Hair Analysis Sample (Kidneys)

Commentary:

JFN has, basically, a good condition of her organ system. She has high innate capacity.

The mare has, at this time, a strain of the kidneys and urinary tract. The analysis shows that the problem started when she was app. 1 year old, probably due to the fact she was not drinking enough water. This strain is also affecting her hormonal system.

The kidneys main function is to format urine. By regulating the volume, salt level and pH-value of the urine, the kidneys will participate in the body’s fluid balance. The fluid balance includes water, electrolyte and pH-values. The formation of urine is the organism’s most important method to excrete water-soluble slag products precipitated from the metabolism.

The hormonal system secretes hormones into the nerves and blood system. The different hormones work together and it is important that the hormonal structure is in balance. Progesterone and estrogen, for example, is essential for a filly’s/mare’s ability to build muscles.

The analysis indicates that the formation of red blood cells is impaired at this time. This is probably due to the vitamin B6 and iron deficiency.

The analysis shows a vitamin B6 deficiency. This vitamin is important for the formation of red blood cells and it contributes to the iron’s ability to bind with the hemoglobulin. It is essential for the potassium/sodium balance. Low levels may cause swollen, sore and stiff joints, especially in front knees and fetlocks.

Magnesium and iron levels are low. Magnesium takes part in various enzyme activities and is important for the energy metabolism. It is essential for a normal kidney function. Iron is a vital component of hemoglobin, which carries oxygen around the body and also myoglobin, which stores oxygen in muscle cells. Iron will also increase the combustion of slag products and toxins precipitated from the metabolism.

The mare has developed hypersensitivity to electrolyte treatments and cortisone, which suggests that the mare has been undergoing some type of treatments with these substances.

Her protein and fat values are elevated. This suggests that her feed ration is too rich in these nutrients.

When protein is broken down in the digestive tract it will precipitate nitrogen as a by-product. Nitrogen is excreted via the kidneys hence high amounts of protein in the feed will strain the kidneys.

The mare is drinking too little water at this time. This is probably due to the strain of her kidneys and it will also strain the kidneys further. It is important that the mare drinks enough water. Make sure that she has free access to water at all times, preferably from a bucket.

Symptoms:

The kidneys and urinary tract are connected to certain muscle groups in the withers, back and hindquarters, such as;

The Romboid muscle, The Longissimus dorsi muscle, the Iliac muscle, the greater psoas muscle, the gluteal muscle and the middle carpal flexor muscle.

The strain of the kidneys will also affect the ligaments and tendons in her legs due to an accumulation of uric acids.

JFN’s most apparent symptoms, at this time, will be sore and stiff muscles in front of the croup area.

She will have problems in her left hind leg, which she may drag. There can also be a coordination disorder here.

There is an increased risk of injuries of the suspensory ligament, especially in her left hind leg.

She may also have problems when urinating and urinate excessively, especially when she feels stressed.

The hormonal imbalance may cause difficult heat periods and she may also have problems to build muscles.

The analysis shows that JFN is very strong mentally. She seems to be very “set in her ways” and can sometimes appear to be a bit aloof and “disdainful”. The positive side of her character is that she is independent and never afraid to “claim her space”.

Recommended treatment

Since the mare’s protein and fat counts are elevated, it is appropriate to make some changes in her feed ration.

Grass hay, whole oats, beet pulp and natural vitamins and minerals would be the most suitable feed ration for her.

Hay is the best protein and fiber source for a horse.

Carbohydrates are the best energy source and whole oats is the best carbohydrate and fat source for a horse.

Beet pulp is rich in calcium, fibers and carbohydrates and is therefore a suitable feed for horses.

Water should be considered as feed and it is very important that the mare has free access to water, preferably from a bucket. Give her two buckets of lukewarm water after exercise, this way you can make sure that she is drinking sufficiently.

Studies have shown that horses will drink up to 40 % more water from a bucket compared with automatic water systems.

It is also important to avoid giving her electrolytes since she has developed a hypersensitivity to this. Electrolyte treatments will disturb the horse’s natural formation of electrolytes in the intestines.

Recommended treatment:

Minesyl, Ferromin, Macromin, Renemin, Maremin