Vocabulary Words Every Pulmonologist Should Know

Lung

Definition: An organ in the body responsible for breathing and gas exchange.

• The lungs allow oxygen to enter the bloodstream.
• He learned about lung health in his biology class.
• Understanding lung function is crucial for respiratory health.

Lung in a sentence

Breath

Definition: The air taken into or expelled from the lungs.

• He took a deep breath before speaking.
• It’s important to control your breath while swimming.
• She felt a breath of fresh air in the morning.

Breath in a sentence

Air

Definition: The mixture of gases that we breathe; the atmosphere around us.

• The air feels fresh near the ocean.
• She opened the window to let in some air.
• Understanding air quality is important for health.

Air in a sentence

Cough

Definition: The act of forcing air from the lungs suddenly, often to clear the throat.

• He had a persistent cough that worried his parents.
• Coughing can be a sign of a cold or allergies.
• She tried to suppress her cough during the lecture.

Cough in a sentence

Smoke

Definition: The visible vapor produced by burning something.

• The smoke from the fire filled the room.
• He saw smoke rising from the chimney.
• She tried to avoid inhaling smoke from the campfire.

Smoke in a sentence

Doctor

Definition: A person who is trained to treat medical conditions.

• The doctor helps people stay healthy.
• I went to the doctor for a check-up.
• She wants to be a doctor when she grows up.

Doctor in a sentence

Patient

Definition: Able to wait without getting angry.

• She is very patient with her students.
• It's important to be patient when learning.
• He waited patiently for his turn.

Patient in a sentence

Medicine

Definition: A substance used to treat illness or injury.

• I took medicine to help with my cold.
• The doctor prescribed some medicine for her.
• It's important to take medicine as directed.

Medicine in a sentence

Healthy

Definition: Beneficial to health; not harmful.

• Eating vegetables is a healthy choice.
• It's important to stay active and healthy.
• She follows a healthy diet every day.

Healthy in a sentence

Chest

Definition: a large container for storing items; also refers to the upper front of the body

• He stored his toys in a wooden chest.
• She felt a pain in her chest after running.
• The treasure was hidden in a chest.

Chest in a sentence

Clean

Definition: To make something free of dirt or mess.

• I need to clean my room before my friends come.
• She will clean the dishes after dinner.
• We should clean up the classroom together.

Clean in a sentence

Sick

Definition: Feeling unwell or ill; not healthy.

• I feel sick and need to rest.
• She stayed home because she was sick.
• He visited the doctor because he was sick.

Sick in a sentence

Help

Definition: To assist someone with something.

• Can you help me with my homework?
• She helped her mother in the kitchen.
• He always helps his friends.

Help in a sentence

Test

Definition: A method of assessing knowledge or skills; an examination.

• She studied hard for the math test next week.
• He passed the driving test on his first try.
• The teacher gave a pop quiz as a test of understanding.

Test in a sentence

Pain

Definition: An unpleasant feeling often caused by injury or illness.

• He felt pain in his leg after the fall.
• She took medicine to relieve the pain.
• The pain in her stomach made her uncomfortable.

Pain in a sentence

Asthma

Definition: A respiratory condition that causes difficulty in breathing.

• He has asthma and uses an inhaler.
• She learned how to manage her asthma during sports.
• Asthma can be triggered by allergens or exercise.

Asthma in a sentence

Virus

Definition: A tiny infectious agent that can cause illness.

• Washing hands helps prevent the spread of a virus.
• The computer virus damaged the files on my laptop.
• Doctors study viruses to find cures for diseases.

Virus in a sentence

Oxygen

Definition: A gas that is essential for life and is found in the air.

• We need oxygen to breathe and live.
• Plants produce oxygen during photosynthesis.
• He learned about oxygen in science class.

Oxygen in a sentence

Shortness

Definition: the state of being short in length or height

• The shortness of the pencil made it hard to write.
• She noticed the shortness of his attention span.
• The shortness of the meeting surprised everyone.

Shortness in a sentence

Sleep

Definition: the natural state of rest for the body and mind

• Sleep is essential for good health and well-being.
• He aims to get enough sleep every night.
• Understanding sleep helps improve daily functioning.

