In consequence of repeated attacks of acute catarrh, or "cold in the head," as it is usually termed, the mucous membranes of the nose and the air-passages of the head become permanently thickened, the mucous follicles or glands diseased, and their functions either destroyed or very much deranged. Although chronic catarrh is most commonly brought on in the manner above stated, it sometimes makes its appearance as a sequel of typhoid fever, scarlet fever, measles, or other eruptive fevers, or shows itself as a local manifestation of scrofulous or syphilitic taints in the system.
Injury to the nose may result in a displacement of one or more of the bony structures, setting up a chronic inflammation with catarrh at that point. In the early stages of the disease, the patient may be annoyed with "only a slight dropping into the throat," as many express it, the amount of the discharges from the air-passages of the head at this stage of the disease being only slightly in excess of health. In some cases the discharge is thick, ropy, and tough, requiring frequent and strong efforts in the way of blowing and spitting, to remove it from the throat, in which it frequently lodges. In other cases, or in other stages of the same case, the discharge is thin, watery, acrid, irritating, and profuse. The nose may be "stopped up" from the swollen and thickened condition of the lining mucous membrane, so as to necessitate respiration through the mouth, giving to the voice a disagreeable nasal twang. From the nature of the obstruction in this condition, it is useless for the sufferer to endeavor to clear the passage by blowing the nose; this only tends to render a bad matter worse, by increasing the irritation and swelling of the already thickened lining membrane. The swelling of the mucous membrane does not in all cases become so great as to cause obstruction to respiration throughthe affected passages. In some cases, the patient suffers from head ache a great portion of the time, or experiences a dull, heavy, disagreeable fullness or pressure in the head, with a confusion of his ideas, which renders him quite unfit for business, especially such as requires deep thought and mental labor. Memory may be more or less affected, and the disposition of those who are otherwise amiable is often rendered irritable or morose and despondent. The mental faculties suffer to such an extent in some cases as to result in insanity. The sense of smell is in many cases impaired, and sometimes entirely lost, and the senses of taste and hearing are not unfrequently more or less affected.
Ozæna. The ulcerous or more aggravated stage of the disease, from the offensive odor that frequently attends it, is denominatedOzæna.
The secretion which is thrown out in the more advanced stages of chronic catarrh becomes so acrid, unhealthy, and poisonous, that it produces severe irritation and inflammation, which are followed by excoriation and ulceration of the delicate membrane which lines the air-passages in the head. Although commencing in this membrane, the ulceration is not confined to it, but gradually extends in depth, until it frequently involves all the component structures of the nose—cartilage and bone, as well as fibrous tissues. As the ulceration extends up among the small bones, the discharge generally becomes profuse and often excessively fetid, requires the frequent use of the handkerchief, and renders the poor sufferer disagreeable to both himself and those with whom he associates. Thick, tough, brownish incrustations, or hardened lumps, are many times formed in the head, by the evaporation of the watery portion of the discharge. These lumps are sometimes so large and tough that it is with great difficulty that they can be removed. They are usually discharged every second, fourth, or fifth day, but only to be succeeded by another crop. Portions of cartilage and bone, or even entire bones, often die, slough away, and are discharged, either in large flakes, or blackened, half-decayed, and crumbly pieces; or, as is much more commonly the case, in the form of numerous minute particles, that escape with the discharge and are unobserved. It is painfully unpleasant to witness the ravages of this terrible disease, and observe the extent to which it sometimes progresses. Holes are eaten through the roof of the mouth, and great cavities excavated into the solid bones of the face; in such cases only the best and most through treatment will check the progress and fatal termination of the disease.
Catarrh, or Ozæna, is liable to be complicated, not only by the system, blood, and fluids, suffering from scrofulous or other taints, as has already been pointed out, but also by an extension of the diseased conditions to other parts beyond the air-passages of the head.
Occasionally deformities of the septum or other internal structuresalso polypi or tumors, are sources of constant irritation and accelerate catarrhal disease.
Disease of the Throat. The acrid, irritating and poisonous discharge, which, in some stages of disease, almost constantly runs down over the delicate lining membrane of thepharynx(throat), is liable to produce in this sensitive membrane a diseased condition similar to that existing in the air-passages of the head. The throat may feel dry, husky, and at times slightly sore or raw; or, from the muco-purulent discharge that is almost constantly dropping down over its surface, the patient may feel very little inconvenience from the disease of the throat until it is far advanced—the moistening and lubricating effect of the matter that drops on the surface tending to blunt the sensibility of the parts. (See pharyngitis for symptoms and treatment.)
The Extension of the Disease to the Larynx. The larynx, situated directly below the pharynx (throat), is subjected to the influence of the same irritation from acrid and poisonous discharges dropping into the throat from the head. More or less of it is removed by hawking and spitting, but some remains and is drawn into the larynx, or still lower into the trachea (windpipe), with the inspired air. Thus the disease creeps along the continuous mucous surfaces of the air-passages, the acrid poisonous discharge arousing in its track the irritation, inflammation, ulceration, and thickening of the lining membrane which characterize the disease in other portions of the air-passages. The symptoms and treatment of laryngitis will be found under its appropriate classification.
Bronchitis and Consumption. We have already detailed the manner in which the throat, larynx, and trachea, in succession, become affected from catarrh, or Ozæna. By the same process of extension, the bronchial tubes, and lastly, theparenchyma, or substance of the lungs, in their turn, become diseased, and bronchitis and consumption are firmly established. Tightness in the chest, with difficulty of breathing; soreness; darting, sharp, or dull, heavy pain, or a prickly, distressing sensation, accompanied with more or less cough and expectoration—are evidences that the bronchial tubes have become affected, and they should admonish the suffererthat he is now standing on the stepping-stone toCONSUMPTION, over which thousands annually tread, in their slow journey to the grave.
Illustration: Fig. 8. Internal and external ear.Fig. 8. Internal and external ear.1, External ear.2, Internal auditory meatus.3, Tympanum.4, Labyrinth.5, Eustachian tube.
Deafness. By means of a small canal, called theeustachian tube, an air-passage and communication between the throat and middle ear is formed. (See Fig. 8.) This passage is lined by a continuation of the mucous membrane which covers the throat and nasal passages. The catarrhal inflammatory process, by continuity of surface, follows the mucous membrane, thickening its structure, until the eustachian tube is closed, and the beautiful mechanism of the internal ear is rendered useless. While the thickening of the mucous membrane is going on, and the passage is gradually becoming closed (andthe process sometimes extends through several years), the patient will occasionally, while blowing the nose, experience a crackling in one or both ears, and hearing becomes dull, but returns suddenly, accompanied with a snapping sound. This may be repeated many times, until, finally, hearing does not return, but remains permanently injured. In other cases the hearing is lost so gradually that a considerable degree of deafness may exist before the person is really aware of the fact. Either condition is often accompanied with noises in the head of every conceivable description, increasing the distress of the sufferer. The delicate bones of the ear are sometimes detached from their articulations, the drum is ulcerated and perforated, and through the orifice thus made, the bones or smallspiculæmay escape with the thick, purulent, and offensive discharge.
