SCARLET FEVER. Synonyms.—Scarlatina; Scarlet Rash. Definition ...

strength. If the tongue and mouth become dry and brown, give
hydrochloric acid ten to twenty drops, simple syrup, and water, of each
two ounces; a teaspoonful every one, two, or three hours.
To keep the throat as clear as possible use a gargle of potassium chlorate
and hydrastine or salicylic acid and borax; of the latter each ten grains,
to water four ounces, or a spray of three per cent solution of pyrozone.
In malignant cases, threatened with heart-failure, Dr. Webster speaks
highly of lachesis. Where the nose is obstructed by the exudate, and a
sanious discharge is excoriating the lip, the nasal toilet is especially
beneficial. Unfortunately these cases are found mostly in children, and
it is impossible to spray or cleanse the nose.
Where the larynx is involved, the use of inhalations will give the best
results. With the first croupal symptom place a quart of boiling water in
a vessel, and add a cup of cider-vinegar and a handful of hops; place
this over a burner near the bed, and, by means of a tube, convey the
steam directly to the child's face, so that the inhalation may be constant.
This will soften and loosen the membrane. Now give nitrate of
sanguinary 2x or 3x every hour, and the membrane will be
expectorated in small particles or in long shreds. Inhalations of steam
from boiling water is highly recommended. A cold pack to the throat
may give some relief when the patient is suffering pain.
Serum Therapy.—The last few years have found many advocating the
use of antitoxin. Statistics, both pro and con, have been offered to prove
both its usefulness and also its danger. That harm has followed its use,
none will deny; yet many able men claim good results for the serum
treatment. Personally, I have not been successful in its use, and believe
that the treatment above outlined will give by far the best results.
The diet should be fluid in character, milk being preferable. The child
should be carefully watched during the convalescence for signs of heartfailure,
and with the first evidence, put the child to bed and give cactus,
digitalis, or kindred remedies.
INFLUENZA.
Synonyms.—Epidemic Catarrhal Fever; La Grippe.
Definition.—An acute infectious disease, the contagiousness of which
The Eclectic Practice of Medicine - PART I - Infectious Diseases - Page 163