Treatment

The benign and self-limiting nature of the disease leaves but little need for work under this head. The old-school advise giving salines, aperients, laxatives, etc., and treating any special symptoms. Locally, in removing all causes of irritation - for example, irritated and ten­der gums, by lancing; acidity of stomach, by magnesia, soda, or lime-water; intestinal irritation, by "alteratives," such as rhubarb, and subsequently tonics, keeping up the warmth of the surface, and if possible bringing on pers­piration. The surface should not be chilled. The patient should be kept within doors for a few days, and have a warm bath at bed-time, followed by cutaneous frictions with oil; the diet should be light and non-stimulating.

Belladonna is the principal internal remedy. Ferrum phos. is highly recommended by some physicians. Large doses of antipyrine produce an erythernatous eruption which is cinnabar-red in color, slightly elevated, and consists of rounded spots, disappearing under pressure. At the knees and elbows are found great red patches, chiefly on the extensor surface. The head, palmar and plantar surfaces are not affected.