96 . Cufatlve Influence of the 



On the subject of sea air in consumption we have the fol- 

 lowing observations, — 



" But although the genial properties of a sea atmosphere to 

 constitutions generally, is, I believe, fully acknowledged ; it has 

 been lately doubted, by certain physicians, if it be as well adapted 

 for consumptive habits ; and this being an inquiry of so much im- 

 portance in reference to a residence on the coast, in these cases, de- 

 mands further notice. 



" That a sea atmosphere is less conducive to the production of 

 consumption, than any other, may, I think, be inferred, from many 

 of those kingdoms which are most exposed to it, being the least 

 subject to the disease, as is particularly the case with Denmark. 

 In the islands of the Mediterranean also, as in Malta, Minorca, and 

 all those of the Grecian Archipelago, we are told, by Dr. Southey, 

 and other authors, that consumption is of very rare occurrence. 



" On the Alexandrian coast, it appears to be altogether unknown; 

 while at Aleppo, which has an intermediate latitude, but which is 

 situated at a greater elevation, and is more distant from the sea, it 

 is said, by several writers on the disease, to be very prevalent. It is 

 also a well known fact, and particularly mentioned by Dr. Trotter, 

 in his Medicina Nmitica, that consumption very rarely occurs in 

 seamen, except under peculiarly unfavourable circumstances. 



" That this disease is, nevertheless, too often met with on our 

 own coasts, is equally certain, though it is there less prevalent than 

 elsewhere ; and it usually arises under the combined influence of 

 crowded towns, a bleak and exposed aspect, and great humidity of 

 soil, or under exposure to cold winds from neighbouring mountains ; 

 it is said also to be very common in the interior of the island of 

 Iceland, but much less frequent on its coast. 



*' The advantage of a sea atmosphere, in those cases where this 

 complaint already exists, is best inferred from general experience ; 

 and the most satisfactory proof of its adaptation, may be deduced 

 from the numerous ages in which its benefits have been sought. 



" Aretaeus, who lived almost 460 years before the Christian era, is, 

 I believe, the first who recommended sailing and a sea atmosphere 

 in consumption : and although so many centuries have rolled away 

 since his time, and so many publications concerning this disease 

 have appeared, we find very few individuals who dissent from his 

 generally received opinion. 



" Dr. Duncan observes, that he has not seen, in his practice, any 

 thing which tends to confirm the idea that sea air is injurious in 

 consumption, and he recommends a residence on the coast ; and, 

 among many others, Dr. Gilchrist has published cases in which the 

 greatest benefit has resulted from the effects of sea air." 



In speaking of winter cough, Dr. H. remarks, 



** From the whole character of the disease, therefore, it is suffi- 

 ciently evident that the only effectual and reasonable mode of avoid- 



