Observations.——Burns are of frequent occurrence, and all families should have a supply of carded cotton, sweet oil, linseed oil, and lime water, particularly when any of their number are exposed to burning, such as engineers, smiths, &c. The great matter, in cases of burning, is prompt application of the remedy; any simple thing that is soft, and keeps a regular temperature, is answerable; and perhaps there is not a better and readier thing than a soft linen cloth wrung out of warm water and laid over the part, and carefully covering the wetted cloth with a dry towel or two, so as to retain the vapour. The heat of the skin keeps up the temperature of the water, so as to retain a soft covering of vapour around it. If the burn be deep, however, it may be requisite to poultice it till the dead part separate, and then dress it as a common sore, with hogs' lard or Turuer's eerate spread upon a linen cloth, &c.
CHILBLAINS.
Causes.——Sudden transition from severe cold to heat, particularly when the feet or hands are wet.
Symptoms.——Swelling and redness, sensation of heat and itching at the affected part, which is usually in the fingers and toes. In severe cases, the chilblain assumes a bluish or purplish hue.
Treatment.——Rub the parts affected well with snow or ice water, or bath them in the latter several times daily, always taking care to dry well; another plan is to rub them with spirits of wine, tincture of soap and opium, or a solution of alum in vinegar.
Observations.——When chilblains suppurate, leaving open sores, they may be bathed with lime water, tincture of myrrh, or warm vinegar, and dressed with common citron ointment; but if very backward, they require to be touched occasionally with lunar caustic. Active exercise in the open air, and comfortable clothing, are tho best preventatives.
