BRONCHIAL HYPERREACTIVITY Meaning and
Definition
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Bronchial Hyperreactivity is a medical condition characterized by the exaggerated or excessive response of the airways in the lungs to various stimuli. It refers to the increased sensitivity and reactivity of the bronchial tubes, causing them to constrict or narrow more than usual when exposed to triggers. This excessive response can result in symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, coughing, and chest tightness.
Individuals with bronchial hyperreactivity have airways that are more prone to inflammation and excessive constriction in response to common environmental factors, such as allergens, cold air, exercise, smoke, or respiratory infections. This overreactivity can be a feature of various respiratory conditions, including asthma, bronchitis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
The underlying mechanisms of bronchial hyperreactivity involve an abnormal immune response and hyperactive muscle cells in the airway walls. When exposed to triggers, the immune system releases various chemical substances, like histamine and leukotrienes, which cause inflammation and narrowing of the bronchial tubes. Concurrently, the smooth muscles surrounding the airways contract, further contributing to the constriction and obstruction of airflow.
Bronchial hyperreactivity is commonly diagnosed through pulmonary function tests, such as spirometry or bronchial provocation tests, which measure lung capacity and the degree of bronchial constriction in response to specific stimuli. Treatment options for bronchial hyperreactivity typically involve medications aimed at reducing airway inflammation, bronchodilators to relax the smooth muscles, avoiding triggers, and adopting a healthy lifestyle. In severe cases, other therapies such as immunotherapy or surgery may be considered.
Common Misspellings for BRONCHIAL HYPERREACTIVITY
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Etymology of BRONCHIAL HYPERREACTIVITY
The word "bronchial" originates from the Greek word "bronkhos" which means "windpipe" or "throat", referring to the air passages leading to the lungs. The term "hyperreactivity" comes from the Greek word "hyper", meaning "over" or "excessive", and "reactivity", which refers to the ability to react or respond. Thus, "bronchial hyperreactivity" is a medical term used to describe an exaggerated or excessive response of the bronchial tubes to certain triggers, resulting in symptoms like coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.
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