What exactly is Equine Internal Medicine?
Internal Medicine refers to everything that effects an organ that is not part of the musculoskeletal system. That means internal medicine is extremely broad and includes diagnosis and treatment of diseases effecting the horse’s eyes, GI tract, liver, kidneys, bladder, heart, endocrine systems, and much more.
Ears, Eyes, Nose, and Throat
Does your horse have lumps or bumps on his ears? Do his eyes run causing skin irritation and attracting flies? Does he have nasal discharge or a chronic cough? All of these are common problems found in horses that may need treating. Squinting, tearing eyes are often an emergency in horses and can worsen rapidly.
It is especially important to call a vet if you suspect your horse may have an infectious disease. By involving your vet early, you can implement proper biosecurity measures that will limit the spread of the disease.
GI diseases
GI emergencies are something every horse owner never hopes to face, but if your horse colics, Redtail Equine is there for you 24/7.
While colic is a word every horse owner fears, there are many other diseases of the GI tract that might have a negative impact on your horse. GI ulcers are extremely common and a huge cause of decreased performance in horses of all disciplines. Other Non-emergency GI diseases include diarrhea, some causes of weight loss, parasitism, and cancer.
Endocrine Diseases
The Equine Metabolic Syndrome (aka Insulin Resistance) and PPID (aka Cushing’s) are quite common in horses.
Equine Metabolic Disease is often found in “easy keepers”. It is associated with obesity and is a major risk factor for laminitis (aka founder) in horses. Diagnosing and managing EMS early is a great way to prevent laminitis episodes.
PPID is caused by a tumor in the pituitary gland. This tumor produces hormones and causes a cascade of effects that influence the entire horse. Most people are familiar with the shaggy, long haired horse during summer as the poster child for this disease. Other common symptoms of PPID are muscle loss (especially on the top line), pot belly, increased risk of infections and tendon/ligament injuries, and laminitis. Early diagnosis and treatment of PPID can save your horse from significant suffering as he or she ages.
Other Organ Systems
While less common than the problems already discussed, other organ systems can also be affected by disease. These organ symptoms include:
- The urinary tract (kidney, bladder, urethra, etc.)
- The liver
- The immune system (for example auto-immune diseases and allergies)
- The cardiovascular system (heart and circulatory system)
- The skin (several skin cancers are common in horses)
- Etc.
