Difference between revisions of "Spasmodic Colic"
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==Description== | ==Description== | ||
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Diagnosis can be made on a combination of clinical signs and response to treatment. The clinical signs are of mild colic, with hypermotile gut sounds on auscultation of the gastro-intestinal tract. The response to treatment is rapid and complete, or the discomfort may resolve spontaneously. | Diagnosis can be made on a combination of clinical signs and response to treatment. The clinical signs are of mild colic, with hypermotile gut sounds on auscultation of the gastro-intestinal tract. The response to treatment is rapid and complete, or the discomfort may resolve spontaneously. | ||
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| + | ===Clinical signs=== | ||
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Cases are usually easily resolved by treating with a spasmolytic such as Buscopan, and a mild analgesic such as phenylbutazone. | Cases are usually easily resolved by treating with a spasmolytic such as Buscopan, and a mild analgesic such as phenylbutazone. | ||
Revision as of 16:50, 3 August 2010
Description
Spasmodic colic is the most common cause of colic, it accounts for 72% of all colic cases, and 90% of colic cases seen in first-opinion practice. The eitiology of the condition is unknown, it is characterised by intermittent mild episodes of abdominal pain which is due to increased peristaltic activity in the gastro-intestinal tract.
Signalment
Horses of any age and breed can be affcted. The condition has been associated with:
- Heavy parasitic infection, especially tapeworms
- Change in diet
- Change in work
- Excitement
Diagnosis
Diagnosis can be made on a combination of clinical signs and response to treatment. The clinical signs are of mild colic, with hypermotile gut sounds on auscultation of the gastro-intestinal tract. The response to treatment is rapid and complete, or the discomfort may resolve spontaneously.
Clinical signs
Treatment
Cases are usually easily resolved by treating with a spasmolytic such as Buscopan, and a mild analgesic such as phenylbutazone.