Closure of the Tear Duct. The lachrymal duct, or passage (tear duct), which, when in a healthy condition, serves to convey the tears from the eye into the nose, may be closed by the same inflammatory and thickening process which we have already explained. This condition is usually attended with watery and weak eyes, the tears escaping over the cheeks, and sometimes producing irritation and excoriation. The nasal branch of the ophthalmic nerve sometimes participates in the ulceration going on in the head, so that the eyes are sympathetically affected. They sometimes become congested or inflamed, and sharp pain in the eyeballs may be experienced.
Indigestion, Dyspepsia, Etc. A large portion of the acrid, poisonous, purulent discharge, which drops into the throat during sleep, is swallowed. This disturbs the functions of the stomach, causing weakness of that organ, and producing indigestion, dyspepsia, nausea, and loss of appetite. Many sufferers complain of a very distressing "gnawing sensation" in the stomach, or an "all gone," or "faint feelings," as they often express it.
Symptoms. Dull, heavy headaches through the temples and abovethe eyes; indisposition to exercise; difficulty of thinking or reasoning, or concentrating the mind upon any subject; lassitude; indifference respecting business, lack of ambition or energy; obstruction of nasal passages; discharges voluntarily falling into the throat, sometimes profuse, watery, acrid, thick and tenacious, mucous, purulent, muco-purulent, bloody, concrete blood and pus, putrid, offensive, etc. In others, a dryness of the nasal passages: dry, watery, weak, or inflamed eyes; ringing in the ears, deafness, discharge from the ears, hawking and coughing to clear the throat, ulcerations, death and decay of bones, expectoration of putrid matter,spiculæof bones, scabs from ulcers leaving surface raw, constant desire to clear the nose and throat, voice altered, nasal twang, offensive breath, impairment or total deprivation of the sense of smell and taste, dizziness, mental depression, loss of appetite, nausea, indigestion, dyspepsia, enlarged tonsils, raw throat, tickling cough, difficulty in speaking plainly, general debility, idiocy, and insanity.
All the above symptoms, as well as some others which have been previously given, and which it is not necessary here to repeat, are common to this disease in some of its stages or complications; yet thousands of cases annually terminate in consumption or chronic bronchitis, and end in the grave, without ever having manifested one-half of the symptoms enumerated.
Varieties. People often suppose that there are a great many varieties or species of catarrh. This is an error. The nature of the disease is the same in all cases, the symptoms only varying with the different stages of the disorder, and the various complicated conditions which are liable to arise, and which have already been pointed out.
Causes. Anything which debilitates the system, or diminishes its powers of evolving animal heat and withstanding cold or sudden changes of atmospheric temperature, and other disease-producing agencies, renders the individual thus enfeebled very liable to catarrh. Among the most common debilitating agencies are a scrofulous condition of the system, or other impurities of the blood, exhaustive fevers, and other prostrating acute diseases, or those badly treated; exhaustive and unnatural discharges, intemperance, excessive study, self-abuse, adversity, grief, want of sleep, syphilitic taints of the system, which may have been contracted unknowingly, or may have been inherited, having perhaps been handed down even unto the third or fourth generation, to an innocent posterity from infected progenitors; too sudden rest after great and fatiguing exercise, and living in poorly-ventilated apartments. These are among the most fruitful causes of those feeble, deranged, or impure conditions of the system to which catarrh so frequently owes its origin. Although the immediate or exciting cause is generally repeated attacks of "cold in the head," which, being neglected or improperly treated; "go on from bad to worse," yet the predisposing or real cause of the disease is in the majority of cases,an enfeebled, impure, or otherwise faulty condition of the system, which invites the disease, and needs only the irritation produced in the nasal passages by an attack of cold, to kindle the flame and establish the loathsome malady. Some people are convinced with difficulty that there exists in their system a weakness, impurity, or derangement of any kind, which permitted the disease to fasten itself upon them. They may not feel any great weakness, may not have any pimples, blotches, eruptions, swellings, or ulcers, upon their whole person; in fact, nothing about them that would, except to the skilled eye of the practical and experienced physician, indicate that their system is weakened or deranged with bad humors; and yet such a fault may, andgenerally does, exist. As an ulcer upon the leg, or a "fever-sore," or an eruption upon the skin, may be the only outward sign of a fault in the system, so frequently chronic catarrh is the only sign by which a bad condition of the system manifests itself in a manner that is perceptible to the sufferer himself, or to the non-professional observer. The finely-skilled physician, whose constant practice makes his perceptive faculties perfect in this direction, would detect the constitutional fault, as an experienced banker detects a finely-executed and dangerous bank-note which the unpracticed eye would pronounce genuine.
Illustration: Fig. 9. Examination of the Nasal Passages by means of the Rhinoscope and Head Mirror.Fig. 9. Examination of the Nasal Passages by means of the Rhinoscope and Head Mirror.
Treatment. If you would remove an evilstrike at its root. As the predisposing or real cause of catarrh is, in the majority of cases, some weakness, impurity, or otherwise faulty condition of the system, in attempting to cure the disease our chief aim must be directed to the removal of that cause. The more we see of this odious disease, the more so we the importance of combining; with the use of a local, soothingand healing application, a thorough and persistent internal use of blood-cleansing and tonic medicines.
As a local application for healing the diseased condition in the head, Dr. Sage's Catarrh Remedy is beyond all comparison the best preparation ever invented. It is mild and pleasant to use, producing no smarting or pain, and containing no strong, irritating, or caustic drug, or other poison. Its ingredients are simple and harmless, yet when scientifically and skillfully combined, in just the right proportions, they form a most wonderful and valuable healing medicine. Like gunpowder, which is formed of a combination of saltpeter, sulphur, and charcoal, the ingredients are simple, but the product of their combination is wonderful in its effects. The Remedy is a powerful antiseptic, and speedily destroys all bad smell which accompanies so many cases of catarrh, thus affording great comfort to those who suffer from this disease.
The reader's mind cannot be too strongly impressed with the importance of combining thorough constitutional with the local treatment of this disease. Not only will the cure be thus more surely, speedily, and permanently, effected, but you thereby guard against other forms of disease breaking out, as the result of humors in the blood or constitutional derangement or weakness.
In curing catarrh and all the various diseases with which it is so frequently complicated, as throat, bronchial, and lung diseases, weak stomach, catarrhal deafness, weak or inflamed eyes, impure blood, scrofulous and syphilitic taints, the wonderful powers and virtues of the "Golden Medical Discovery" cannot be too strongly extolled. It has a specific effect upon the lining mucous membranes of the nasal and other air passages, promoting the natural secretion of their follicles and glands, thereby softening the diseased and thickened membrane, and restoring it to its natural, thin, delicate, moist, healthy condition. As a blood-purifier, it is unsurpassed. As those diseases which complicate catarrh are diseases of the lining mucous membranes, or of the blood, it will readily be seen why this medicine is so well calculated to cure them.
