184 PRACTICE OF PHYSIC. 



ing so far as the antiphlogistic regimen is generally proper. 

 Some physicians, indeed, have recommended bleeding; and 

 there may occur cases in which bleeding may be useful ; but, for 

 the most part, it is unnecessary, and in many cases it might be 

 very hurtful. 



Purging has also been recommended : and, in some degree, 

 it may be useful in drawing off the bile, or other putrescent 

 matters frequently present in the intestines ; but a large evacu- 

 ation this way may certainly be hurtful. 



DCLXXXVIII. The moderating the violence of reaction, 

 so far as it can be done by taking off the spasm of the extreme 

 vessels (CLI.), is a measure of the utmost necessity in the cure 

 of the plague ; and the whole of the means (CLII. to CC.) 

 suited to this indication are extremely proper. 



DCLXXXIX. The giving an emetic at the very first ap- 

 proach of the disease, would probably be of great service ; and 

 it is likely, that at some other periods of the disease emetics 

 might be useful, both by evacuating bile abundant in the ali- 

 mentary canal, and by taking off the spasm of the extreme 

 vessels. 



DCXC. From some principles with respect to fever in gen- 

 eral, and with respect to the plague in particular, I am of 

 opinion, that, after the exhibition of the first vomit, the body 

 should be disposed to sweat ; which ought to be raised to a 

 moderate degree only, but continued for at least twenty-four 

 hours, or longer, if the patient bear it easily. 



DCXC I. The sweating should be excited and conducted 

 agreeably to the rules laid down inCLXVIII. It is to be 

 promoted by the plentiful use of diluents, rendered more grate- 

 ful by vegetable acids, or more powerful by being impregnated 

 with some portion of neutral salts. 



DCXCII. To support the patient under the continuance of 

 the sweat, a little weak broth, acidulated with juice of lemons, 

 may be given frequently ; and sometimes a little wine, if the 

 heat of the body be not considerable. 



DCXCIII. If sudorific medicines are judged to be neces- 

 sary, opiates are the most effectual and safe : but they should 

 not be combined with aromatics ; and probably may be more 

 effectual, if joined with a portion of emetics, and of neutral salts. 



