ALVEOLITIS Meaning and
Definition
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Alveolitis is a medical term that refers to the inflammation of the alveoli, which are tiny air sacs found in the lungs. These microscopic sacs are responsible for gas exchange, allowing oxygen to enter the bloodstream and carbon dioxide to be eliminated from the body. When the alveoli become inflamed, their normal functioning is disrupted, leading to various symptoms and potential complications.
Alveolitis can be caused by a wide range of factors, including infections, exposure to toxic substances, certain autoimmune disorders, and allergic reactions. Common symptoms of alveolitis may include coughing, shortness of breath, chest pain, fever, fatigue, and the production of mucus or phlegm. In severe cases, alveolitis can lead to irreversible lung damage and respiratory failure.
Diagnosis of alveolitis usually involves a thorough examination of a patient's medical history, physical examination, and various imaging tests, such as chest X-rays or CT scans. Treatment options for alveolitis depend on the underlying cause but often involve the use of medications to reduce inflammation and manage symptoms. In some cases, supplemental oxygen therapy or even lung transplantation may be necessary.
Prevention of alveolitis involves avoiding exposure to known irritants and toxins, maintaining good respiratory hygiene, and promptly treating any respiratory infections. Medical professionals, such as pulmonologists and respiratory therapists, are typically involved in the diagnosis and management of alveolitis. Early detection and proper treatment can help alleviate symptoms, minimize complications, and improve the overall prognosis for individuals affected by alveolitis.
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Pyorrhea alveolaris, alveolar periostitis, dentoalveolitis, pericementitis, Riggs's disease, Fanchard's disease.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for ALVEOLITIS
- zlveolitis
- slveolitis
- wlveolitis
- qlveolitis
- akveolitis
- apveolitis
- aoveolitis
- alceolitis
- albeolitis
- algeolitis
- alfeolitis
- alvwolitis
- alvsolitis
- alvdolitis
- alvrolitis
- alv4olitis
- alv3olitis
- alveilitis
- walveolitis
- laveolitis
Etymology of ALVEOLITIS
The word "alveolitis" is derived from two Latin components: "alveolus" and "itis".
- "Alveolus" refers to a small cavity or pit, specifically in this case, the dental alveolus, which is the socket in the jawbone that holds a tooth.
- "Itis" is a suffix in medical terminology that denotes inflammation.
Therefore, "alveolitis" literally means inflammation of the alveolus or socket. It is primarily used to describe a condition known as dry socket, which is a painful inflammation that can occur after a tooth extraction when the blood clot in the socket breaks down or dissolves, leaving the underlying bone exposed.
Similar spelling words for ALVEOLITIS
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