The term "acoustic tetanus" refers to an involuntary muscle contraction that occurs in response to a sudden loud sound. The spelling of this term can be explained phonetically with the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The first syllable is pronounced "əˈku:stɪk," with the stress on the second vowel. The second syllable is pronounced "ˈtɛtənəs," with the stress on the first vowel. Together, the two syllables create the term "əˈku:stɪk ˈtɛtənəs," which accurately describes the medical condition of a reflexive muscular contraction in response to a loud noise.
Acoustic tetanus is a medical condition characterized by a prolonged contraction and sustained muscular tension in response to sound stimuli. This condition is primarily associated with the tonic contraction of the middle ear muscles, mainly the tensor tympani and stapedius muscles, which normally function to protect the delicate structures of the ear from intense sound.
Normally, these muscles contract briefly and reflexively in response to loud or sudden sound, called the acoustic reflex. However, in cases of acoustic tetanus, the muscles remain contracted for an extended period, causing persistent stiffness, pain, and discomfort within the ear.
The exact cause of acoustic tetanus is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to dysfunction or hyperactivity of the neural pathways responsible for regulating the acoustic reflex. It can also be associated with certain medical conditions such as anxiety disorders, hyperacusis (sensitivity to sound), or chronic exposure to loud noises.
Symptoms of acoustic tetanus may include a sensation of fullness or pressure in the ear, ear pain or discomfort, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), decreased tolerance to sound, and in severe cases, hearing loss. Treatment options for acoustic tetanus vary depending on the underlying cause and may include medication, noise protection strategies, relaxation techniques, or in some cases, surgical interventions.
Overall, acoustic tetanus is a rare condition that manifests as prolonged muscle contraction in response to sound stimuli, resulting in various symptoms related to the ear.
Experimental t. induced by a faradic current, the speed of which is estimated by the pitch of the vibrations.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "acoustic tetanus" is not widely used or recognized in scientific or medical literature. However, breaking down the components of the phrase can provide some insights into its possible origins.
1. Acoustic: The word "acoustic" comes from the Greek word "akoustikos", which means "of or for hearing". It is derived from the Greek word "akouein", meaning "to hear". In general, "acoustic" is used to describe anything related to sound or the sense of hearing.
2. Tetanus: The word "tetanus" refers to a medical condition caused by the bacterium Clostridium tetani. It typically brings about muscle stiffness and contractions, commonly known as lockjaw, because the bacterium releases a toxin affecting the nervous system. The term "tetanus" comes from the Greek word "tetanos", which means "to be stretched".