DEP/DUA/1/21/17 (Normalised version)

Margaret Inglis

(1779-1780)

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Margaret Inglis

Symptoms to which this patient subjected numerous & diversified.

But all I apprehend to be considered as referred to one genus of disease.

Have little hesitation in considering case of this patient as exhibiting to us a striking & in some respects singular instance of Hysteria.

And notwithstanding fits of involuntary [laughter] yawning, [term], palpitation etc would consider it rather as an assembly of Hysteria symptoms than as consisting in hysteria fits

Of these symptoms some at least particularly the mental affection rather uncommon occurrences.

For from account given us would appear that at first state of delirium occurred approaching even to insania.

Can hardly however be much astonished at any variety which this disease puts on.

For these in different cases of very great diversity.

And if in some cases of such nature that seem to be much more serious than others, so to be remembered that in every instance affection much more alarming than dangerous.

If threatening appearance of symptoms might give rise to some apprehensions so from short duration of complaint greater reason to hope for recovery.

And am in hopes that under our care complaint of this patient may at least be alleviated if not removed.

Measures hitherto employed with this case intended with two views.

Have had recourse to sedative as means of immediately obviating symptoms.

And to tonics with view of preventing [return]

With first intention had here recourse to use of Extract of Hyoscyamus.

An article from which am persuaded that many of the narcotic effects of opium may be obtained.

While at same time on two accounts seemed to be here preferable.

First as having tendency rather to open than bind belly.

And secondly as having effect to quite confuse of head & tendency to delirium which by opium often very much increased.

While from these circumstances appeared advisable in present instance may venture to say, that have not been disappointed in effects

And from use at bed time to extent of only grain ss. quiet & sound sleep procured.

Imagine that by repetition of dose in morning symptoms might in similar manner be alleviated.

But from narcotic effect as inducing sleep in day time obliged to desist from it.

Now therefore confined her to even dose only employed through day as antispasmodic & tonic Calx of Zinc combined with Valerian.

And am in hopes that from continuation of this course may in no long time be in condition to be dismissed.

If not may have recourse to other tonics as Pill Caeruleae, Peruvian Bark or Cold Bathing