270 



several hours then rub it well with camphorated spirits. 

 If the accident has happened to a joint, as in the ankle, 

 and it remains weak, pour cold water on it from the spout 

 of a tea-kettle, held at a distance, several times in the day. 



OF CONTUSIONS. 



If slight, bathe the part frequently with cold vinegar and 

 water for a few hours, and then rub it well with brandy, or 

 spirits of any kind. Should it be very great, or so as to 

 have affected the whole body, which may be known by 

 a general soreness, bleed and purge the patient, and con- 

 fine him to a diet of rice-water, lemonade, panada, etc. 

 If fever comes on, repeat the bleeding, purging, etc. In 

 all cases of this nature, be sure the water is regularly 

 evacuated, for it sometimes happens that in consequence 

 of the nerves of the bladder being palsied by the blow, the 

 patient feels no desire to pass it, though the bladder be 

 full. If a suppression ensues, pass a catheter, if possible, 

 or procure assistance for that purpose. The most serious 

 effects, however, resulting from contusion, are when the 

 blow is applied to the head, producing either concussion 

 or compression of the brain. 



CONCUSSION OF THE BRAIN. 



SYMPTOMS The patient is stunned ; his breathing slow ; 

 drowsiness; stupidity ; the pupil of the eye rather contract- 

 ed ; vomiting. After a time he recovers. 



TREATMENT. Apply cloths dipped in cold vinegar and 

 water to his head, and when the stupor is gone bleed 

 him, and open his bowels with epsom salts. He should be 

 confined to the bed, kept on a low diet, in a quiet situation, 

 and every measure taken to prevent an inflammation ot 

 the brain ; which, if it comes on, must be treated by co- 

 pious bleeding, blisters, etc. 



