Case XX. Spinal Irritation, giving rise to Menorrhagia and Amaurosis—Operation—Cure.
A single lady, æt. 35, came under my care in 1863. Had been out of health for some years, suffering from continuous menorrhagia, seldom being free more than ten days or a fortnight in the month. Was thin and spare in appearance; often complaining of headache, especially over the brow and orbits; and, in fact, nearly a confirmed invalid. Latterly she had become almost blind from amaurosis; she could only read the largest type, and not at all by candle-light. Had come to London from the country, and placed herself under the care of one of the most eminent ophthalmic surgeons, who had treated her for three months without the slightest benefit. When I saw her I immediately discovered that long-continued peripheral excitement had caused all her disorders. Quickly after the operation, menstruation became regular; in ten days she was able to read in bed; in a month she was quite well. I frequently hear of her now, as in robust health.
Remarks.—Beyond a grain of opium after the operation, this patient never had any medicine. I have had other cases exactly similar, with like result.