Therapeutic Facts.

Hematuria and Acid Urine

I desire to add to the therapeutic collection of valuable facts, one which seems to be overlooked by many physicians. It is a condition of the kidneys and urine from which women seem to be subjected more frequently than men. It seems to be caused by overwork or violent exertion, by overheating and subsequent exposure to extreme cold.

The first evidence of disease is blood in the urine, with severe smarting pain after urinating. The pain is sometimes so agonizing that an opiate is required. Upon examination the urine will be found to be extremely acid in reaction and often there is more or less pus in the urine. The treatment which is common by regular physicians I find to be alkalines for the acid reaction, with urotropin and cystogen. Eclectic physicians would give chimaphila, eucalyptus, corn silk and others of this list. If he should call counsel, santal oil, buchu, pareira brava, and kava kava might be suggested.

My method of treating these cases is based upon the acidity of the urine, upon possible ulceration and consequent hemorrhage. I have given the following formula with excellent results: Aromatic sulphuric acid, one ounce; mangifera indica and glycerin, of each half of an ounce. Mix. Take five or six drops in water at each dose every two or three hours, according to the condition. Later three or four times a day will be sufficiently often. The aromatic sulphuric acid not only controls the hemorrhages, but it changes the character of the urine, reducing the excessive acidity.

Mangifera has its specific influence upon the bladder walls, controlling inflammatory conditions there. In 24 hours the reaction of the urine is normal and the case proceeds rapidly to a happy termination. Acid urine can be made alkaline with potassium or sodium bicarbonate in a test tube, but not in the human body. In these cases I believe the acidity is due to the products of the ulceration, which is immediately corrected by the above treatment.

FREDERICK A. REW, M. D.

Ellingwood's Therapeutist, Vol. 3, 1909, was edited by Finley Ellingwood M.D.