Concentration ratios
What does isotonic and hypertonic mean?
There are many aspects to consider in the world of equine health, especially when it comes to respiratory diseases. One of the most fascinating concepts that plays a crucial role is the concentration of the inhalation solution. The terms isotonic, hypertonic and hypotonic may cause confusion at first, but don't worry - we'll shed some light on the subject and help you find the optimum concentration ratio for your horse.
The semi-permeable cell membrane
Before we look at the different concentration ratios in equine inhalation, it is important to understand the concept of a semi-permeable membrane. This special membrane does not allow all molecules to pass through - while water molecules (H2O) can pass through, larger minerals such as sodium chloride (NaCl) remain outside. This membrane is found on all body cells - the mucous membranes of the lungs therefore function according to the same principle and not all molecules can pass through them. However, as the cell always strives for a balanced ratio of particles, it must use the water molecules to achieve this balance, as the other molecules cannot pass through it.
Illustration: Semi-permeable membrane.
In order to create a balanced ratio of NaCl and H2O particles, the cell must allow H2O particles to pass through the membrane into the left-hand section. In this example, the H2O particles would therefore automatically pass into the left-hand section until the ratio is balanced again.
In order to create a balanced ratio of NaCl and H2O particles, the cell must allow H2O particles to pass through the membrane into the left-hand section. In this example, the H2O particles would therefore automatically pass into the left-hand section until the ratio is balanced again.
Isotonic solution: balanced ratio
An isotonic ratio is what the cell always strives for. Here, a constant exchange of water molecules takes place, which leads to a balanced state. An example of an isotonic solution is the 0.9% NaCl solution or bi-medEctoin® in a corresponding isotonic mixing ratio. These solutions stimulate the exchange of water molecules, but do not lead to an excessive increase or decrease in the amount of water within the cell. This has a positive effect on mucus clearance and moisturisation and supports the health of the respiratory tract.
Illustration: the isotonic concentration ratio.
Outside and inside the cell there is the same mixing ratio of NaCl and H2O molecules. The cell no longer has to strive for an equalisation of particles, as this state has already been reached. However, there is still a constant exchange of H2O molecules.
Outside and inside the cell there is the same mixing ratio of NaCl and H2O molecules. The cell no longer has to strive for an equalisation of particles, as this state has already been reached. However, there is still a constant exchange of H2O molecules.
Hypertonic solution: highly concentrated solution
A hypertonic ratio occurs when there is an excess of minerals outside the cell. In this case, water molecules (H2O) are transported out of the cell to compensate for the excess minerals. This causes the cell to shrink due to the loss of water. An example of a hypertonic solution would be a brine or bi-medEctoin® in a corresponding hypertonic mixing ratio. The release of water molecules loosens the mucus in the lungs, making it easier to cough up. A hypertonic solution is therefore more mucolytic than an isotonic solution. However, caution is advised: The escape of water molecules can dry out the cells in the long term and thus irritate them, which is why the use of a hypertonic solution is only suitable for horses with mucus and not for those with a dry cough. It is recommended that a hypertonic solution is only used temporarily and not permanently in order to avoid overstimulation of the cells.
Illustration: the hypertonic concentration ratio.
In order to achieve a balanced ratio of H2O and NaCl particles inside and outside the cell, H2O particles from inside the cell pass through the semi-permeable membrane to the outside of the cell.
In order to achieve a balanced ratio of H2O and NaCl particles inside and outside the cell, H2O particles from inside the cell pass through the semi-permeable membrane to the outside of the cell.
Hypotonic solution: never for inhalation!
A hypotonic ratio occurs when there are more minerals inside the cell than outside. In this case, water molecules flow into the cell to equalise the imbalance of particles. Extreme caution is required here - if too many water molecules enter the cell, it can burst. For this reason, we strongly advise against inhaling with a hypotonic solution. Examples of a hypotonic solution are distilled water or ordinary tap water. Hypotonic solutions should therefore never be used for inhalation, as this could cause the cells to burst.
When should which concentration ratio be used?
Isotonic and hypertonic solutions are suitable for inhalation.
Isotonic solutions offer a balanced ratio and have a caring, moisturising and slightly mucolytic effect.This concentration can be used on any horse without hesitation, regardless of whether it is preventative inhalation or inhalation for a horse with respiratory disease. It is particularly suitable for horses with a dry cough,, slight mucus production, allergies or horses that have general respiratory problems.
Hypertonic solutions can help horses with severe mucus due to their strong mucolytic effect, but should only be used as a cure and not on a permanent basis.This concentration ratio is only suitable for horses with mucus. mucus. Regardless of whether the mucus is due to an infection, an allergy or another cause - as soon as a horse exhibits severe mucus, temporary hypertonic inhalation is the most effective.
Always remember to consider your horse's needs and consult a vet if you are unsure. Inhalation can be a real game changer in the treatment of horses with respiratory disease, but only if the correct concentration of inhalation solution is used.
Isotonic solutions offer a balanced ratio and have a caring, moisturising and slightly mucolytic effect.This concentration can be used on any horse without hesitation, regardless of whether it is preventative inhalation or inhalation for a horse with respiratory disease. It is particularly suitable for horses with a dry cough,, slight mucus production, allergies or horses that have general respiratory problems.
Hypertonic solutions can help horses with severe mucus due to their strong mucolytic effect, but should only be used as a cure and not on a permanent basis.This concentration ratio is only suitable for horses with mucus. mucus. Regardless of whether the mucus is due to an infection, an allergy or another cause - as soon as a horse exhibits severe mucus, temporary hypertonic inhalation is the most effective.
Always remember to consider your horse's needs and consult a vet if you are unsure. Inhalation can be a real game changer in the treatment of horses with respiratory disease, but only if the correct concentration of inhalation solution is used.