Caisson Disease
Definition:Caisson disease, also known as decompression sickness, is a medical condition that occurs when a person experiences pain and other symptoms after a rapid change in pressure, such as coming up too quickly from deep water or high altitudes.
Usage Instructions: - Part of Speech: Noun - Context: This term is often used in medical discussions, especially related to diving or high-altitude activities.
Example Sentence: - "The diver suffered from caisson disease after surfacing too quickly without allowing enough time for his body to adjust to the change in pressure."
Advanced Usage: In more advanced contexts, one might discuss the physiological mechanisms behind caisson disease, such as the formation of nitrogen bubbles in the bloodstream due to rapid pressure changes.
Word Variants: - Caisson: This can refer to a structure used in underwater construction, but in this context, it is part of the term "caisson disease." - Decompression Sickness: This is another term used interchangeably with caisson disease.
Different Meanings: - The word "caisson" on its own can refer to a type of structure used in engineering, particularly for foundations in water.
Synonyms: - Decompression sickness - Bends (informal term)
Idioms/Phrasal Verbs:While there are no direct idioms or phrasal verbs specifically related to "caisson disease," it is often discussed in terms of "coming up too fast" or "rising too quickly," which refers to the act of ascending without allowing the body to adjust to changing pressure.
Summary:Caisson disease is a serious medical condition caused by rapid changes in pressure, often affecting divers.