Word: Wet Lung
Definition: "Wet lung" is a medical term that refers to a serious condition in the lungs. It is an acute lung injury that happens when the lungs become inflamed and stiff, making it difficult for them to exchange oxygen properly. This condition often leads to symptoms like coughing and a rattling sound when breathing (called rales). Wet lung can occur in people who have been exposed to harmful substances, like certain chemicals or gases.
Usage Instructions: - Part of Speech: Noun - Context: Wet lung is usually discussed in medical contexts, particularly when talking about lung health and injuries.
Example Sentence:"After working in a factory without proper ventilation, several workers developed wet lung due to exposure to toxic fumes."
Advanced Usage: In medical discussions, you might hear phrases like "acute respiratory distress syndrome" (ARDS) or "chemical pneumonitis" when referring to similar conditions that can cause wet lung symptoms.
Word Variants: - Adjective: "Wet-lunged" (describing someone affected by this condition) - Related Terms: "Pneumonia," "pulmonary edema" (though these are not the same, they relate to lung issues)
Different Meaning: "Wet lung" is primarily a medical term and does not have many alternative meanings outside of healthcare contexts.
Synonyms: - Acute lung injury - Chemical pneumonitis (in specific contexts) - Respiratory distress (general term)
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:There are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs directly related to "wet lung," but related phrases in medical discussions could include: - "Inhale harmful substances" (to breathe in dangerous chemicals) - "Clear the lungs" (to remove mucus or fluid from the lungs, often used in recovery contexts)
Understanding "wet lung" is important, especially for those who work in environments with potential chemical exposure.