IG8

OF THE OPHTHALMIA,

with the lancet, leeches may be applied to the temples. Thesenot only draw off the blood more gradually, but, by beingapplied nearer to the part affected, generally give more immediaterelief.

A discharge of blood from the hemorrhoidal veins is likewise ofgreat service, and ought by all means to be promoted. If the pa-tient has been subject to the bleeding piles, and that dischargehas been stopped, every method must be tried to restore it; asthe application of leeches to the parts, setting over the steams ofwarm-water, sharp clysters, or suppositories made of honey, abes,and rock-salt.

If the inflammation of the brain be occasioned by the stop-page of evacuation either natural or artificial, as the menses,issues, setons, or such like, all means must be used to restore themas soon as possible, or to substitute others in their stead.

The patient's body must be kept open by stimulating clystersor smart purges ; and small quantities of nitre ought frequentlyto be mixed with his drink. Two or three drachms, or more,if the case be dangerous, may be used in the space of twenty-fourhours.

The head shoul'd be shaved and frequently rubbed with vinegarand rose-water. Cloths dipped in this mixture may likewise beapplied to the temples. Cold water may be poured upon it; oreven ice applied. The feet ought frequently to be bathed in luke-warm water, and soft poultices of bread and milk may be kept constantly applied to them.

If the disease proves obstinate, and does not yield to thesemedicines, it will be necessary to apply a blistering-plaster to thewhole head.

Smart purges, as calomel in doses of live to eight grains, andopiates, are also sometimes necessary in this disease

CHAP. XXVII.

OF THE OPHTHALMIA, OR INFLAMMATION 01

THE EYES.

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THIS disease may be occasioned by external injuries ; as blows,burns, bruises, and the like. It may likewise proceed from d usi,quick-lime, or other substances, getting into the eyes. It isoften caused by the stoppage of customary evacuations; as thehealing of old sores, drying up of issues, the suppressing of gentlemorning sweats, or of the sweating of the feet, &c. Long expo-sure to the night air, especially in cold northerly winds, or what-ever suddenly checks the perspiration, especially after the bod y hasbeen much heated, is very apt to cause an inflammation of the eyes.Viewing snow or other white bodies for a long time, or lookingsteadfastly at the sun, a clear fire, or any bright object, will like