  While we have a great cloud of witnesses testifying to the efficacy of our treatment of the diseases described in this volume, yet for lack of space we can here introduce only the following: LARGE FIBRO-CYSTIC TUMOR.
Pronounced Incurable by many Eminent Surgeons. Health Restored and Tumor Removed without Cutting. WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL, ASSOCIATION, Buffalo, N.Y.: Gentlemen—I cheerfully send you the following testimonial, and hope it may induce some sick person to seek relief where it is sure to be found. We never truly appreciate health until it forsakes us. For six years, I suffered all the tortures and fears attendant on the growth and development of a fibro-cystic tumor. I tried to have the tumor removed, but found it impossible. I had the very best medical advice the South affords, but every physician rendered the same verdict, 'incurable.' How that word, for months, rang in my ears—'INCURABLE.' It seemed stamped on my mind in letters of fire. What I suffered, both in mind and body, cannot be imagined. But for my unbounded faith in God's goodness and mercy, I doubt not, I would have given up and died. But I trusted in Him to direct me in the way to find relief. One hope stood out before me like a beacon light; and that was to find the means to go to Buffalo, N.Y., to Dr. Pierce's famous Invalids' Hotel and Surgical Institute. At last the opportunity came, and I bid my loved ones a sad farewell, (not one of them ever expected to see me again, alive) and with a sister to relieve me of every care on the journey, we started for the Institute. On arriving at the Invalids' Hotel, I was too sick and fatigued to treat with civility the sweet-faced, lady-like housekeeper who received me, or the gentle nurses who tried so patiently and kindly to minister to my wants. I had read a good deal about the Invalids' Hotel, and expected to see wonderful things; but like Sheba's Queen, I could truthfully say, 'the half had never been told.' The many ways, means, and appliances, for the relief of poor sufferers surpassed a thousand fold anything I had ever imagined could come within the scope of human skill. The skilled physicians were not only able and attentive, but on meeting one, if it were every day, they always had a ready smile, a warm hand clasp, and an encouraging word, which alone, would make one feel better and at home. The trained nurses were attentive and kind. Every department was cleanliness itself, and kept at such an even temperature, even to the halls, that during my four months' stay, I never had the slightest cold. Not only the comforts of life, but every luxury that the most exacting could demand, were fully supplied. I saw many poor sufferers, from various diseases, made well and happy, and I too, with the other happy ones, found relief, and that without the use of the knife or an anÆsthetic of any kind. I would urge all poor chronic sufferers, it matters not what the trouble may be, to go to Dr. Pierce's Institute and be cured. If any one similarly afflicted cares to know more of my case, I will gladly answer any questions, if she will only write me, and enclose addressed and stamped envelope in which to reply. During my stay at the Invalids' Hotel I never lacked for anything that willing hands and warm hearts could supply, and I came away feeling that I was leaving a sweet, luxurious home and many warm friends, but with a new lease of life and perfect confidence in the ability of the physicians, for I know I could not possibly have lived two months longer, had I not found relief. To-day I am well, rosy and happy, with a heart full of lasting gratitude for the kind treatment and cure which I received at the Invalids' Hotel and Surgical Institute.
POLYPOID TUMOR OF UTERUS WEIGHING OVER FIVE POUNDS.WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION, Buffalo, N.Y.:
Gentlemen—After many trials my doctors here had given up all efforts to cure me. A tumor that had existed almost from my childhood was gradually killing me. From frequent hemorrhages, I had become as pale and bloodless as a ghost, and so weak as to be scarcely able to stand or walk. Frequently the loss of blood was so great as to cause such long fainting spells that my family thought me past mortal help. How I lived to get to your place is yet a matter of wonder. We appreciated the fact that in the skill of your surgeon lay my last and only hope. The result proved his abilities. The restoration of my health, when it was so generally and for so long despaired of, was miraculous, and I cannot sufficiently express my gratitude and thanks. The comfort that was given by the kindly attention of your nurses is one of the very agreeable memories of your home-like and pleasant Institution. With much gratitude, I am,
NOTE—The above case had been pronounced cancer of the womb by home physicians. FIBROID TUMOR. CURED WITHOUT CUTTING.WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION, Buffalo, N.Y.:
Gentlemen—I cheerfully give a testimonial of my treatment at your Institution, hoping it may induce others to avail themselves of your skill. In December, 1890, I went to you, after suffering five years with two fibroid tumors of the uterus. The tumors had grown rapidly for six months prior to my going to you for treatment, and had become quite painful. Under your treatment they entirely disappeared and my health was entirely restored. The treatment I received from your able corps of physicians and nurses was all that could be desired, and I would further state that your Hotel and Surgical Institute possess all the requirements for making invalids comfortable and happy.
