What Are the Treatments for Equine Reflux?

When treating equine acute abdomen problems, gastric reflux can be used as an indicator, according to Wiley InterScience. The reflux occurs after the insertion of a nasogastric tube, according to the Merck Veterinary Manual.

  1. Nasogastric Intubation

    • Nasogastric intubation, putting a tube through the nasal passages into the stomach of a horse, is usually performed in the diagnosis and treatment of equine colic. Colic is defined as an obstruction within the horse's digestive tract. The type of reflux coming up the tube can indicate where the blockage is located.

    Intestinal Obstruction

    • Anterior enteritis--acute inflammation of the small intestine (ileum)--can be determined by bloody, fermented or foul smelling reflux. However, intestinal obstruction reflux involves acidic fluid secretion or fresh feed material.

    Intestinal Lesions

    • Ileum lesions--cuts or scratches to the small intestine--can produce alkaline reflux several hours after the onset of equine colic, according to merckvetmanual.com.

    Gastric Decompression

    • Gastric decompression caused by the reflux of material through the tube can produce relief from pain and lower the heart rate of the horse and should be performed every 2 to 4 hours, depending on severity. Notation of the amount of reflux should be made to determine the volume of fluids to be administered intravenously.

    Veterinary Professionals

    • Gastric decompression and intubation should only be administered by a veterinary professional. Intubation, if improperly done, can cause the tube to enter the lungs rather than the stomach, leading to additional health problems for the horse.