I included this record to provide you with more information on the process of swelling itself.
Swelling occurs for a variety of reasons. Trauma, inflammation, infection, cancer and hernias are just a few reasons for swelling. Keep in mind that swelling is the body's normal response to a variety of insults. Swelling from injury occurs because vessels are damaged, allowing fluid out into the tissues. Swelling from inflammation occurs when vessels become leaky and blood flow increases to an inflamed area.
Swellings over the abdomen have the potential to involve breaks in the body wall (hernias). Large hard swellings may be hematomas or abscesses. Soft, fluid containing swellings may be seromas. Swelling that has the consistency of dough and pits with digital pressure is likely an edema.
The key to identifying the potential causes of swelling is the location and anatomic structures involved.
Assess your horse's general health using the Whole Horse Exam (WHE) and assess the affected area. When you assess the swelling carefully compare one side of the body to the other for reference. As you feel the swelling, consider it's consistency: Is it jiggly, firm, or doughy? Does the horse respond in pain when you press on it? Does the skin around the area of swelling feel warmer than other areas? Send a photo to your vet being sure to include some landmarks so the location and size is evident.
Do not ever attempt to lance, open or drain any swelling unless advised to do so by your vet.
Your vet evaluates a swelling in terms of its location and anatomic structures involved. By careful observation and palpation of a swelling, vets can often determine the nature and potential severity of a swelling. Needle aspiration and ultrasound are two diagnostics that are of great help in determining the nature of any swelling.
Where specifically is the swelling?
Does pressure on the area seem to cause the horse pain or discomfort?
Does it feel like it contains fluid?
Is the swelling soft or firm?
What does the swelling feel like?
Is the swelling getting better or worse?
Do you know what might have caused the swelling?