Stenosis is a medical term used to describe the abnormal narrowing of a passage or opening in the body. It refers to a condition in which the normal diameter of a structure or channel becomes constricted, leading to a partial or complete blockage of the flow of fluids or air. The term can be applied to various parts of the body, such as blood vessels, organs, or hollow tubes.
In the context of blood vessels, stenosis commonly occurs due to the buildup of plaque and the progressive hardening of the arteries, a condition known as atherosclerosis. Stenosis can also involve other structures like the spinal canal, where narrowing can compress the spinal cord or nerves. This can result in symptoms such as pain, numbness, or weakness in the affected body parts.
Symptoms of stenosis depend on the location and severity of the narrowing. They can include difficulty breathing, chest pain, reduced blood flow to vital organs, restricted range of motion, or neurological impairment. Treatment options for stenosis vary depending on the specific case and its severity. They can range from medications to surgical intervention, including procedures such as angioplasty or stent placement to widen narrowed blood vessels, or laminectomy to decompress the spinal cord.
Overall, stenosis is a medical term used to describe the abnormal narrowing of a passage in the body, which can have various causes, locations, and manifestations, requiring proper diagnosis and treatment to alleviate symptoms and restore normal function.