The "Golden Medical Discovery" is the natural "helpmate" of Dr. Sage's Catarrh Remedy. It not only cleanses, purifies, regulates, and builds up the system to a healthy standard, and conquers throat, bronchial, and lung complications, when any such exist, but, from its specific effects upon the lining membrane of the nasal passages, it aids materially in restoring the diseased, thickened, or ulcerated membrane to a healthy condition, and thus eradicates the disease. When a cure is effected in this manner it is permanent. The system is so purified, regulated, and strengthened, as to be strongly fortified against the encroachments of catarrh and other diseases. The effects of the "Golden Medical Discovery" upon the system will be gradual, and the alterative changes of tissue and function generally somewhat slow. They arewith however, less complete, radical, and lasting; and this constitutes its great merit. Under its influence all the secretions are aroused to carry the blood-poisons out of the system, the nutrition is promoted, and the patient finds himself gradually improving in flesh; his strength is built up, his lingering ailments dwindle away, and by and by he finds his whole person has been entirely renovated and repaired he feels like a new man—a perfect being.
Illustration: Fig. 10. Atomizer.Fig. 10. Atomizer.
The Clothing. With most persons suffering from chronic nasal catarrh, there is a great disposition to take cold, even slight cause being sufficient to produce an acute attack, which greatly aggravates the chronic affection and operates to render it permanent. To obviate the bad effects that are liable to result from this predisposition, great attention should be paid to the clothing, that it thoroughly protects the person from sudden changes of temperature. For more particular and practical suggestions in regard to this matter, the reader is referred to the article on Clothing, in Part Two, Chapter II, of "The People's Common Sense Medical Adviser."
The Diethas an important influence with this disease, as with consumption and many other chronic ailments. It should be largely composed of those articles rich in the non-nitrogenized or carbonaceous elements. Fat meats, rich, sweet cream, good butter, and other similar articles of food, should comprise a large part of the diet. These elements, which are prolific in the production of animal heat counteract the predisposition to take cold, and thus become most valuable remedial agents—not less essential than the medical treatment that has been advised. The patient, suffering from chronic catarrh, should study well the hygienic teachings to be found in Part Two of "The People's Common Sense Medical Adviser," and govern himself accordingly.
Treatment of Complications. There are various complications of this disease that require modifications of the treatment to meet them successfully. The rules cannot be made that would enable non-professional readers to vary the treatment to suit peculiarities of constitution, or complications of the disease. When consulted, either the person or by letter, we have been able to so modify the treatment as to be adopt it to peculiar individuals which rejected the ordinary treatment,and have thus cured hundreds who had otherwise failed to find relief.
Illustration: Fig. 11. Steam Atomizer, illustrating position of head during treatment.Fig. 11. Steam Atomizer, illustrating position of head during treatment.
Time Required in Effecting a Cure. Reader, if you suffer from chronic nasal catarrh, do not expect to be very speedily cured, especially if your case is one of long standing. Unprincipled quacks and charlatans, who possess no knowledge of disease, or medicine either, and whose sole design is to palm off upon you a bottle or two of some worse than worthless strong, caustic solution, irritating snuff, or drying "fumigator," "dry up," "annihilator," "carbolated catarrh cure," "catarrh specific," or other strong preparation, will tell you that the worst cases can bespeedilycured by these unreasonable means. It is true that such strong, irritating, and drying preparations will many times suddenly arrest the discharge from the nose, but the thickened or ulcerated condition of the lining mucous membrane, which really constitutes the disease, is not removed by such treatment, and the discharge soon comes on again. Besides, there is danger attending the employment of such strong, irritating, or drying preparations. The disease, by their use, is frequently driven to the throat, bronchial tubes, lungs, or brain, and thus a bad matter is made worse. Not less irrational and unsuccessful is the plan of treating the disease with inhalations of "carbolized iodine," and other drags, administered through variously-devised pocket and other inhalers. Such treatment may mask or cover up catarrh for a time;but, by reason of the constitutional nature of the disease, it cannot effect a perfect and permanent cure. Dr. Sage's Catarrh Remedy, on the other hand, cures the disease on common-sense, rational, and scientific principles, by its mild, soothing, and healing properties, to which the disease gradually yields, when the system has been put in perfect order by the use of "Golden Medical Discovery." This is the only perfectly safe, scientific, and successful mode of acting upon and healing it. Without, we trust, being considered egotistical, we can say that this opinion is based upon a large experience and a perfect familiarity with the nature and curability of the disease. For many years our whole time and attention has been given to the study and cure of catarrh and other chronic diseases treated of in "The People's Common Sense Medical Adviser." Cases of catarrh have been treated by thousands, and our medicines for the cure of this loathsome disease, and of other chronic diseases, have met with an extensive sale in all parts of the United States, and have found their way into many foreign countries. The universal satisfaction with which their use has been attended, and the grateful manifestations received from the cured, have afforded one of the greatest pleasures of our lives. Scarcely a mail arrives that does not bring new testimony of cures effected by the treatment here recommended.
To prepare the medicine ready for use, put the whole quantity of powder contained in the package, as put up for sale, into a bottle; pour into it one pint of cool, soft water. Rain water or melted snow is good. Ordinary lake, river, well or spring water will do if onlyslightlyhard. Cork the bottle tightly and shake it thoroughly, after which allow it to stand six or eight hours to settle. Two of the ingredients of which the remedy is composed do not entirely dissolve, but their medicinal properties are completely and speedily extracted and taken up by the water. These settlings have lost their medicinal properties and should not be allowed to enter the nasal cavity. It should be kept tightly corked, not allowing it to freeze in winter, or be kept where it is very warm in summer. This we term the "Catarrh Remedy Fluid."
Use the fluid, prepared according to the above directions, not less than three or four times a day, the last time just before retiring, in the following manner: Without shaking the bottle to roll the fluid, pour out a teaspoonful or more into the hollow of the hand, hold it there until warmed; first gently, and afterwards forcibly, snuff the fluid up one nostril and then the other, until the nose is well filled and it passes back into the throat. No fears need be entertained that it will produce strangling or any unpleasant effect in thus using it, for, unlike anyother fluids (simple tepid water not excepted), it does not produce the slightest pain or disagreeable feeling, but, on the contrary, leaves such a cooling, pleasant sensation that its use soon becomes a pleasure rather than a task. In a few minutes after thus using the remedy, it should be blown out gently (never forcibly), to clear the nose and throat of all hardened crusts and offensive accumulations, if any such exist. Never blow the nose violently, as it irritates the passages and counteracts, to some extent, the curative effects of the remedy. This process should be repeated until the remedy has been thoroughly applied two or three times, not blowing it out the last time of using it, but retaining the medicine in contact with the affected parts for a considerable length of time. No harm can result if the fluid be swallowed, as it contains nothing poisonous or injurious.
A Better Way. The manner of using Dr. Sage's Catarrh Remedy, advised above, is somewhat imperfect and not nearly so thorough a mode as the one to which the reader's attention will now be directed.
In a very large number of bad cases of catarrh, or those of long standing, the disease has crept along and extended high up in the nasal passages, and into the various sinuses or cavities, and tubes communicating therewith. The act of snuffing the fluidcarries it along the floor of the nose and into the throat, but does not carry ithigh enough, or fill the passagesfull enough, to reach all the chambers, tubes, and surfaces, that are affected with the disease.
