“Our first object is to quiet the pain by a full dose of laudanum.
“When this is attained, we may proceed to remove the cause, and to arrest any intestinal irregularity. Dr. Burns recommends aloetic purgatives, but these may not in many cases be suitable. If there be piles, as is very often the case with pregnant females, they will rather prove injurious than beneficial. I have found Gregory’s powder, electuary of sulphur and senna, or castor-oil, to answer the purpose better.
“During the intervals of the attack, tonics (of which oxide of bismuth or preparations of iron are recommended) or stomachics may be exhibited. A belladonna or opium plaster, or a blister over the stomach, is often very useful.
“Should the attack be very severe, bleeding, or leeches to the epigastrium, may be advisable; this will be especially the case should there be any symptoms of congestion about the head, and more for the purpose of preventing an attack of convulsions, than even for the relief of the gastric affection.”
Assuredly you will say that drug-treatment affords a variety of resources, notwithstanding it is so little to be depended upon.
I need hardly hint to you how much better, safer, and more effectual the water processes are than all the drugs of the materia medica to cure a case of cramp in the stomach.
If it is a bad case—acute, as we say—at once drink warm water enough to cause speedy vomiting.
The tepid clysters, used to the extent of gallons, that is, by repetition, if need be, is also a serviceable remedy.
We also use wet compresses, frictions, and the hip-bath, if necessary; but as a general fact, as soon as we cleanse the stomach and bowels thoroughly, the cramping ceases.
Afterward, as in all cases of stomach ailment, and all other ailments, great care should be observed in regard to the food.