ACHOO SYNDROME Meaning and
Definition
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Achoo syndrome, also known as the autosomal-dominant compelling helio-ophthalmic outburst (ACHOO) syndrome, is a rare genetic condition characterized by an uncontrollable sneezing reflex when exposed to bright sunlight or other intense light sources. The term "achoo" is an onomatopoeic representation of the sound sneezing makes. ACHOO syndrome is named after its main symptom and refers to the compelling sneezing response triggered by sunlight.
Individuals affected by achoo syndrome typically experience repetitive and involuntary sneezing, usually in rapid succession, immediately after being exposed to sunlight. The intensity and frequency of sneezing episodes may vary among individuals, but it commonly lasts for a brief period. However, the sneezing reflex remains dormant in the absence of sunlight or bright light stimuli.
The underlying mechanisms behind achoo syndrome are not yet fully understood. Although the exact cause is yet to be identified, some studies suggest a genetic predisposition involving a single gene, which may be inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern. The condition appears to be more prevalent in females than males.
While achoo syndrome is considered harmless and does not pose any significant health risks, the sudden sneezing fits related to this condition may cause inconvenience and discomfort, especially in situations where individuals are exposed to bright sunlight outdoors. Affected individuals may find it helpful to wear sunglasses or other protective eyewear when venturing outside to minimize the onset of sneezing episodes.
Ultimately, achoo syndrome is an intriguing and unique condition characterized by a reflexive sneezing response triggered by sunlight, which distinguishes it from traditional sneezing habits.
Common Misspellings for ACHOO SYNDROME
- zchoo syndrome
- schoo syndrome
- wchoo syndrome
- qchoo syndrome
- axhoo syndrome
- avhoo syndrome
- afhoo syndrome
- adhoo syndrome
- acgoo syndrome
- acboo syndrome
- acnoo syndrome
- acjoo syndrome
- acuoo syndrome
- acyoo syndrome
- achio syndrome
- achko syndrome
- achlo syndrome
- achpo syndrome
- ach0o syndrome
- ach9o syndrome
Etymology of ACHOO SYNDROME
The term "achoo syndrome" is not an officially recognized medical term but is informally used to describe a condition called "photic sneeze reflex". The origin of the term "achoo" itself is unknown, but it is believed to be an onomatopoeic representation of the sound made when someone sneezes.
As for the condition, the term "photic" comes from the Greek word "phos", which means light. "Sneeze" comes from the Middle English word "snesen", which means to sneeze. Therefore, "photic sneeze reflex" simply refers to the reflexive sneezing response triggered by exposure to bright light.
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