656 
F. H. P. EDWARDS. 
without considerable antipyretic effect, and is unattended by 
any risk, although from prevalent ideas it seems hazardous in 
the minds of most people. 
The axiom that patients with fever do not take cold is one 
which it is extremely desirable should become popularized. 
Popular apprehension on this score often stands in the way 
of proper ventilation in cases of disease. During the stage 
of red hepatization an entire change in treatment becomes 
necessary ; this stage is indicated by a weak and rapid pulse, 
congestion of liver and jaundice, diarrhoea, increased temper¬ 
ature, profuse sweatings, albuminaria, and in severe cases 
threatening symptoms of a failing circulation. 
Now, circulatory depressants are strongly contra-indicated. 
The treatment of this stage has reference to the promotion of 
resolution, palliation of symptoms and supporting the powers 
of the system. Blisters, in my opinion, are not advisable on 
account of the general disturbance which they are apt to oc¬ 
casion, and their interference with physical examinations of 
the chest. If pain and soreness continue in this stage, I have 
had best success with a stimulating liniment, such as spirits 
camphor, followed up by dry heat, such as stove lids, placed 
in a sack and fastened on by a surcingle; they will often give 
immediate relief and will retain heat for a considerable time, 
the main objection being their weight. In this stage also, an 
occasional hypnotic is of great benefit, as the poor animal has 
persistently stood up for probably four or five days or more 
and has never known sleep. Opium, in my hands, has proved 
the most sure hypnotic. I have frequently been agreeably 
surprised on visiting my patient next morning to observe a 
noticeable diminution of the frequency of the pulse and of the 
respirations, and a condition of comfort, following full doses 
of opium. The objection to the use of opium is its action on 
the secretion of the bowels, as in this stage we quite often 
have spontaneous diarrhoea. The objection is justly over¬ 
come by the great benefit to the patient in other respects. A 
high temperature in this, as in the first stage, call for anti¬ 
pyretic treatment. 
To support the powers of life is the leading general indi- 
