The relationship between peak expiratory sound intensity and peak expiratory flow rate in the thoroughbred horse during exercise.

The study examines the correlation between peak expiratory sound intensity and peak expiratory flow rate in thoroughbred horses during physical exertion.

Objective of the Research

• This research intends to explore the relationship between the peak expiratory sound intensity (dB SPL) and peak expiratory flow rate in thoroughbred horses during exercise. The measurements were taken using a radiostethoscope and a mask embedded with a thermistor flow sensor, respectively.

Experimental Design and Method

• The experiment was conducted on six thoroughbred horses. Their peak expiratory sound intensity and peak expiratory flow rate were measured as they were subjected to exercise at different stride rates, ranging from 100 to 140 strides per minute.
• The peak expiratory sound intensity was detected using a radiostethoscope. In contrast, the peak expiratory flow rate was determined by using a mask that incorporated a thermistor flow sensor.

Key Findings

• The study found linear relationships between the peak decibels sound pressure level (dB SPL) and stride rate. Similarly, peak expiratory flow rate and stride rate also showed a linear relation.
• It also revealed a direct linear relation between peak expiratory flow rate and peak dB SPL. This suggests that peak expiratory dB SPL can be a reliable predictor of peak expiratory flow rate in physically active horses.

Significance of the Research

• The primary implication of this study is that monitoring the peak expiratory sound intensity in horses during exercise could provide a non-invasive way of predicting peak expiratory flow rate. This insight can be particularly useful for trainers and veterinarians in assessing the horses’ respiratory health and fitness levels during physical exertion without harming or inconveniencing the animals.