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Asthmatic Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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asthmatic

[æsmætɪk ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

health condition

Asthmatic refers to an individual who suffers from asthma, a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways. People with this condition experience symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. Asthmatic reactions can be triggered by various factors, including allergens, dust, smoke, and physical activity. Managing asthma involves avoiding triggers and using medications such as bronchodilators and inhaled corticosteroids to control symptoms.

Synonyms

bronchial, respiratory, wheezy.

Examples of usage

  • She has an asthmatic reaction to pollen.
  • Asthmatic patients often carry inhalers.
  • The asthmatic child struggled during the gym class.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Asthma affects over 300 million people globally, making it a significant public health concern.
  • It is caused by inflammation and constriction of the airways, which can be triggered by allergies, exercise, or weather changes.
  • Asthma can be classified into various types, including allergic asthma and exercise-induced asthma, showing its diverse nature.

History

  • In ancient Egypt, a papyrus from around 1500 B.C. mentioned symptoms resembling asthma, indicating that breathing issues have been recognized for millennia.
  • Hippocrates, often called the Father of Medicine, wrote about breathlessness and respiratory diseases in his medical texts.

Pop Culture

  • Asthma awareness has been featured in various songs and films, drawing attention to those who manage the condition every day.
  • Famous personalities, including singer Ella Fitzgerald and basketball player Lebron James, have publicly shared their experiences with asthma, highlighting its prevalence.

Psychology

  • Studies indicate that stress and anxiety can worsen asthma symptoms, showcasing the strong connection between mental and physical health.
  • Coping strategies, like relaxation techniques, can help individuals manage asthma better, indicating the importance of emotional well-being.

Origin of 'asthmatic'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the Greek word 'asthma', which means 'breathlessness'.
  • It was first used in English during the late 14th century, highlighting its long-standing recognition as a medical condition.

The word 'asthmatic' derives from the Greek word 'asthma,' which means 'panting' or 'to breathe hard.' The term has been used in medical contexts since ancient times to describe a condition characterized by difficulty in breathing. Asthma was recognized as a medical condition by Hippocrates, who documented its symptoms and possible treatments. As medical understanding evolved, the term 'asthmatic' was adopted to describe individuals who suffer from this condition, with modern definitions refining its use in both clinical and colloquial contexts.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,715, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.