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St. Vitas-Dance (Chorea).The constant activity of the muscles causes exhaustion, so that the patient may be unable to perform the acts necessary to supply his bodily wants. He may even be unable to walk, not because his legs are too weak, but simply because they do not obey his will. In most cases the contortions become more violent as the patient's efforts to control his muscles become more vigorous. The affection is not accompanied by fever, but the general health is usually somewhat impaired. In many instances there is decided pallor and often some emaciation. The mind becomes impaired. At times the power of speech is practically lost on account of the lack of control of the muscles whereby articulation is affected. In these cases the individual seems even more stupid and imbecile than is actually the case. The strength of the muscles which are affected by the disease is diminished, and in consequence there is apt to be general impairment of muscular strength. At times, also, the sense of touch is impaired, especially in that part of the body which is subject to the disease. St. Vitus' dance may occur at any period of life, but is most frequent during the years preceding puberty ; that is, from ten to fifteen. Girls are more frequently affected than boys, in the proportion of three to one. The affection lasts ordinarily from two to four months ; it may terminate earlier than this period, or may, on the other hand, last for many years. Cases are known, indeed, in which the individual has suffered from it during his entire life. It terminates usually in recovery ; yet the disease may recur several times in the same individual, although finally disappearing permanently. These relapses occur after intervals of several months, or even one or two years. As to the cause of chorea nothing definite is known. There are certain reasons for believing that in many cases at least the affection is a disease of the brain, consequent upon organic heart disease. Yet in the majority of cases there is apparently no disease of the heart, and it is impossible to ascribe the affection to this source. In other cases St. Vitus' dance commences immediately after a fit of excessive emotion, such as anger or terror. There is a popular idea that this affection, like so many others, is to be ascribed to worms in the intestine ; as to this, it can only be said that there is no evidence to this effect. It is quite possible that the irritation caused by the presence of worms may aggravate the condition, though it does not seem possible, in the light of our present experience, that the disease should ever be due entirely to them. But first, if you want to come back to this web site again, just add it to your bookmarks or favorites now! Then you'll find it easy! Also, please consider sharing our helpful website with your online friends.
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