31. PALPITATION OF THE HEART.--To be prevented by healthy living and calm,
good humor. Lying down will often gradually relieve it, so will a compress
wet with water, as hot as can be borne, placed over the heart and renewed
as often as it gets cool.

32. FAINTING.--Most likely to be caused by "quickening," or else by tight
dress, bad air, over-exertion, or other unhealthy living. It is not often
dangerous. Lay the patient in an easy posture, the head rather low than
high, and where cool air may blow across the face; loosen the dress if
tight; sprinkle cold water on the face and hands.

33. SLEEPLESSNESS.--Most likely to be caused by incorrect living, and to be
prevented and cured by the opposite. A glass or two of cold water drank
deliberately on going to bed often helps one to go to sleep; so does
bathing the face and hands and the feet in cold water. A short nap in the
latter part of the forenoon can sometimes be had, and is of use. Such a nap
ought not to be too long, or it leaves a heavy feeling; it should be sought
with the mind in a calm state, in a well-ventilated though darkened room,
and with the clothing removed, as at night. A similar nap in the afternoon
is not so good, but is better than nothing. The tepid sitz-bath on going to
bed will often produce sleep, and so will gentle percussion given by an
attendant with palms of the hand over the back for a few minutes on
retiring. To secure sound sleep do not read, write or severely tax the mind
in the evening. {282}

[Illustration]

MORNING SICKNESS.

1. A pregnant woman is especially liable to suffer many forms of dyspepsia,
nervous troubles, sleeplessness, etc.

2. MORNING SICKNESS is the most common and is the result of an irritation
in the womb, caused by some derangement, and it is greatly irritated by the
habit of indulging in sexual gratification during pregnancy. If people
would imitate the lower animals and reserve the vital forces of the mother
for the benefit of her unborn child, it would be a great boon to humanity.
Morning sickness may begin the next day after conception, but it usually
appears from two to three weeks after the beginning of pregnancy and
continues with more or less severity from two to four months.

3. HOME TREATMENT FOR MORNING SICKNESS.--Avoid all highly seasoned and rich
food. Also avoid strong tea and coffee. Eat especially light and simple
suppers at five o'clock and no later than six. Some simple broths, such as
wil