OVARIAN TUMOR OF 62 POUNDS WEIGHT REMOVED.WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION, Buffalo, N.Y.:
Gentlemen—I hereby certify that I had safely removed, without realizing any pain, a large cyst, or Multilocular Tumor (ovarian) weighing 62 pounds, by your surgeons. Then, with kind and watchful treatment, the care of good and faithful nurses, and by the blessing of an all-wise Providence, I was sitting up in twelve days from that time; had no inflammation or fever, kept gaining, and in five weeks returned home. I am feeling better than I have for two or three years. I cheerfully and truthfully recommend the Invalids' Hotel and Surgical Institute to all afflicted as I was—with tumors, or any chronic disease. The rooms are large and pleasant, the best of food is served, and everything possible is done by the physicians, nurses, and attendants connected with the Institution, to render the visits of the afflicted pleasant and desirable. Accept the grateful thanks of my husband and myself for your good care and great kindness to me during my stay at your Hotel, and I wish you all great success.
UTERINE FIBROID TUMOR.The following is from the Eminent Lady Physician and Popular Lecturer, Mrs. Jennie V.S. Wilcox, MD WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION, Buffalo, N.Y.:
Gentlemen—The least return one can render for an invaluable service, the saving of a life, is an acknowledgment of the same. Mine was a long-standing, stubborn, constitutional difficulty; chronic, and defying all previous treatment. Under the care of the doctors of the elegantly appointed Invalids' Hotel and Surgical Institute the disease yielded. Could I persuade some of my fashionable friends to spend a summer or winter at Dr. Pierce's rather than at "resorts" more or less unsuited to weary or sick people, there might rise up an improved generation. The electrical appliances at the Invalids' Hotel are probably the finest in the world. With them the administration of electricity for the absorption and removal of all abnormal growths, especially in my sex, is an assured science, and no experiment. I cordially commend all my fellow sufferers to the tender care of the Invalids' Hotel.
OVARIAN ABSCESS.WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION, Buffalo, N.Y.:
Gentlemen—It is with pleasure that I can testify to the skillful treatment received at the hands of your surgeon specialists. I had been given up to die, with an abdominal tumor and abscess. My case was not understood, before coming to you. Although operated upon twice unsuccessfully by others, my life was despaired of. I am happy to state that after a few weeks' stay in your Institution, with a skillful operation which owing to my extreme feebleness, was performed without any Chloroform or Ether (local anÆsthesia only being employed), and which resulted in the removal of the tumor and abscess, I was perfectly cured, and have since enjoyed excellent health. I am now restored to my children and family, and have much to thank you for. The kindness and attention received from your physicians and nurses while in the hotel could not be better, and I wish to praise them all highly.
SUFFERED FOR 20 YEARS.Ovarian Disease with Inflammation of Abdominal Organs and Great Nervous Prostration. WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION, Buffalo, N.Y.:
Gentlemen—I most gladly express my appreciation of the treatment I received at the Invalids' Hotel and Surgical Institute at Buffalo. When I first applied to you for treatment I could sit up but a few minutes each day, and my physician had told me I never could be any better. I began to improve very soon after receiving and commencing to use your medicines. I continued to use them for some months, following the special instructions faithfully as I could, and steadily improved in health. My trouble was of such a nature that it was necessary for me to receive personal treatment, and I spent six weeks at your Institute. The kindness of physicians and attendants is everything that can be wished. It is now two years since I have had any of your medicines, and I have taken no others since, and my health is very good indeed. I can hardly realize that I am the same person that used to suffer so much for twenty years or more.
DISEASED OVARY.WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION, 683 Main St., Buffalo, N.Y.:
Gentlemen—In the Autumn of '88, I had an ovary removed at the Invalids' Hotel and Surgical Institute, Buffalo. The operation was performed with consummate skill. The Hotel is first-class in every respect, being at once a Christian Hospital and Home. The skill of man, as exercised there, seems all that God designed it to be. I cheerfully add my testimonial as I consider the Institution first class in every respect.
