Chronic Rheumatism and Its Treatment.

Otago Witness, Issue 2894, 25 August 1909, Page 87

Chronic Rheumatism and Its Treatment.

Chronic rheumatism ,is a term used; to include any 1 chronic inflammation of fibrous tissue, especially that of the muscles, ligament's, and nerve coverings, which is caused by t"he specific rheumatic germ. The principal" symptom is pain, which is almost invariably increased by any movement. It is also by, such- influences as exposure to cold and Chronic rheumatism of this type is very common among middle-aged people, especially among the poor. Generally no. alteration in the appearance of the joints can be detected, but a crackling sensation can often be felt ■when, the joint is xaoved. The joint, however, is Stiff and painful on movement) sod there is a dull aching pain which is worse At night or in damp, oold weather. When, the muscles are affected the symptoms are more marked. The pain is usually more severe, and comes on suddenly. There is great stiffness of -he muscles, with considerable tenderness. As, a result of this the patieni keeps the affected part as much * at rest as possible In the way of treatment a calomel purge may be taken at the onset, which may be followed by a SeidKtz powder next morning. In the acute stage, when the pair is severe, 15 grains of ealicylate of soda may be taken every three- or four hours, the parts being kept completely at j rest until the acute stage is past. After ! a few days- 15 minutes' gentle massage 1 should bo given three times daily.' 1 In the waj of prevention, sufferers from muscular and chronic rheumatism should follow Dr' Symes's advice and make every effort to improve the general health and muscle tone by judicious exercise in the open air —walking, riding, and golfing. The bowels should be regulated by means of casoara sagrada or compound liquorice powder, and occasionally a mercurial pill should be taken. Turkish baths taken systematically may prevent the recurrence of attacks. If the tonsils be large, or the seat i of chronic inflatamationv they should be re- ! moved, and chronic rhinitk or phargynitis 6hould be corrected. Warm underclothing of wool ie important; corld and damp, and especially the combination of the two should' be avoided. As indigestion not unfrequently precipitates an attack the diet must - be carefully .regulated. The food should be plain, and the quantity of carbohydrates, sugar, sweets, and potatoes should be limited. The amount of fluid must be in excess - of the normal, and should be taken as far as possible on~an empty stomach. A tumblerful of hot water before breakfast and on going to bed and half a tumblerful half an hour before two meals id the day should be taken in addition to drintks witn, . the meals. Ale, cider, and stout are not suitable for pereon3 subject to recurrent 1 attacks of muscular or articular rheumatism. ] Residence in a dry, warm inland climate is ' desirable. i !