Dictionary Definition
catarrh n : inflammation of the nose and throat
with increased production of mucus
User Contributed Dictionary
English
Etymology
From the Greek "katarrhein": kata- meaning "down"
and rhein meaning "to flow."
Noun
- inflammation of the mucous membranes of the nose and throat.
Extensive Definition
Catarrh () is a discharge or mucus blockage caused by the
swelling of the mucous
membranes. Its presence is a symptom usually associated with
the common cold
and chesty coughs, but can also be found in patients with middle ear
infections, tonsillitis, sinusitis or an adenoid infection. Some
blockages may be chronic.
Catarrhal Exudate - An Exudate
characterised by the presence of polymorphonuclear leukocytes and
mucus with hyperaemia of the mucosa
Problems caused by catarrh
A catarrh blockage may result in discomfort with (and what is known as ear fear of):- elevators
- airplanes
- traveling at elevation
- baths such as swimming pools, jumping baths and other activities associated with a change in pressure.
Even the shallow end of a swimming bath can be troublesome;
barotrauma -- a
problem linked to head pressure changes which is affected by
catarrh blockages -- can occur in as little as 4 feet of water
depth.
Etymology
The word "catarrh" comes from the Greek "katarrhein": kata- meaning "down" and rhein meaning "to flow."External references
Related concepts
catarrh in German: Katarrh
catarrh in Italian: Catarro
catarrh in Lithuanian: Gerklės kataras
catarrh in Polish: Katar (choroba)
catarrh in Portuguese: Escarro
catarrh in Kabyle: Tikerdeddit
catarrh in Swedish: Katarr