HYPOSTATIC PNEUMONIA Meaning and
Definition
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Hypostatic pneumonia is a medical condition characterized by inflammation and infection of the lungs, specifically occurring in individuals who are bedridden or immobile. It is considered a type of pneumonia that results from stagnant or pooled blood and fluid accumulating in the small air sacs (alveoli) of the lungs, leading to a secondary bacterial infection.
When a person is inactive for prolonged periods or remains in a supine position, gravity has an effect on blood circulation. The blood tends to pool in the lower parts of the body, causing reduced blood flow to the lungs. As a consequence, the stagnant blood in the lungs can decrease the effectiveness of the immune response, impair lung function, and create an environment favorable for bacterial growth.
The symptoms of hypostatic pneumonia can manifest similarly to other types of pneumonia and may include fever, cough, chest pain, shortness of breath, and production of green or yellow sputum. Elderly individuals or those with conditions that inhibit mobility, such as stroke patients or individuals with spinal cord injuries, are more susceptible to developing this condition.
To prevent hypostatic pneumonia, it is crucial to promote movement and activity in bedridden or immobile individuals. Frequent position changes, range of motion exercises, and maintaining proper hygiene are essential measures to enhance blood circulation, clear the airways, and reduce the risk of respiratory infections. Treatment for hypostatic pneumonia typically involves antibiotics to combat the bacterial infection and supportive care to alleviate symptoms and enhance recovery.
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Pulmonary congestion due to stagnation of blood in the dependent portions of the lungs in the aged or those debilitated by disease who lie in the same position for long periods.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for HYPOSTATIC PNEUMONIA
- hypostatic pneumonii
- hypostatic pneumonie
- hypostatic pneumonic
- h ypostatic pneumonia
- hypo static pneumonia
- hypos tatic pneumonia
- hypost atic pneumonia
- hyposta tic pneumonia
- hypostat ic pneumonia
- hypostati c pneumonia
- hypostatic pn eumonia
- hypostatic pne umonia
- hypostatic pneu monia
- hypostatic pneum onia
- hypostatic pneumo nia
- hypostatic pneumon ia
- hypostatic pneumoni a
Etymology of HYPOSTATIC PNEUMONIA
The term "hypostatic pneumonia" is derived from two key components: "hypostatic" and "pneumonia".
The word "hypostatic" is derived from the Greek word "hypóstasis", which means "settling down". In medical terminology, it refers to a condition where fluids settle down in the lower parts of the body due to decreased movement or prolonged bed rest. This can cause various complications, including pneumonia.
"Pneumonia" comes from the Greek word "pneumon", meaning "lung". It is a common respiratory infection that inflames and affects the alveoli, tiny air sacs in the lungs. Pneumonia can be caused by various microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites.
