not only in relieving the spasm, but preventing its occurrence. When the bowels are affected by this painful disorder, opiates, in one form or another, are exceedingly useful. In every instance, where a person is liable to cramp, particular attention should be invariably paid to the free evacuation of the bowels. Cranium, or Skull, is the bony cavity containing the Cream brain. of Tartar, or Bi-tartrate of Potash, is a popular remedy employed in conjunction with sulphur as a laxative. It also po e es useful diuretic properties when given in solution with water and lemon juice. Creasote is a substance very much resembling carbolic acid in its properties and odour. It is obtained from the destructive distillation of wood, and po e es powerful antiseptic properties. It is employed both externally and internally as a medicine. Externally, it is frequently added to ointments, both on account of its antiseptic properties and its sedative effect upon the skin. Internally, it is applied to decayed teeth for the relief of toothache. It frequently enters also into the composition of inhalations, a few drops being added to a jug of boiling water and inhaled for the reiief of bronchial affections and also in common catarrh of the head. In the form of pill (one grain mixed with a little bread crumb), it has a sedative effect on the stomach, and thus is useful in vomiting. Creasote is not unfrequently employed in the curing of certain kinds of fish, they being dipped into a weak solution and then hung up to dry. Creatine is a crystallizable substance which exists in the flesh of all animals. Crisis is the term applied to a sudden change which takes place in the course of disease either for the better or worse. The crisis is generally a ociated with some well-marked symptom, such as copious perspiration, eruption on the skin, or some deposit in When the urine. the crisis for the better is established it is followed by refreshing sleep, but on the other hand, if death is impending, the crisis is denoted by sudden lo of the vital powers. Croton Oil is obtained from the seeds of the small plant called croton-tiglium, which is a native of India and Ceylon. The oil should be of a very pale amber colour and nearly as thick as castor oil. It is a very acrid oil, and as a purgative it is very rapid in its effects, a single drop being sufficient to produce copious evacuation of the bowels. Externally it is applied in the form of liniment, the oil being diluted for this purpose with cajuput, or some other bland oil. It has proved to be a most useful liniment in bronchitis. Its application is followed by a copious papillary eruption. Great care should be taken by those who apply the liniment that they do not bring it in contact with the face, as it will thereby produce which tend to produce lo of voice and difficulty of of breathing, such as cynanche cleric or uni, or clergyman's Eustachian sore throat. (See CATARRH.) effect Cyst is a membraneous bap containing fluid or when other morbid substances which may be either semi obstruction fluid or solid. Cysts frequently form just underneath removed the skin and especially under the scalp. Those found with on the head are usually of hereditary origin and con throat tain a substance very much resembling porridge in of appearance. These are called atheromatous cysts, ated, and are easily removable. The cysts which attain the local largest size are those of the ovary, but these are also the removable with wonderful freedom from danger. would Cystitis, or Inflammation of the Bladder, may be to due to exposure to cold, admi ion of air by faulty fore application of the catheter, direct injury, as in the the case of instrumental interference in cases of labour, the presence o£ stone, or the introduction of poisonous powers matter from without. The symptoms are, great pain forming and frequent desire to make water, which, in consenaturally quent of the irritability of the organ, comes away in is small quantities, or positive retention of urine may instances take place accompanied by a strong desire to void it. the Chronic cystitis, or catarrh of the bladder, is a serious comes malady, and frequently continues for a very long the eriod. When the disease is acute the urine should this e diluted by the patient partaking of fluids in large to quantities, hot sitz-baths, and medicine containing an arises alkali combined with an anodyne, such as the foldyspepsia lowing:—Bi-carbonate of potash six drachms, tincture meal, of henbane ounces—a six drachms, the infusion of uva ursi to often make eight tablespoonful of which may be and taken three times a day. If the disease is chronic and relieve the urine loaded with pus, boracic acid in ten-grain counteracting doses repeated three times a day is a most useful to remedy, while the bladder should be washed out with of a solution of the same acid night and morning. also Dandelion, or Leon to don Taraxacum, is a plant a healthy well known in almost every country in Europe. It is a a medicinal agent of considerable value, especially in consequence. affections of the liver and kidneys. It is usually pre congenital, scribed as an extract of the root, which may be taken deficiency either in a semi-solid form or as a liquid. Sometimes being the root is made into a kind of coffee and is taken to remedies breakfast instead of ordinary coffee or tea. The dose Muriate of the liquid extract of taraxacum is from one to two a most teaspoonfuls three times a day. removing DandrifT is an affection of the cuticle wherein The the complete development of the outer layer is inter cines fered with, and is therefore cast off in scales. It is disease, positively a