Kitap 1
7
The varieties of paralysis are these: sometimes the limbs lose their faculties while in a state of extension, nor can they be brought back into the state of flexion, when they appear very much lengthened; and sometimes they are flexed and cannot be extended; or if forcibly extended, like a piece of wood on a rule, they become shorter than natural. The pupil of the eye is subject to both these varieties, for sometimes it is much expanded in magnitude, when we call it Platycoria; but the pupil is also contracted to a small size, when I call it Phthisis and Mydriasis. The bladder, also, is paralysed in respect to its peculiar functions; for either it loses its powers as regards distension, or it loses its retentive powers, or it becomes contracted in itself, when being filled with urine, it cannot expel the same. There are six causes of paralytic disorders; for they arise from a wound, a blow, exposure to cold, indigestion, venery, intoxication. But so likewise the vehement affections of the soul, such as astonishment, fear, dejection of spirits, and, in children, frights. Great and unexpected joy has also occasioned paralysis, as, likewise, unrestrained laughter, even unto death. These, indeed, are the primary causes; but the ultimate and vital cause is refrigeration of the innate heat. It suffers from humidity, or dryness, and is more incurable than the other; but if also in connection with a wound, and complete cutting asunder of a nerve, it is incurable. In respect to age, the old are peculiarly subject, and difficult to cure; in children, the cases are easily restored. As to seasons, the winter; next, the spring; afterwards, the autumn; least of all, the summer. Of habits, those naturally gross, the humid, indolent, brutish.
