Bronchoconstrictor is a medical term that refers to a substance that causes constriction of the airways in the lungs. The word is spelled using the standard English spelling system, with the exception of the "ch" sound, which is represented by the digraph "ch". In IPA phonetic transcription, bronchoconstrictor is pronounced as /ˌbrɑːŋkəʊkənˈstrɪktə/. The stress falls on the second syllable, and the vowel in the first syllable is pronounced as the long "o" sound. The final syllable is pronounced with a short "i" sound followed by the consonant cluster "ct".
A bronchoconstrictor, in medical terms, refers to a substance or agent that causes the constriction or narrowing of the bronchial tubes, which are the airways present in the lungs. This constriction leads to a reduction in the diameter of the bronchial tubes, impeding the smooth flow of air into and out of the lungs.
Bronchoconstrictors are often associated with respiratory conditions such as asthma, as they exacerbate the symptoms by causing difficulty in breathing. The narrowing of the airways during a bronchoconstrictor episode can result in shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing, and a feeling of tightness in the chest.
Bronchoconstrictors can be triggered by various factors, such as allergens (e.g., dust mites, pollen), irritants (e.g., cigarette smoke, chemicals), or even exercise in individuals with exercise-induced bronchoconstriction. Stress and certain medications can also act as bronchoconstrictors in some individuals.
To manage bronchoconstriction and its associated symptoms, bronchodilators are commonly used. These are medications that work to relax the smooth muscles lining the bronchial tubes, thereby dilating the airways and enabling easier breathing.
Overall, understanding bronchoconstrictors is crucial for individuals with respiratory conditions, as it helps guide proper management and treatment to alleviate symptoms and improve the quality of life.
Causing a reduction in ealiber of a bronchus or bronchial tube. 2. An agent which possesses this power.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "bronchoconstrictor" is derived from two main components: "broncho" and "constrictor".
1. "Broncho": This component originates from the Greek word "bronkhos" (βρόγχος), which means "windpipe" or "airway". It is related to the term "bronchus", which refers to the major air passages in the lungs.
2. "Constrictor": This component is derived from the Latin word "constrictor", which comes from the verb "constringere", meaning "to bind together" or "to compress". In English, "constrictor" refers to something that narrows or tightens.