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The word spasmodic is defined as relating to, resembling, or being affected by spasms; it implies sudden, rapid, or violent activity alternating with inactivity. It is often used to describe a loss of muscular control or a violent emotional outburst. The word was first recorded between 1675 and 1685, derived from the Medieval Latin spasmodicus and Greek spasmṓd(ēs).
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Relating to | Spasm |
| Affected by | Spasm |
| Resembling | Spasm |
| Acting or proceeding | Fitfully |
| Origin | Medieval Latin spasmodicus |
| Derived from | Greek spasmṓd(ēs) |
| Occurrence | Sudden and short |
| Occurrence nature | Not regular |
| Examples | Various |
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What You'll Learn
Spasmodic dysphonia
Spasmodic refers to something that is relating to, affected by, or characterised by spasms. It can also refer to something that happens suddenly for short periods and not in a regular way.
The symptoms of spasmodic dysphonia can come on suddenly or gradually over years, and they can come and go for hours or weeks at a time or remain consistent. In some cases, the symptoms may only occur on vocal sounds that require phonation, and they are less likely to occur at rest, while whispering, or on speech sounds that do not require phonation. The exact cause of spasmodic dysphonia is unknown, but epidemiological, genetic, and neurological pathogenic factors have been proposed in recent research. It is often diagnosed through a multidisciplinary team's consideration of perceptual and physiological factors.
There are two main types of spasmodic dysphonia: adductor spasmodic dysphonia and abductor spasmodic dysphonia. Adductor spasmodic dysphonia is the more common form, where spasms cause the vocal folds to slam together and stiffen, making it difficult for them to vibrate and produce sounds. The voice in this case may sound strained and strangled, and speech may be choppy. Abductor spasmodic dysphonia is less common, with spasms causing the vocal folds to remain open, preventing vibration and allowing air to escape from the lungs during speech. This results in a weak and breathy voice quality. A third, very rare form is mixed spasmodic dysphonia, which exhibits features of both adductor and abductor spasmodic dysphonia.
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Spasmodic coughing
Spasmodic means relating to, affected by, or characterised by spasms. It can also refer to something that happens suddenly for short periods of time and not in a regular way.
Paroxysmal coughing is characterised by violent coughing fits that can be exhausting and painful. It is typically caused by bacteria, although there are other causes, including respiratory infections such as pneumonia or bronchitis. In some cases, paroxysmal coughing can be a symptom of a severe infection or underlying condition. If left untreated, it can lead to a lack of oxygen in the blood, causing the lips or skin to turn blue.
If you are experiencing spasmodic coughing, there are several things you can do to help stop the coughing fits. These include taking antihistamines, using over-the-counter cough medication, drinking water, or trying home remedies such as ginger, thyme, or slippery elm. However, if your cough is severe, persistent, or worsens over time, it is important to consult a doctor. They will be able to identify the underlying cause and prescribe appropriate treatments.
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Spasmodic asthma
Spasmodic refers to something that is affected or characterised by spasms, or resembling a spasm, especially in terms of sudden violence or intermittent fitfulness.
During an asthma attack, a bronchospasm can occur, where the muscles around the airways constrict and tighten, causing the airways to narrow and restrict airflow. This is often caused by allergens or other small substances in the airways. A bronchospasm can be treated with bronchodilators, and medications can be prescribed to reduce the risk and severity of symptoms.
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Spasmodic attempts
When someone makes spasmodic attempts at something, it implies that their efforts are sporadic and not sustained over a long period. These attempts are characterised by a start-and-stop nature, with periods of activity followed by periods of inaction. For example, someone might make spasmodic attempts to clean their house, studying for an exam, or exercising.
In literature and storytelling, spasmodic attempts can create tension or humour. For instance, a character might make spasmodic attempts to escape from a dangerous situation, only to be repeatedly thwarted by circumstances or their own limitations. Alternatively, a comedic character might be portrayed as making spasmodic attempts at a task, failing repeatedly in a humorous manner.
In a medical context, the term "spasmodic" is often associated with conditions that involve involuntary muscle spasms. For example, spasmodic dysphonia is a neurological disorder characterised by spasms in the larynx, which can affect speech and singing. In this sense, "spasmodic attempts" could refer to the intermittent success or failure of a patient in managing their condition or performing certain tasks despite their spasms.
Overall, the phrase "spasmodic attempts" conveys a sense of discontinuity, unpredictability, and a lack of sustained effort or progress in a given endeavour.
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Spasmodic movements
Dystonia, a neurological muscle disorder, is a common cause of spasmodic movements. It arises from abnormal functioning in the basal ganglia region of the brain, which is responsible for coordinating movement. Patients with dystonia may experience uncontrollable twisting, repetitive movements, or abnormal postures. Focal dystonias involve only one body location, such as the neck (spasmodic torticollis), eyelids (blepharospasm), lower face (Meige syndrome), or hand. General dystonias, on the other hand, involve the entire body.
Another condition that can lead to spasmodic movements is essential tremor, which affects about five million people in the US, particularly adults over 65. It is caused by abnormalities in brain areas that control movement and can interfere with daily activities. While it is not associated with an underlying disease, about 50% of patients have a family history of essential tremors. Treatment options include physical therapy, lifestyle changes, medication, or, in severe cases, surgery.
Spasmodic dysphonia is a rare neurological condition that affects the voice, causing spasmodic or jerky movements of the vocal cords, resulting in a strained or broken voice. This condition has been known to affect public figures such as Robert F. Kennedy.
In summary, spasmodic movements are sudden, intermittent muscle contractions that can be caused by various neurological disorders or brain abnormalities. These movements can vary in intensity and body location, and treatment options depend on the underlying cause.
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Frequently asked questions
Spasmodic means relating to or resembling a spasm, especially in terms of sudden violence or intermittent action.
Spasmodic behaviour can refer to violent emotional outbursts, such as when parents discover their child is not studying medicine but partying at college.
Spasmodic dysphonia, a rare neurological disorder affecting the vocal cords, is one such condition. Laryngeal dystonia, also known as spasmodic dysphonia, affects over 50,000 people in the US and Canada.
