Causes of the Disease
The exact cause of this condition is not yet fully understood. However, it is believed to be associated with several factors, including premature birth, cesarean delivery, hypoxia (lack of oxygen), and acidosis. These conditions can lead to respiratory distress in newborn lambs, especially those born before their bodies are fully developed. Understanding these causes helps in early recognition and management of the disease.
Clinical Signs
Lambs affected by this condition typically show signs of difficulty breathing and cyanosis (bluish discoloration of the mucous membranes). The symptoms usually worsen over time, with increased respiratory effort, flaring of the nostrils, and decreased breath sounds. During inhalation, faint heart murmurs may be detected, and as the condition progresses, the heart sounds become weaker. In severe cases, respiratory failure occurs rapidly, and many lambs do not survive beyond 2 to 3 days after the onset of symptoms.
Diagnostic Methods
If a lamb is weak and premature, or was delivered via cesarean section, and shows breathing difficulties within 6 to 12 hours of birth, this condition should be considered. Laboratory tests can help confirm the diagnosis. Blood pH levels and carbon dioxide binding capacity are often reduced, while arterial carbon dioxide tension is elevated. Additionally, blood sodium levels may decrease, and potassium levels increase. These findings support the diagnosis and guide treatment decisions.
First-Aid Treatment
Immediate care is crucial for improving the survival chances of affected lambs. Keep the lamb in a quiet, warm environment and ensure the airway is clear by removing any mucus from the mouth and nose. Oxygen therapy can be administered at a concentration not exceeding 40%, with intermittent use if necessary—5 to 10 minutes per session.
To correct acidosis, 5% sodium bicarbonate can be given intravenously at a dose of 5 ml per kilogram of body weight. This should be mixed with 10% glucose solution and administered slowly. This treatment helps restore pH balance and improves lung perfusion, enhancing oxygen transport in the blood.
For heart failure, a small dose of venomous hairs (such as digoxin) at 0.01 mg per kg can be diluted in 30 ml of 10% glucose and injected slowly into the vein. To manage cerebral edema, 20% mannitol can be given at 5 ml per kg body weight, administered quickly through an IV line, once or twice daily.
If hyperkalemia (high potassium levels) is present, insulin can be added to an intravenous infusion of 15% glucose. A ratio of 1 international unit of insulin to 1–4 grams of glucose is typically used to help lower potassium levels.
To improve cellular respiration, a combination of cytochrome C (15 mg), adenosine triphosphate (20 mg), coenzyme A (50 units), and vitamin B6 (50 mg) can be dissolved in 25% glucose solution and given as a single IV injection daily.
To prevent secondary infections, antibiotics such as penicillin (200,000 units) can be administered intramuscularly twice daily, or kanamycin (15 mg per kg body weight) can be given in two to three doses. These measures help reduce the risk of pneumonia and other complications.
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