FIBROID TUMOR OF UTERUS.WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION, Buffalo, N.Y.:
Gentlemen—There is no endorsement that the faculty of your Institute could ask that I would not willingly give. I fully realize that I owe not only my good health, but my life to the wonderful treatment received at the Invalids' Hotel and Surgical Institute, and would earnestly recommend any person needing the best medical or surgical attention to go for relief and cure to your Institution at Buffalo, N.Y. Words are inadequate to express the gratitude I owe you in so successfully treating my case.
OVARIAN TUMOR MADE UP OF SMALL CYSTS (MULTILOCULAR).
It grew to enormous size in but five months. The patient, a young unmarried woman, left home expecting to die. She had several physicians. None of them could give her any definite information as to the nature of the growth or other than unfavorable expectations as to its probable effects. It was successfully removed. The patient being able to be up and around in about two weeks with no unfavorable symptoms. Cure perfect. WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION, Buffalo, N.Y.: My Dear Doctors—Many months have passed since I have written you concerning my health. I have remained perfectly well, and, in fact, my health was never better than since the tumor was removed. You will remember my case: The tumor had only grown about five months, but it was of immense size, and I had despaired of life, and my family thought that I would not return alive from your Institution. Your skillful operation and removal of the tumor, which weighed over thirty pounds, with the kind nursing and good attention given me afterwards, brought me through sound and well. To you I feel that I owe all thanks. My prayer is for the success of the World's Dispensary Medical Association. You saved my life after I had given up all hope. The kind care that all gave me was something that could not be paid for with money. It was like being at home. I send you my picture, which will give you some idea of the change for the better in my looks. I am now married and am very happy.
OVARIAN TUMOR.WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION, Buffalo, N.Y.:
Gentlemen—I am pleased to inform you that I have had no trouble since the removal of the tumor five years ago—that my general health is perfectly restored, and I grow stronger and stronger. And since that time I have two boys, healthy, and growing as strong as can be, and I feel very well satisfied with the care of the good and faithful nurses and physicians. I cheerfully and truthfully recommend the Invalids' Hotel and Surgical Institute to all afflicted as I was with tumors, or any chronic disease. I send you my picture which will give you some idea of the change for the better in my looks. Accept the grateful thanks of my husband and myself for your good care and great kindness to me during my stay at your hotel and our wishes for your best success. Respectfully,
FIBROUS TUMOR.WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION, Buffalo, N.Y.: Treatment. Food must be rich in carbon in order that it may build up the tissues and keep the body warm, but carbonic acid, the result of the combustion, must be removed from the blood, or death will ensue. So bile is necessary to digestion, nutrition, and life; yet, if it be not Then how can we remedially fulfill the preceding indications? We answer in the language of a distinguished author and standard medical writer, "by using a class of agents which should never be overlooked in the treatment of long-standing liver diseases, chiefly addressed to the blood and denominated 'alteratives.'" Alteratives, tonics, and restorative catalytics are required not only in diseases of the liver, but in a large number of ailments in which the blood becomes charged with morbid materials. The active remedial properties of the most efficient agents of the above classes of medicine now known, are scientifically combined in the "Golden Medical Discovery," which acts especially upon the blood, and hence influences the system generally. It is also powerful in eliminating those morbid humors which are afterwards subjected to excretion through various organs. Its action is radically different from most medicines employed in chronic diseases, for the reason, that what is usually prescribed, is something corrosive. Unless the disease be temporary, it may return with increased violence. We have been very minute in the description of the remedial properties of the "Golden Medical Discovery," and have relied upon the reason and intelligence of our patrons, believing that they can, in a degree, understand why we deem it so applicable to the system. It does not debilitate the liver by over-stimulation, nor irritate the stomach and bowels by disturbing the delicate processes of digestion, neither does it act with severity upon the blood, but it operates so gently, insensibly, and yet with so much certainty, that it excites the surprise and admiration of the patient. From the careful detail of its various properties, there is abundant reason for its favorable action upon all of the excretory organs, which It has been customary to resort to powerful drastic cathartics, followed by bitters prepared in dilute alcohol. The habit is unscientific, for it is well known that alcohol deranges the functions of the digestive organs and depraves the blood, besides creating a morbid appetite. It has been repeatedly demonstrated that the use of such bitters has led to a life of drunkenness, with all the woe and untold misery which attend it. Medicines to be strictly remedial, should exert a tonic influence upon all the vital processes. Those organs which are contiguous to the liver, or connected by sympathy with it, should be assisted in the performance of their functions. Persons who are habitually subject to "bilious" attacks are pleased to find that the use of the "Discovery" and "Pellets" furnishes immunity from such onsets, and prevents their usual recurrence. Thus these remedies are preventive as well as curative. What we