252 SPASM OF THE LAETlfX. 



If the affection supervenes upon an inflammatory attack of 

 the larynx, the symptoms in such a case ■will most probahly 

 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 iu a verytranquU state. In a short time, however 

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

 stances), 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. 



PATHOGNOMOirrc Symptoms. — The act of inspiration w 

 accompanied with snoring, rasping, samng, or trumpet-Kke 



Catjses. — 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 ;t from the pre- 

 sence of an Abscess at the lower end of the trachea ;J 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 affection 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. K the spasm be 

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



* See Vetennairian for 1843, page 68. t Ibid, for 1845, page 562. 

 t Ibid, for 1849, page 392 ; and also for 1850, page 423. 

 § See Veterinai-y Record, vol. vi., page 42. 



