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Asphyxia Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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asphyxia

[əsˈfɪk.si.ə ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

medical condition

Asphyxia is a medical condition characterized by a deficiency of oxygen in the body, which can lead to suffocation. It occurs when the airway is obstructed, preventing the intake of oxygen. This condition can be caused by various factors, including choking, drowning, or respiratory diseases.

Synonyms

choking, smothering, suffocation.

Examples of usage

  • The doctor diagnosed the patient with asphyxia after the incident.
  • Asphyxia can result from inhaling smoke during a fire.
  • Infants are at risk of asphyxia if they sleep on their stomachs.
  • Prompt intervention is critical to prevent asphyxia in drowning victims.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Medical Understanding

  • Asphyxia can occur due to choking, drowning, or suffocation, as well as lack of fresh air in closed spaces.
  • Prolonged asphyxia can lead to serious brain damage or even death if not treated quickly.
  • Signs of asphyxia often include blue coloring of the skin, especially around lips and fingertips, known as cyanosis.

Psychology

  • People who experience asphyxia may face acute anxiety and panic due to the immediate struggle for air.
  • Studies show that environments with high levels of stress and anxiety can worsen the physical effects of asphyxia.

Pop Culture

  • Asphyxia appears in various movies, symbolizing danger and urgency, often seen in action or thriller genres.
  • Famous music references include songs that metaphorically connect struggles in life to the feeling of suffocation.

Preventative Measures

  • Knowing basic first-aid techniques like the Heimlich maneuver can help prevent asphyxia from choking.
  • Ventilating rooms and ensuring smoke detectors are functional can reduce risks associated with chemical or smoke-related asphyxia.

Origin of 'asphyxia'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Greek 'asphyxia,' meaning 'without pulse,' highlighting the lack of oxygen.
  • It combines 'a-' meaning 'without' and 'sphyxis,' which means 'pulse' or 'throb.' This connection illustrates its serious nature.

The term 'asphyxia' originates from the Greek language. It comes from the words 'a-' meaning 'without' and 'sphyx' meaning 'pulse'. The term was first used in the 17th century to describe a condition where the pulse would cease due to a lack of air or oxygen. Over time, the understanding of asphyxia expanded to include various causes such as drowning, choking, and certain medical conditions. It is often associated with emergencies and situations where airflow is restricted, leading to severe health implications. The historical context emphasizes the importance of oxygen for survival and the dangers posed by obstructed airways, which have been recognized across cultures for centuries.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,724, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.