Definition

Injury to body tissue that happens when there is a difference in pressure between an air space in the body and the outside air.

Example

The diver experienced barotrauma after ascending too quickly from deep water.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of barotrauma before?

Yeah, I think it's related to pressure changes, right?

Exactly! It can really affect divers if they're not careful.

That sounds serious; I hope to avoid any barotrauma on my next dive!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Barotrauma is formed from "baro-" (from Greek "baros", meaning weight or pressure) and "trauma" (from Greek "trauma", meaning wound or injury). The term describes an injury caused by changes in pressure, particularly in environments like deep water or high altitude.

Memory Tip

Think of 'pressure' ('baro-') causing an 'injury' ('trauma') — that's what barotrauma means.

Visually Confused Words