Piles.
Sulphur (344) internally, and Gall Ointment (148), or astringent enemas, as Decoction of Babúl Bark (9), or Galls (148), suffice in ordinary cases. In old debilitated subjects Confection of Pepper (300) proves very useful. When inflamed and painful, the Hip Bath, or sitting over the steam of hot water (392), and the application of a solution of Borax (56) and soft Rice Poultices (322), with or without the addition of Opium (293), give great relief. The Acetate of Lead Solution advised for Inflammations (see Index) is peculiarly serviceable in these cases. It may be used cold or warm, as is most agreeable to the patient's feelings. To control bleeding from, use Alum (25), or enemas of Sulphate of Iron (179). When bleeding from piles in residents in hot climates has been long continued, it is unadvisable, so long as it remains within moderate bounds, to take any means of arresting it suddenly; the suppression of the discharge having in some instances been known to be followed by congestion and even abscess in the liver, and in others by congestive headaches and determination of blood to the head. It seems to be an effort of nature to relieve the abdominal circulation, which it is unwise to interfere with, unless the discharge be so profuse as to debilitate the patient, and then the object should be rather to moderate than to arrest it altogether. Persons subject to Piles will do well to avoid the use of coffee, as this often appears to aggravate the severity of the symptoms. Cleanliness in these cases is of the greatest importance: the parts should be well washed with soap and water after each motion, and if the piles are internal and protrude during evacuations, they should be washed before they are returned.
Pregnancy.
For Pains in the Loins use Camphor (68) or Camphorated Opium Liniment (291). To allay the Vomiting try Infusion of Cloves (105), Mustard Poultice (251). A cup of hot coffee and a piece of dried toast should be taken in bed very early in the morning, after which the woman should remain quiet until the usual hour for rising; by this means the vomiting may often be prevented. When procurable, a glass or two of Sparkling Moselle is often productive of the best effects, allaying the vomiting, and enabling the patient to retain and digest food.
Prickly Heat.
May in a great measure be relieved by Solution of Borax (57) or Sulphate of Copper (115), and subsequently dusting the surface with Rice Flour (322) or finely powdered Sandal Wood (333).
Pyrosis.
See Water Brash.
Rectum, Stricture and Painful Affections of.
Castor Oil (83), Fish Liver Oil (139).