The fluid may seem, from the sensation produced, to pass high up between the eyes, or even above them, but it does not. It is only a sensation transmitted to these parts by nerves, the filaments of which are distributed to that portion of the mucous membrane which the fluid does not reach, just as a sensation is transmitted to the little finger by a blow upon the elbow.
Now, in order to be most successful in the treatment of catarrh, it is necessary thatthe remedy should reach and be thoroughly applied to all the affected parts. This can be accomplished in only one way, which is byhydrostatic pressure. The anatomy of the nasal passages, and the various chambers and tubes that communicate therewith, is such that they cannot be reached with fluid administered with any kind of syringe or inhaling tube, or with any instrument, except one constructed to apply it upon the principle above stated. Such an instrument is Dr. Pierce's Nasal Douche.
By the use of this instrument, the fluid enters every portion of the air-passages of the head by its own weight, no snuffing being required.
Illustration: Fig. 12. This cut illustrates the manner of using Dr. Pierce's Nasal Douche.Fig. 12. This cut illustrates the manner of using Dr. Pierce's Nasal Douche.
To cleanse out the passages previous to applying the Catarrh Remedy fluid, take one quart of soft water, add to it two large tablespoonfuls of common salt, and shake it up occasionally until all is dissolved. Before use heat it until blood warm, or, in other words, until it gives a pleasant, mild warmth to the inserted finger. Put the reservoir on a shelf, or hang it up, so that it will be a little higher than the head: fill the reservoir with salt and water, pressing the tube between the thumb and finger so as to prevent the fluid from escaping through it; introduce the nozzle at the end of the tube into one nostril, pressing it in far enough to close the entrance of the passage so that no fluid can escape by the side of the tube, breathe through the mouth, avoid swallowing, and allow the fluid to flow. The soft palate, by the act of breathing through the mouth, is elevated so as to completely close the passage into the throat, and thus the fluid is made to flow up one nostril in a gentle stream, to pass into and thoroughly cleanse all thesinuses, or cavities, connected with the nasal passages, and to flow out of the other nostril. The douche should not be employed unless both nostrils are open and the flow is free. If the head is "stopped up," snuff up the warm liquid from the hand occasionally, until the passages are open and you can breathe freely through both nostrils.
Do not forget that the instrument will not work properly unless youbreathe through the mouth and avoid swallowingwhile the fluid flows.
Fill the reservoir a second time with the simple salt and water, and, inserting the nozzle into the nostril out of which the fluid flowed on using it the first time, pass the current through in the opposite direction; that is, so that it will flow out of the nostril into which it flowed the first time of using it.
After having thus thoroughly cleansed the passages, fill the instrument half full or more with the "Catarrh Remedy Fluid," prepared as heretofore directed, and warmed to a moderate temperature, and pass this through the nose in the same manner as directed for the salt water. The salt water is not curative, but is milder than simple water, and is, therefore, preferable for cleansing the passages.
On first commencing the use of the instrument, it is best to hang it only a very little higher than the forehead, but after using it a few times, put it up about as high as the length of the tube will admit.
Let no one entertain any feeling of timidity on commencing the use of this instrument, as its operation is perfectly simple and harmless, and, with the fluids which we recommend, is never attended with any strangling, choking, pain, or other disagreeable sensations. The medicine should be applied with the Douche at least twice a day, in the morning and at night on retiring. There is no advantage in using the medicine oftener than three times a day, when used with the instrument, but asufficientquantity should be used each time to medicate all the diseased parts. If any remains in the Douche it may be poured back into the stock solution for subsequent use, but a liquid that has once passed through the nasal cavity contains the germs of the disease and must not be used a second time.
The term Nasal Polypus is usually given to a variety of growths which are met with in the nasal passages far more frequently than any other tumors. They are thus designated because of their fancied resemblance to the aquatic polypus. They occur singly, or in clusters, as illustrated in Fig. 13. In the early stages the mucous membrane is swollen and irregularly dilated, presenting a rough and mottled appearance not unlike chronic catarrh with which they are usually associated. Gradually these mound-like tumors enlarge, usually becoming pendulant, and presenting a grayish opaque glistening surface, similar to the pulp of a grape. Occasionally they become massive at the point of attachment, and assimilate a warty or cauliflower growth. The latter variety is better supplied with blood vessels and presents a red or dark pink surface and may bleed on slight irritation. The favorite location is beneath or behind the middle or superior turbinated bodies, oftentimes nearly or quite concealed. However, no portion of the mucous membrane lining the upper air passages is exempt. Sometimes they grow from the roof of the nostril and pharnyx in pendulous masses, assuming the shape of the cavities, filling the entire nostril and upper portion of pharnyx. The mucous membrane covering the turbinated bodies may become dilated and swollen, finally developing by catarrhal processes into a polypus at that point. (SeeH, Fig. 13.)
Illustration: Fig. 13. NASAL POLYPI.Fig. 13. NASAL POLYPI.A. Anterior opening of the nostril.B. Soft Palate,C. Orifice of the Eustachian tube.D, D. Superior and inferior turbinated bodies.E. Large Polypus.F. Several small Polypi. G. Throat.H. Polypoid growth on turbinated body.
Causes. Nothing definitely is known regarding their causation. They are generally supposed to originate in some constitutional derangement, impairing the nutrition of the mucous membranes. Other cases are closely associated with chronic nasal catarrh, and frequent attacks of cold in the head.
Symptoms. These may vary considerably in different cases due to the character and location of the polypus. In the early stages before the tumor is well developed, the symptoms may be those of nasal catarrh, and the diagnosis of polypus be possible only after a personal examination by a skillful specialist. Neither is the size of the polypusalways in proportion to the severity of the symptoms. The nasal discharge is generally increased and of a variable character. As the tumors enlarge they cause a sense of fullness and weight between and below the eyes, with more or less headache and facial neuralgia. There is partial or complete obstruction of one or both nostrils. In some cases the obstruction changes from one nostril to the other when lying down; the stoppage generally being on the side toward the pillow. A polypus located at the junction of the nasal passages and throat by force of gravity always causes obstruction to the lower nasal cavity when lying down. Polypi often attain considerable size and by pressure upon and displacement of the surrounding structures occasion hideous facial deformity. Changes in the weather often aggravate the symptoms. By blowing the nostril the tumor sometimes may be forced forward, so that it may be seen a short distance from the anterior opening of the nostril. Thevoiceis often affected, being muffled or harsh in tone, similar to that which accompanies a cold in the head.Respirationmay be considerably embarrassed, due to the obstruction in the nasal passages, and the patient necessarily resorts to mouth breathing. In advanced cases the Larnyx is usually much congested, being constantly irritated, not only reflexly through the nervous system, but directly by the inspired air, and excoriating discharges dropping in the throat from behind the palate. Thus it is plain to understand how chronic Pharyngitis, Laryngitis, Bronchitis, and Asthma may result from a small polypus in the nasal cavity.
Treatment. In mild cases correcting the constitutional derangement may check the morbid process in the nostrils and cause absorption of the polypus growth. For this purpose Dr. Pierce's Golden Medical Discovery is unequaled. The removal of the polypus may sometimes be accomplished by snuffing powdered blood-root. When these measures fail it is necessary to seek surgical assistance. After the removal of the polypus Dr. Sage's Catarrh Remedy should be used to prevent a recurrence.
