Abscess - Victorian Health and Medicine

ABSCESS. A collection of pus or matter deposited in a cavity, occasioned by inflammation. The mode of treatment for the cure of abscess is, to promote suppuration rather than retard it; this is effected by warm fomentations, and poultices of bread and water or linseed meal.

If the suppuration proceeds slowly it may be hastened by opening with a lancet, and after the discharge of "matter, the poultices may be continued until all tenderness has left the part. The wound should then be dressed with spermaceti ointment twice a day, and lightly bandaged. In the early stages a liberal diet may be adopted, until the period of discharge; a light nutritious diet should then be substituted, and mild aperients administered, until perfect health is restored.

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