THE CIRCULATION 171 



contrary, it is set moving, with, this abnormal activity, with 

 each renewal of the dose. This form of exertion is not exer- 

 cise, it is overwork ; it is not strengthening, it is exhausting. 

 Very few persons who habitually use alcoholic stimulants are 

 aware of the enormous strain that is imposed upon the heart, 

 although to those who studiously consider the matter the 

 wonder is that this organ is not more rapidly worn out than it 

 is. If it were not for the fact that the heart is made of the 

 strongest muscular tissue in the body, it would of necessity 

 fail from overstrain long before it does. 



51. The condition of the heart, mentioned in the last section, 

 is known to physicians as " fatty heart," and in part explains 

 why it is that drunkards are so little able to withstand the 

 attack of those diseases which are attended by fever. It is a 

 well-known fact that they are among the first to succumb to 

 cholera and other epidemic diseases. Sunstroke is another 

 disorder peculiarly frequent in that class of persons; and to 

 indicate that fact some physicians apply the term " drink- 

 stroke " to that disease. 



52. Action of Tobacco on the Heart. Tobacco both quickens 

 and enfeebles the heart. In some of those who habitually use 

 it, it gives rise to a throbbing or heaving sensation in the 

 region of the heart, an exaggerated kind of palpitation; at 

 times, this is so tumultuous that the patient fears lest his last 

 hour has come. In other cases, there is a weak and irregular 

 heart-beat, caused by tobacco poisoning. This is not so alarm- 

 ing to the patient as the condition just mentioned, but is no 

 less dangerous and much less easily cured. It is apt to injure 

 a man's capacity for business affairs, being repressive of health- 

 ful energy and exertion. 



51. Can they withstand fever? 



52. What two noticeable effects from tobacco ? 