Having operated with unvarying success upon a very large number and variety of nasal tumors at the Invalids' Hotel and Surgical Institute we are positively assured that the means and methods which we employ are neither severe or dangerous;no pain, consequentlyno shock; recovery rapid and permanent. Many forms of injection and local treatment are in use for the removal of nasal polypi, none of which have proven to be curative; recurrence of the tumor many times following such treatment. Many cases have presented themselves after having been treated by the heroic method of seizing the polypus with a pair of forceps and forcibly tearing it loose, bringing with it segments of healthy tissue, leaving bone exposed, and a ragged, uneven surface of diseased membrane. It is much easier to properlytreat a case from the beginning than to undertake it in such a rendition.
Owing to the fact that these nasal tumors grow directly from the lining membranes it is necessary not only to thoroughly remove the tumor but to treat the diseased membrane at the point from which the polypus springs; otherwise another tumor may develop at the same point. The nasal passage having been thoroughly anæsthetized, or benumbed, by the use of cocaine, the nasal speculum is introduced, and by means of reflected light from the head mirror worn by the operator, the interior of the nostril is brought into view. (See Fig. 9, p. 479.)
Often the attachment of the growth is entirely hidden behind the irregular bony structures of the nostril so that it requires the skill of an expert specialist, deft in the manipulation of these parts, to operate properly.
Many styles and shapes of delicately devised instruments are necessary to completely remove the growth without doing injury to the adjacent structures. By our newly devised operation the tumor is at once removed, without pain, and with the loss of only a few drops of blood. Further, because the tumor is entirely removed and the base properly treated there is not the offensive discharge for a long time afterward and the danger from infection and blood-poison to which the patient is subjected in other forms of treatment.
In conclusion we would say that we claim for our operation the following points that are worthy of the careful consideration of every one who may be so unfortunate as to require the services of a specialist for the removal of growths in the nasal or upper air passages.
1st. Our operation is absolutely painless.
2d. No chloroform or ether is required.
3d. We insure perfect removal of growth.
4th. There is no injury to other adjacent structures.
5th. The operation is bloodless.
6th. The recovery is rapid.
7th. There is no slough to produce pus that may be absorbed and cause blood-poisoning.
In health the nasal septum is a bony or cartilaginous plate, as shown inA, Fig. 14, dividing the nasal passages into two cavities of the same size and shape. This plate or partition is also a support to which the flexible structures which form the tip of the nose are attached. In early life the septum is flexible and may be bent or doubled by injury to the nose; but owing to its elasticity usually resumes its natural position and shape. After maturity any dislocation or change in this bony plate usually remains permanent unless some means are employed for its correction. In a limited number of cases supposed to be chronic nasal catarrh, we have found upon examination that one or both nasal cavities were more or less obliterated and obstructed by the deformed and thickened septum. (SeeA, Fig. 15.) Many of these cases date from an injury to the external parts, causing only bleeding from the nose and a slight pain for a short time. Chronic inflammation develops at the point where the bone is bent or cracked, resulting in thickening, often producing nodules or spur-like projections which not only interfere with nasal breathing, but also act as irritants to the adjacent delicate membranes and produce many of the symptoms common to nasal catarrh.
Illustration: Fig. 14. Anterior view of the healthy nasal passages as seen with the projecting portion of the nose removed.Fig. 14. Anterior view of the healthy nasal passages as seen with the projecting portion of the nose removed.A.Vertical septum or bony plate separating nostrils.B, B.Turbinated bodies.C, C.Nasal passages.
Among other common causes are unequal or imperfect development of the nasal bones, due to an inherited strumous tendency and local ulcerative disease, weakening or destroying the bone.
Symptoms.The location and extent of the deformity of the nasal septum necessarily gives opportunity for a variety of symptoms. In aggravated cases the nose appears to be bent toward one side. In the earlier stages there is an excess of mucous secretion, often droppinginto the throat from behind the palate. The discharge is variable as in nasal catarrh with more or less difficult nasal breathing, the stoppage changing from one nostril to the other. Sneezing and frequent attacks of nose bleed are often common symptoms. The tendency of the disease is to extend backward often causing headache, deafness, roaring in the ears and post-nasal disease which results in a chronic sore throat, the latter disease often being the one for which the patient seeks advice. If allowed to progress uninterruptedly the throat gradually becomes more irritable, associated with an annoying cough, and the voice becomes harsh and has a nasal tone. The general health is impaired, the nervous system excitable; laryngitis, asthma, and lung disease become complications, which render the existence of the individual miserable.
Treatment. In mild cases where the deformity is slight, and the obstruction is not a constant symptom, the nasal cavities should be cleansed (See treatment of nasal catarrh) after inhaling dust, and special attention given to the prompt treatment of cold in the head. Should there be irritability, sneezing, or a constant discharge, it is advisable to use Dr. Sage's Catarrh Remedy as directed on p. 483 to soothe the excitability and lessen the inflammatory action in and about the thickened and deformed septum. As an auxiliary to promote the absorption of the thickened tissues and restore them to a healthy activity, a number of bottles of the "Golden Medical Discovery" should be taken while using the local treatment. Any dormant condition of the liver or digestive tract may be corrected by taking Dr. Pierce's Pleasant Purgative Pellets. In advanced cases after the structures are so diseased and thickened that it renders local treatment hopeless, only surgical interference can prove curative.
By the application of a few drops of a solution of cocaine in the nostril, at the point to be treated, we are now able to produce such local anæsthesia as to render the operation entirely painless without the administration of either chloroform or ether. This is an important consideration as many are adverse to taking chloroform or ether, and now that we possess an agent that produces, locally, complete insensibility to pain, we are very glad to dispense with their use in all such minor operations. There is no pain caused even by the application of the cocaine to deaden the sensibility of the part. Many examinations of the upper air-passages heretofore very annoying and even painful to the patient and sometimes unsatisfactory, are rendered entirely painless, and carried out with a thoroughness that would be impossible without the use of this wonderful agent. Not only in surgery of the nose and throat, but alike in other departments, our surgeon-specialists employ the same local anæsthetic in all minor operations, none of which are attended with the least pain.
Our specialists were among the first surgeons in this country to employ this newly-discovered anæsthetic. We regard it as a great boon to our patients, and never withhold it in any case where it can be employed to prevent suffering. Its use is attended with no danger, nor is it followed by bad or disagreeable results.
Illustration: Fig. 15. Anterior view of deformed nasal passages as seem with the projecting portion of the nose removed.Fig. 15. Anterior view of deformed nasal passages as seem with the projecting portion of the nose removed.A.Deformed and thickened septum or bony plate separating nostrils.B, B.Irregular and obstructed nasal passages.C.Diseased and swollen turbinated body.D, D.Turbinated bodies crowded back by septum.
The nostrils being the entrance to and the beginning of the air passages no dexterity and skill can be spared in treating and properly correcting any deformity that may exist. Mutilation of these sensitive structures is sure to be followed by serious reflex symptoms in adjacent parts.
Consequently cases of this nature should only be entrusted to the care of a competent and experienced specialist. Our resources and appliances are unlimited and seldom do we use the surgeon's knife in a case of this nature.
