After abscesses have been opened, the fomentations, poultices, or
warm-water dressing, as recommended in the treatment of ulcers, are
to be continued, but only for a limited time. The power of the system
must be carefully supported by exposure to a pure atmosphere; by
nourishing food; by the exhibition of wine, tonics, and such medicines
as promote digestion. In cases where the system is unusually inert, it
may be proper to administer stimulants. The most powerful stimulants
are frequently necessary, and by steady perseverance in the use of
them, patients have often been saved in very hopeless circumstances.
Great attention must be paid to the bowels, and the secretions poured
into them, for on the condition and quality of these the state of
the constitution materially depends. The internal Use of cantharides
is often advantageous in chronic suppurations and abscesses, but
it is inadmissible in cases where enlarged glands occupy dangerous
situations, either externally or internally; unless the tumours are in
progress towards resolution, suppuration is certainly induced, and may
be productive of the worst consequences. The glands not unfrequently
become enlarged during the exhibition of this medicine; and such an
occurrence must be watched attentively. In illustration of the good
effects of stimuli in certain cases, it may be mentioned that the
cavities of abscesses are often speedily effaced by granulations, and
that obstinate sores frequently contract and cicatrise, after the
occurrence of a febrile attack, though they had previously shown no
disposition to heal.
In glandular swellings, Deobstruents, as they have been called, are
used; and with this view, mercury is often had recourse to; this
medicine, however, instead of producing a salutary effect, very
generally tends still farther to impair the constitution. Preparations
of iodine, exhibited both externally and internally, appear to be
sometimes of use when the swellings have become stationary, or are
inclined to subside. Iodine may be given in combination or not with
iron. It is a medicine exhibited very generally and indiscriminately,
and is very much more trusted to than it deserves to be. When the
tumours are irritable, fomentations may be employed, and advantage
taken of sea-bathing, warm or cold. The common adhesive or soap
plaster, spread on soft leather, or the ammoniacal plaster, are often
applied with advantage to indolent glandular swellings. Blistering is
sometimes resorted to with good effect, and in some situations pressure
may be usefully employed.
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