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Thermotex Hood

Ideal for treating sinus conditions, this model uses 2 -
3" x 8" infrared pads utilizing 24 watts of power. This
model has 2 adjustable panels, one on the front sinus
and one on the throat.



The Thermotex Hood helps treat blisters, sinus problems,
flapper, star-angular glands, pharyingitis, and helps
your horse breath better. The Hood has two elements with
one located on the front sinus and the other on the
throat between the lower mandibles. The hood is large
enough to fit even the largest of breeds due to the
totally adjustable portion that fits over the throat
area. It is constructed of durable nylon.
A great number of equine athletes suffer from upper
respiratory problems during their careers. They are
highly stressed individuals and are constantly exposed
to bacteria and viruses on the competitive circuit. The
Thermotex Infrared Therapy System Hood provides an easy
way to apply deep penetrating infrared heat to the
anatomical areas of the frontal sinuses and throat. It
is difficult to be competitive if the animal suffers
from an upper respiratory disorder.
Several equine clinical disorders benefit greatly from
the use of the Thermotex Infrared Therapy Systems
Hood. These are but not limited to:
-
Bacterial Sinusitis
-
Pharyngeal Lymphoid Hyperplasia (blisters)
-
Guttural Pouch Disorders
-
Strangles
-
Laryngeal Hemiplegia
Bacterial Sinusitis:
Bacterial infections of the frontal sinuses can be
either primary in nature or secondary to an infected
tooth. There is almost always pain over the frontal
sinuses and the animal will have difficulty
breathing. In severe cases, the animal may even show
neurological signs. Radiographs and an endoscopic
examination will ensure an accurate diagnosis.
Treatment plans for this disorder can be very
aggressive and systematic. They may include lavage,
systemic therapy, nebulization and even surgery.
Regardless of the severity of the disorder, the
application of infrared heat to the frontal sinuses
from the Thermotex Hood has some benefits. This
infrared heat will increase the circulation to the
area and alleviate some of the pain and discomfort
associated with this disorder.
Pharyngeal Lymphoid Hyperplasia (blisters):
The cause of these lesions is still a matter of
controversy. It may be from a virus, irritants in
the air, allergies or a low-grade bacterial
infection. They are found on endoscopic examination
and even their significance is under constant
scrutiny. Treatment of this disorder varies from
simple rest to cryosurgery. In the middle are
treatments of chemical cautery, electrocautery,
nebulization, systemic anti-inflammatories and
antibiotics. The application of the Thermotex
Infrared Therapy System Hood with the throat pad in
place would certainly provide some benefit to those
patients whose airflow seems to be restricted by
these structures. Long therapy sessions would
benefit the patient the most with the ability to
increase the circulation within the tissues and
supply some pain relief to this area.
Guttural Pouch Disorders:
Due to their anatomical location, the guttural
pouches are always predisposed to infections. Any
infection in this area will hinder the athletic
ability of the horse despite their athletic
discipline. Treatment of these infections involves
systemic antibiotics, lavage and even surgery. The
application of Thermotex infrared heat to the area
of the throat will serve as an adjunct to these
traditional therapies. Numerous daily sessions, of
at least an hour duration, on the low setting
provides an increase within the circulation to this
area. This will aid in the animal's defense against
the infection.
Strangles:
This is a highly contagious infection caused by the
bacteria Streptococcus equi. This bacterium usually
becomes localized within the submaxillary,
mandibular and retropharyngeal lymph nodes. These
lymph nodes will be very painful and swell to the
point where they will obstruct respiration and
swallowing. The application of Thermotex infrared
heat therapy to these nodes to reduce the swelling
and pain is definitely of benefit to the equine
patient.
Laryngeal Hemiplegia:
The etiology of laryngeal hemiplegia, "roaring," is
damage or irritation to the left recurrent laryngeal
nerve. This causes a loss of innervation to the
muscles of the larynx and a consequent loss of
muscular function. This problem is diagnosed with a
thorough endoscopic exam performed after hard
exercise. Surgery yields the most desirable
pregnosis. The incision for this surgery is left
open to heal. Daily cleaning and applications of
infrared heat with Thermotex Hood will speed the
healing process.
Conclusions:

The application of
infrared heat to the throat area and sinuses
increases the circulation and speeds the healing
process. Infrared heat also provides analgesia to
the inflamed tissues within this anatomical area. |