have thus far recommended for the treatment of this chronic affection is within the reach of every family. Patients laboring under this disease, when complicated with other affections, require special consideration and treatment, and all such are counseled to employ only those physicians whose experience and success entitle them to confidence. Health is one of the greatest of blessings, and how to restore it when lost, is a question of vital importance. Having successfully treated thousands of invalids who have suffered from this chronic affection, we possess abundant evidence of the curability of the disease, but we have only space to publish a few letters from persons who have been under our care, or who have used our medicines, purchased from druggists. CONSTIPATION. (COSTIVENESS.)Health depends very largely upon the regularity of the bowels. There should be proper alvine evacuations every day. There are few persons who have not suffered at some period of their lives from constipation of the bowels. Inattentive to the calls of nature, or a neglect to regularly attend to this important duty, sooner or later, produces disastrous results. Furthermore, it is essential to the comfort of every individual, for, when this function is not performed, there is derangement of the mental as well as of the bodily organs. Habitual constipation produces many derangements, resulting from sympathy, irritation, or mechanical obstruction. By referring to Figs. 4 and 9, the reader may observe the anatomical relations which the large intestine sustains to the other abdominal organs. The ascending colon arises in the cÆcum (Fig. 4), at the lower part of the abdomen, and passes over the kidney on the right side, where it begins a circuitous route around the abdominal cavity, comes in contact with the inferior surface of the liver, proceeds behind and below the large curvature of the stomach, emerges on the left side, and passes downward in front of the left kidney, where it dips into the pelvic cavity, and ends in the rectum. If fecal matters are retained until they are decomposed, great injury follows, since the fluid portions are absorbed, conveyed into the blood, and, of necessity, corrupt it with their impurities. In this way, constipation may be the source of general derangement, but such disorder is seldom attributed to the torpid state of this intestine. There is little doubt but that it thereby imposes a great tax upon the functions of the liver, and, frequently, the fault is attributed to that organ instead of the large intestine. Sometimes the blood becomes so charged with fecal matter that its odor can be detected in the breath of the subject. An overloaded condition of the large intestine may cause inflammation of the liver or dropsy of the abdomen. When the colon is distended, it becomes a mechanical impediment to the free circulation of the blood in other organs, and causes congestion of the portal system, predisposing to chronic inflammation or cirrhosis of the liver. This latter is a structural affection, and may, in turn, give rise to abdominal dropsy. In a word, the accumulation of feces in the colon irritates both the large and small intestines, thus causing congestion of the bowels, liver, or stomach. The protracted presence of feculent matter deadens the sensibility of the intestine, so that great stimulation is required to provoke it to action. The contents become dry, solid, knotty, and hard, and very difficult to evacuate. If drastic, irritating physic be taken, only temporary relief is afforded, and it must be repeatedly resorted to, and the dose increased, to obtain the desired effect. Symptoms. One diagnostic symptom of a loaded state of the colon, is an abundant secretion of urine, as limpid as water. The direct symptoms relate to the hardness of the feces and the great difficulty of voiding them. The influence of constipation upon the functions of the We have treated patients, who, from this cause, had renounced their bright hopes, lost their buoyant spirits, and, becoming subject to superstitious fears, had given themselves up, night and day, to devotions and penance. It often happens that the victims of this deep dejection and morbid feeling of self-abasement, are persons not only of good moral character, but of high religious attainments, and their painful exhibitions of fear, distrust, and gloom, originate in physical rather than in spiritual causes. It is interesting to witness this strange perversion of the imagination, this morbid debasement of the religious faculties, and dejection of mind, due to causes disturbing the functions of the liver and other vital organs. Young girls, as they approach the age of puberty, seem possessed with the idea that the unfrequent action of the bowels is a desirable habit. They do not associate with the duty a proper regard for health, but consider it as an inelegant and repugnant practice. The consequence is, that at this susceptible period, constipation, induced by neglect, arouses a latent hepatic or pulmonary disease which has been lurking in the system. How many girls illustrate the truth of this statement by their complaints of dizziness, throbbing pain in the forehead and temples, flushing of the face, transient flushes of heat over the body, while at the same time the extremities are cold. At other times, they manifest the evils of such a course by their stupor, drowsiness, and deep sleep, although upon arising in the morning, they are still tired and unrefreshed. The constipated condition of the bowels, often leads to congestion of the uterus and leucorrhea, followed by uterine debility, prolapsus, excessive menstruation, anteversion or retroversion of that organ. The infrequency of the habit, incorrectly supposed to be desirable by a young woman, becomes nearly, if not quite disastrous to all her desires and bright prospects. Complications arise, and neither the inexperienced girl nor her solicitous and afflicted parents know where to look for remedial aid. If they seek an asylum from these sufferings, they find many private institutions, where flattering