Sleep in a sentence

Breathe

Definition: to take air into and out of the lungs

• Remember to breathe deeply when you relax.
• He can't breathe well because of the cold.
• She learned to breathe slowly during yoga.

Breathe in a sentence

Treatment

Definition: The way of dealing with a patient or condition; care given to someone.

• He received treatment for his illness.
• The treatment helped her recover quickly.
• They discussed treatment options with the doctor.

Treatment in a sentence

Infection

Definition: The invasion of germs that can cause illness.

• He had an infection that needed treatment.
• Washing hands helps prevent infections.
• She learned about infections in her health class.

Infection in a sentence

Allergy

Definition: A reaction to something that is usually harmless.

• She has an allergy to peanuts and must avoid them.
• His allergy made it hard to play outside in the spring.
• The doctor gave her medicine for her allergy.

Allergy in a sentence

X-ray

Definition: an imaging technique that uses radiation to see inside the body

• The doctor ordered an x-ray to check for fractures.
• He was nervous about getting an x-ray.
• Understanding x-rays is important for medical diagnoses.

X-ray in a sentence

Ventilator

Definition: a device to assist breathing

• The patient was placed on a ventilator.
• Ventilators are crucial in hospitals for severe cases.
• They learned how to operate a ventilator.

Ventilator in a sentence

Symptom

Definition: A sign that something is wrong with the body; a feature of an illness.

• A cough is a common symptom of a cold.
• He reported his symptoms to the doctor.
• She had a headache as a symptom of stress.

Symptom in a sentence

Disease

Definition: An illness or medical condition that affects the body.

• Many diseases can be prevented by vaccines.
• He studies how to treat disease in animals.
• Eating healthy helps reduce the risk of disease.

Disease in a sentence

Health

Definition: The state of being free from illness or injury.

• Eating fruits and vegetables is good for your health.
• Regular exercise helps improve your health.
• We should take care of our mental health as well.

Health in a sentence

Clinic

Definition: A place where people receive medical treatment.

• He visited the clinic for a check-up.
• The clinic offers free vaccinations.
• The clinic is open every Saturday.

Clinic in a sentence

Respiration

Definition: The process of breathing in and out.

• Respiration is essential for all living beings.
• We learned about respiration in science class.
• The body needs oxygen for respiration.

Respiration in a sentence

Lungs

Definition: The organs in the body that allow a person to breathe.

• The lungs take in oxygen and expel carbon dioxide.
• She learned about the structure of the lungs in science.
• Healthy lungs are important for good breathing.

Carbon Dioxide

Definition: A colorless gas produced by burning fossil fuels; plants absorb it during photosynthesis.

• Carbon dioxide is essential for plant growth.
• He learned about carbon dioxide in science class.
• High levels of carbon dioxide can contribute to climate change.

Carbon Dioxide in a sentence

Bronchitis

Definition: An inflammation of the bronchial tubes, usually causing cough.

• She was diagnosed with bronchitis after her cold.
• Chronic bronchitis requires medical attention.
• Bronchitis can cause difficulty in breathing.

Bronchitis in a sentence

Pneumonia

Definition: A lung infection that can cause difficulty in breathing.

• He was diagnosed with pneumonia after feeling sick.
• Understanding pneumonia can help in preventing respiratory issues.
• She learned about pneumonia in health class.

Pneumonia in a sentence

Inhaler

Definition: a device used to deliver medication to the lungs

• He carries an inhaler for his asthma.
• Using the inhaler helped him breathe easier.
• The doctor prescribed an inhaler for her condition.

Inhaler in a sentence

Airway

Definition: The passage through which air enters and leaves the lungs.

• The doctor checked his airway to ensure he could breathe properly.
• She learned about the airway in her health class.
• Understanding the airway is crucial for understanding respiratory health.

Airway in a sentence

Medication

Definition: A substance used to treat an illness or condition.

• He takes medication for his allergies.
• The doctor prescribed medication for her cough.
• She learned about different types of medication.

Medication in a sentence

Spirometry

Definition: The measurement of breath and lung function; tests performed with a spirometer.

• Spirometry is important for diagnosing asthma.
• The nurse performed spirometry to check his breathing.
• Understanding spirometry can help manage lung conditions.

