DISEASES OF THE RESPIRATOHV ORGANS. 133 



tlie breathing is interfered with by the inordinate action of this 

 important muscle of inspiration so nnich that i)roper aeration of 

 the bU)od can not take phue. The treatment should be as pre- 

 scribed for congestion of the hings, and. in addition, antispasmodics, 

 such as 1 ounce of sulphuric ether in \varm water or 3 drams of 

 asafetiila. 



RUPTURE OF THE DIAPHRAGM. 



Post-mortem examinations after colic or severe accident sometimes 

 reveal rupture of the diaphragm. This may take place after death, 

 from the generation of gases in the decomposing carcass, wliich 

 distend the intestines so that the diaphragm is ru]itured by the 

 great pres.sure against it. The symptoms are intensely dillicult res- 

 piration and great depression. There is no treatment. . 



