Neuralgia of the stomach often occurs in anemic conditions associated with constipation. In these cases a good, nutritious, but easily digested diet and better elimination will often cure, but as the changes in the blood and nerves are slow, one must be patient and persistent.
There is no better nerve tonic than pure air, exercise, cheerful thoughts, and rest.
Sweets, fried food, rich sauces, pastry, and highly seasoned food should be avoided.
When neuralgia of the stomach, due to an underlying condition such as rheumatism, gout, or diabetes occurs, the diet appropriate to the condition will often affect the cure of the neuralgia.
Chorea
The diet is of the greatest importance in this difficulty, as it is usually accompanied by anemia. Rest and a very nourishing and easily digested diet are essential. Sometimes a complete rest in bed and a milk diet, or a diet composed largely of milk, is the best means of treatment.
If possible the patient should be isolated and in the care of a trained nurse who is naturally cheerful and bright.
Children are especially liable to this malady. They are usually anemic and care should be exercised that they be not overworked in school and that they retire early and get from ten to twelve hours’ sleep.
Their eyes must be kept from strain and the nervous system not allowed to become tense from too much excitement, as teasing by playmates or the family, etc.
They should be given the diet for Anemia on page 249.