DIABETES, RHEUMATISM. 63 



DIABETES (POLYURIA), 



Is a complex morbid condition, originating in or closely 

 connected with certain disturbances in the process of as- 

 similation, evidenced by excessive secretion of urine, great 

 and persistent thirst, rapid emaciation and loss of energy, 

 and in one form (the serious) characterized by the pres- 

 ence of saccharine (sugar) material in the urine. (Rob- 

 ertson.) Musty oats or hay, badly saved fodder, malted 

 barley, impure water, &c, are predisposing causes. A 

 horse has been known to drink 38 gallons of water in 5 

 hours. (Percivall.) 



Remedy. — Half dose of physic. Iodine with potassium 

 iodide. With iodine alternate or conjoin iron salts. Chalk 

 or whiting in manger for acidity. Phosj^horic acid and 

 bitters lessen thirst. Change food. Moderate supply of 

 water, with which mix sodium bicarbonate and wheaten 

 flour or oatmeal. (For doses, see pages 13 to 29.) 



RHEUMATISM 



Is an inflammation of the fibrous structures of the joints, 

 tendons, ligaments, sheaths of muscles, or of the heart 

 and closed cavities, caused by a specific condition of the 

 blood, and accompanied by fever, stiffness, and lameness. 

 It is shifting or erratic in its character. (Williams) It 

 is believed to depend on the accumulation in the body of 

 some product of nutritive derangement, probably lactic 

 (milk) acid. (Dun.) Cold, dampness, predisposition, the 

 debility caused by other diseases, and heredity are its chief 

 causes perhaps. 



Remedy. — Alkalies, potassium bicarbonate and nitrate 

 in drinking water. Ammonium acetate and colchicum. 

 Hot fomentations or flannels wrung out of hot water or 

 oil to affected parts. Then moisten with aconite, opium, 

 or other anodynes. When acute symptoms abate, quinine, 

 arsenic, Donovan's solution internally. Quiet, comforta- 