As in the treatment of other pathological growths in the upper air passages the rhinoscope is indispensable. The parts can only be brought into the view of the operator by means of this instrument and sets of mirrors to reflect light on all sides of the deformed and hidden parts.
By our operation both nasal cavities are restored to their normal size and contour (compare Figs. 14, 15), unhealthy and diseased tissues are removed, and free nasal respiration established.
All treatments are carried out under strict aseptic precautions, thus reducing the danger from absorption of poisonous secretions to the minimum. By our skillful and ingenious management of these cases we never have had a single patient manifest any serious symptoms after operation. In such cases we consider this the only safe, practical, and permanent cure. Every year hundreds pass out of existencethe victims of incurable disease of the air-passages resulting from morbid nasal conditions, who might be saved by proper and timely treatment.
Illustration: Fig. 16. Use of the Post-nasal Syringe in the treatment of Post-nasal Catarrh.Fig. 16. Use of the Post-nasal Syringe in the treatment of Post-nasal Catarrh.A.Tongue.B. Epiglottis.C. Soft palate.D. Anterior opening of the nostril.E, E, E.Turbinated bodies.F. Junction of the nasal passage and throat.G. Diseased and roughened mucous membrane.H. Throat or Pharynx.I, I. Interior of nasal passage.
Simple chronic pharyngitis seldom exists alone and uncomplicated; most cases being the result of previous existing disease of the nasal or post-nasal passages. Many cases are associated with hypertrophy, or enlargement, of the tonsils. Usually the disease is located in the upper part of the pharynx, or throat, behind and above the uvula and soft palate, and is thus hidden from view when looking into the throat through the mouth. When not associated with nasal catarrh the common symptoms are dropping of tenacious mucous in the throat, causing a constant desire to hawk and spit; sense of dryness in this region; cough and expectoration on rising in the morning, which is due to the irritability of the throat, and may invade the lower air-passages. The throat may be studded with red and thickened patches of its mucous membrane. Respiration may be embarrassed, the voice affected and the general health gradually decline. The membrane above and behind the palate is angry, reddened, thickened and roughened, as represented inG, Fig. 16.
TreatmentTo rationally treat a disease, attack the cause. Therefore, in an uncomplicated case of post-nasal disease of the pharynx the medicine should be applied at this point. For this purpose we recommendthe regular and continuous use of Dr. Sage's Catarrh Remedy administered preferably by means of the post-nasal syringe as illustrated in Fig. 16.
The efficacy of Dr. Sage's Catarrh Remedy as a curative agent in catarrh of mucous membranes is unequaled if the medicine be properly and thoroughly applied. The Catarrh Remedy fluid should be prepared as directed in the pamphlet which accompanies the medicine. Warm enough of the medicine to fill the syringe twice. After the syringe is filled with the warm medicine, introduce the curved tip behind the soft palate, holding the syringe as seen in Fig. 16, then incline the head forward over a wash bowl and empty the syringe by pressing the plunger quickly. The medicine will immediately come in contact with the diseased surfaces and pass out through the nostrils, thoroughly medicating, disinfecting and cleansing the upper part of the throat and the posterior region of the nostrils. Two syringes of the medicine should be used for each treatment, and two or more applications made every day until a cure is effected.
At the same time the local treatment is being used, Dr. Pierce's Golden Medical Discovery should be taken to act through the blood upon the diseased tissues.
The Catarrh Remedy may be administered by means of the Nasal Douche, if the case is complicated by nasal catarrh. Should tumors or deformities exist, it is advisable to consult a specialist.
Chronic enlargement of the tonsils, as shown in Fig. 17,A A, is an exceedingly common affection. It is most common to those of a scrofulous habit. It rarely makes its appearance after the thirtieth year, unless it has been imperfectly cured. Both tonsils are generally, though unequally enlarged. A person affected with this disease is extremely liable to sore throat, and contracts it on the slightest exposure; the contraction of a cold, suppression of perspiration, or derangement of the digestive apparatus being sufficient to provoke inflammation.
Causes. Repeated attacks of quinsy, scarlet fever, diphtheria, or scrofula, and general impairment of the system, predispose the individual to this disease.
Symptoms. The voice is often husky, nasal or guttural, and disagreeable. When the patient sleeps, a low moaning is heard, accompanied with snoring and stentorian breathing, and the head is thrown back so as to bring the mouth on a line with the windpipe, and thus facilitate the ingress of air into the lungs. When the affection becomes serious it interferes with breathing and swallowing. Thechest is liable to become flattened in front and arched behind, in consequence of the difficulty of respiration, thus predisposing the patient to pulmonary disease. On looking into the throat, the enlarged tonsils may be seen, as in the Fig. 17. Sometimes they are so greatly increased in size that they touch each other.
Illustration: Fig. 17.Fig. 17.A. A.Enlarged Tonsils.B. Elongated Uvula.
Treatment. The indications to be carried out in the cure of this malady are:
(1.) To remedy the constitutional derangement.
(2.) To remove the enlargement of the tonsilar glands.
The successful fulfillment of the first indication may be readily accomplished by attention to hygiene, diet, clothing, and the use of Dr. Pierce's Golden Medical Discovery, together with small daily doses of his "Pleasant Pellets." This treatment should be persevered in for a considerable length of time after the enlargement has disappeared, to prevent a return.
To fulfill the second indication, astringent gargles may be used. Infusions of witch-hazel or cranesbill should be used during the day. The following mixture is unsurpassed: iodine, one drachm; iodide of potash, four drachms; pure, soft water, two ounces. Apply this preparation to the enlarged tonsils twice a day, with a probang, or soft swab, being careful to paint them each time. A persevering use of these remedies, both internal and local, is necessary to reduce and restore the parts to a healthy condition.
Sometimes the enlarged tonsils undergo calcareous degeneration; in this case, nothing but their removal by a surgical operation is effectual. This can be readily accomplished by any competent surgeon. We have operated in a large number of cases, and have never met with my unfavorable results.
The method we adopt at the Invalids' Hotel and Surgical Institute for the removal of diseased tonsils is, like other minor operations, painless. The patient is not required to take chloroform or ether. When the enlarged gland is once thoroughly removed the disease seldom returns.
Chronic enlargement, or elongation of the uvula or soft palate, as shown atBin Fig. 17, may arise from the same causes as enlargement of the tonsils. It subjects the individual to a great deal of annoyanceby dropping into or irritating the throat. It causes tickling and frequent desire to clear the throat, also change, weakness and loss of voice, and often gives rise to a very persistent and aggravating cough. Constriction of the throat, cough and difficult breathing are more prominent symptoms in complicated cases.
Treatment. The treatment already laid down for enlarged tonsils, with which affection, elongation of the uvula is so often associated, is generally effectual. When it has existed for a long time, and does not yield to this treatment it may be removed by any competent surgeon.
This is of much more frequent occurrence than the acute form, and is often associated with tubercular affections, and constitutional syphilis. It is characterized by an inflammatory condition, ulceration, or hardening of the mucous membrane of the larynx, most frequently the latter. There is also a chronic form, known asfollicular laryngitis, orclergymen's sore throat, to which public speakers are subject.
