HOT-WATER BAGS.

Tuapeka Times, Volume XXV, Issue 4252, 26 June 1895, Page 4

HOT- WATER BAGS.

When the indiarubber hot- water bag is as unexpensive as it is at present, it becomes almost a duty to possess one. the water to fill them is always attainable, and the comfort of the possession will amply repay the expense. Frequently they relieve pain in a fear simpler and more effectual manner than does any medicine. A bag placed on the side of the neuralgic face will cause the blood to flow to that part and bring nourishment to the starving nerve. A fit of indigestion may be overcome in a similar manner. The weak heart may be assisted by a very scantily-filled bag being placed under the left area, against the side. In the summer hotel on a rainy day it will make one quite fearless of the halfaired sheets and chilly bed, and thereby ward off that attack of the " blues " which cold, unseasonable summer weather often produces. Then again, carefully concealed in its dark-colored bag, what a comfortable companion for a long, cold, country drive. Always soothing, never contradictory, it is actually a life-saving machine. The writer remembers bringing up a motherless puppy dog, with an inherited delicacy of constitution, with the sole assistance of a feeding bottle and a hot-water bag. He throve in strength to the extent of demolishing most of his preserver's wardrobe, but he never meant harm. Many as are the blessings of the hot-water bottle, it; must not be forgotten that it is also a source of some danger. Always see that the stopper is absolutely tight, and never use it without a thick cover. Maay a painful burn has it given, says " Good House Keeping," especially to an unconscious patient or to aa old person. In old age, the circulation being weaker the vitality becomes low. A thick cover will keep the water longer warm, as well as insure against burns. Filling the bag quite full will also cause the beat ty be retained for a longer time, but it will not be as comfortable as when half full. When not in use, the bag should be emptied.