POISONINGS 205 



dyspnea results from swelling in the pharynx as a result 

 of burns from the action of the acid, and may be so seri- 

 ous as to make tracheotomy necessary. 

 The burns in the mouth are : 

 Black from sulphuric acid; 

 Tan or yellow from nitric acid; 

 White from hydrochloric acid. 

 Treatment of poisoning with these acids is by the use 

 of alkalies, such as magnesium sulphate, sodium bicar- 

 bonate and emulsions of soap. Water must not be given. 

 If called early enough, use the stomach tube. Stimu- 

 lants are to be given hypodermically to overcome 

 depression. 



Gelsemium Poisoning 



In sections where gelsemium is used by the laity in 

 the treatment of colics it is a common occurrence to be 

 called to cases of poisoning with this drug. 



Symptoms. The horse appears as if asleep in a stand- 

 ing position. If made to move he may fall. The pulse is 

 very small and weak, occasionally skipping a beat. The 

 pupils are dilated; the lower lip hangs loosely pendent. 

 Eespiration is labored. 



Treatment. Give large doses of aromatic spirits of 

 ammonia or whisky. Strychnin may be given hypoder- 

 mically in small doses. Use friction and slapping; 

 blanket warmly. When the horse becomes somewhat 

 aroused give gradually increasing walking exercises. 



Acute Lead Poisoning 



Acute lead poisoning occurs in horses now and then 

 as a result of the accidental or vicious ingestion of paints. 

 Because of the gravity of the symptoms produced and oc- 

 casional fatal consequences the condition deserves men- 

 tion in a work of this kind. 



