DEP/DUA/1/36/08 (Transcript version)

Janet Hunter

1784

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N^o4^th Oct 29. 1784

Janet Hunter at 11 is affected with fits which attack her in general two or three times every day. They are commonly attended with an apparent abolition of sense, sometimes with inordinate motion of the legs & arms, sometimes both arms will remain motionless & extended for a considerable length of time. During the night her sleep appears to be much disturbd by frequent startings which are in general accompanied by fits of crying & with muttering unconnected words.

She is then also observed to have much grinding of her teeth. She is also affected with considerable swelling of the abdomen particularly in the region of the stomach. Upon pressure no fluctuation is discoverable, but she is said to be affected with swelling of her legs at night, which disappears in the mornings. At present she is free from it. She is affected also with excessive itching of the nose & any exercise is observed to induce great difficulty of breathing. Pulse 60 belly pretty regular. Urine of a natural colour & appearance. Appetite preternaturally keen & she is at times troubled with some thirst.

Her present complaints began in May last when she was first observed to be affected with the fits. These have encreased in frequency & her other symptoms have gradually superveend. The swelling of her belly was first observed, about four months ago & was preceded by obstinate costiveness.

She knows no cause to which her complaints can be attributed & she has never been observed to pass any worms.

She has taken twice a dose of Senna & of purging salts, but without any benefite & she has used no other medicines.

Rx. Pulv. Cort Peruv. Pulv Valer

Sylv. aa ℥ I cap coch bis indies

Novr 5 Has taken her powder regularly & has had no fit since the last report. Swelling at her stomach much as before. Belly regular. Pulse 76 Cont Pulv. u. a.