LIVER DISEASE
Cause
The liver is the largest and most important organ in the horse. It's job is to filter blood and detox the system as well as being the chemical supplier to the body. By the time any signs of disease can be seen at least some 70% of the liver may be destroyed and therefore the prognosis is dire.
Ragwort poisoning is one of the most frequently seen causes (see separate sheet on this subject) along with virus or bacterial infection, chemical or other toxins and tumours. Laminitis is also a major cause.
Signs
Loss of weight and lack of appetite, poor coat condition and photosensitisation, yellow jaundice in mouth and eyes, signs of mild colic, dry or alternatively loose droppings, and general restless behaviour. In the latter stages anxiety and nervousness may appear
Treatment
Very little can be done by conventional medicine apart from suggesting Vitamin B complex, antibacterial agents and paliative medications including glucose and a high fibre low protein diet. If in the early stages, surgery in the cases of a tumour may be possible. Some Alternative therapies suggest that the use of an intense herbal detox programme can ease the problem where toxins are the cause and in some cases it is suggested that some regeneration of the liver is possible. As the prognosis is dire any benefits from this approach might be considered worth trying.