Equine Head Problems

A myriad of problems can afflict horses in the head, including roarers, sinusitis, and infections of the guttural pouches.  

Larynx Problems

The larynx, aka the voice box, also protects the trachea from food.  These flaps of cartilage close to prevent food from going down the trachea. When the cartilage of the epiglottis flips up, it makes a flapping sound. Since horses have a longer soft palate than humans, they are not capable of breathing through their mouths.  Thus, when horses develop partial paralysis of the laryngeal flaps, they have difficulty breathing when exercising.  This condition is officially known as Laryngeal Paralysis and usually occurs on the left of the larynx.  Colloquially known as "Roarers", horses with this condition make a rhythmic sound as they struggle to open their trachea wide enough to breathe.

If the condition is severe enough, veterinarians may recommend surgery to tie-back the flap in a permanently open position or remove the flap entirely. However, recovery time is 4-5 months and surgery always includes some risks and costs.

Here is a video showing the partial paralysis of the larynx:

Another problem horses can have is the Upward or Dorsal Displacement of Soft Palate, in which the soft palate flips up over the cartilage and becomes stuck. To address this issue, sometimes tongue-tying is used to pull the epiglottis forward.

Sinusitis

The equine head has large sinuses extending below the eyes close to teeth root and in the forehead. Infections of cheek teeth can easily lead to sinus infection. While it is normal for horses to have some nasal discharge that is clear or white, any odd colored or foul-smelling discharge may indicated a sinus infection. X-rays show infections or growths in the sinuses and usually sinusitis is fairly treatable. Surgery is invasive, but rarely necessary.

Guttural Pouches

Horses have air-filled pouches in the throat latch region called guttural pouches.  While their function is uncertain, these pouches are prone to bacterial and fungal infections and tumors.  Persistent nasal discharge from 1 side or both can be a sign of chondroids, i.e. pus balls in the guttural pouches. However nasal discharge can be normal or just a sign of allergies, or wind or dust irritation.  If you have concerns, consult your veterinarian.

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