In cases of either mild or severe whooping cough the stomach and bowels require very close attention. Mucous membranes in general are affected, and incorrect food induces indigestion, and this increases the number and severity of the paroxysms. As there is always a tendency to vomit, a small amount of food given at regular and frequent intervals is best. Three meals a day will hardly answer in this disease. Liquids and semi-solid foods only should be given during the first, severe, part of the disease. Osier says, "Give no solid foods, nor fruits, except orange and lemon juice, and do not give these with other foods."

Those who adhere most rigidly to given rules can reduce the number and severity of the paroxysms very quickly.

May Eat

Milk

Milk and barley water

Milk and white of egg

Eggnog

Cup custards

Soft custards

Floating island

Well-cooked cereals

Junket

Buttermilk

Milk toast

Milk toast, with hard yolk grated over Egg flip, plain

Egg flip, with a little sherry Chicken broth, with rice Plain chicken broth Cream chicken broth Strained mutton broth Lemon gelose once a day