disease of the epidermis, and is closely and allied to that form of skin disease which is termed symptom Pityriasis. Hard brushes and small tooth combs only should not be employed in this affection, but it is per desirable that the scalp be washed two or three times and a week with a solution of borax, and afterwards a such pomade containing the red oxide of mercury applied. ing This application will have a curative effect upon the to diseased condition of the cuticle and eventually cure great the disease. Half an ounce of the red oxide of mersymptom cury may be added to two and a half ounces of ord i- Decline nary pomade, and this will prove of considerable tuberculosis. service in this affection. It frequently occurs in condition infants, but as a rule it will speedily disappear if soap deposit is not used in cleansing the scalp, but instead, a solu- Decomposition tion of borax to which a little spirits of camphor has place been added, and the oxide of mercury pomade may composed afterwards be applied with considerable advantage. and Deadly Nightshade, or Belladonna, is largely proce employed in medicine. In large doses, however, it is the a powerful poison, and should only be taken under the medical supervision. It has a powerfully tonic effect various upon the involuntary muscular fibres, and is therefore be employed to a considerable extent in ophthalmic sequence practice, and it is also given in constipation and inc on these tinence of urine. Deformity Deafne may be either partial or complete. If normal it is congenital, the individual is also a mute, from the but fact that he has never been able to hear sound, and form therefore is unable to learn how to employ his vocal anatomical cords. The causes of deafne may be temporary or either permanent. It may also be due to an affection of the of congenital brain, or only to the mechanism of the ear itself. although Temporary deafne is frequently the result of catarrh Impre ions the external car, of the internal ear, or of the tube. Some drugs also have a curious upon the auditory apparatus, such as quinine given in too large doses. If deafne is due to in the external ear, this may readily be by the judicious employment of the syringe, warm water. If, however, congestion of the or Eustachian tube exists, by which the calibre the tube is reduced, or even temporarily obliterthen of course it becomes nece ary to treat the affection and remove the thickened condition of mucous membrane which obtains. In any case it be injudicious for the patient himself to attempt cure his own deafne his proper plan would there be to consult a competent; medical authority on subject. Debility, or Weakne , is that failing of the vital of an individual which prevents him from perhis usual duties or enjoying pleasure as might be expected if he were in health. Debility invariably a concomitant of illne , and in many persists for a longer or shorter period after illne has entirely disappeared it therefore be nece ary in all illne es to endeavour; to sustain vital powers, not only with a view to counteract debility, but at the same time to enable the patient throw off the disease. The feeling of debility often from indigestion and constipation. If due to alone it is always more pronounced after a but if due to constipation it gives rise to what is erroneously designated as a bilious condition, in these circumstances a free purge will often the distre ing symptoms. The great point in this state of the health is to endeavour live regularly, both in the matter of diet and taking sufficient exercise. The cold morning bath will be found of great service in bracing up the system, condition of the skin being thus ensured and tonic influence imparted to the body generally in Debility in childhood is very frequently but it is astonishing how this congenital may be remedied by judicious measures adopted, both in the way of nourishment and by which ensure the proper a imilation of food. of calcium given after meals has proved itself potent remedy in promoting a imilation and thus, a great cause of debility in early childhood. syrup of hypophosphites are also most useful mediin this condition. When debility depends upon then of course the cause must be attacked removed before it is po ible to get quit of this for, of course, in the£e circumstances, it can be cla ed; as a symptom and not as a disorder se. Debility naturally is a consequence of old age general decay of the. vital powers, yet even in circumstances, by a isting digestion and attend carefully to the bowels together with endeavouring sustain the external heat by judicious clothing, a deal may be accomplished in alleviating the and in prolonging life. is synonymous with consumption or Decline of the bowels is that diseased of the peritoneal cavity which is due to the of tubercle. (See CONSUMPTION.) is that change which takes in dead bodies which results in their being deinto their elementary atoms. Fermentation putrefaction are two forms of decomposition. The of decomposition in organic matter is due to development of micro-organisms, which feed upon substance undergoing change and liberate the elements of which it is composed. This can averted by agents which we call antiseptics, in con of their power of destroying the vitality of minute bodies. is any and every deviation from the proportions and symmetry of the human frame, it is most usually applied to those irregularities of which consist in local deviations from the correct condition of the parts. These may be congenital or acquired after birth. The causes deformities are not properly understood, they are frequently attributed to mental made upon the mother during gestation*