Reflex asthma is a type of asthma triggered by physical activity or certain stimuli. The word "reflex" is spelled /ˈriːflɛks/ in IPA phonetic transcription, reflecting the stress on the second syllable and the long "e" sound in the first syllable. "Asthma" is spelled /ˈæzmə/ in IPA, with the stress on the first syllable and a short "a" sound. Understanding the phonetic transcription helps to correctly pronounce and spell medical terms like reflex asthma, which can improve communication between healthcare professionals and patients.
Reflex asthma, also known as exercise-induced asthma or exercise-induced bronchoconstriction, is a type of asthma characterized by the narrowing and inflammation of the airways triggered by physical activity or exercise. It is a temporary condition that causes sudden breathing difficulties, coughing, wheezing, and chest tightness during or after exercise.
The term "reflex" in reflex asthma refers to the mechanism by which the airway constriction occurs. It is believed that the physical exertion causes a chain of chemical and nervous system reactions in the body that stimulate the release of substances like histamine, leukotrienes, and prostaglandins. These substances then lead to inflammation, muscle constriction, mucus production, and increased sensitivity in the airway passages.
Reflex asthma can affect people of all ages, including children and adults, and individuals with or without a prior history of asthma. The severity of symptoms can vary from mild to severe, depending on the individual and the intensity of the exercise. It often occurs during strenuous activities such as running, biking, or playing sports, but can also be triggered by exposure to cold air, dry air, or allergens.
Treatment for reflex asthma typically involves using a fast-acting bronchodilator inhaler, which helps relax the airway muscles and relieve symptoms during or before exercise. In some cases, long-acting medications or preventive measures may be prescribed to manage symptoms and reduce the frequency of asthma attacks during physical activity.
It is recommended that individuals with reflex asthma consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best treatment plan and strategies to minimize exercise-induced symptoms.
Symptomatic a.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "reflex asthma" is typically used to describe a type of asthma triggered by a reflex reaction. The etymology of the term can be broken down as follows:
1. Reflex: The word "reflex" is derived from the Latin word "reflexus", which means "bent back, reflected, or reverting". It originated from the verb "reflectere", formed by combining "re-" (back) and "flectere" (to bend).
2. Asthma: The word "asthma" comes from the Greek term "ásthma", which means "panting". It is thought to have evolved from the verb "ásthmainein", which translates to "to struggle for breath" or "to be short of breath".