Theses medicae de dyspnoea

XV.

The common signs of the causes are present; however, with the addition of those marks which follow from the nature of the affected part, the specific signs will easily be determined.

XVI.

This affliction is accustomed to recur through cycles and intervals of time, frequently being hereditary, and, indeed, in the very elderly, it does not admit of a cure.

XVII.

As concerns the cure, it is divided into two parts: prophylactic and therapeutic.

XVIII.

Prophylaxis consists in this: that the whole body be kept free from all recrements—especially those which are accustomed to induce or increase this affection—by the opportune use of things taken internally, things applied externally, actions performed, and extrinsic factors.

XIX.

Therefore, this is of the greatest importance: that in the time of spring and autumn, if the case appears to demand it, a suitable vein be opened, or the noxious humor be purged by medicine, provided that it has, of course, been correctly prepared beforehand.

XX.

The therapy itself, taking its first indication from the cause effecting the obstruction or constriction, ought to commence with bloodletting or purging, as has been stated; unless, perhaps, the vehemence of the symptoms should invert this order.

XXI.

If the matter rushes into the lungs or the thorax, whether from the head or from another part, it must be partly revoked and partly evacuated. Other things must also be employed, when necessity demands, such as cupping glasses, frictions, and ligatures, so that we may more easily obtain our desired result.