HEMORRHOIDS.
Hemorrhoids, or Piles, may be brought on by whatever irritates the folds of the rectum or back passage; as sudden cold, frequent attempts at stool with dry bowels; frequent and severe physicking, or the passage of fecal matter rendered acrid by the indulgence in highly-seasoned food, alcoholic drinks, or late suppers.
Cure.—Abstinence from heating food or medicines, bathing the lower portion of the spine with warm water, applying simple goose oil, or the simplest ointment, whether the sores extend to the opening or not. The patient should take, as a cooling potion, a teaspoonful of Epsom salts in warm water, two or three times a week. Nothing reduces the blood in the parts more speedily; and there is not the least danger, as is erroneously supposed by many, of taking cold by its use. There is a thousand times more danger in numerous other drugs and potions given under the cover of a great name, to cure the piles.
It is an error to suppose that certain remedies are only serviceable at certain times and in certain places, at certain times of the year. Every means possible should be put forth to reduce the piles before submitting to an operation; a thing that is seldom needed, but nevertheless is frequently done.