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Infarction Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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infarction

[ɪnˈfɑrkʃən ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

medical condition

Infarction refers to the process of tissue death due to the lack of blood supply. This can occur in various organs, most commonly the heart or brain, leading to serious health issues such as heart attacks or strokes. It is often the result of obstructions in the blood vessels, caused by factors like thrombosis or embolism. Prompt medical intervention is essential to minimize damage and restore blood flow to the affected area.

Synonyms

ischemia, necrosis, tissue death.

Examples of usage

  • The patient suffered an infarction in the heart.
  • An infarction can lead to irreversible damage if not treated quickly.
  • Strokes are often caused by cerebral infarction.
  • Doctors monitored signs of potential myocardial infarction.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Medical Science

  • Myocardial infarction refers specifically to a heart attack, where blood flow is blocked to the heart muscle.
  • Cerebral infarction occurs in the brain, potentially resulting in a stroke, showing how this issue can affect different organs.
  • Infarctions can occur in various organs, including the lungs and kidneys, highlighting the widespread impact of blood flow blockage.

Prevention & Treatment

  • Healthy lifestyle choices, like regular exercise and a balanced diet, can significantly reduce the risk of infarction-related issues.
  • Medical advancements, such as clot-busting drugs, are critical in treating infarctions quickly to save tissue and improve outcomes.

Psychological Impact

  • Experiencing an infarction can lead to significant stress and anxiety about health, affecting mental well-being.
  • Education on heart and vascular health can empower individuals to make better choices, potentially preventing such events.

Cultural Perspectives

  • In popular culture, heart attacks and strokes are often depicted in movies and books, influencing public perception of these medical emergencies.
  • Campaigns to raise awareness about heart health have become prevalent, showing how society addresses and educates about these risks.

Origin of 'infarction'

Main points about word origin

  • The word has roots in Latin, from 'infarctus', meaning 'to stuff into' or 'to choke', which reflects the blockage of blood flow.
  • Infarction has been used in medical language since the 19th century, illustrating early understandings of circulatory issues.

The term 'infarction' is derived from the Latin word 'infarctus', which means 'stuffed into' or 'filled up'. The prefix 'in-' signifies 'into' or 'within', and 'farctus' comes from 'farciere', meaning 'to stuff'. It was first used in a medical context in the late 19th century to describe the process of tissue necrosis resulting from obstruction of the blood supply. Over time, the term became more widely used to refer to localized areas of ischemic necrosis in various organs. The understanding of infarction has evolved, particularly with advancements in medical imaging and treatment options, which have improved outcomes for patients experiencing these events.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,776, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.