Medical facilities in 19th century

Medical facilities and surgical procedures in the 19th century were at a primitive level compared to today's developed world. 

It is about a unique subject based on a medical, psychological and historical angle. But writing on such topics requires extreme caution, as they are sensitive in nature. Various aspects are highlighted for this article including medical, historical, and social factors. 

Introduction

Medical facilities and surgical procedures in the 19th century were at a primitive level compared to today's developed world. At such a time, people used strange methods to solve their problems, one of which is the treatment of bladder stones. Due to the lack of modern methods of treatment of stones, people had to face severe problems. This article will examine the initiative of one man who undertook a risky and self-imposed procedure to break up his bladder stone. 

Historical background

In the 19th century, there were very limited resources for treating bladder stones. Most of the surgical instruments were rudimentary and ineffective, and the surgical procedures were painful due to the absence of anesthesia. Most people of that time tried to solve their problems through indigenous methods or self-medication. Because at that time access to medical experts was very difficult for the common man. 

Bladder stones and their effects

Why are stones formed in the bladder? 

The main reason for the formation of stones is that the salts and minerals present in the urine take a solid form. This stone causes obstruction in the urinary tract. Due to which the patient has to face severe pain, blood in urine or urinary retention and other problems. 

In the 19th century, the treatment of this disease was very complicated and dangerous. Often the patients faced unbearable difficulties in their life. 

Self-treatment

This was a very dangerous practice. 

A man used a method to break up a bladder stone that was very dangerous and unmedical. He inserted a nail into his penis to gain access to the stone. A hammer was then used to break the stone into small pieces. This process gave rise to a number of complex problems, some of which are as follows:

1. Risk of injury and infection

The inner parts of the penis and bladder are very sensitive. Such a process can lead to injuries, infections, and even life-threatening complications. 

2. Severity of pain

As anesthesia was not used in those days, such a procedure caused excruciating pain. 

3. Lack of medical knowledge

This incident shows that the lack of medical knowledge and limited access to doctors in those days forced people to take such measures. 

Social and psychological aspects

Psychological and social factors are closely related behind such a move. 

1. Despair and helplessness

It may also happen when all other treatment methods have failed. So man is forced to take such unusual and dangerous steps. 

2. Social pressure

Social expectations and financial difficulties can also prompt a person to take such actions. Especially when the treatment is very expensive. 

3. Psychological condition

Such measures indicate a psychological disorder or severe depression. Which forces a person to make illogical decisions. 

Aspects of modern medicine

In today's advanced age, there are modern and safe ways to treat bladder stones. 

1. Laser lithotripsy

This method uses a laser to break the stone into small pieces. Then it can be easily excreted through the urinary tract. 

2. Surgery

If the stone is larger in size, the stone is surgically removed. 

3. Medicines

Sometimes, certain medications are prescribed to open the urinary tract. 

A further explanation of this unusual phenomenon follows. 

This episode testifies to the strength, desperation, and struggle for survival, not only of medical but also of human nature. What this man did to a very sensitive and delicate part of his body was medically unacceptable and dangerous. But there were reasons behind it which cannot even be imagined in today's era. 

Review of 19th Century Medical Problems

1. Non-availability of medical equipment

Surgical instruments were very rudimentary at that time. Most doctors used instruments made of wood, metal, and other basic materials. Which were not even sterile. This is why these devices often lead to infections. 

2. Lack of medical trainin

Most people had to rely on village healers or home healers for treatment rather than trained doctors. These people had limited knowledge. Often times their treatments proved fatal. 

3. Economic factors

Medical treatment was expensive, and almost impossible for the common man to afford. This is why people were forced to self-medicate. 

Fight against bladder stones

Urinary problems, especially bladder stones, were among the common ailments of the time. During that time, most people drank less water and suffered from malnutrition. Which were the main causes of stone formation. 

The process of breaking stones

When this person uses a nail and hammer to break his bladder stone. So he actually adopts a very unnatural and unconventional approach. Following are the possible outcomes of this move

1. Permanent damage to the urinary tract

Inserting a nail could cause a wound in the urethra. Which would not only make urination more painful but could also cause chronic complications. 

2. Bladder wall damage

There was a risk of damage to the bladder wall while breaking the stone with a hammer blow. Which could lead to internal bleeding and death. 

3. Urinary tract obstruction

Without proper removal of the stone fragments, this procedure could have further obstructed the urethra. 

Psychological aspects

Such a move cannot be considered only in the context of physical pain, but mental stress and psychological problems also play an important role behind it. 

Despair and loneliness

The person may have suffered from this disease for a long time which led to despair and helplessness. When a person feels that they have no recourse, they may make very risky and unusual decisions. 

2. Life and death struggle

This move also indicates that this person was willing to go to any extent to improve his life. He even risked his life. 

Advances in medical science

In today's advanced age there are modern and safe methods in such situations. which have made medical treatment safe and effective. Some of them are as follows

1. Lithotripsy

It is a non-surgical procedure in which the stone is broken into small particles using sound waves. 

2. Endoscopic surgery

A camera and small tools are used to reach the bladder and remove the stone. 

3. Use of medicines

In today's era there are such medicines. which can easily dissolve the stone or prevent its formation. 

A lesson and lesson

This episode not only tells us about the difficulties of medical conditions in the 19th century but also shows a unique aspect of human determination and struggle for survival. This story emphasizes how advances in medical knowledge and modern facilities have made human life safer and easier. 

This article presents this incident as a lesson to understand the importance of modern medical facilities and to avoid such risky actions that could lead to death. Be dangerous.