The Heart, in some of the diseases accompanied by an elevation of temperature, is more or less strained; this is particularly true in tonsillitis, diphtheria, etc.
The Kidneys are likewise taxed in certain diseases, even when the fever is not great or lasting; this is found to be the case in scarlet fever, tonsillitis, etc.
Dietetic Treatment consists in giving no food for a period lasting from twenty-four to forty-eight hours. This is followed by a liquid diet, milk and broth particularly, which is continued as long as the fever remains.
Convalescent Diet is instituted as soon as the fever has disappeared and acute symptoms subside.
Thirst is apt to be great with any elevation of temperature. It is relieved by water, crushed ice, and fruit beverages.
The Mouth requires much care, even in fevers of short duration. A simple antiseptic wash should be used several times each day.
Nitrogen Equilibrium is not sufficiently disturbed in such cases to require taking into account. Should the disease, however, develop into one causing a material breaking down of the body tissues, measures must be instituted to prevent the upsetting of the nitrogen balance in the body.
PROBLEMS
(a) Outline the dietetic treatment for malarial fever.
(b) Outline a diet order, using liquids only. Show method of reinforcing this diet.