Of external applications all that need be said is this, that if they
are not violently stimulating they do no harm; if, however, they
contain tartar emetic, in addition to their doing no good to the
disease, they cause unnecessary suffering to the patient, and are
sometimes productive of dangerous and even fatal sores.
Sect. IX.--CROUP.
This disease is one of the most formidable of childhood; sudden
(generally) in its attacks, most active in its progress, and if not
met by a prompt and decided treatment, fatal in its termination. Hence
the paramount importance of parents being acquainted with the signs
which indicate its approach, that medical aid may be secured at the
very onset of the disease. Upon this early application of suitable
remedies every thing depends.
SIGNS OF ITS APPROACH.--Croup may appear in one of two ways: either
preceded for two or three days by the symptoms of a common cold,
accompanied with hoarseness and a rough cough; or it may attack with
the most alarming suddenness, during the night for instance, although
the child had been merry and well the previous evening.
Hoarseness, however, is the premonitory and important symptom of
croup; for although it is not every hoarseness that is followed by
this formidable malady, still this symptom rarely attends a common cold
in young children, and therefore always deserves when present the
serious attention of the mother, particularly if accompanied by a rough
cough.
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