Common Diseases of Farm AnimalsCraig, Robert Alexander
Science
Common Diseases of Farm Animals
Craig, Robert Alexander
Veterinary medicine
The following _symptoms_ occur in local inflammation. Increased heat in the
part is an important symptom. It is due to the increased blood-flow to the
part. Because of the pigmented, hairy skin of domestic animals, redness is
of little value in locating superficial inflammation. Swelling is a
valuable local symptom. It is produced by the inflammatory exudates. Pain
results from the pressure on the sensory nerves by the inflammatory
swelling. For example, the laminae of the foot are imprisoned between the
horny wall and the pedal bone. This structure is well supplied with sensory
nerves, and when it becomes inflamed and swollen, the tissues are subject
to severe pressure and the pain is severe. Inflammation of a tendon results
in lameness; of the udder, in suspension of milk secretions; and of the
stomach by interference with digestion of the feed. Such symptoms may be
grouped under the head of disturbed functions.
_The character of an inflammation_ is largely modified by the nature of the
tissue in which it occurs. A serous inflammation is characterized by
serous, watery exudates. This form occurs in the serous membranes, mucous
membranes and skin. Blisters on the skin and inflammation of bursae (capped
hock and shoe boil) are examples of this type. Sero-fibrinous
inflammations, such as occur in pleurisy and peritonitis, are common.
Chronic inflammation commonly results in new formations of tissue, and it
is named according to the character of the new tissue formed, as ossifying,
adhesive, and fibrous inflammation. Pus-forming bacteria produce
suppurative inflammation. Such diseases as tuberculosis, glanders and
hog-cholera are specific inflammations. Specific infectious diseases may be
classed as generalized inflammation, as they usually involve the entire
body.
Inflammation terminates in resolution when the serum is reabsorbed by the
blood-vessels and lymphatics, the living blood-cells find their way back
into the circulation and the dead cells disintegrate and are taken up by
the vessels. The time required for the tissues to return to the normal
varies from a few hours to several weeks. An acute inflammation may end in
the chronic form. This may then terminate in new formations, such as
adhesions, fibrous thickenings and bony enlargements. Severe inflammation,
especially if localized and superficial, may result in death of the part or
gangrene.
The following _treatment_ is recommended: The cause of the irritation to
the tissue must be removed. It is very essential that the part be rested.
The necessary rest may be obtained in different ways. Inflamed tendons,
ligaments, and muscles may be rested by placing the animal in a sling,
standing it in a stall, or fixing the part with bandages. Rest of the
stomach or intestinal tract may be obtained by feeding a light diet, or
withholding all feed. Comfortable quarters, special care and dieting the
animal are important factors in the treatment of inflammation.
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