expectations of speedy recovery are aroused. At such institutions, these uterine disorders are generally treated merely as local diseases, while the causes are overlooked, and, consequently, a permanent cure is not effected. Having spent nearly all the money at her command, the patient returns home utterly disheartened. After such failures, many of these unfortunate individuals have applied to us and received treatment, and by persistently following our directions, have in due time been restored to health, amid all the comforts of home, and among friends, who rejoiced with We have seen infants, and also young children, in whom constipation was obstinate. It therefore seems that it is often hereditary. In some persons, this affection continues from childhood, with but little variation, until bleeding pile tumors are developed. Habitual constipation of the bowels for a long period of years will generate a class of diseases, which are often very serious in their results. Causes. We have already alluded to a sense of false modesty which prevents a response to the calls of nature, and we may mention other reasons, equally trifling, which deter many from fulfilling its demands. Some are in the habit of temporarily postponing their visits to the water closet, until, when they do go, they find themselves unable to evacuate the bowels. Sometimes the closet is a damp, uncomfortable out-house, situated at a distance from the dwelling, or the access is too public, and, hence, there is an unwillingness to visit it at the proper time. Some appear to be too indolent to attend to this duty. Others are too energetic, and think they cannot take the time, until they have finished some self-imposed task or attended to a pressing engagement. Inactive life and sedentary occupations are also causes of constipation. Active exercise promotes all the bodily functions, and helps to regulate the bowels. Those who are engaged in literary pursuits, find that mental occupation determines the blood to the brain, thus drawing it from the extremities; the temperature falls below the natural standard, and there is almost invariably congestion of the bowels. The inmates of boarding-schools, factory girls, seamstresses, milliners, employÉs in manufacturing establishments, and all who sit and toil almost unremittingly twelve hours in the day, do not get sufficient exercise of all the muscles of the body, and are often troubled with obstinate constipation. Food prepared according to the modern modes of cookery, is one of the causes which favors the developement of this derangement. People live too exclusively upon bolted wheat flour. The branny portion of a kernel of wheat consists of various nutritive elements, with more than five times the amount of phosphate of lime contained in fine bolted flour. Those who daily use boiled cracked wheat are not troubled by constipation. There is no dryness or hardness of the feces, and the bowels are evacuated without discomfort. Treatment. Prevention is always better than cure; hence, a few hygienic directions may not be amiss. Do not disregard the intimations of nature, but promptly respond to her calls. If there is constipation, overcome it by establishing the habit of making daily efforts to effect a movement of the bowels. Taking regular exercise by walking, and lightly percussing or kneading the bowels for five minutes daily, help to increase their activity. The habit of early rising favors the natural action of the bowels. Drinking a glass of water on rising exerts a The medical treatment of individual cases sometimes involves many considerations relative to the particular circumstances and complications presented. The peculiar susceptibility of the constitution, as well as the diseases incident to constipation, must be taken into account. Symptomatic derangement should not be treated as primary, although it is by inexperienced physicians. If the patient be afflicted with uterine disease, piles, nervous affections, falling of the lower bowel, or fistula, they should be treated in connection with this disease. For these reasons, we would advise our readers to submit all complicated cases, or those that do not yield to the course heretofore advised, to a physician of large experience in the management of chronic diseases, and not assume the great responsibility and the dire consequences which are PILES. (HEMORRHOIDS.)There are few maladies more common than this, and few which are more annoying. Piles consist of tumors formed within the rectum and about the anus, by dilatation of the hemorrhoidal veins and thickening of their walls. Sometimes, when attended by considerable inflammation, or when the attacks are very frequent, there is thickening of the adjacent cellular and mucous tissues. There are two general forms of this disease, the external or blind piles, in which the tumors are outside the anus, and the internal or bleeding piles, in which the tumors are formed within the sphincters, although after their formation they may protrude. The external piles are commonly made up of thick tissues; upon one side, the skin forms the covering, while on the inner surface is the mucous membrane of the bowel. It is this surface which is most tender and irritable and liable to inflammation. The internal form of the disease is situated from a half an inch to two and a half inches above the sphincter muscle of the anus. The tumors are usually round, oval or cylindrical in form. They may be scattered over the surface of the bowel, or clustered together. The illustrations (Figs. 1 and 2) show the two forms of the disease. The two protruding tumors in Fig. 2, illustrate the usual form of prolapsing internal piles, whilst the one highest up in the bowel shows the form most commonly met with. It is seldom that one pile tumor is found alone, there usually being two or three, and sometimes as many as five or six, in a cluster. Fig. 3 shows the manner of distribution of the veins in the rectal region. The small venous loops, or bulb-like terminations of the veins H. i., are the points at which the piles most frequently occur.
