Cardiac asthma is a medical condition that affects the respiratory system, but it is actually caused by heart problems. The word "cardiac" is spelled /ˈkɑrdiæk/ in IPA phonetic transcription, with the stress on the first syllable, and the "c" is pronounced as a "k" sound. Meanwhile, "asthma" is spelled /ˈæzmə/ in IPA, with the stress on the second syllable and the "th" sound pronounced as a voiceless "f" sound. Knowing the proper spelling and pronunciation of medical terms is important for accurate communication in the healthcare field.
Cardiac asthma is a condition characterized by the sudden onset of shortness of breath, wheezing, and coughing due to congestive heart failure. It is important to note that cardiac asthma is not a form of asthma caused by allergic reactions or airway inflammation; instead, it is a manifestation of heart failure.
The term "cardiac" refers to the heart, while "asthma" refers to the symptoms that resemble those of asthma. When a person has cardiac asthma, their heart is not functioning properly, leading to a buildup of fluid in the lungs. This fluid accumulation puts pressure on the airways, impairs their ability to expand and contract, and triggers the symptoms of shortness of breath and wheezing.
Common causes of cardiac asthma include coronary artery disease, high blood pressure, heart valve problems, and a history of heart attacks or heart failure. These conditions can lead to the weakening of the heart muscle or the accumulation of fluid in the lungs, impairing the heart's ability to pump blood efficiently.
Treatment for cardiac asthma focuses on managing the underlying heart condition. Medications such as diuretics may be prescribed to reduce fluid buildup, and medications to improve heart function and manage blood pressure might also be necessary. Lifestyle changes, including a low-salt diet and regular physical activity, may also be recommended.
It is essential to differentiate cardiac asthma from other forms of asthma since their treatment approaches vary significantly. If experiencing symptoms of cardiac asthma, seeking medical attention promptly is crucial for proper diagnosis and management.
An attack of dyspnea, coming on usually in the night, associated with cardiosclerosis.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The etymology of the term "Cardiac Asthma" can be broken down as follows:
1. Cardiac: The word "cardiac" is derived from the Latin word "cardiācus", which comes from the Greek word "kardiakos". Both mean "related to the heart". The term "cardiac" refers to anything that is pertaining to or affecting the heart.
2. Asthma: The word "asthma" has its origins in the Greek word "ásthma", which means "panting" or "shortness of breath". This Greek term dates back to ancient times and was used to describe a respiratory condition characterized by difficulty in breathing, wheezing, and coughing.
Therefore, "Cardiac Asthma" combines the word "cardiac", relating to the heart, with "asthma", referring to a condition with respiratory symptoms.