894 



DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. 



TYMPANITES, OR FLATULENT COLIC. 



Symptoms the same as in spasmodic colic, with the difference 



of there being so great an accu- 

 mulation of gas in the stomach 

 and intestines that the belly is 

 swelled. This disease will often 

 prove fatal in from one to three 

 hours. It is generally very 

 sudden in its attack, often oc- 

 curring while the animal is at 

 FIG. 782. Early stage of Flatulent Colic. , , . . , . . 



work, particularly during warm 



or changeable weather; but it is generally caused by indigestion, 

 producing gases in the bowels or stomach.* 



FIG. 783. An advanced stage of Flatulent Colic, or Tympanites. 



* There are two locations for this disease, the stomach and the colon and coecum; 

 but in either it requires the same treatment, as it is generally produced by the 

 same causes. When in the stomach, it will be distinguished by eructations, or 

 belchings of gas through the esophagus, or gullet. If in the colon or coecum, the 

 horse is violently swollen along the belly, flanks, and sides. The pulse is rarely 

 disturbed until the disease advances, when it will become quickened, running to its 

 height quickly, and receding as rapidly, if fatal. If to terminate fatally, it will be- 

 come weaker and slower until it is almost imperceptible. If the n.nimal is allowed 

 to fall down suddenly, while the pressure of gas upon the walls of the stomach is 

 very great, there is liability of rupturing the diaphragm, which would cause almost 

 instant death from suffocation. 



