Observations on the Diseases of SeamenBlane, Gilbert, Sir
History
Observations on the Diseases of Seamen
Blane, Gilbert, Sir
Medicine, Naval -- Early Works To 1800; Sailors -- Diseases
It may be remarked, that though all sores and wounds in the foot and
leg are difficult of cure in a hot climate, I have observed, that,
where the constitution is good, those in the thighs, arms, trunk, and
head, are rather more easy of cure than in Europe, and that parts
divided by incision very readily unite by the first intention. In
reasoning upon this, it may be said, that as healing depends on a
certain degree of vigour in the powers of life, this should not err
either on the side of excess or defect. If it is too great, as in the
case of a hale, plethoric constitution in a cold climate, too much
inflammation is apt to be excited; and if too feeble, as happens in
a hot climate, in the lower extremities, which are far removed from
the source of life and circulation, the salutary effort is not strong
enough to generate new organised parts. But in the trunk of the body,
in such a climate, the powers of the animal œconomy are in that just
medium which is most favourable to this operation of nature.
THE END.
APPENDIX
TO
PART III.
It has been suggested to me, that it would add to the utility of this
Work to subjoin a list of the remedies best suited to the practice of
physic at sea, with their quantities, and to give a set of formulas
for the direction of young practitioners. I have accordingly made out
a gross computation of the requisite quantities of the most useful
and necessary articles of the Materia Medica, and also a few of the
most commodious and simple forms of administering some of the most
efficacious remedies for the most common diseases.
It is of consequence every where, but especially on board of a ship,
to simplify practice, as much as possible, with regard to the number,
the preparation, and the administration of medicines. Where a great
number of compound medicines are given, it is extremely difficult to
ascertain, by accurate and satisfactory observations, what are their
real effects; and as there are not conveniences at sea for great
pharmaceutical nicety, the plainest forms should be adhered to. And as
all operations are rendered more practicable and easy by being reduced
to a stated method, this is an additional inducement for studying
plainness and simplicity in preparing and administering remedies. This
uniformity is more attainable in the public service than in private
practice; for in the former all the patients are of one sex, they are
all adults, and they are generally of robust constitutions.
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