As a rule, the general health of people suffering from simple constipation is not seriously affected.
In cases of chronic constipation one of the anti-constipation products, otherwise known as the Aloin Co., given three times a day and gradually reduced, will be found useful.
In most acute diseases, such as malaria, pneumonia, etc., if constipation is present, it should be treated at once by means of suitable aperients.
Note.—In peritonitis, i.e., inflammation of the bowels, hernia, and in some cases of typhoid, constipation is a leading symptom, and is accompanied by severe pain in the belly. On no account should an aperient be given by the mouth in these cases. If it is necessary to clear the bowels, this should be done by means of an enema.
Coryza, or Cold in the Head.
When a cold is confined to the head it can usually be cut short by retiring to bed early, taking a ten-grain dose of Dover’s powder, followed by hot drinks to encourage the perspiration which the action of this drug produces, together with the use of as many additional bed-clothes as can be borne. Care must be taken to avoid chill on the following morning. Once it is established the condition is difficult to cure, but marked relief will often be afforded by washing out the nose with a solution made from naso-pharyngeal products. In fact, a simple nasal glass douche should form part of the traveller’s outfit, at least, if he is liable to bad colds in the head. In tropical regions five grains of quinine should be added to the dose of Dover’s powder. When there is a liability to colds in the head the use of preventive vaccines is recommended, but these should not be employed without the advice of a medical man.
Cystitis, or Inflammation of the Bladder.
Causes.—Injury or the result of operations, extension of inflammations such as gonorrhœa, retention and decomposition of urine; debilitated or gouty persons are especially liable to this affection.
Symptoms.—Intense pain in the lower part of the belly, and in the crutch, continual desire to pass water, with frequent passage of small quantities. The urine is scanty, high-coloured, foul-smelling, and occasionally blood-stained, and there may be some fever.