urs, the vomit will probably obstruct the trachea, and
suffocate the victim.

After the stomach has been empty ten minutes, the patient should take a
double dose of bromides (Chapter XIX) and go to bed. Next morning he will
be well, whereas if he eats but a single piece of bread-and-butter he will
probably have a fit within five minutes.

Unfortunately, in 60 per cent of cases, there is no warning at all, while
in those cases which do exhibit an aura, the measures mentioned above more
often fail than succeed.

* * * * *

CHAPTER VI

FIRST-AID TO VICTIMS

"First-aid is the assistance which can be given in case of emergency by
those who, with certain easily acquired knowledge are in a position,
not only to relieve the sufferer, but also to prevent further mischief
being done pending the arrival of a doctor."--Dickey.

_Never try to cut short a fit_. Placing smelling-salts beneath the nose,
together with all other remedies for people who have "fainted", are useless
in epilepsy.

Lay the patient on his back, with head slightly raised; admit air freely;
remove scarf or collar and tie, unfasten waistcoat, shirt, stays or other
tight garments, and if it be known or observed that the victim wears
artificial teeth, remove them.

If five people are at hand, let two persons grasp each a leg of the victim,
holding it above the ankle and above the knee; two others should each hold
a hand and the shoulder; the fifth supports the head. Do not kneel opposite
the feet or you may receive a severe kick. Prevent the limbs from striking
the floor, but _allow them full play_. If the victim rolls on his face
gently turn him on his back.

Roll a large handkerchief up _from the side_ (not diagonally) and holding
one end firmly, tie a knot in the other end, and place it between the teeth
to protect the tongue; or slide the handle of a spoon or a piece of smooth
wood between the teeth, and thus hold the tongue down. Soft articles like
cork and indiarubber should not be used, for if they are bitten through,
the rear portion will fall down the throat and choke the victim.

After the fit, lower the head to one side to clear any vomitus which, if
left, might be drawn into the windpipe, lift the patient on to a couch,
cover him warmly, and let him sleep. An epileptic's bed should be placed on
the ground floor; if his bed be upstairs, it is difficult to get him there
after an attack, while he