240 Physiology. 



authorities are agreed that a large proportion of cases of 

 insanity are produced by alcohol. But even when taken 

 in much smaller quantities than will excite the above dis- 

 eases, alcohol is still potent to impair the intellectual 

 and moral faculties. Perception is blurred, the intellect 

 clouded, sensation dulled, the disposition perverted, will 

 power enfeebled, and the moral sense blunted." Medical 

 Pioneer. 



Alcohol and Sunstroke. It is a well-known fact that 

 drinkers are much more subject to sunstroke, also called 

 heat-stroke, than those who do not use alcohol. Even 

 very moderate drinkers are unable to bear the heat of 

 summer, and especially the trying climate of the tropics, 

 as well as abstainers. 



Alcohol and Self-control. When under the influence 

 of alcohol the higher functions of the brain are checked. 

 Hence the lower instincts gain the upper hand. The 

 man has become a brute, and may give way to his brut- 

 ish instincts, so that he is a terror in a community. No 

 one can foresee what he will do. He may remain quiet 

 and peaceable, or he may become quarrelsome, bestial, or 

 murderous. 



Delirium Tremens. This terrible disease is usually seen 

 in those who have long used alcohol immoderately, but may 

 occur in persons who have always regarded themselves as 

 moderate drinkers, and have seldom or never been intoxi- 

 cated. The nervous system has been almost shattered as 

 a result of the continued effect of alcohol. The word " de- 

 lirium " indicates the loss of mental control, while the word 

 " tremens " signifies the trembling, which is often fearful to 

 behold. This disease takes various forms, sometimes being 



