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Equine Ailments - A to Z
Lymphangitis - Inflamed lymphatic vessels and usually lymph nodes, caused through infection in the lymph vessels and tissues of the lower (usually hind) legs, resulting in hot and painful swelling and lameness. Swelling might be localised and liquid may ooze from the skin at the seat of the infection when an abscess is forming, or otherwise it may be general swelling affecting the lower leg, which if untreated will creep higher up the leg into the groin. Lymphangitis may be a complication of mud fever, filled legs or an untreated injury.
Treatment - diuretics, antibiotics and/or anti-inflammatory drugs may be prescribed to relieve the condition. Apply locally, hot fomentations for an hour, two or three times a day, taking care to rub the leg dry afterwards. Later give walking in hand exercise twice daily or better still frequently for 10 minutes. |
