DISEASES OF THE EESPIEATOEY OKGAKS. 133 



the breathing is interfered with by the inordinate action of this 

 important muscle of inspiration so much that proper aeration of 

 the blood can not take place. The treatment should be as pre- 

 scribed for congestion of the lungs, and, in addition, antispasmodics, 

 such as 1 ounce ' of sulphuric ether in warm water or 3 drams of 

 asafetida. 



RUPTURE OF THE DIAPHRAGM. 



Post-mortem examinations after colic or severe accident sometimes 

 reveal rupture of the diaphragm. This may take place after, death, 

 from the generation of gases in the decomposing carcass, which 

 distend the intestines so that the diaphragm is ruptured by the 

 great pressure against it. The symptoms are intensely difficult res- 

 piration and great depression. There is no treatment. 



