DEP/DUA/1/44/05 (Normalised version)

Margaret Wilson

(1788)

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N^o5^th Margaret Wilson at

Principle complaint to which this patient subjected an affection of her ear.

And according to account given us has been subjected to repeated inflammation & suppuration.

This affection as well as that of [first] patient Kath Hastie seems also to be a sequel of fever.

At least of this strong presumption from its occurring also, during course, or on termination of fever.

And while in one an example of fever giving rise to affection of eye on other has [produced] affection of ear.

But besides this, patient subjected also to another affection to which females always apt to pay great [illegible].

Obstruction viz of menstrual evacuation.

This we are told had not appeared for two last periods.

And by patient herself ascribed to exposure to cold from wet feet during flow of menses.

This it must be admitted often a cause inducing it.

Evident however, that as well as affection of ear, had only [taken] place since subjected to fever.

And can be no doubt that much more frequently a symptom than an idiopathic affection

Hence then, here I own inclined to consider it, as consequence of that state of system, which fever left.

And that therefore to be cured by restoration of former vigour.

To be effected much more by diet & regimen than by medicine.

Hence then has hitherto been no object of practice.

And am in hopes that without any medicine may be restored by operation of system itself.

Is probably also chiefly in way of natural cure that to expect removal of affection of ear.

For both suppuration & adhesive inflammation may justly be considered as natural processes.

Have however had recourse to a mixture of Liquid Laudanum & Camphor Oil.

In first an article tendency to allay pain

In last one favourable resolution of inflammation, & having influence in preventing return

Since that with latter intention, have had recourse to blister & issue

Of intention in these practices shall after speak more fully.

And hope may also be able to add that not used without effect.