Highland

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Highland (medical term)

Highland (/ˈhaɪlənd/), in the context of medicine, refers to a geographical area that is significantly elevated above the surrounding regions. The term is often used in medical studies to describe the unique health conditions and challenges faced by populations living in such areas.

Etymology

The term "Highland" originates from the Old English words 'heah' meaning 'high' and 'land' meaning 'land'. It has been used since the Middle Ages to describe elevated geographical areas.

Related Terms

  • Altitude sickness: A pathological effect of high altitude on humans, caused by acute exposure to low partial pressure of oxygen at high altitude.
  • Hypoxia (medical): A condition in which the body or a region of the body is deprived of adequate oxygen supply at the tissue level.
  • Polycythemia: An abnormal increase in the number of red blood cells in the blood.
  • High-altitude pulmonary edema: A life-threatening form of non-cardiogenic pulmonary edema that occurs in otherwise healthy mountaineers at altitudes typically above 2,500 meters (8,200 ft).

Highland and Health

Living in highland areas can have both positive and negative impacts on health. The thin air at high altitudes can lead to hypoxia, which can cause a range of health problems, including altitude sickness, high-altitude pulmonary edema, and polycythemia. On the other hand, the clean, cool air in highland areas can be beneficial for people with certain respiratory diseases.

See Also

External links

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