Domestic Encyclopædia (1802)/Water, in the Head
WATER, in the Head, or Hydrocephalus, is a collection of serum, either between the bones and common integuments, when it is called external; or between the bones and membranes of the brain, when it is termed internal. As the former mostly affects infants, and generally proves fatal, we shall treat only of the latter species, which, if timely attended to, may frequently be removed.
Symptoms:—The head of the patient is enlarged, irregularly shaped, and almost quadrangular; the sutures are open; the bones thin and painful; the eyes appear starting from their sockets, and cannot bear the light;—the countenance is pale; the skin delicate; the respiration difficult; with alternate flushings in the face, uneasiness, and dulness: in short, all the common signs of rickets are discernible; few of such hapless persons attaining a considerable age; and being, in general, remarkably stupid.
Causes:—Mal-conformation of the head, which is frequently occasioned by the incautious use of emetics, opiates, and other active medicines, both during gestation, and when indiscriminately given to infants; farther, excessive evacuations which occasion debility; over-feeding, as well as improper food; spirituous and fermented liquors, especially punch; and even strong tea; lastly, violent exercise; falls, and bruises on the head.
Cure:—The first object will be to promote the resorption of water, by means of sudorifics, and diuretics; which are to be succeeded by tonics. Next, cold fomentations and lotions, made by infusions of malt, ought to be applied, together with frictions; and afterwards an ointment prepared of 1 oz. of pulverized fox-glove, and 1 dram of calomel; a small portion of which should be rubbed in every day.—Prof. Stark has successfully employed the valerian, with rob of juniper and elder; antimonial wine; and completed the cure with the Peruvian bark, quassia, and dandelion.—Blisters, setous and other artificial discharges, have occasionally been found useful; and the experienced Dr. Rowley recommends an ointment of savin to be applied to the crown of the head, for three or four weeks.
Where this formidable malady arises from suppressed perspiration, the head should be shaved, rubbed with a brush, and afterwards covered with a blister, or, at least with flannel.—Cupping has also frequently proved of service. Independently of external remedies, however, the patient ought to take such diuretics, and sudonfics, as are conformable to the nature of his complaint; which always requires medical attendance.