our treatment of this affection.

A careful chemical and microscopical examination of the urine often
discloses the actual morbid conditions which perpetuate this functional
disease.

CHRONIC DIARRHEA.

On account of the frequency and importance of chronic diarrhea, we deem
it worthy of special consideration. It is frequently the sequel of the
acute form of the affection. The urgent and severe symptoms of acute
diarrhea are often abated, but the disease is not completely cured. The
bowels are left in an irritable condition, perhaps in a state of chronic
ulceration, which perpetuates morbid discharges.

The most noticeable symptom is the tendency to frequent and unhealthy
discharges from the intestines. The evacuated matter varies much in
appearance and character in different cases. The precise location of the
morbid conditions which give rise to the discharges, as well as to their
extent, modifies the color, consistency, and ingredients of the stools.
Most frequently they are dark colored and of very offensive odor. They
are of a more liquid character than is natural, except when, as is
sometimes the case, periods of constipation alternate with periods of
unnatural looseness. Tormina, or griping, is usually present, but not so
severe as in the acute affection. Tenesmus, or straining, often
accompanies it. The appetite is impaired, there is general debility, and
the patient is nervous and irritable. The complexion becomes sallow, the
skin dry and rough, the tongue dark colored, and the body emaciated.

The affection may be the sequel of neglected or badly treated acute
diarrhea, may arise from the injudicious use of powerful purgative
medicines, may result from dissipation, unwholesome food, bad air,
absence of light, long continued exposure to dampness and cold,
overwork, and extreme mental anxiety. Sometimes it is associated with
other diseases, such as Bright's disease of the kidneys, scurvy, or some
of the various forms of scrofulous disease.

The more prominent symptoms are so apparent and so characteristic that
the most unskilled may be able to decide whether the patient has chronic
diarrhea; but to determine in what portion of the intestinal canal the
affection is chiefly seated, to decide upon the extent of its ravages,
to ascertain what peculiar shade or type the affection has taken on, to
investigate its complications and modifications, to ferret out its
producing or aggravating causes, and above al