_
Uterine dropsy is an unnatural swelling, caused by the collection of
wind or phlegm in the cavity, membranes or substance of the womb, on
account of the want of innate heat and of sufficient alimentation, and
so it turns into an excrescence. The causes are, too much cold and
moisture of the milt and liver, immoderate drinking, eating
insufficiently cooked meat, all of which by causing repletion, overpower
the natural heat. It may likewise be caused by undue menstruation, or by
any other immoderate evacuation. To these may be added abortions,
subcutaneous inflammations and a hardened swelling of the womb.
SIGNS.
The signs of this affection are as follows:--The lower parts of the
stomach, with the genitals, are swollen and painful; the feet swell, the
natural colour of the face is lost, the appetite becomes depraved, and
there is a consequent heaviness of the whole body. If the woman turns
over in bed a noise like flowing water is heard, and sometimes water is
discharged from the womb. If the swelling is caused by wind and the
stomach feels hot, it sounds like a drum; the bowels rumble, and the
wind escapes through the neck of the womb with a murmuring noise. This
affection may be distinguished from true conception in many ways, as
will be shown in the chapter on _conception_.
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