Page:The physical training of children (IA 39002011126464.med.yale.edu).pdf/231

 another, from worms; sometimes, from night-mare; occasionally, from either disordered stomach or bowels.

Each of the above causes will, of course, require a different plan of procedure; it will, therefore, be necessary to consult a medical man on the subject, who will soon, with appropriate treatment, be able to relieve him.

236. Have the goodness to describe the complaint of children called Mumps.

The mumps, inflammation of the "parotid" gland, is commonly ushered in with a slight feverish attack. After a short time, a swelling, of stony hardness, is noticed before and under the ear, which swelling extends along the neck toward the chin. This lump is exceedingly painful, and continues painful and swoolen for four or five days. At the end of which time it gradually disappears, leaving not a trace behind. The swelling of mumps never gathers. It may affect one or both sides of the face. It seldom occurs but once in a lifetime. It is contagious, and has been known to run through a whole family or school; but it is not dangerous, unless, which is rarely the case, it leaves the "parotid" gland, and migrates either to the head, to the breast, or to the testicle.

237. What is the treatment of Mumps?

Foment the swelling, four or five times a day, with a flannel wrung out of hot chamomile and poppy-head decoction; and apply, every night, a barm and oatmeal poultice to the swollen gland or glands. Four poppy-*heads and four ounces of chamomile blows to be boiled in four pints of water for half an hour, and then strained to make the decoction. Debar, for a few days, the little patient from taking meat and broth, and let him live on bread and milk, light puddings, and arrow-root. Keep him in a well-ventilated room, and shut him out from the company of his brothers, his sisters, and young companions. Give him a little mild, aperient medicine. Of