Moon blindness is a term commonly used to describe a disease affecting horses' eyes. The spelling of this term seems unusual, but it is derived from the word M o o n t e x e r y e s, which is an old English term for conjunctivitis. The pronunciation of the word can be represented in IPA phonetic transcription as /muːn ˈblaɪndnəs/, meaning that the first syllable is pronounced as "moon" and the second syllable is pronounced as "blindness". This spelling might be confusing, but it has historical roots that explain its origin.
Moon blindness, also known as equine recurrent uveitis (ERU), is a condition that affects the eyes of horses. This inflammatory and recurring ocular disease typically manifests as episodes of severe inflammation in one or both eyes, leading to a range of symptoms and potential vision impairment. The term "moon blindness" originated from the belief that the condition was caused by lunar cycles, although it has now been widely recognized that it is not related to moon phases.
Although the exact cause of moon blindness remains unknown, it is commonly associated with bacterial or viral infections that can trigger an immune response in the horse's eye. Genetic factors, as well as environmental elements such as exposure to parasites or stressful conditions, may also play a role in the development of the disease. Symptoms of moon blindness include excessive tear production, redness of the eye, sensitivity to light, cloudiness, swelling, and pain.
While there is no definitive cure for moon blindness, various treatment options exist to manage the symptoms and reduce the severity and frequency of episodes. These may include topical and systemic medications to control inflammation, supportive therapies, such as eye drops or ointments, and protective measures to shield the horse's eyes from further irritants.
Early detection and prompt veterinary care are crucial in managing moon blindness, as it is a progressive condition that can worsen over time. Regular eye examinations, good hygiene practices, and maintaining a healthy overall environment for the horse can help in preventing and managing the impact of this potentially debilitating eye disease.
• Dimness of vision attributed to dazzling by the light of the tropical moon; moon-blink.
• 1. Amblyopia alleged to be due to sleeping in the moonlight in the tropics; moon-blink. 2. Night-blindness.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "moon blindness" is derived from the ancient belief that the phases of the moon were responsible for causing the condition. The word "moon" refers to Earth's moon, and "blindness" refers to the vision impairment associated with the disease. However, it's important to note that the term "moon blindness" is now considered outdated and has been replaced by the more accurate and scientific term "equine recurrent uveitis" (ERU).