Reactive airway disease
Reactive Airway Disease
Reactive airway disease (pronunciation: ree-AK-tiv AIR-way dih-ZEEZ) is a term used to describe a condition characterized by wheezing, coughing, and difficulty in breathing, particularly after exposure to allergens or certain weather conditions. The term is often used interchangeably with asthma, but it is not a specific medical diagnosis.
Etymology
The term "reactive airway disease" is derived from the reaction of the airways to certain triggers. The word "reactive" comes from the Latin reactivus, meaning "to return, to rebound". The term "airway" refers to the path that air follows to reach the lungs. The word "disease" comes from the Old French desaise, meaning "lack of ease".
Symptoms
Symptoms of reactive airway disease can vary from person to person, but they often include:
These symptoms can be triggered by a variety of factors, including exposure to allergens, cold air, exercise, or respiratory infections.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of reactive airway disease is often based on the presence of symptoms and a history of exposure to potential triggers. Tests such as spirometry and peak flow measurement may be used to assess lung function.
Treatment
Treatment for reactive airway disease typically involves avoiding triggers and using medications to control symptoms. These may include bronchodilators to relax the muscles around the airways, and corticosteroids to reduce inflammation.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Reactive airway disease
- Wikipedia's article - Reactive airway disease
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