Swollen forehead (pictures) - anatomy experts

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BBP

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Pony has swellings either side of his forehead, I don't know enough anatomy to know what sits under there to cause it. Any ideas? Right side bigger than left. Just got to run to second job so will check in later, thanks!
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Looks like some sort of bursitis/edema could be connected with inflammation of the sinus/allergy, if so will need steroid treatment. Would get the vet out to confirm for you.
 
Thank you, I did wonder about sinuses but wasn't sure where they sit. He has seemed a little 'off' lately, I have no idea how long it's been since I lifted his forelock.
 
Looks like the temporalis muscles. They are muscles of mastication, enlarged muscles or one bigger than the other could indicate chewing/dental problems? Does he chew in a circular motion or more up and down? Has he had the dentist recently? They can be slightly more pronounced in some horses. Too high up to be sinuses, although could potentially be connected, it may be worth a vet check just in case if he is not feeling himself?
 
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Umbongo said:
Looks like the temporalis muscles. They are muscles of mastication, enlarged muscles or one bigger than the other could indicate chewing/dental problems? Does he chew in a circular motion or more up and down? Has he had the dentist recently? They can be slightly more pronounced in some horses. Too high up to be sinuses, although could potentially be connected, it may be worth a vet check just in case if he is not feeling himself?
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I agree with this. The first thing my dentist always checks are those muscles as they give him an indication as to what is going on in the mouth. If the muscles are pronounced (particularly if they are uneven) I would suggest getting a dentist check up.
 
Interesting, thank you. My vet does his teeth so I will get their opinion. He gets checked about twice a year and must be about due anyway. I have to admit I'm not sure about chewing, there hasn't been anything to make him seem odd, I'll make sure I observe more carefully tomorrow. No idea if there is any connection but he had a swollen gunky eyelid the other day. I said to my sister he seemed a little depressed last week, put it down to him being on a diet. Yesterday at the gallops he seemed bang on form though. I'll give the vets a bell tomorrow.
 
BPP Sorry i know this is an old thread, but did you manage to get to the bottom of it? My gelding has the exact same problem with swelling on his forehead. TIA
 
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