Laryngeal Paralysis

Seek veterinary advice if you suspect this disease.

Equine laryngeal paralysis is a disorder that affects the larynx in horses, causing difficulty breathing and an inability to exercise properly. It is caused by paralysis or weakness of the muscles in the larynx, which can result in the collapse of the airway during exercise. The exact cause of laryngeal paralysis is not fully understood, but it is thought to be related to nerve damage or a malfunction of the laryngeal muscles. Some horses may be predisposed to the condition due to genetics, while others may develop it as a result of an injury or other underlying medical condition.

Symptoms

Common in

Occurance

It’s been found that the incidence of RLN is higher in racehorses than in other performance horses, with an estimated incidence of 1-3% in the general population of racehorses and up to 8% in the population of Thoroughbred racehorses. Also, The incidence of RLN increases with age and is more common in geldings than in stallions and mares.

Treatment

Treatment options can vary depending on the severity of the condition. One common treatment option is surgical intervention, such as a tie-back procedure, in which the affected vocal fold is sutured to the side of the neck to prevent it from collapsing during inhalation. This procedure can be effective in allowing the horse to breathe more easily and may improve performance. However, it is a relatively invasive procedure and there is a risk of complications, such as infection or bleeding. Another option is using a prosthetic laryngeal implant, which are small devices that are placed inside the larynx, helping to prevent the collapse of the affected vocal fold. These devices are less invasive than a tie-back procedure and may be a good option for horses with mild to moderate laryngeal paralysis. Therapeutic management also has its role in this condition, such as weight management, and avoiding to expose the animal to extreme temperature and humidity. Also, physical therapy such as vibration, ultrasound and deep tissue massage can be helpful in the management of the condition. It’s important to note that any horse diagnosed with laryngeal paralysis should be evaluated by a veterinarian with experience in treating this condition, and treatment options should be tailored to the individual horse’s needs and potential for recovery.

Prevention

Preventing laryngeal paralysis may involve addressing any underlying medical conditions that may contribute to the development of the disorder, as well as implementing good management practices to reduce the risk of injury to the larynx. Regular preventive care, such as vaccination and deworming, can also help reduce the risk of respiratory infections that may contribute to the development of laryngeal paralysis.