12 Ways We Handled Illness That Seem Wild Now
Many common medical practices from the past are now considered unsafe or outdated.
- Sophia Zapanta
- 3 min read
Medical knowledge and technology have advanced significantly over time. Practices that were once standard are now recognized as harmful, ineffective, or unnecessary. Reviewing these outdated methods shows how much healthcare and understanding of illness have improved.
1. Using Mercury and Arsenic
Tomihahndorf on Wikimedia Commons
Mercury and arsenic were used to treat infections and other illnesses. Both are toxic and can cause organ damage or death. Modern medicine avoids these substances entirely. Safer, effective treatments are now standard.
2. Bloodletting
N. Keyland on Wikimedia Commons
Doctors often used bloodletting to “balance humors” in patients. It could weaken patients and worsen illnesses. Today, bloodletting is rarely used and only for specific medical conditions. Evidence-based treatments have replaced it.
3. Treating Fever with Cold Baths
Mary Harrsch on Wikimedia Commons
Immersing patients in ice-cold water was once recommended for high fevers. This could cause shock or hypothermia. Modern care focuses on safe cooling methods and monitoring body temperature. Medications and hydration are used to manage fever safely.
4. Using Laxatives or Vomiting to Cure Disease
DanielPenfield on Wikimedia Commons
Inducing vomiting or heavy laxative use was common for various ailments. These methods could dehydrate and harm patients. Today, treatments target the cause of illness directly. Supportive care and medications are safer and more effective.
5. Mercury-Based Toothpaste and Mouthwash
Thegreenj on Wikimedia Commons
Some dental products contained mercury or other toxic compounds. Prolonged exposure could harm the nervous system. Modern dental products use safe ingredients. Fluoride and non-toxic compounds maintain oral health effectively.
6. Applying Lead or Arsenic to Skin Conditions
Anita Ghosh/REACH on Wikimedia Commons
Topical treatments sometimes included lead or arsenic for rashes or infections. These compounds can be absorbed through the skin and cause poisoning. Today, dermatology uses safe creams and ointments. Modern treatments are both effective and non-toxic.
7. Using Raw Milk or Other Unpasteurized Products
NIAID on Wikimedia Commons
Raw milk and juices were often consumed for health benefits. Unpasteurized products can carry dangerous bacteria. Pasteurization and modern food safety prevent illness. Today, most children and adults avoid raw products for safety.
8. Quarantine Without Hygiene Practices
www.vperemen.com on Wikimedia Commons
Patients were isolated during outbreaks but hygiene was often ignored. Disease could spread within households or hospitals. Today, isolation includes strict sanitation and protective measures. Infection control protocols limit transmission.
9. Opium and Alcohol for Pain Relief
Nik Frey (niksan) on Wikimedia Commons
Opium and alcohol were common remedies for pain and coughs. They can be addictive and dangerous, especially for children. Modern medicine uses controlled analgesics and safe medications. Pain management is evidence-based and regulated.
10. Tooth Extraction for Illness
National Institutes of Health on Wikimedia Commons
Extracting teeth was sometimes used to treat unrelated diseases. This practice was painful and ineffective. Today, dentistry separates dental care from systemic medical treatment. Illnesses are treated with proper diagnostics and therapy.
11. Using Radiation Therapy Without Limits
Rhoda Baer on Wikimedia Commons
Early radiation treatments were sometimes applied indiscriminately. Overexposure caused burns, cancer, or other injuries. Modern radiation therapy is carefully calculated and monitored. Safety protocols protect patients from harm.
12. Ignoring Vaccines
Whispyhistory on Wikimedia Commons
Vaccines were less common and sometimes avoided due to misinformation. Many preventable diseases caused widespread illness and death. Today, immunizations are standard and save millions of lives. Public health emphasizes vaccination safety and efficacy.