Chronic Sheath Edema-possible causes/solution

[DobeWags]

Looking for suggestions related to chronic sheath edema.
13 yo OTTB, with edema in his sheath area. Sometimes it extends to mid-line. He’s dewormed regularly and his sheath is not dirty. He has no issue having it cleaned, uncomfortably so.

We have tried dex thinking he could be reacting to bugs/grass/weeds or something, but there was no effect. It reminds me of mastitis almost. Full sometimes firm, sometimes not.

I did not notice it regularly when he was in full work. That’s been a few years though because he is not an easy ride for me. (A professional does fine with him. It’s absolutely me that’s the problem.)

Anyone have a similar situation that they manage?

Thanks!

[warriorhorse]

Could be he’s not moving around enough. Or could be he’s got metabolic issues, like insulin resistance or Cushings. Has vet done any blood work?

[equinelibrium]

My gelding has the exact same problem. He also gets very itchy down there. We tried dex, silvadine, and a panacur power pack, none of which helped. The vet did bloodwork and he was diagnosed with Cushings. Unfortunately, even on medication with good ACTH numbers his sheath is still swollen. Wish I could be of more help!

[DobeWags]

Yes, itchy, very itchy.
Thanks for the feedback, I will try some blood work to see if that provides any insight.

[Bluey]

The main symptom of Cushings for our horse is that his sheat start swelling.
When it does, we up his Prascend pill, after a couple weeks the swelling is down and we start cutting back again.

I would check his blood work, he may have some metabolic problems starting.

[sdlbredfan]

Insulin Resistance, often abbreviated as IR. That is a classic symptom. Low starch and sugar diet, add magnesium. ECIR group will help you.

[Nevada10]

My boy with Cushings has a swollen sheath too.

[Mavs_Mommy]

Could any one of you please post a picture of what you are dealing with? I have an older gelding that was swollen a couple weeks ago, it went away and this morning it is slightly swollen again. Thanks!

[happilyretired]

My Friesian gelding has had this since the day I bought him nearly 8 years ago. Otherwise healthy and happy. Vets haven’t seemed concerned once they know that’s how he’s been over a long period of time.