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Phrenitis

Categories: Diseases and their Remedies

Inflammation of the brain is one of those dreadful diseases to which all

animals are liable. It is known to the farmer as frenzy, mad staggers,

etc.



The active symptoms are preceded by stupor; the animal stubbornly stands

in one position; the eyes are full, red, and fiery; respiration rapid;

delirium soon succeeds; the animal, bellowing, dashes wildly about, and

seems bent on mischief, rushing madly at ev
ry object which comes in its

way.



The causes of this disease are overwork in warm weather, a plethoric

condition of the system, and too stimulating food. Prof. Gamgee, of the

Edinburgh Veterinary College, relates a case resulting from the presence

within the external meatus of a mass of concrete cerumen, or wax,

which induced inflammation of the ear, extending to the brain.



Treatment.--As this is attended with considerable risk, unless it is

taken prior to the frenzied stage, bleeding almost to fainting should be

resorted to, and followed by a brisk purge. Take one ounce of Barbadoes

aloes, and ten to fifteen drops of Croton-oil; mix the aloes with one

pint of water and the oil, using the mixture as a drench. One pound of

Epsom-salts will answer the purpose very well, in cases where the aloes

and oil cannot be readily obtained. Application of bags of broken ice to

the head, is very beneficial. Spirits of turpentine, or mustard,

together with spirits of hartshorn and water should be well rubbed in

along the spine, from the neck to the tail.



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