Stridors is a medical term used to describe a harsh or high-pitched sound heard during breathing, often caused by an obstruction in the airway. The phonetic transcription of this word is /ˈstrɪdɔːz/, which includes the stressed syllable of "strid" with a short "i" sound, and the plural ending "ors" with a long "o" sound. It is important for medical professionals to spell medical terms accurately to ensure clear communication and avoid misinterpretation that could potentially harm patients.
Stridor is a medical term used to describe a high-pitched and harsh sound that is heard when there is obstruction or narrowing of the airway during breathing. It is often characterized by a wheezing or creaking noise that can be heard during inhalation, exhalation, or both. Stridor typically indicates an underlying respiratory problem and can be a sign of an upper airway obstruction, such as swelling, infection, or an anatomical abnormality.
The sound of stridor is produced when air attempts to pass through the narrowed airway, causing turbulence and vibrations. The severity and pitch of the sound may vary depending on the location and extent of the obstruction. Stridor is commonly observed in conditions such as croup, epiglottitis, tracheal stenosis, foreign body aspiration, or an allergic reaction.
Stridor is often a concerning symptom because it suggests that there may be a partial or complete blockage of the air passage, making it difficult for air to enter or exit the lungs. Infants and children are more prone to developing stridor due to their smaller airway size, but it can also occur in adults. In serious cases, stridor may be accompanied by other symptoms like shortness of breath, increased respiratory effort, or cyanosis (bluish discoloration of the skin).
Medical evaluation is necessary when stridor is present in order to determine the underlying cause and provide appropriate treatment. This may involve a thorough physical examination, imaging studies, and potentially a laryngoscopy or bronchoscopy to visualize and diagnose the specific issue. Prompt medical attention is essential to address any potential respiratory compromise associated with stridor.
The word "stridors" comes from the Latin noun "stridor", which means a creaking or grating noise. "Stridor" itself is derived from the verb "stridere", meaning to make a harsh or shrill sound. The noun "stridor" entered English in the late 16th century and its plural form "stridors" is rarely used today, but still refers to a rough, harsh, or grating noise.