108 THE PRACTICE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE. 



but is in reality between the layers of the cornea ; and 

 the result is the cornea becomes opaque. However, the 

 exudate soon disappears by absorption, and the cornea and 

 other parts usually resume their normal appearance and 

 condition. In some few cases a trace of the exudate re- 

 mains. The inflammatory action is always much greater 

 in this form of ophthalmia than it is in periodic ophthalmia. 

 Occasionally the sclerotic coat partakes of the inflammatory 

 action, and jDartial or complete destruction of vision some- 

 times occurs. Simple ophthalmia is also said to occur in 

 an epizootic form. In such a case it is undoubtedly due to 

 some atmospheric cause. 



Treatment. — Simple ophthalmia occurs in the acute, sub- 

 acute, and chronic forms, and according to the stage of the 

 disease at the time of commencing treatment is the prac- 

 titioner to be guided in his mode of treatment and choice 

 of remedies. As a rule, the treatment is very simple and 

 easy ; and, if the case is taken in hand early, treatment is 

 almost uniformly successful. A careful examination should 

 be made, the exciting cause discovered, if possible, and 

 removed. Having removed the cause, allay the irritation 

 by the free use of warm or cold water. These applications 

 should be made frequently, and at each time occupying an 

 hour or so. If the irritation be due to the j^resence of a 

 foreign body, which in some cases may be embedded, it is 

 to be carefully removed. This, while by no means eas}', 

 may still be effected in various ways. If the irritation is 

 due to foul air, etc., remove the animal to a well-ventilated 

 box, free from ammoniacal vapours, etc. A slightly darkened 

 box should be used to place the patient in. For allaying 

 irritation cold water may be used in the summer, and warm 

 water in the winter is the best. Cold or warm poultices 

 or a wet cloth may be placed over the eye. If the pain be 

 excessive, anodyne applications, as tr. opii, belladonna, etc., 



