Bronchoplegia is a medical term that refers to the paralysis of the bronchial muscles leading to difficulty in breathing. The word is spelled as /brɒŋkəʊˈpliːdʒə/. The first syllable "broncho" is pronounced as /brɒŋkəʊ/, with the "o" having a longer sound. The next part "plegia" is pronounced as /ˈpliːdʒə/ with the accent on the first syllable. The word "bronchoplegia" may be difficult to spell or pronounce for non-medical professionals, but it is necessary to know this term for proper diagnosis and treatment of respiratory disorders.
Bronchoplegia is a medical term that refers to the paralysis or weakness of the bronchial muscles. The bronchi are the large air passages in the lungs that allow air to flow in and out during breathing. These airways are surrounded by a layer of smooth muscles that help regulate the diameter of the bronchi and control airflow.
When the muscles of the bronchi become weakened or paralyzed, they lose their ability to contract or relax, leading to a constriction and obstruction of the airways. This can result in breathing difficulties, wheezing, and decreased lung function.
Bronchoplegia can arise from various causes, including neurological disorders, such as stroke or spinal cord injury, that affect the nerves controlling the bronchial muscles. It may also be a complication of certain surgical procedures involving the chest or airways.
The symptoms of bronchoplegia can vary depending on the severity of muscle weakness and the degree of airway obstruction. Common symptoms include shortness of breath, coughing, and tightness in the chest. Severe cases may require immediate medical attention to ensure adequate oxygen supply to the body.
Treatment options for bronchoplegia aim to manage and alleviate symptoms. Some interventions include bronchodilator medications to relax the bronchial muscles and improve airflow, physical therapy to strengthen respiratory muscles, and, in severe cases, surgical interventions such as bronchial stenting or airway bypass procedures.
It is important that individuals with bronchoplegia receive appropriate medical care to prevent complications, such as respiratory infections or respiratory failure, and to optimize their respiratory function and overall quality of life.
Paralysis of the muscular fibers in the walls of the trachea and bronchi.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "bronchoplegia" is composed of two elements, "broncho-" and "-plegia".
1. "Broncho-" is derived from the Greek word "bronkhos" which means "windpipe" or "throat". It is also related to the Greek word "bronkhia" meaning "the bronchial tubes".
2. "-Plegia" comes from the Greek word "plegia", which means "paralysis" or "stroke" in English. It is often used in medical terminology to denote paralysis or loss of function.
Therefore, when combined, "bronchoplegia" refers to the paralysis or loss of function of the bronchial tubes.