During the attack of colic, and for at least a day subsequent to its disappearance, the patient should be kept on a fluid diet; milk is best, and 10 grains of sodium citrate should be added to each glass of milk. After the colic has subsided, a light farinaceous diet should be given, and it is better not to give meat until at least a week has elapsed. Alcohol is to be avoided. =The Anæmia of Lead Poisoning.=--As has been pointed out in Chapter VIII (p. 135), the anæmia of lead poisoning is one due to the destruction of the red blood-cells. This is evidenced not only by the curious sallow complexion, by the occasional presence of hæmatoporphyrin in the fæces and urine, and often by the curious yellow of the sclerotics, but also by an increase in the viscosity of the blood itself. Moreover, the urine of persons suffering from lead poisoning is invariably highly coloured, and may even show the presence of methæmoglobin. As the anæmia is generally a symptom of continued lead absorption for a long period, and does not necessarily occur with every case of colic--in fact, acute colic may often supervene without any symptoms of continued anæmia--the persons suffering from lead anæmia should be removed from their direct contact with the dangerous processes, and should be given, if possible, work in the open air. Iron and arsenic may be used, preferably in combination, whilst the iodide of iron often gives good results. Whatever preparation of iron is given, care should always be exercised in avoiding any constipating effect, and the free action of the bowel should be maintained, together with a liberal supply of milk. Potassium iodide may be also given.