Blunt trauma such as in kick wounds, falls, or collisions with immovable objects may result in inflammation of the soft issues and muscles. Soft tissue swelling, called edema, will develop within a short time after injury. Simple edema is usually reabsorbed as inflammation subsides. Application of cold - i.e. packs or cold water will reduce inflammation and shorten recovery time. More severe injuries may result in bleeding beneath the skin or in the muscle. The blood accumulation and swelling that results is know as a hematoma. In most cases the blood clot in the hematoma contracts and a straw colored pool forms within a few days. This fluid filled lump is called a seroma. The serum will tend to migrate downward to the lowest point. In the case of a chest injury, the swelling may gravitate down to between the front legs or along the chest floor in the girth area.
A soft swelling which seems full of fluid may require drainage to allow healing. Caution should be exercised in the drainage of such swellings - tapping into the area may introduce bacteria which brings the risk of abscess formation. It is best to avoid opening hematomas or seomas while in the backcountry. The possibility of secondary infection and continued bleeding could result in a real medical emergency.
Special care must be taken in the saddling of stock with edema or swelling. Pressure from cinches or saddles on edematous tissue can cause severe ulceration and tissue slough. Swollen withers and backs are especially sensitive to pressure and deserve special consideration in padding, rigging and load. Phenylbutazone is a good anti-inflammatory drug and can be used safely in most cases. Topical cortisone ointments are useful on small areas.
Swelling below the knee or hock can be treated with cold water i.e. standing in creek or river and padded support wraps. Bandages on lower limbs should be well padded i.e. cotton sheets under felt wraps. Elastic or stretch bandages if improperly applied can cause strangulation and pressure sores. Wraps should be redone on a daily basis along with water therapy and massage with glycerin based medication.
Allergic reaction may cause welts and raised patches over a large part of the body. The eyelids may swell, the face become puffy and the legs stock up. These allergies can be the result of material eaten by the stock or in some cases insect bites. Treatment with cortisone drugs is usually effective. Dexamethasone (Azium) is a cortisone drug often used by veterinarians. If your horse has a history of insect bite sensitivity, you may need to have a cortisone drug in your emergency kit. One of our High Sierra packers attempted to treat his mules eyes with Preparation H. Even though Preparation H is sold to reduce swelling of certain inflamed tissues, it temporarily blinded the mule.
Mosquitoes, ants and other biting insects can cause multiple bumps on
sensitive horses. Location of your picket line away from area of
insect exposure is the best prevention. Some insect repellents are
helpful; however, most are short-lived and costly for an entire string
of stock. Phenylbutazone or Azium may shorten the recovery time for
severely affected animals and relieve their distress.