252 SPASM OF THE LARYNX. 



If tlie affection supervenes upon an inflammatory attack of 

 the larynx, the symptoms in such a case will most probably 

 be of a milder character. A partial spasm of the organ will 

 exist, which may exhibit such a degree of violence as to excite 

 alarm ; and then the whole may gradually subside, and leave 

 the patient in a very tranquil state. In a short time, however 

 (perhaps in two or three hours, or less, according to cir- 

 cumstances), it again commences, and continues for a longer 

 period ; or it goes on increasing in violence, until either relief 

 is afforded surgically, or the patient dies. 



Pathognomonic Symptoms. — The act of inspiration is 

 accompanied with snoring, rasping, sawing, or trumpet-UTce 

 sounds. 



Catises. — The causes of laryngeal spasm are numerous 

 and varied. It arises most frequently from Laryngitis or 

 Strangles. It may also arise from the presence of a Tumour at 

 the base of the tongue ; * from the formation of an Abscess in 

 the mucous tissues contiguous to the larynx ; f from the pre- 

 sence of an Abscess at the lower end of the trachea ; % from 

 choking ; also from the formation of an Abscess at the junction 

 of the head and the neck (this is a frequent cause in young 

 foals). In some instances the aftection may arise without any 

 cause that can be detected. § 



Treatment, — In any disease that treatment is best which 

 affords the most speedy and direct relief If the spasm be 

 violent, or of that character which threatens the life of the 



* See Veterinarian for 1843, page '68. t Ihid. for 1845, page 552 

 + Ihid. for 3849, page 392 ; and also for 1850, page 423. 

 § See Veterinary Record, vol. vi., page 42. 



