Bronchodilator Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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bronchodilator
[หbrษลkษสหdaษชlษหteษชษ ]
Definition
medical treatment
A bronchodilator is a type of medication that relaxes and opens the airways in the lungs, making it easier to breathe. It is commonly used to treat conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). By dilating the bronchial tubes, these medications help alleviate symptoms like wheezing and shortness of breath.
Synonyms
airway relaxant, asthma medication.
Examples of usage
- The patient was prescribed a bronchodilator for his asthma.
- Using a bronchodilator can quickly relieve asthma symptoms.
- Bronchodilators are essential for managing COPD.
- She carried a bronchodilator in case of an asthma attack.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Healthcare
- Bronchodilators are commonly used by individuals with asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) to relieve breathing difficulty.
- There are two primary types: short-acting (for quick relief) and long-acting (for ongoing control).
- These medications can be administered through an inhaler or nebulizer for immediate effect.
Science
- Research indicates that inhalational bronchodilators start to act within minutes, greatly aiding individuals in acute respiratory distress.
- They work by relaxing the smooth muscles around the airways, which reduces airway resistance and improves airflow.
Pop Culture
- Instances of bronchodilators are often depicted in films where characters experience asthma attacks, emphasizing the dramatic impact of respiratory issues.
- In medicine-themed shows, bronchodilators are frequently referenced as lifesaving interventions during critical scenes.
Psychology
- Understanding the function of bronchodilators can alleviate anxiety in patients who fear suffocation or struggles with breathing during an asthma attack.
- Educational programs have shown that proper knowledge about bronchodilators contributes to better adherence in using these medications.
Origin of 'bronchodilator'
Main points about word origin
- The term combines 'broncho,' referring to the bronchial tubes in the lungs, and 'dilator,' meaning something that makes things wider.
- It has roots in ancient Greek, where 'bronchos' means 'windpipe' and 'dilatum' in Latin means 'to widen.'
The term 'bronchodilator' is derived from the combination of 'broncho-' and 'dilator.' 'Broncho-' comes from the Greek word 'bronkhios,' meaning 'windpipe' or 'airway,' and 'dilator' originates from the Latin 'dilatare,' which means 'to spread out' or 'expand.' The use of bronchodilators in medicine began to gain prominence in the mid-20th century, particularly as the understanding of asthma and other respiratory diseases improved. Early bronchodilators were primarily derived from natural compounds, but advancements in pharmacology have led to the development of synthetic alternatives that are highly effective and widely used today. Throughout the years, the formulations of bronchodilators have evolved to include short-acting and long-acting versions, providing patients with tailored treatment options depending on their specific needs.