Changes

Jump to navigation Jump to search
Line 38: Line 38:     
==Treatment==
 
==Treatment==
With supportive therapy horses may recover from hepatic encephalopathy after 4-21 days. Treatment is only warranted in acute cases likely to make a recovery.   
+
With '''supportive''' therapy horses may recover from hepatic encephalopathy after 4-21 days. Treatment is only warranted in acute cases likely to make a recovery.   
   −
'''Sedation''' is often necessary in cases of hepatic encephalopathy; An alpha 2 agonist at a low dose is usually effective. If the neurological signs are so severe that the horse is a danger to itself and others then immediate '''euthansia''' is indicated.   
+
'''Sedation''' is often necessary in cases of hepatic encephalopathy; An alpha 2 agonist at a low dose is usually effective. If the neurological signs are so severe that the horse is a danger to itself and others then '''euthansia''' may be indicated.   
 
    
 
    
Fluid deficits and acid base abnormalities should be corrected as necessary and hypoglycaemic animals should be given a 5% dextrose solution IV. High carbohydrate, low protein diets should be fed in small amounts and frequently.  
+
Fluid deficits and acid base abnormalities should be corrected as necessary and hypoglycaemic animals should be given a 5% dextrose solution IV. High carbohydrate, low protein diets should be fed in small amounts and frequently.
 +
 
 +
Lactulose, mineral oil and neomycin or metronidazole can be administered in an attempt to reduce the production and absorption of hepatic toxins.
    
==Prognosis==
 
==Prognosis==
808

edits

Navigation menu