The spelling of the word "laryngeal crisis" pertains to a sudden and dangerous constriction of the larynx, the medical term for the voice box. The correct pronunciation of this term is /ləˈrɪndʒiəl ˈkraɪsɪs/, with stress on the second syllable of laryngeal (/ˈrɪndʒiəl/). The "y" in crisis is pronounced as a short "i" sound due to the influence of the preceding "i". This term is commonly used in medical contexts to describe a severe breathing problem that requires immediate attention.
Laryngeal crisis is a medical term that refers to a sudden and severe obstruction or closure of the larynx, the structure in the throat responsible for airflow during breathing and voice production. It is also known as acute laryngeal obstruction or laryngospasm.
During a laryngeal crisis, the muscles of the larynx involuntarily contract or go into spasm, resulting in an immediate and complete blockage of the air passages. This can lead to a temporary inability to breathe, speak, or swallow. The condition can be very distressing and potentially life-threatening if not promptly addressed.
Laryngeal crisis is commonly caused by various factors, including allergies, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), neurological disorders, or irritants such as smoke or strong odors. It can also occur as a response to intense emotion or anxiety. Individuals with underlying conditions such as asthma or vocal cord dysfunction may be more susceptible to experiencing laryngeal crises.
Symptoms of laryngeal crisis may include a sudden sensation of choking or suffocation, coughing, wheezing, a high-pitched or stridor-like sound when breathing, or a complete inability to breathe. Immediate medical attention is necessary to resolve the crisis and ensure adequate oxygen supply.
Treatment options for laryngeal crisis typically involve the administration of drugs to relax the muscles of the larynx, such as bronchodilators or intravenous medications. In some cases, medical professionals may need to perform emergency procedures, like intubation or tracheostomy, to establish an alternate airway. Follow-up care and management may involve identifying and addressing the underlying cause to prevent future crises.
An attack of paralysis of the abductor, or spasm of the adductor, muscles of the larynx with dyspnea and noisy respiration, occur ring in tabes dorsalis.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "laryngeal crisis" is a medical term used to describe a condition characterized by the sudden obstruction of the airway due to the spasms or narrowing of the larynx (voice box). The etymology of this term can be broken down as follows:
1. Laryngeal: The adjective "laryngeal" is derived from the noun "larynx", which refers to the organ located in the throat responsible for sound production in humans. The word "larynx" itself originated from the Greek word "larynx" meaning "throat".
2. Crisis: The noun "crisis" has its roots in the Greek word "krisis", which means "turning point" or "decision". In medical terminology, it refers to a critical or decisive moment in the course of a disease when a change is expected, either for better or worse.