Causes. Whatever tends to favor an undue accumulation of blood in the hemorrhoidal veins predisposes to piles. For this reason the affection is frequently a result of diseases of the heart and liver, which cause an obstruction in the circulation of the blood through the portal vein. Mechanical pressure from tumors in the abdomen, pregnancy, or an enlarged or misplaced uterus, is not infrequently a cause of the disease,
Symptoms. The most common symptoms at first are slight uneasiness, such as a little soreness or itching at the verge of the anus, and at times lancinating pains. These sensations are more severe as a rule if the bowels are constipated. If the piles are external they frequently become inflamed, swollen and painful, and in some instances they suppurate, which usually results in relief. When internal piles have increased to any considerable extent, or have become inflamed, they produce not only itching at the extremity of the bowel, pain in the back, etc., but also a sensation of fullness in the rectum, as though some foreign body were present, and, on action of the bowels, there is a sensation as though a portion of the fÆces had not been expelled. When the internal piles become large, they frequently come down with fÆcal matter from the bowel, as illustrated in Fig. 2, and this prolapsus becomes more and more marked with the progress of the disease, until, in many cases, the tumors are forced down at each action of the bowels, causing excruciating pain until they are properly replaced. Usually, in the early stages, they recede spontaneously; however, after a time it becomes necessary for the sufferer to press them back, but in some instances this is impossible. Frequently during the protrusion one of the hemorrhoidal veins gives away, and this is followed by a free escape of blood, and ulceration may ensue. Not infrequently with this disease the patient loses strength and flesh, and the face becomes pale and puffy, assuming a waxy appearance. Many times there is nausea, with vertigo. Is consequence of the relaxation, the bowel may descend
Treatment. Notwithstanding the well established fact that piles are readily cured by the appropriate treatment, hundreds of thousands of people suffer untold tortures from them because of the popular impression that they cannot be cured. All cases are not, however, amenable to the same form of treatment, for various unhealthy conditions of the system are often concerned in their production and perpetuation, and must, of necessity, be remedied by appropriate treatment, before a cure of the piles can be expected. It will, therefore, become apparent that the avoidance of causes is of paramount importance. Some of these causes are external, and wholly under the control of the patient, while others depend upon diseases that are curable; it frequently happens that while other diseases are being remedied, the piles disappear Without any special attention. Diseases of the urinary apparatus, as stricture of the urethra, enlargement of the prostate gland, and stone in the bladder, dysentery, diarrhea, and constipation,—all cause piles, by the irritation, and determination of blood, which they induce; these difficulties must be removed by appropriate treatment. Some years since, we ascertained that we were using in our practice remedies which, in addition to other virtues, possessed a direct specific influence upon the vessels concerned in the formation of piles. These agents enter into the composition of Dr. Pierce's Golden Medical Discovery, which, consequently, will be found exceedingly efficacious in the treatment of this disease. This remedy, therefore, in removing the disease upon which the piles depend, as a congested or torpid liver, constipation, etc., and in exciting a direct curative control over the piles themselves, exerts a double influence. It may be aided, when the bowels are badly constipated, by the use of Dr. Pierce's Pleasant Pellets, taken in The Radical Cure of Large Pile Tumors. In cases in which the tumors have become indurated and very large it is impossible to effect cures by the foregoing or any other medical treatment. Various methods have been in use by the profession for the relief of the most severe cases. The most common is excision with the knife or scissors. Reference to the large vessels, shown in Fig. 3, which are affected in this disease, will at once show the sufferer the dangers of this method. The sudden removal of a tumor, which is connected with one or more of the large hemorrhoidal veins, is sure to be followed by severe hemorrhage, and many times painful ulceration, and a fatal result. To avoid this it has been the practice of many physicians to apply caustics or to burn off the base of the tumors with a red-hot iron. A more barbarous and painful method could not be devised. When it is considered that in many cases, this severe and painful treatment is followed by ulceration, and occasionally by the developement of cancer, the matter should be carefully weighed before any such dangerous procedure is attempted. Another common method of treatment is to crush the base of the pile with a clamp, and then cut off the tumors with scissors. After this it is also necessary to apply the