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Intestinal colic is severe abdominal pain caused by a malfunction of the intestine, which can be fatal in horses. Symptoms include constipation, swelling, and pain, and treatment may involve surgery, stretches, or medication. Lifestyle and dietary changes may prevent recurrence.
Intestinal colic is severe abdominal pain associated with a malfunction of the intestine, such as a blockage or air bubble that the patient cannot overcome. It should not be confused with infantile colic, where the term “colic” is generally used to refer to a baby who fusses more than usual, perhaps due to intestinal colic but for other reasons as well. Also, humans aren’t the only creatures affected by colic. The condition is common in horses, where it can be fatal if not treated promptly and aggressively.
An episode of intestinal colic can start with a strong tingling sensation in the abdomen. Depending on the cause, there may be an urge to defecate and constipation may occur. Patients may be inclined to lie down or squat for pain relief, which will become increasingly painful over time as the abdomen becomes stiff, warm, and swollen. Causes of this condition can include blockages caused by foreign objects or twisting, where the intestines wrap around each other.
A medical imaging study of the abdomen will show a blockage in the intestines and may also reveal trapped gas or stool. Palpation of the abdomen can be used to determine the source of the pain and check for telltale signs of conditions such as appendicitis, which a patient may initially mistake for colic. With more information about intestinal colic in hand, a doctor can develop a treatment recommendation for the patient, with the goal of addressing the pain while also treating the underlying cause. This may include surgery, the use of careful stretches and poses to address a displaced bowel, or medications.
The causes of intestinal colic can vary. Sometimes people develop this condition due to swallowing air while eating or consuming large amounts of fermented food. Problems like twisting and shifting can occur spontaneously. Once someone has recovered from this type of colic, a bland diet is usually recommended to rest the bowels. Patients who experience repeated episodes may be advised to make permanent lifestyle and dietary changes to prevent colic from recurring.
In horses, intestinal colic is recognizable as an acute and obvious discomfort. The horse may try to lie down or lean and may bite the abdomen. Sometimes behavioral changes occur including lethargy or aggression. It is important to get colic treatment for horses promptly, as this condition can become very dangerous in a short period of time. The intestines can rupture, leading to peritonitis and death for the animal.
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