CHAPTER. IV, 
THE ORGANS OF CIRCULATION. 
» PALPITATION.—THUMPS. : 
os is an unhealthy increase in the heart’s action, found in horses 
that are feeble, or that are subjected to severe or straining exercise, 
i as running or drawing heavy loads up hill. We recognize two 
forms and give them separate treatment. 
Lhe First Form.—Poor blood is the cause of this form. — Its symp- 
toms are a dull, thumping sound in the breast, being heard at a distance of 
several yards in extreme cases, corresponding to the pulse and heart-beats;. 
troubled breathing; increased temperature of the body; red mucous mem- 
branes; the ear placed to the heart detects “blood-sounds” about the heart, 
veins and arteries, made by the blood passing through the channels of the 
heart, and making a continuous hum; sometimes shaking or jerking of the 
whole body. 
TREATMENT OF THE First Form.—Give stimulants and tonics witk 
mild exercise. Aconite should be given every half-hour when the cause is. 
violent exercise, and the breathing is rapid. It may be beneficially alter- 
nated with nux vomica. Arsenicum is desirable when the disorder attacks 
horses that are in fair condition, and when it manifests itself especially at 
night. The tincture of Peruvian bark will relieve the constitutional weak- 
ness, a teaspoonful or less being given three or four timesaday. Nux 
vomica is recommended for palpitation induced by indigestion. Asafetida 
is useful for the form which results from excessive physical motion, with an 
intermittent pulse. Digitalis should be given if there be oppressed breath- 
ing and great distress, half a teaspoonful of tincture at a dose. Give bella- 
donna for palpitation during rest and increasing with motion; intermitting 
pulse; and for trembling heart, with great distress. For horses with palpita- 
tion which have been subject to rheumatism, spigelia is one of the most 
valuable medicines, twenty drops being given three times a day. Give 
moderate, nourishing diet; perfect rest for a few days after an attack, and only 
light work thereafter for several weeks; fresh air; freedom from draughts. 
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