The Causesof chronic laryngitis are various, as prolonged use of the vocal organs in reading or speaking; using them too long on one pitch or key, without regard to their modulation; improper treatment of acute diseases of the throat; neglected nasal catarrh; the inordinate use of mercury; syphilis; repeated colds which directly cause sore throat, injuries, etc. It is also frequently due to tubercular deposits, and in these cases it generally terminates in consumption.
Symptoms. The affection often comes on insidiously. There is soreness of the throat, noticeable particularly when speaking, and immediately thereafter; a "raw" and constricted feeling, leading to frequent attempts to clear the throat, in order to relieve the uneasy sensation. The voice becomes altered, hoarse, and husky, and there is a slight, peculiar cough, with but little expectoration. At first, the matter expectorated is mucus, but as the disease advances, and ulceration progresses, it becomes muco-purulent, perhaps lumpy, bloody, or is almost wholly pure pus. The voice becomes more and more impaired, and is finally lost. In the latter stages, it resembles consumption, being attended with hectic fever, night-sweats, emaciation, cough, profuse expectoration, and sometimes hemorrhage.
Treatment. The patient should avoid using his voice as much as possible. At the same time, attention should be paid to the diet, the bathing, and the clothing. Every thing should be done that is calculated to build up and improve the general health. Dr. Pierce's Golden Medical Discovery is well adapted to remove morbid states of the disease, in consequence of its direct action on the mucous membranes of the air-passages, and its efficacy in allaying irritation of thelaryngeal, pharyngeal, and pneumogastric nerves. It should be perseveringly employed. Iodine inhalations, administered with the pocket inhaler, illustrated by Fig. 3, and the application of tincture of iodine to the forepart of the neck, are efficacious in many cases. Inhalations of chloride of ammonia, administered with a steam-atomizer, Fig. 11, in the form of spray, are frequently of great benefit.Perseveranceis necessary, and the afflicted are cautioned against discontinuing the treatment too soon, for the disease is very liable to return.
By this we understand a constitutional affection, characterized by a wasting away of the body, attended by the deposition of tubercular matter into the lung tissue. Hence the appellations,Phthisis Pulmonalis; Pulmonary Tuberculosis; Tubercular Consumption. Tubercles may form in other organs and result in a breaking down of their tissues, but the employment of the termConsumptionin this article is restricted to the lungs. The general prevalence, the insidious attack, and the distressing fatality of this disease, demand the special attention and investigation of every thinking person. It preys upon all classes of society. Rich and poor alike furnish its victims.
Some idea of its prevalence may be formed when we consider that, of the entire population of the globe, one in every three hundred and twenty-three persons annually dies of consumption. It may not be definitely known just what proportion of all the deaths in this country and Europe occurs from this one disease. Those who have gathered statistics differ somewhat, some claiming one-fourth, while others put the ratio at one-sixth, one-seventh, and even as low as one-ninth. A fair estimate, and one probably very near the truth, would be one-sixth or one-seventh of the whole number. In New York City, for five consecutive years, the proportion was three in twenty. In New England, about twenty thousand annually succumb to this destroyer, and in the State of New York as many more. These figures may appear to be exaggerations, but investigations of the subject prove them to be the simple truth. Epidemics of cholera, yellow fever, and other diseases of similar character, so terrible in their results, occasion wide-spread alarm, and receive the most careful considerations for their prevention and cure, while consumption receives scarcely a thought. Yet the number of their victims sinks into insignificance when compared with those of consumption. Like the thief in the night, it steals upon its victim unawares. In a large proportion of cases, its approach is so insidious that the early symptoms are almost wholly disregarded; indeed, they excite but little, if any, attention, and perhaps for a timedisappear altogether. Thus the patient's suspicions, if they have been aroused, are allayed and appropriate measures for his relief are discontinued. This may be the case until renewed attacks firmly establish the disease, and before the patient is fully aware of the fatal tendency of his malady, he is progressing rapidly towards that "bourne from which no traveler returns."
As has already been stated, consumption is a constitutional disease, manifested by feeble vitality, loss of strength, emaciation—symptoms which are too often classed under the name ofgeneral debility, until local symptoms develop, ascough, difficult breathing, orhemorrhage, when examination of the chest reveals the startling fact that tubercular deposits have been formed in the lungs. Invalids are seldom willing to believe that they have consumption, until it is so far advanced that all medicine can do is to smooth the pathway to the grave. Another characteristic of this disease ishope, which remains active until the very last, flattering the patient into expectation of recovery. To the influence of this emotion, the prolongation of the patient's life may often be attributed.
Nature of the Disease. It is an error to suppose that the disease under consideration is confined to the lungs. "Pulmonary Consumption," as has been remarked, "is but afragmentof a great constitutional malady." The lungs are merely the stage where it plays its most conspicuous part. Every part of the system is more or less involved, every vital operation more or less deranged; especially is thenutritivefunction vitiated and imperfect. The circulation is also involved in the general morbid condition. Tubercles, which constitute a marked feature of the disease, are composed of unorganized matter, deposited from the blood in the tissue of the lungs. They are small globules of a yellow, opaque, friable substance, of about the consistency of cheese. After their deposition, they are increased in size by the accretion of fresh matter of the same kind. They are characteristic of all forms of scrofulous disease.
The most plausible theory in regard to them is, that they are the result of imperfect nutrition. Such a substance cannot be produced in the blood when this fluid is perfectly formed. It is an unorganized particle of matter, resulting from the imperfect elaboration of the products of digestion, which is not, therefore, properly fitted for assimilation with the tissues. The system being unable to appropriate it, and powerless to cast in off through the excretory channels, deposits it in the lungs or other parts of the body. There it remains as a foreign substance, like a splinter or thorn in the flesh, until ejected by suppuration and sloughing of the surrounding parts. It might be supposed by some that when the offending matter was thus eliminated from the lungs, they would heal and the patient recover; but, unfortunately, the deposition of tubercular matter does no cease. Owing to the morbid action of the vital forces, it is formed and deposited as fastor faster than it can be thrown off by expectoration. Hence arises the remarkable fatality of pulmonary consumption.
Causes. The causes of consumption are numerous and varied, but may all be classed under two heads, viz:Constitutional, orpredisposing, andlocal, orexciting. Of just what tubercular matter consists, is still a subject of controversy, but that its existence depends upon certain conditions, eithercongenitaloracquired, is generally conceded; and one of these conditions is impaired vitality. Constitutional predisposition must first give rise to conditions which will admit of the formation of tubercular matter, before any cause whatever can occasion its local deposition. It must modify the vitality of the whole system, when other causes may determine in the system thus impaired, the peculiar morbid action of which tubercular matter is the product. The general division of causes into predisposing and exciting, must ever be more or less arbitrary. Individuals subject to predisposing causes may live the natural term of life and finally die of other disease. Indeed, when predisposing causes are known to exist, they should constitute a warning for the avoidance of other causes. Again, among the so-called exciting causes, some may operate in such a manner, with some individuals, as to predispose them to consumption, and the result will be the same as if the disposition had been congenital. The causes which in one individual areexciting, under other circumstances and in other individuals, would bepredisposing, because they act so as to depress the vitality and impair the nutritive processes.
