HAY FEVER (HAY ASTHMA).-This is an affection due to the entrance of the pollen of grass and flowers into the air-passages, producing local and general symptoms-sneezing, catarrh, congestion of the eyes, headache, oppression of the breathing, prostration, and fever. It is a most tormenting and inveterate complaint with those who are liable to it, and disables them for several weeks every year. The liability to it is a constitutional state and constitutional treatment gives the best results.
General Treatment.-The chief indication is to keep out of the way of the hay, if possible; but that is by no means easy. Grass is everywhere, and the largest cities cannot escape. The pollen grains find their way every where, and, as Dr. C. H. Blackley has shown, a miraculously infinitesimal quantity is sufficient to set up the attack. A sea voyage is the best escape. Medicines can do much here, both curatively and prophylactically.
Medicines.-(Every two hours during an attack; then twice a day as prophylactic.)
Arsen. 3.
-As a prophylactic for a few weeks before the hay season sets in. Also for the fully developed disease, especially when there is much prostration.
Aconite 3.
-Much fever, restlessness, thirst.
Sulph. 6.
-After Aconite, when the symptoms do not yield.
Cepa 3.
-When the symptoms are worse in a warm room and better in the open air.
Gelsemium 3.
-Where there is excessive sneezing.