hot iron to prevent hemorrhage. Formerly, applications of nitric acid were in common use by physicians as a means of cure, but it was found that while this treatment would give temporary relief, yet in no severe case would it effect a cure. By what we term palliative treatment alone more cures are effected than by the old process of treatment with nitric acid. Still another form of treatment is strangulation of the pile by means of a ligature, and this is often more painful than the application of hot irons, inasmuch as in cutting off the return flow of blood from the piles, a large tumor is left for days fully distended and extremely painful. It does not slough off for a considerable time, and we have seen the strongest men suffer intensely, to whom the use of scissors in removing the tumors was a positive relief in comparison with the torture of the ligature. A treatment that has been highly recommended by some physicians and condemned by others, is A More Successful Method. Fortunately for suffering humanity, a method of treatment has been perfected and thoroughly tested in our institution, in which all such trouble and danger as above described are avoided. This consists in bringing down the tumors, cleansing them and making application, of certain chemical preparations, that cause the tumors to speedily shrivel up, and in a very short time, say ten to fourteen days, disappear entirely. These treatments and applications cause no pain whatever, for by first applying a weak solution of cocaine to the parts they are speedily rendered entirely insensible, so that the most sensitive, nervous lady experiences not the slightest suffering from the application of our remedies. Having now at our command means so positively certain in their action upon pile tumors, we do not hesitate to say that the very worst cases, no matter of how long standing, can be promptly cured, if we can only have the patient for a few days under our personal care. Considering the very distressing character of pile tumors, it is a great boon that we have at last found safe, painless, and positively certain means for their cure. The news will be hailed with joy by a large class of sufferers. Probably no other discovery in modern science is destined to be the means of conferring greater blessings on a large class of sufferers than that of a painless and positive method of curing the largest pile tumors in the brief time required by our system of treating them. It seems to us that there is no longer an excuse for any one to endure the tortures inflicted by pile tumors, provided the afflicted one can command the little time and moderate amount of means necessary to secure the treatment indicated. Piles are not only in and of themselves very painful and annoying, but often greatly aggravate and even cause other grave and painful affections, and should, therefore, not be neglected. When large, they never get well without proper treatment. We have seen many cases in which the long train of diverse and distressing symptoms caused by piles led the sufferer, and even the family physician, to suppose that other diseases existed, but all of which annoying symptoms were speedily dispelled by the cure of the piles. We have no doubt that neglected piles, fistulÆ, and other morbid conditions of the Reports of a few cases, selected at random from the large number which we have cured, are given below to illustrate our success in curing them. ANAL FISTULA. (FISTULA IN ANO.)This disease is more dangerous than piles, though, after once formed, not so painful. It sometimes commences with intense itching about the anus, accompanied with a little discharge; or the first symptom may be a painful abscess, like a boil, which finally breaks. The soreness then in a measure subsides, leaving a fistulous opening, with a continuous discharge of matter. This unnatural opening, with its constant drain upon the system, sooner or later is certain to ruin the health or develop consumption or other maladies, and destroy life. Fistula in Ano may exist in three conditions: First, complete fistula—when the opening is continuous from the cavity of the rectum or bowel to the surface of the skin, so that liquids, gases, etc., escape; secondly, internal incomplete fistula, when the opening extends from the inside of the rectum into the tissues surrounding it, but not through the skin. A few cases of this kind exist, while the sufferers are unconscious of the nature of the difficulty, supposing it to be piles or some trouble—they know not what. Thirdly, external, incomplete fistula, when the opening extends through the skin into the tissues around the rectum, but does not enter the bowel. Other complications, such as pendulous tits or projections, from one-fourth to one and a half inches in length, are attendant upon fistula. Two or more openings may appear in the skin, all communicating with the same sinus, or opening into the rectum. Sometimes only a small external opening is seen, while a large abscess exists internally. In any case, the discharge is not only reducing to the system, but it is disgusting and offensive. Causes The causes are a constitutional predisposition, constipation, piles, or the presence of foreign bodies in