The Predisposing Causes, then, are hereditary predisposition, scrofula, debility of the parents, climatic influences, sedentary habits, depressing emotions, in fact,anythingwhich impairs the vital forces and interferes with the perfect elaboration of nutritive material.
The Exciting Causesare those which are capable of arousing the predisposing ones into activity, and which, in some instances, may themselves induce predisposition; as dyspepsia, nasal catarrh, colds, suppressed menstruation, bronchitis, retrocession of cutaneous affections, measles, scarlatina, malaria, whooping-cough, small-pox, continued fevers, pleurisy, pneumonia, long-continued influence of cold, sudden prolonged exposure to cold, sudden suspension of long-continued discharges, masturbation, excessive venery, wastes from excessive mental activity, insufficient diet, both as regards quantity and quality, exposure to impure air, atmospheric vicissitudes, dark dwellings, dampness, prolonged lactation, depressing mental emotions, insufficient clothing, improper treatment of other diseases, exhaustive discharges, tight lacing, fast life in fashionable society, and impurity and impoverishment of blood from any cause. This list might be greatly extended, but the other causes are generally in some manner allied to those already named.
Symptoms. The symptoms of consumption vary with the progress of the disease. Writers generally recognize three stages, which sogradually change from one to the other that a dividing line cannot be drawn. As the disease progresses, new conditions develop, which are manifested by new symptoms. Prior to the advent of pulmonary symptoms, is the latent period, which may extend over a variable length of time, from a few months to several years; and, indeed, may never be developed any farther. Until sufficient tubercular matter has been deposited in the lungs to alter the sounds observed on auscultation and percussion, a definite diagnosis of tubercular consumption cannot be made, even though there may have been hemorrhage. Nevertheless, when we findpaleness, emaciation, accelerated and difficult breathing, increased frequency of the pulse, an increase of temperature, andgeneral debilitycoming on gradually without any apparent cause, we have sufficient grounds for grave suspicions. These are increased if tenderness under the collar-bone, with a slight, hacking cough is present. These symptoms should be sufficient to warn any individual who has the slightest reason to believe that he is disposed to consumption, to lose no time in instituting the appropriate hygienic and medical treatment, for it is at this stage that remedies will be found most effective. Unfortunately, this period is too apt to pass unheeded, or receive but trifling attention; the patient finds some trivial excuse for his present condition, and believes that he will soon be well. But, alas for his anticipations! The disease goes onward and onward, gradually gaining ground, from which it will be with great difficulty dislodged.
The cough now becomes sufficiently harassing to attract attention, and is generally worse in the morning. The expectoration is slight and frothy; the pulse varies from ninety to one hundred and twenty beats in a minute, and sometimes even exceeds this. Flushes of heat and a burning sensation on the soles of the feet and palms of the hands are experienced. A circumscribed redness of one or both cheeks is apparent. These symptoms increase in the afternoon, and in the evening are followed by a sense of chilliness more or less severe. The appetite may be good, even voracious; but the patient remarks that his food "does not seem to do him any good," and, to use a popular expression, "he is going into a decline." As the strength wanes the cough becomes more and more severe, as if occasioned by a fresh cold, in which way the patient vainly tries to account for it. Expectoration increases, becomes more opaque, and, perhaps, yellow, with occasionally slight dots or streaks of blood. The fever increases, and there is more pain and oppression of the chest, particularly during deep respiration after exercise. Palpitation is more severe. There may now be night-sweats, tire patient waking in the morning to find himself drenched in perspiration, exhausted, and haggard. Bleeding from the lungs occurs, and creates alarm and astonishment, often coming on suddenly without warning. The hemorrhage usually ceases spontaneously, or on the administration of proper remedies, and in a few days the patient feels better than he has felt for some time previously.The cough is less severe, and the breathing less difficult. Indeed, a complete remission sometimes occurs, and both patient and friends deceive themselves with the belief that the afflicted one is getting well.
After an indefinite length of time, the symptoms return with greater severity. These remissions and aggravations may be repeated several times, each successive remission being less perfect, each recurrence more severe, carrying the patient further down the road toward the "dark valley." Now the cough increases, the paroxysms become more severe, the expectoration more copious and purulent, as the tubercular deposits soften and break down. The voice is hollow and reverberating, the chest is flattened, and loses its mobility; the collar-bones are prominent, with marked depression above and below. Auscultation reveals a bubbling, gurgling sound, as the air passes through the matter in the bronchi, with the click, to the air cells beyond. Percussion gives a dull sound or if there are large cavities, it is hollow, and auscultation elicits the amphoric sound, as of blowing into a bottle. Hectic fever is now fully established; the eye is unusually bright and pearly, with dilated pupils, which gives a peculiar expression; the paroxysms of coughing exhaust the patient, and he gasps and pants for breath. The tongue now becomes furred, the patient thirsty, the bowels constipated, and all the functions are irregularly performed. Another remission may now occur, and the patient be able to resume light employment, for an indefinite length of time, which we have known to extend over three or four years, when the symptoms again return.
If the patient is a female, and deranged or suppressed menstruation has not marked the accession of pulmonary symptoms, the flow now becomes profuse and clotted, or is scanty and colorless, sometimes ceasing altogether. In the male, the sexual powers diminish, and copulation is followed by excessive and long-continued prostration. From this time onward, the progress of the disease is more rapid. The liver and kidneys are implicated. In addition to the pallor, the complexion becomes jaundiced, giving the patient, who is now wasting to a mere skeleton, a ghastly look. The urine is generally copious and limpid, though occasionally scanty and yellow. The pulse increases to one hundred and thirty or one hundred and forty beats in the minute, and is feeble and thread-like. The cough harasses the patient so that he does not sleep, or his rest is fitful and unrefreshing; whenever sleep does occur, the patient wakes to find himself drenched with a cold, clammy perspiration. The throat, mouth, and tongue now become tender, and occasionally ulcerate. Expectoration is profuse, purulent, and viscid, clinging tenaciously to the throat and mouth, and the patient no longer has strength to eject it. The hair now falls off, the nails become livid, and the breathing difficult and gasping; the patient has no longer strength to move himself in bed and has to be propped upwith pillows, and suffocates on assuming the recumbent position. Drinks are swallowed with difficulty. Diarrhea takes the place of constipation. The extremities are cold, swollen, and dropsical; the voice feeble, hollow, grating, husky, the patient gasping between each word; the respiration is short and quick. A slight remission of these symptoms occurs. The patient is more comfortable, lively, cheerful, and perhaps forms plans for the future. But it is the last effort of expiring vitality, the last flicker of the lamp of life, the candle burns brilliantly for a moment, and with one last effort goes out, and death closes the scene.
The duration of the active stage of consumption varies from a few weeks to several years, the average time being about eighteen months.
Coughis always a prominent symptom throughout the entire course of the disease, varying with its progress.
Expectoration, at first scanty, then slightly increased, colorless, frothy, and mucous, is also a characteristic. After a time it becomes opaque, yellow, and more or less watery; then muco-purulent and finally purulent, copious, and viscid. When tubercular matter is freely expectorated, with but little mucus, it sinks in water. This symptom continues to the very last.