DISEASES OF THE RESPI'R'ATORY APPARATUS 101 



we are able to hear friction sounds. After a few ^ays effusion 

 occurs in the pleural cavity. Although the animal may have 

 refused to eat up to this time, it now appears greatly relieved 

 and may offer to eat its feed. This relief may be only tem- 

 porary. If the fluid exudate forms in sufficient quantity to cause 

 pressure on the heart and lungs and interfere with their move- 

 ment, the pulse beat is weak, the respirations quick and labored, 

 the elbows are turned out and the feet are spread apart, xill 

 of the respiratory muscles may be used. The expression of the 

 face may indicate threatened asphyxia. We may determine the 

 extent of the pleural exudate by auscultation. There is no 

 evidence of respiratory sounds in that portion of the chest below 

 the surface of the fluid. Dropsical swellings may occur on 

 the under surface of the breast and abdomen. 



In subacute cases evidence of recovery is noted in from four 

 to ten days. Acute pleurisy very often terminates fatally. 

 Under the most favorable conditions, recovery takes place very 

 slowly, sometimes extending over a period of several months. 

 It is not uncommon for the horse to continue having '' defective 

 wind." 



The treatment consists in good care, well ventilated quarters 

 and careful nursing, the same as recommended in the treatment 

 of pneumonia. At the very beginning, the pain may be re- 

 lieved by the administration of small doses of morphine. If 

 the conditions in the stable permit, a hot blanket that has been 

 dipped in hot water and wrung out as dry as possible, may be 

 applied to the chest wall and covered with a rubber blanket. 

 This treatment should be continued during the first few days 

 of the inflammation. These applications may be reinforced 

 by occasionally applying mustard paste to the sides of the chest. 



The animal should be allowed to drink but a limited amount 

 of water. The feed must be highly nutritious. Milk and eggs 

 should be given if necessary. A laxative dose of oil should be 

 given. Calomel, aloes, and digitalis are recommended when the 