the rectum, causing an Diagnosis. The disease may be suspected, if there has been an abscess in the parts involved, or if the patient has been subject to pain in the rectum, and the parts are tender, tumid, or indurated. When the fistula opens externally, the linen will be moistened and soiled with pus, or a bloody fluid, and when the tract is large, the foeces may pass through it. A careful exploration with a probe, passed into the external opening while the finger is in the rectum, generally reveals the direction of the tract; but, sometimes, in consequence of the tortuous course of the canal, the probe cannot he made to follow it. When the fistula is incomplete, and opens internally, the probe is passed into the rectum and directed outwards, when it may be felt externally. In such cases, a tumor, caused by the contents of the fistula, may generally be seen protruding near the anus, and the pain will be considerably increased during defecation, by the foeces passing into it and disturbing its walls. The examination should be made with the greatest possible care, for it is attended with more or less pain. Treatment. When constitutional derangement exists, it must be rectified, or any treatment will be liable to result in failure. The comfort of the patient may be greatly promoted by attention to the bowels, keeping their contents in a soluble condition, and the liver active, so as to prevent congestion of the rectum and adjacent structures. This can best be done by careful attention to hygiene, and the use of "Golden Medical Discovery" and "Pellets," in sufficient quantities to produce the above named effects. A radical cure, however, cannot be accomplished except by surgical means, for which we have the knife, ligature, caustic, stimulating injections, etc., which may be varied to suit the emergency, but which should never be employed except by a competent surgeon. Constitutional conditions materially influence the cure, no matter what procedure is adopted; the greater the constitutional derangement and the poorer the general health, the longer is the cure delayed. The great secret of our success in treating this disease consists in applying appropriate constitutional treatment at the same time. The use of the knife is becoming obsolete, and has, to a great extent, given way to other measures which are equally successful. Indeed, other means will succeed in cases in which the knife fails or is for any reason inapplicable. One great objection to the knife is not only the Fistula is much more common than has generally been supposed. It is apt to be associated with pulmonary diseases. Heretofore, it has been supposed that to heal the fistula, during the progress of the lung affection, would result in fatal consequences, and the patient has been left to suffer and die under the combined influence, of the two diseases. Observation, based upon an extensive experience in the management of such diseases, has proved that supposition to be fallacious in every respect, and we would urge all persons afflicted with fistula to have the affliction cured, no matter what complications may exist. The fact underlying this erroneous opinion is, that when grave constitutional troubles have co-existed the use of the knife has resulted in failure, and the fistula has refused to heal. Having had ample facilities for observing the relative merits of the various methods of treating this complaint, in hundreds of eases, in our own practice and that of others, we feel justified in saying that the plan which we have adopted is far superior to that in general use. The local treatment which we employ depends upon the nature of the fistula; in some instances the ligature is best, in others caustics, and again injection, etc., while still others require a combination of two or more methods, or a modification of them. In cases in which it is impossible for the patient to come to our hotel for a radical and speedy cure of the fistula, we employ constitutional treatment, with, the use of a medicated crayon, which is similar in shape to a small slate pencil. This crayon is made of gelatine with the remedial agents thoroughly incorporated through it, and in an easily soluble form. They are very flexible and readily used, and where the fistulous track is sufficiently large to admit of their insertion, the most decided improvement invariable follows their application. One is oiled and gently introduced into the track every two or three days, and by its solution the unhealthy tissues which line the track are removed. They are thrown off, and a healthy action is induced. With careful constitutional treatment, decided improvement soon follows, and the discharge is gradually lessened. The most satisfactory improvement occurs in the general health and strength of the patient, and gradually the fistula closes. Sometimes it is necessary to pursue this course of treatment for many months, but the result obtained is sufficient reward for the trouble. A large percentage of cures follow this treatment, and we recommend it when it is impossible for the patient to leave home, or when the general health is greatly reduced by severe constitutional disease. |
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