Steep two ounces of Isinglass or Prepared Gelatine, one ounce of Gum Arabic, five ounces of Sugar Candy, and a grated Nutmeg in a bottle of Port wine all night. In the morning, simmer over a slow fire till quite dissolved; then strain and set aside in a cool place till it forms a firm jelly. A piece the size of a nutmeg may be taken five or six times a day. This jelly is admirably suited for cases of debility when the stomach is unable to bear animal food.
PART II.
SYNOPSIS OR INDEX OF DISEASES.
The numbers have reference to the paragraphs; the asterisk (*) denotes those most deserving of attention.
Abdomen, Flatulent Distension of.
See Flatulence.
Abortion.
Use Vinegar externally and internally (379); if great restlessness or pain is present, give Opium (289); if the hæmorrhage continue unabated, apparently from want of power in the uterus to contract, try Borax and Cinnamon (58), or administer a Turpentine enema (364). In cases where there is much hæmorrhage, which does not abate under the above means, the Acetate of Lead and Opium Pills advised for Hæmorrhage, Internal, may be given with signal advantage. With these exceptions, let nature complete her work by herself; more harm than good may result from meddlesome interference. Perfect rest of mind and body, a strictly recumbent posture in a cool, well-ventilated apartment, and careful avoidance of all stimulant articles of diet and mental excitement, are essentials to successful treatment. Threatened Abortion from a fall, over-exertion, &c., may sometimes be averted by a dose of Opium (289), and strict attention to the above hygienic rules. See also Hæmorrhage, Internal.
Abscess.
In the early stage apply Hot Water Fomentations (393); if there be much inflammation and pain, apply Leeches (212), and keep constantly to the part a solution of Sal Ammoniac (325), or Evaporating Lotion (380). If matter forms, apply Rice Poultices (322); when it comes so near the surface that it can be felt fluctuating under the finger the abscess should be opened with a lancet at the most prominent point; and after the matter has been evacuated by gentle pressure, the Rice Poultices should be continued, and changed twice or thrice daily. Should the pain be so great as to prevent sleep, a dose of Opium (283) or Tincture of Datura (128) at bedtime is advisable. Should the discharge be profuse and the patient weak, support the strength with a liberal diet and tonics, as Chiretta (98, 99), or Country Sarsaparilla (163), or Ním Bark (260). N.B.—Abscesses in the neck should be opened only by a doctor, or by one who is conversant with the anatomy of the part.