SECT. VII. PHYSIOLOGY. 63 
lysis, proceed often from the presence of worms 
in the alimentary canal, is familiar to every one, 
all which morbid symptoms can be occasioned 
only ‘by the influence which one part of the 
nervous system has upon another. Upon like 
principles, a general spasm of the muscular system 
from a trifling hurt, is easily conceivable, and quite 
agreeable to the analogies of sympathy. — 
cextiv. Tetanus, whether arising from local 
injuries or exposure to cold, may be termed a local 
disease; for till towards its termination, the func- 
tions of the brain and pectoral viscera are unim- 
paired, and even digestion and secretion are little 
deranged. So soon as the muscles of inspiration 
participate in the rapid death: is necessarily near 
at hand. 
extv. Although the vital force be reduced in 
all spasmodic diseases, there are modifications’ of 
its reducement in them, as there are varieties of 
its excitement in febrile disorders; but in what 
these differences consist, it is pomelty« in vain to 
seek after. 
exivi. The pain of tetanic spasm is excessive, 
and arises apparently from the pressure of the 
muscles upon the nerves which run through them. 
In the course of life, almost every body has cramp 
of the gastrocnemii muscles, which is attended 
with excruciating pain; but the instant that the 
