Under no circumstances must patients be allowed to have opiates, or to have salt solutions injected into their veins. The Hamburg mortality is a sufficient commentary on this class of practice.
DIET AND AFTER-TREATMENT.
In regard to diet, during the first stage, especially if there is sickness, nothing need be given. If there is thirst, hot drinks instead of cold must be given-hot water, milk and water, or thin barley – water. Hot coffee has been found of great use in promoting perspiration, and if the attack comes on after an indigestible meal, coffee is of special service.
Among the foods that may be taken during an attack, if prolonged, and during the period of recovery, the various infant’s food are the best, as they are assimilated with the least effort. Mellin’s food, Carnrick’s. Allen and Hanbury’s, are all good, also Horlick’s Malted Milk, and Koumiss. Whey Koumiss, of No.3 strength, will be the most suitable, as it is the lightest, and has astringent properties. Whatever nourishment is given should only be allowed in small quantities at a time.
To avoid relapse care must be taken not to allow the patient to rise from bed too soon; and the diet must be strictly regulated until the strength of the digestive system is fully restored.
