Case IV. Hysteria, with Sleeplessness—Six Years’ Illness—Operation—Cure.
H. R., æt. 55, single; admitted into the London Surgical Home Nov. 18, 1861.
History.—For six years has suffered from a feeling of fulness, weight, and heat at the lower part of abdomen, with pain in the back, and “bearing down.” At this time her menses had just ceased. Has not slept well for three or four years. Wakes every hour. Is always restless and fidgety. Frequent desire to micturate, with pain on doing so, and often desire without power to void it. Bowels costive; digestion indifferent.
She is a nervous, restless woman, with glistening and constantly wandering eye—pupils dilated. Has suffered from peripheral irritation for many years.
Nov. 21, 1861. Usual operation performed. A week later, slept well for four hours, the first time for many years.
Dec. 1. Has lost the irritability of the bladder, and passes water every four hours only; lost also the bearing-down pain; restless excitement gone.
Dec. 7. Eats and sleeps well; is cheerful and grateful; leaves the Home cured, having been in only three weeks.
In 1863 was perfectly well.