Spirometry in a sentence

Nebulizer

Definition: a device that turns liquid medicine into a mist for inhalation

• She used a nebulizer to help with her asthma symptoms.
• The nebulizer made it easier for him to breathe.
• His doctor provided a nebulizer for home use.

Nebulizer in a sentence

Pulmonary

Definition: Related to the lungs.

• Pulmonary health is important for breathing.
• They studied pulmonary function in their biology class.
• Pulmonary exercises can improve lung capacity.

Pulmonary in a sentence

Ventilation

Definition: The process of allowing fresh air to enter and circulate in a space.

• Good ventilation keeps indoor air fresh and healthy.
• The classroom has excellent ventilation to prevent stuffiness.
• Understanding ventilation is important for comfort and health.

Ventilation in a sentence

Oxygenation

Definition: The process of adding oxygen to something, especially in the context of blood or water.

• Oxygenation is necessary for healthy blood circulation.
• The treatment aims to improve oxygenation in patients.
• She learned about oxygenation in her biology class.

Oxygenation in a sentence

Trachea

Definition: The tube that connects the throat to the lungs, allowing air to pass in and out.

• The trachea is commonly known as the windpipe.
• She learned about the function of the trachea in biology.
• The trachea plays a vital role in respiration.

Trachea in a sentence

Alveoli

Definition: Tiny air sacs in the lungs where gas exchange occurs.

• Oxygen passes into the blood through the alveoli.
• The alveoli are crucial for effective breathing.
• He studied how alveoli work during respiration.

Alveoli in a sentence

Dyspnea

Definition: Difficulty or labored breathing, often experienced during physical activity.

• He felt dyspnea after running up the stairs.
• Asthma can cause episodes of dyspnea.
• Understanding dyspnea is important for respiratory health.

Dyspnea in a sentence

Wheezing

Definition: Making a wheeze sound, often due to breathing difficulties.

• Wheezing can be a sign of asthma.
• She was wheezing after the exercise.
• The doctor advised her to see a specialist for wheezing.

Wheezing in a sentence

Thorax

Definition: The part of the body between the neck and the abdomen; contains the chest organs.

• The thorax houses the heart and lungs.
• He learned about the anatomy of the thorax in class.
• Understanding the thorax is crucial in biology.

Thorax in a sentence

Pleura

Definition: the membrane surrounding the lungs

• The pleura helps protect the lungs during breathing.
• Doctors examine the pleura for signs of disease.
• Understanding pleura is important in anatomy.

Pleura in a sentence

Emphysema

Definition: A lung disease that causes shortness of breath due to damaged air sacs.

• Emphysema is often caused by smoking.
• He learned about emphysema in his health class.
• Understanding emphysema can help promote lung health.

Emphysema in a sentence

Bronchoconstriction

Definition: Narrowing of the bronchial tubes, making it hard to breathe.

• Bronchoconstriction can occur during an asthma attack.
• He learned how to manage bronchoconstriction.
• Certain allergens can trigger bronchoconstriction.

Bronchoconstriction in a sentence

Respiratory

Definition: Related to breathing or the lungs.

• The respiratory system is vital for our health.
• She studies respiratory diseases in her research.
• Respiratory exercises can improve lung function.

Respiratory in a sentence

Fibrosis

Definition: The thickening and scarring of connective tissue, often due to injury or inflammation.

• Lung fibrosis can affect breathing.
• He studied fibrosis for his research project.
• Understanding fibrosis helps in identifying treatment options.

Fibrosis in a sentence

Bronchial

Definition: Relating to the bronchi; pertaining to the airways.

• Bronchial tubes can become inflamed during illness.
• She has a bronchial condition that affects her breathing.
• The doctor explained bronchial health to the patient.

Bronchial in a sentence

Diffusion

Definition: The process of spreading out particles from an area of high concentration to low concentration.

• Diffusion of perfume can fill a room quickly.
• He studied diffusion in science class.
• Understanding diffusion is important in biology.

Diffusion in a sentence

Obstructive

Definition: Causing or tending to obstruct; blocking progress or movement.

• The obstructive behavior of the students disrupted the class.
• Obstructive sleep apnea can lead to health issues.
• They addressed the obstructive policies that limited growth.

Obstructive in a sentence

Restrictive

Definition: Limiting or controlling in a way that feels confining.

