Papers on health / by Professor Kirk.

  • Kirk, John, 1813-1886.
Date:
1912
Catalogue details

Licence: In copyright

Credit: Papers on health / by Professor Kirk. Source: Wellcome Collection.

    30/392 (page 26)
    If so, do not apply leeches, but aljow the black blood to be absorbed by natural process. A twisted or bruised wrist or hand is to be treated in the same way. The swelling may also be removed by gentle rubbing upzvards along the limb, so as to help the blood in its course. Appetite should be an indication that food in general or some certain kind of food is needed by the body. Thus the appetite is the natural test of the amount and kind of food required. Over-eating and indulgence in stimulating foods and drinks, insufficient mastication and bolting of the food {see Over-eating, etc.) give us a false appetite, thus causing over-eating once more. A return to a simple and moderate diet will restore the natural appetite. Armpit Swelling.—Often this comes as the result of a chill, or of enfeeblement of the system from various causes. In the early stage, such a swelling should not be treated so as to develop a sore. Treatment with iodine is to be avoided. The first thing, in this early stage, is to increase vital action in the part, and also in^the whole system {see Abscess). Moist heat is to be applied. Make a bran POULTICE {see), which should come right round from over the spine, over the swelling, and over the whole shoulder. Let this be kept hot for an hour at least. If it can be thus applied twice a day without too much fatigue, do so. If the swelling softens and becomes less under this treat- ment, a few cold cloths may be applied to brace the part and aid its vitality. Do not, on any account, make the patient shiver. If the swelling increases and becomes dis- coloured, keep to the hot treatment until it bursts and discharges. For treatment then, Abscess ; Wounds. During all this treatment the whole back should be gently rubbed daily with warm olive oil for half an hour, if as much can be borne.