by this wax.

Treatment.--The mass is best removed by syringing the hardened plug and
softening it gradually. Removing it with a currette and forceps without
softening it may do injury to the parts. The syringe and hot sterilized,
boiled water should be used for some time, and the patient asked
occasionally if there is any faintness or dizziness caused by it. It often
comes, in a lump after the water has been used for some time. A strong
solution of bicarbonate of sodium is also good to use.

FOREIGN BODIES IN THE EAR.--These are not of frequent occurrence. In the
case of children these bodies may comprise such objects as pebbles, beads,
beans, pieces of rolled paper, fly, bed-bug; insect of any kind may get
into ear of adults. If they reach the drum a very unpleasant sensation is
produced by the attempt to escape. Sometimes a layer of wax may gather
around the dead object. These bodies should be removed, for their presence
may produce a swelling or soreness in the canal. If the object is a dried
pea or bean the syringe should not be used. The object must be carefully
removed. Sometimes an operation is necessary to remove the object.

DISEASE OF THE MIDDLE EAR.--The ordinary cold in the head rarely runs its
course without one of the eustachian tubes at least is involved to some
extent.

SIMPLE INFLAMMATION OF THE EUSTACHIAN TUBE.--Causes.--Acute colds,
inflammation of the nose and pharynx, tonsilitis.

Symptoms.--The ear may feel full and numb, roaring in the ear may occur.
There may be pain on swallowing, shooting up through the tube.

[EYE AND EAR 361]

Treatment.--Remove the cause. Treat the nose and pharynx. Spray and gargle
with solutions advised for throat trouble. If it continues the throat
should be examined for adenoids, enlarged turbinate bones and so on.

ACUTE CATARRHAL INFLAMMATION OF THE MIDDLE EAR. Causes.--Acute coryza,
acute pharyngitis, influenza, scarlet fever, inflammation of the
eustachian tube, gargling, bathing, employing the nasal douche or
violently blowing the nose.

Inflammation of the eustachian tube is, in many cases, simply the first
stage or onset of this disease. The congestion extends beyond the tube and
involves to a greater or less degree this cavity. If it continues for a
few hours or an entire day, the watery elements of the blood will begin to
escape from the distended vessels into the tissues of the mucous membrane
and ooze out upon its free surface. If thi