• The rules were too restrictive for the students.
• He found the policies to be overly restrictive.
• A restrictive diet can be difficult to maintain.

Restrictive in a sentence

Hypoxia

Definition: A condition where there is not enough oxygen in the body.

• After running a long race, I felt mild hypoxia and needed to catch my breath.
• Mountaineers often face hypoxia at high altitudes.
• Hypoxia can make it hard to think clearly.

Hypoxia in a sentence

Hypercapnia

Definition: An increased level of carbon dioxide in the blood.

• Hypercapnia can occur due to respiratory issues.
• He learned about hypercapnia in his biology class.
• Understanding hypercapnia is important for patients with lung problems.

Hypercapnia in a sentence

Bronchospasm

Definition: A sudden constriction of the muscles in the bronchi.

• Bronchospasm can cause wheezing and difficulty breathing.
• He experienced bronchospasm during exercise.
• Certain triggers can lead to bronchospasm.

Bronchospasm in a sentence

Pleural

Definition: related to the pleura or lung membranes

• Pleural fluid lubricates the surfaces of the pleural cavity.
• She learned about pleural diseases in her health class.
• Understanding pleural conditions is vital for respiratory health.

Pleural in a sentence

Auscultation

Definition: The act of listening to internal sounds of the body, usually with a stethoscope.

• The doctor performed auscultation to check his heartbeat.
• Auscultation is important for diagnosing health issues.
• She learned auscultation techniques in her medical training.

Auscultation in a sentence

Pneumothorax

Definition: A condition where air leaks into the space between the lungs and the chest wall.

• A pneumothorax can cause chest pain and difficulty breathing.
• He was treated for a pneumothorax after the injury.
• Understanding pneumothorax is crucial in emergency medicine.

Pneumothorax in a sentence

Tracheostomy

Definition: A surgical procedure to create an opening in the trachea to assist breathing.

• The patient required a tracheostomy for better airflow.
• He explained the purpose of a tracheostomy to the class.
• Tracheostomy care is important for patient recovery.

Tracheostomy in a sentence

Thoracentesis

Definition: A medical procedure to remove fluid from the space between the lungs and chest wall.

• The doctor performed a thoracentesis to help the patient breathe better.
• She learned about thoracentesis in her nursing class.
• Understanding thoracentesis is important for respiratory care.

Thoracentesis in a sentence

Bronchoscopy

Definition: A procedure to look inside the airways and lungs.

• The doctor performed a bronchoscopy for diagnosis.
• She was nervous about the bronchoscopy but felt better afterwards.
• Bronchoscopy can help identify lung issues.

Bronchoscopy in a sentence

Thoracotomy

Definition: A surgical procedure to open the chest for access to the organs.

• The patient underwent a thoracotomy to treat a lung issue.
• Thoracotomy allows doctors to perform important surgeries.
• Understanding thoracotomy is essential for surgical training.

Thoracotomy in a sentence

Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Definition: A sleep disorder where breathing stops due to blocked airways during sleep.

• Obstructive sleep apnea can cause loud snoring.
• He was diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea after a study.
• Treatment for obstructive sleep apnea often includes lifestyle changes.

Thoracic

Definition: Related to the chest area of the body, particularly regarding anatomy or medicine.

• Thoracic injuries can be serious and need immediate care.
• The doctor examined the thoracic region for signs of issues.
• Understanding thoracic anatomy is important for medical students.

Thoracic in a sentence

Inhalation

Definition: the act of breathing in; drawing air into the lungs

• Inhalation of clean air is important for health.
• She took a deep inhalation before speaking.
• During inhalation, the diaphragm moves down.

Inhalation in a sentence

Exhalation

Definition: The act of breathing out; the release of air from the lungs.

• His exhalation was visible in the cold air.
• She took a deep breath before her exhalation.
• Understanding exhalation is important for breathing techniques.

Exhalation in a sentence

Pathology

Definition: The study of diseases and their causes, effects, and processes.

• Pathology helps doctors understand illnesses.
• She is interested in pathology and wants to become a doctor.
• Understanding pathology is essential for medical studies.

Pathology in a sentence

Diagnosis

Definition: The identification of a disease or problem based on symptoms.

