IRITIS. 185 
this affection, however, if the lids are covered for a moment and then suddenly 
exposed in strong light, the pupil does not move, whereas in the normal eye it 
contracts. In the early stage of inflammation the iris appears blurred and less 
distinct than usual; its color is very different from that of the unaffected eye, 
and there is a slight dimness of the cornea. The pupil is small, and its inner 
edges are irregular; while in the next stage, which follows the first quite 
speedily, the iris assumes a rusty appearance, and a film closes over it. 
A full recovery from this affection takes place in a small proportion of 
cases; but in the majority, vision is sooner or later seriously impaired or wholly 
destroyed. 
As soon as a diagnosis is made, a brisk cathartic should be given, and until 
local improvement is noted, the patient should have a liquid diet. 
A solution of the sulphate of atropia in water, two grains to the ounce, ought 
to be used locally; for it lessens the pain, contracts the blood-vessels, relaxes 
the ciliary muscles of the eye, and dilates the pupil; which latter if not dilated 
would be permanently contracted and fixed by adhesions. 
A drop or two of this atropia solution should be dropped on the eyeball, 
while the lids are being held apart, two or three times daily. 
If the patient resists the use of the remedy, it will be sufficient and more 
convenient to drop the solution into the inner corner of his eye, — near his nose, 
—and open the lids gently afterward. A shaded but well-aired room should 
be provided for all suffering from iritis. 
