BRIGHT’S DISEASE.
(Acute Nephritis; Inflammation of the Kidneys.)
Due to the action of cold or toxic agents upon the kidneys.
Causes.—Cold, poisons of specific fevers, toxic agents, pregnancy, blows and injuries of the back, lesions of the skin as in burns or in chronic skin diseases.
Symptoms.—Fever, pain in the back over the kidneys, nausea, vomiting, frequent desire to urinate, puffiness of the face, swelling of the ankles, extreme pallor of the skin, shortness of the breath, with the general appearance of complete exhaustion. The urine is very scanty and highly colored.
Treatment.—Rest in bed until all symptoms disappear. To promote activity of the skin and kidneys, alcohol or steam sweats should be given daily. To eliminate and purge the bowels give saline cathartics; and alkaline mineral waters may be used freely.
Diet.—Buttermilk, gruels made of barley or arrowroot, or oatmeal water; animal broths and oysters; substitute cream-of-tartar lemonade or plain lemonade for tea or coffee. Pure milk should be taken freely.