• The doctor made a diagnosis after the exam.
• She received a diagnosis of a mild illness.
• He explained the diagnosis to the patient.

Diagnosis in a sentence

Management

Definition: The process of dealing with or controlling things or people.

• Good management is key to a successful project.
• She works in management at a large company.
• Effective management helps teams achieve their goals.

Management in a sentence

Exacerbation

Definition: An increase in the severity of a problem or condition.

• The asthma exacerbation required her to use an inhaler.
• They are studying the exacerbation of symptoms during winter.
• Understanding exacerbation can help in managing health issues.

Exacerbation in a sentence

Corticosteroids

Definition: Plural of corticosteroid; hormones that reduce inflammation.

• Corticosteroids can help manage chronic illnesses.
• Athletes sometimes misuse corticosteroids for performance.
• She learned about corticosteroids in her medical class.

Bronchodilator

Definition: A medication that relaxes and opens airways in the lungs.

• The doctor prescribed a bronchodilator for his asthma.
• Using a bronchodilator can help with breathing.
• She carried a bronchodilator during sports.

Bronchodilator in a sentence

Pulmonary Rehabilitation

Definition: A program to improve lung health.

• Pulmonary rehabilitation helps patients with breathing.
• She completed a pulmonary rehabilitation program.
• The clinic offers pulmonary rehabilitation services.

Thoracic Surgeon

Definition: A doctor specialized in surgeries of the chest, including the lungs and heart.

• The thoracic surgeon performed a complex operation.
• He wants to become a thoracic surgeon in the future.
• Understanding the role of a thoracic surgeon is important in medicine.

Respiratory Therapist

Definition: A healthcare professional who helps patients with breathing problems.

• The respiratory therapist taught him how to use the inhaler.
• She works as a respiratory therapist in the hospital.
• Respiratory therapists play a key role in patient recovery.

Spirometer

Definition: An instrument used to measure the amount of air a person can breathe in and out.

• The doctor used a spirometer to check his lung function.
• Using a spirometer helps assess respiratory health.
• She learned how to use a spirometer in her class.

Spirometer in a sentence

Capnography

Definition: A method of measuring the concentration of carbon dioxide in exhaled air.

• Capnography is used in hospitals to monitor patients.
• The doctor explained capnography to the students.
• Capnography helps assess lung function.

Pulmonary Function

Definition: How well the lungs work.

• Doctors test pulmonary function to assess breathing.
• Good pulmonary function is vital for athletes.
• We learned about pulmonary function in our health class.

Cytokines

Definition: Proteins that are important for cell signaling in the immune system.

• Cytokines help cells communicate during immune responses.
• High levels of certain cytokines can indicate inflammation.
• Studying cytokines enhances our understanding of diseases.

Interstitial Lung Disease

Definition: A group of disorders affecting the tissue and space around the air sacs in the lungs.

• Interstitial lung disease can cause breathing difficulties.
• He learned about interstitial lung disease in his medical class.
• The symptoms of interstitial lung disease vary among patients.

Sarcoidosis

Definition: A disease causing inflammation in various organs, often the lungs.

• She was diagnosed with sarcoidosis after feeling unwell.
• Doctors are studying her symptoms of sarcoidosis.
• Managing sarcoidosis may require medication and care.

Sarcoidosis in a sentence

Tuberculosis

Definition: A serious infectious disease that primarily affects the lungs.

• She learned about tuberculosis in her health class.
• Tuberculosis can be treated with medication.
• He was tested for tuberculosis before traveling.

Tuberculosis in a sentence

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Definition: A lung disease that makes it hard to breathe.

• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is often caused by smoking.
• Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease need regular check-ups.
• Treatment for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease focuses on improving breathing.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease in a sentence

Cystic Fibrosis

Definition: A genetic disorder that affects the lungs and digestive system.

• Cystic fibrosis requires lifelong treatment and care.
• Many people with cystic fibrosis lead active lives with proper management.
• Research is ongoing to find better treatments for cystic fibrosis.

Cystic Fibrosis in a sentence

Lung Cancer

Definition: A type of cancer that begins in the lungs.

• Smoking is a major cause of lung cancer.
• She learned about lung cancer awareness in school.
• Early detection is important in treating lung cancer.

