Catarrh

CATARRH, a term chiefly signifying mild inflammation of the mucous membrance of the respiratory passages, in popular language a "cold." It is the result of infection by a micro organism esp. M. catarrlialis, and begins with sneezing and pro fuse watery discharge from the nostrils and eyes while smell and taste are impaired. There is usually sore throat and bronchial irritation, causing hoarseness and cough. Sometimes temporary loss of voice results. There is always more or less feverishness and discomfort, and frequently an extreme sensitiveness to cold.

After a few days the symptoms begin to abate, the discharge from the nostrils and chest becoming thick and yellow. Where natural resistance is low bronchitis or bronchopneumonia may ensue.

Treatment.

A hot bath with a dose of sp. etheris nitr., Dover's powder or aspirin at night is sometimes useful. Pre ventive treatment is by vaccine therapy (q.v.). Locally a snuff made of menthol I part, ammonium chloride 3 parts and boracic acid 2 parts will relieve the discomfort of the nose.

The term catarrh is used in a wider sense to describe a similar pathological condition of any mucous surface in the body, e.g. gastric catarrh, intestinal catarrh, etc.

See also RESPIRATORY SYSTEM, and ALIMENTARY SYSTEM.