Other formats

    TEI XML file   ePub eBook file  

Connect

    mail icontwitter iconBlogspot iconrss icon

The New Zealand Railways Magazine, Volume 10, Issue 5 (August 1, 1935)

Health Notes. — In Season—“A Touch of Rheumatism.”

Health Notes.
In Season—“A Touch of Rheumatism.”

During the cold, wet weather of winter and early spring, many people show symptoms of rheumatism. These may be at first only a sensation of soreness or stiffness of the joints or page 62 muscles with gradual loss of power and freedom of movement. Very often rheumatism commences with acute pain in a joint or part affected.

At the first twinge of rheumatism it is well to turn our attention to the condition of the teeth and gums, tonsils and the digestive tract. Constipation is an exciting cause of rheumatism. Saline purgatives are indicated and small regular doses are advisable.

Massage, with or without a liniment, is efficacious. Warm clothing is essential. Diet is an important factor. It is well to cut down the meat ration and take white meats, fish or chicken, instead; also cut down the starchy foods, such as potatoes, milk puddings and white bread. Eat plenty of green vegetables and fruit, both raw and cooked. Take fruit drinks (lemons or oranges) and water between meals instead of tea and coffee with them.

The “growing pains” of children are often a form of rheumatism. During the cold weather they should be warmly clad, change their shoes and stockings if they have been out in the rain, and take any other hygienic precautions to prevent chills. Good nourishing food, including green vegetables, fruit and milk, is essential.