DIAPHORESIS Meaning and
Definition
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Diaphoresis is a medical term that refers to the condition of excessive sweating or perspiration. It is derived from the Greek words "dia" which means through, and "phoros" which means carrying. The term is commonly used in the field of medicine to describe the sweating that occurs as a normal physiological response to certain triggers or as a symptom of an underlying medical condition.
When a person experiences diaphoresis, they may notice an increased amount of sweat on their skin. This can be attributed to various causes including physical activity, exposure to hot temperature, emotional stress, or hormonal changes. However, diaphoresis can also be a symptom of an underlying health issue such as fever, menopause, anxiety, side effects of certain medications, or endocrine disorders.
The excessive sweating that occurs during diaphoresis is typically a result of the body's attempt to regulate its temperature. When the body experiences an increase in core temperature, sweat glands are activated, enabling the release of sweat onto the skin's surface. This sweat then rapidly evaporates, allowing the body to cool down.
Diaphoresis can also provide valuable insights to healthcare professionals when evaluating a patient's condition. By identifying the underlying cause behind the excessive sweating, medical practitioners can make informed diagnoses and develop appropriate treatment plans. Additionally, diaphoresis can sometimes indicate a medical emergency, such as a heart attack or severe infection, which prompts prompt medical attention.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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An increase of perspiration.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for DIAPHORESIS
Etymology of DIAPHORESIS
The word "diaphoresis" comes from the Greek word "diaphorēsis" (διαφορήσις), which itself is derived from the verb "diaphorein" (διαφορεῖν). "Diaphorein" is a compound word made up of "dia" (διά), meaning "through" or "across", and "phorein" (φορεῖν), meaning "to carry" or "to bear".
Therefore, the literal meaning of "diaphoresis" in Greek is "to carry through" or "to drive across". In the medical context, "diaphoresis" refers to excessive sweating or perspiration, where the body seems to "carry through" or "drive across" sweat.
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