Читать книгу Special Report on Diseases of Cattle - Lowe - Страница 67

Mineral acids.—The mineral acids—nitric, sulphuric, hydrochloric, etc.— when used in a concentrated form destroy the animal tissues with which they come in contact, and in this respect differ from most of the poisons previously described. When taken into the stomach the mucous membrane of the mouth, pharynx, esophagus, and stomach is apt to be more or less completely destroyed. If taken in large quantities death is likely to result so speedily that nothing can be done to relieve the patient, and even if time is allowed and the action of the acid can be arrested it can not be done until considerable and, perhaps, irreparable damage has been done. The mucous membrane with which the acid has come in contact in the esophagus may be destroyed by its corrosive action and carried away, leaving the muscular tissues exposed. The raw surface heals irregularly, the cicatrice contracting causes stricture, and an animal so injured is likely to die of starvation. In the stomach even greater damage is likely to be done. The peristaltic action of the esophagus carries the irritant along quickly, but here it remains quiet in contact with one surface, destroying it. It is likely to perforate the organ and, coming in contact with the abdominal lining or other organs of digestion, soon sets up a condition that is beyond repair. In a less concentrated form, when this is not sufficiently strong to be corrosive, it exerts an irritant effect. In this form it may not do much harm unless taken in considerable quantity. When thus the mucous membrane of the stomach and intestines becomes inflamed pain and diarrhea are likely to result.

Treatment.—Any of the alkalies may be used as an antidote. Most convenient of these are chalk, baking soda, marble dust, magnesia, lime, soap, or plaster from a wall. Mucilaginous drinks should be given in large quantities.

Vegetable acids.—Oxalic acid in particular is corrosive in its action when taken in concentrated solution, losing its corrosive effect and becoming irritant when more dilute. It also exerts a specific effect on the heart, frequently causing death from syncope. Taken in the form either of the crystals or solution it is likely to cause death in a very short time. Failure of heart action and the attendant small pulse, weakness, staggering, and convulsions are the more noticeable symptoms. Acetic acid is irritant to the gastrointestinal tract, and may cause sudden paralysis of the heart.

Treatment.—The action of the acid should be counteracted by the use of alkalies, as advised above, by limewater or lime or plaster given promptly, by protectives to the digestive tract, and by stimulants.