1/8 grain of morph. sulph. was administered hypodermically to alleviate as much as possible the abdominal suffering.
The impending exhaustion and the failing heart's action I endeavored to combat with a free administration of alcoholic stimulants in combination with moderate doses of tincture of digitalis both by the mouth and under the skin.
In order to invite the circulation of the blood to the ice-cold surface of the body, heated bricks and bottles filled with hot water were placed in bed around the patients.
Diagnosis
Analyzing each symptom as it arose, and carefully observing the effects of the poison on the system, I formed the opinion that the toxic element contained in the noxious fungus eaten by these people was narcotic in its nature and spent its force on the nerve centres, especially selecting the one governing the function of respiration and the action of the heart.
Acting upon this conclusion, I began, in the early part of my treatment, subcutaneous injections of sulphate of atropine in frequently-repeated doses, ranging from 1/180 to 1/90 grain. The injections invariably were followed by a perceptible improvement in the patient; the heart's action became stronger, the pulse returned at the wrist, and the respiration increased in depth and fulness.
Through the agency of this remedy, supported by the other measures adopted, three (or sixty per cent.) of the patients recovered.
The lessons I draw from this experience are:
1. The poisoning produced by this variety of toadstool is slow in manifesting its effects.
2. That it destroys life by a process of asthenia.