REFLEX SYMPTOM Meaning and
Definition
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A reflex symptom refers to a physical manifestation or response that occurs automatically and involuntarily in response to a specific stimulus or trigger. This response often involves a reflex arc, a neural pathway that allows for rapid communication between sensory neurons and motor neurons, bypassing conscious thought processes.
The reflex symptom is an innate and protective mechanism of the body designed to preemptively respond to potential harm or danger. It typically encompasses an involuntary action or reaction, such as jerking a body part away from a painful stimulus, blinking in response to a sudden bright light, or sneezing due to nasal irritants. These reflexive responses are generally immediate and do not require conscious effort or decision-making.
Reflex symptoms can vary in intensity and duration depending on the individual and the nature of the stimulus. They can be diagnostic indicators in medical examinations, as certain reflex symptoms are associated with specific conditions or injuries. Physicians often utilize tests, such as the knee jerk reflex or pupillary response, to assess the integrity of the nervous system.
Overall, reflex symptoms play a crucial role in the body's defense mechanisms by effectively protecting individuals from potential harm while bypassing the conscious thought process for quicker reactions.
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A disturbance of sensation or function in an organ or part more or less remote from the morbid condition giving rise to it, as vertigo or headache due to eyestrain.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for REFLEX SYMPTOM
- reflex sympuom
- reflex symptgm
- reflex symptmm
- reflex symptnm
- reflex symptoe
- reflex symptoi
- reflex symptoo
- reflex symptol
- reflexsymptwom
- reflexsymptoom
- r eflex symptom
- re flex symptom
- ref lex symptom
- refl ex symptom
- refle x symptom
- reflex s ymptom
- reflex sy mptom
- reflex sympt om
- reflex sympto m
Etymology of REFLEX SYMPTOM
The word "reflex" comes from the Latin term "reflexus", which means "bent back" or "reversed". It is derived from the verb "reflectere", meaning "to turn back".
The term "symptom" originates from the Greek word "symptoma", derived from the verb "symptomai", meaning "to happen together or co-occur". It referred to a sign or indication of a disease or condition.
Combining these two roots, "reflex symptom" suggests a symptom or sign that is the result of a reaction or response rather than a primary cause.
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