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Clinical signs of chronic grass sickness

Chronic grass sickness cases have a more gradual onset of clinical signs. Recovery may be possible with this form of EGS.

Rapid and severe weight loss leading to emaciation
Markedly tucked up abdomen
Base narrow stance
Dry, crusty nose (rhinitis sicca)
Drooping eyelids (ptosis)
Slightly elevated heart rate (tachycardia)
Muscle tremors (fasciculation)
Patchy sweating
Reduced appetite (inappetance)
Slight difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)

This picture shows a horse’s nostril full of dry, crusty material, termed ‘rhinitis sicca’ . This is due to the accumulation of dried secretion within the nasal cavity. This may lead to snuffling respiration. Rhinitis sicca is considered to be pathognomonic of EGS but is only seen in chronic cases as it takes 7-10 days to develop.