CASE LVII.
November 16th. Mrs. F——, Æt. 53. In August last was suddenly seized with epileptic fits, which continued to recur at uncertain intervals. Her belly had long been larger than natural, but without any perceptible fluctuation. Her legs and thighs swelled very considerably the beginning of this month, and now there was evidently water in the abdomen. The medicines hitherto in vain directed against the epileptic attacks, were now suspended, and two grains of the Pulv. fol. Digital. directed to be taken every six hours. The effects were most favourable, and the dropsical symptoms were soon removed by copious urinary discharges.
The attacks of epilepsy ceased soon afterwards. In February, 1781, there was some return of the swellings, which were soon removed, and she now enjoys very good health. Does not the narrative of this case throw light upon the nature of the epilepsy which sometimes attacks women, soon after the cessation of the menstrual flux?
1781.
CASE LVIII.
January 1st. Mrs. G——, of H——, Æt. 62. Ascites and very large hard legs. After trying various medicines, under the direction of a very able physician, I ordered her to take one grain of Pulv. Digital. every six hours, but it produced no effect. Other Medicines were then tried to as little purpose. About the end of February, I directed an infusion of the Fol. Digital. but with no better success. Other methods were thought of, but none proved efficacious, and she died a few weeks afterwards.