Understanding the structure and function of the equine upper
respiratory system are key to knowing what can go wrong with a
horse’s breathing. Since respiratory dysfunction is a major
cause of poor performance in athletic horses (second only to
musculoskeletal disorders), a basic knowledge of the structure
and function of the respiratory system, particularly the upper
respiratory tract, is important for horse owners. Some of the
most commonly diagnosed upper airway abnormalities include:
dorsal displacement of the soft palate, nasopharyngeal collapse,
laryngeal hemiplegia and epiglottic entrapment. Performance
problems and respiratory noise are common in horses affected
with these conditions. Diagnosis, treatment and prognosis vary
depending on the exact underlying cause. - Could Horses' Neck
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