Maintaining optimal respiratory health is paramount for a horse’s well-being and performance. Respiratory issues can significantly impact a horse's ability to perform at their best, hindering endurance, stamina, and overall performance. Here are three common respiratory health concerns for performance horses:
1. Exercise-Induced Pulmonary Hemorrhage (EIPH):
Exercise-induced pulmonary hemorrhage, or EIPH, is a prevalent condition among performance horses, particularly those engaged in high-intensity activities like barrel racing, racing and jumping. During strenuous exercise, the small blood vessels in the lungs can rupture, leading to bleeding into the airways. This can cause coughing, reduced exercise tolerance, and impair performance. Management strategies, including proper conditioning, adequate rest, and potential use of medications like furosemide, can help mitigate the risk of EIPH.
2. Recurrent Airway Obstruction (RAO):
RAO, often referred to as heaves or equine asthma, is a chronic respiratory condition characterized by airway inflammation and bronchoconstriction. It is commonly triggered by exposure to allergens such as dust, mold, and pollen. Horses with RAO may exhibit symptoms like coughing, nasal discharge, and increased respiratory effort, particularly after exposure to allergens. Management strategies typically involve reducing environmental dust and allergen exposure, providing good ventilation, and sometimes using medications like corticosteroids or bronchodilators to manage symptoms.
3. Inflammatory Airway Disease (IAD):
IAD is another respiratory condition characterized by inflammation of the lower airways, often seen in performance horses subjected to intense training and competition. While not as severe as RAO, IAD can still impair respiratory function and performance. Common symptoms include coughing, exercise intolerance, and increased respiratory rate. Management typically involves reducing dust exposure, ensuring proper stable ventilation, and sometimes using anti-inflammatory medications to alleviate symptoms.
Proper management practice, early intervention, and veterinary involvement are essential for managing these breathing and lung concerns. Additionally, optimizing the horse's environment and diet can contribute to overall respiratory health and performance.
Support Lung Health with MVP's Air-Way EQ™
Air-Way EQ™ pellets are a daily respiratory supplement with comprehensive support for healthy lungs and soft tissue throughout the respiratory tract. Includes key ingredients to support a normal inflammatory response in the lung and bronchial tissues as well ingredients to help maintain a normal immune response to seasonal allergies.
Promotes Respiratory Function: Air-Way EQ™ contains ingredients like N-Acetyl L-Cysteine, known for its significant role in supporting a normal inflammatory response in the lung and bronchial tissues and a hearty dose of MSM. As well as Citrus Bioflavonoids to support healthy soft tissue and maintain normal blood pressure which aids in overall lung health.
Seasonal Allergy Support: Air-Way EQ™ includes ingredients like Spirulina, a powerful antioxidant that helps support the immune system and has been shown to help support concerns associated with inflammation of the nasal passage triggered by allergens. By boosting the immune response to allergens, it may aid in alleviating symptoms associated with allergies, including coughing and nasal discharge.
Boost Immune Function: Vitamin A and K as well as Spirulina and Citrus Bioflavonoids in Air-Way EQ™ bolster the horse's immune system, aid in recovery and reduce the risk of respiratory infections. By enhancing immune function, Air-Way EQ™ contributes to overall respiratory health and helps maintain peak performance, even in challenging environments.