What is equine asthma?
Equine asthma is a common respiratory condition in horses. It is chronic, non-infectious and requires life-long management. It has previously been called Recurrent Airway Disease (RAO) or sometimes called Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). It causes airway inflammation resulting in narrowing of airways and build-up of mucus making it harder for your horse to breathe. It typically affects stabled horses and is uncommon in young horses. Horses normally show a gradual worsening in signs; however, acute episodes can occur.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms can depend on the individual and can range from mild to severe depending on the level of inflammation. Common signs are:
- Coughing
- Increased respiratory effort
- Wheezing
- Flared nostrils
- Exercise intolerance.
In an acute episode, respiratory effort can be markedly increased at rest with nasal discharge which may be clear or cloudy.
How is it diagnosed?
It is often diagnosed on history and clinical signs. However, in more subtle cases, testing will usually involve endoscopic examination of the airways and a tracheal wash, occasionally with an additional bronchoalveolar lavage. This will help rule out an infection and ensure that the correct diagnosis has been made.
How is it treated?
The goal in treatment is to reduce clinical signs. As it is a chronic condition it requires life-long management. It often involves a combination of environmental changes and medication. Environmental management is essential and involves reducing dust in the environment, such as soaking hay, increasing ventilation, changing onto dust free bedding, mucking out while the horse is out of the stable and increasing turnout as much as possible. Medication may include corticosteroids and bronchodilators, which can be administered in different ways depending on severity of signs. Long term medication can include the use of aerosolised medications.
What is the prognosis?
Prognosis is good with early diagnosis and proper management, so please get in touch if you notice these symptoms, especially if the signs remain or worsen.