epistaxis

Definition

A nosebleed, because 'nose is bleeding' apparently needed a four-syllable Greek makeover. It's one of the few emergencies that sounds more serious than it usually is.

Example Usage

Recurrent epistaxis in the hypertensive patient required anterior nasal packing and blood pressure management.

Origin

From Greek 'epi' (upon, above) + 'stazein' (to drip)

Fun Fact

About 60% of people will experience epistaxis at some point, with the majority being anterior bleeds from Kiesselbach's plexus—a vulnerable area of blood vessels in the nasal septum.

Source: ENT and emergency medicine terminology

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Auscultation

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systemic

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venting

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polymerase

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