The Nervous System 235 



disease la grippe began its dreaded career, and include 

 phenacetin, antipyrine, antifebrine, and many other similar 

 preparations. 



The popular use of the narcotic drug known as cocaine 

 is beset with danger. The cocaine habit is easily formed, 

 but difficult to relieve. 



These drugs, taken freely and carelessly for all sorts 

 and conditions of mental and physical ailments, are power- 

 ful depressants. . They lower the action of the heart and 

 the tone of the nervous centers. 



362. Effect of Tobacco on the Nervous System. The 

 profound effect of tobacco upon the nervous system is shown 

 by the distressing prostration and pallor, the dizziness and 

 faintness, with nausea and vomiting, which follow its use 

 by the beginner. 



The morbid effect of tobacco upon the nervous system of 

 those who habitually use it is often shown in the irregular 

 and enfeebled action of the heart, with dizziness and mus- 

 cular tremor. The character of the pulse may show plainly 

 the unsteady heart action caused by the partial paralysis 

 of the nerves controlling this organ. 



The nervous breakdown of many men in mature life is 

 often due to the continued use of this depressing agent. 

 This is shown more especially in men of sedentary habits. 



363. Effects of Tobacco on the Mental Abilities of Young 

 Men. The mind of the habitual user of tobacco may lose 

 its capacity for study or successful effort. This is especially 

 true of the young. The growth and development of the 

 brain having been once retarded, the youthful user of tobacco 

 has established a permanent drawback which may hamper 

 him all his life. The keenness of his mental perception 

 may be dulled and his ability to seize and hold an abstract 

 thought may be impaired. 