Lung Cancer in a sentence

Intubation

Definition: The medical procedure of inserting a tube into the airway.

• Intubation is often necessary during surgery.
• She watched the intubation procedure in her training.
• Proper intubation can save a patient's life.

Intubation in a sentence

Hypoxemia

Definition: Low levels of oxygen in the blood.

• Hypoxemia can lead to serious health issues.
• She was treated for hypoxemia after the accident.
• Monitoring hypoxemia is important in medical settings.

Hypoxemia in a sentence

Nebulization

Definition: the process of turning a liquid into a fine mist

• Nebulization is often used to deliver medication for asthma.
• The doctor recommended nebulization for her breathing issues.
• He watched the nebulization process in the clinic.

Nebulization in a sentence

Interstitial

Definition: Relating to spaces between cells or structures in the body.

• Interstitial spaces are important in tissue health.
• The doctor explained interstitial fluid's role in the body.
• They studied interstitial areas in their biology class.

Interstitial in a sentence

Compliance

Definition: Following rules or standards.

• The company is in compliance with safety regulations.
• They ensured compliance with the new laws.
• She checked for compliance with the guidelines.

Compliance in a sentence

Resistance

Definition: The ability to withstand or oppose something; the act of resisting.

• He showed great resistance to the cold weather.
• Her resistance to the loud noise helped her focus.
• Understanding resistance can help in overcoming challenges.

Resistance in a sentence

Sputum

Definition: a mixture of saliva and mucus that is coughed up from the respiratory tract

• The doctor asked for a sample of his sputum for testing.
• Sputum analysis can help diagnose lung infections.
• He was instructed to collect sputum for the lab.

Sputum in a sentence

Endotracheal

Definition: pertaining to the inside of the trachea (windpipe)

• An endotracheal tube is used to help patients breathe during surgery.
• The doctor inserted an endotracheal tube for the procedure.
• Understanding endotracheal procedures is important in emergencies.

Endotracheal in a sentence

Pleurisy

Definition: inflammation of the pleura, causing chest pain

• He was diagnosed with pleurisy after his symptoms worsened.
• Pleurisy can make breathing painful.
• Understanding pleurisy helps in recognizing respiratory issues.

Pleurisy in a sentence

Chest X-ray

Definition: an imaging test that looks at the organs in the chest

• The doctor ordered a chest X-ray to check for pneumonia.
• A chest X-ray helps diagnose lung issues.
• She was nervous before her chest X-ray appointment.

Computed Tomography

Definition: A medical imaging technique that creates detailed images of the inside of the body.

• The doctor ordered a computed tomography scan.
• Computed tomography helps diagnose many conditions.
• She learned about computed tomography in her health class.

Computed Tomography in a sentence

Histopathology

Definition: The study of disease in tissues through microscopic examination.

• Histopathology is crucial for diagnosing cancers.
• The doctor referred the sample for histopathology.
• Understanding histopathology aids in treatment planning.

Histopathology in a sentence

Pulmonary Embolism

Definition: A blockage in a lung artery.

• Pulmonary embolism can be life-threatening.
• He was treated for pulmonary embolism after surgery.
• Understanding pulmonary embolism is crucial in medicine.

Pulmonary Embolism in a sentence

Mediastinum

Definition: the central compartment of the thoracic cavity

• The mediastinum contains the heart and major blood vessels.
• They learned about the organs located in the mediastinum.
• The mediastinum is important for respiratory function.

Mediastinum in a sentence

Pneumonitis

Definition: Inflammation of the lung tissue, often caused by infections or irritants.

• Pneumonitis can result from exposure to chemicals.
• They discussed pneumonitis in their medical studies.
• Understanding pneumonitis is important for lung health.

Pneumonitis in a sentence

Pleurodesis

Definition: a medical procedure to treat pleural effusion

• Pleurodesis helps prevent fluid from returning in the pleura.
• The doctor explained the pleurodesis process to the patient.
• Understanding pleurodesis is important for lung health.

Lobectomy

Definition: a surgical procedure to remove a lobe of an organ

• The doctor recommended a lobectomy for the patient.
• He learned about lobectomy in his medical class.
• Lobectomy can help treat certain diseases.

Lobectomy in a sentence