How Do You Spell PHOTOTHERAPY?

Pronunciation: [fˌə͡ʊtə͡ʊθˈɛɹəpi] (IPA)

Phototherapy is a medical treatment that involves exposure to light. The spelling of this word follows the standard English pronunciation rules. It is pronounced as /ˌfoʊ.t̬əʊˈθer.ə.pi/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The "ph" at the beginning of the word is pronounced as "f" and the "o" in the first syllable is pronounced as a long "o" sound. The "th" in the second syllable is pronounced as a "θ" sound, followed by the "er" sound in the third syllable. The final "y" is pronounced as "i".

Meaning and Definition
Common Misspellings
Etymology
Similar spelling word
Basic Check Advanced Check

PHOTOTHERAPY Meaning and Definition

  1. Phototherapy is a medical treatment that involves the use of specific wavelengths of light to improve various health conditions. This therapeutic technique is commonly used to treat skin disorders, such as psoriasis, eczema, and vitiligo. It is also used to alleviate symptoms of seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a type of depression that typically occurs during the winter months due to the decreased exposure to natural sunlight.

    In phototherapy, the affected area is exposed to either natural sunlight or artificial light sources that emit controlled amounts of specific wavelengths. The process usually involves the use of specialized devices, such as light boxes or light-emitting diode (LED) panels, that emit specific wavelengths of light. The affected area is exposed to this light for a specified amount of time, as determined by the healthcare professional.

    The light used in phototherapy can have various therapeutic effects, such as reducing inflammation, suppressing the growth of abnormal skin cells, and stimulating the production of melanin in cases of vitiligo. Additionally, exposure to light can affect the brain's production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that affects mood regulation, thereby alleviating symptoms of SAD.

    While generally considered safe, phototherapy may have some side effects, such as skin dryness or redness, which can be managed by moisturizing and using appropriate protective measures. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before undergoing phototherapy to determine the most suitable treatment plan based on individual needs and medical history.

  2. Treatment of disease by means of light rays.

    A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for PHOTOTHERAPY

Etymology of PHOTOTHERAPY

The word "phototherapy" is derived from two Greek roots: "photo" meaning "light" and "therapy" meaning "treatment". Thus, the combination of these roots in the word "phototherapy" signifies the use of light as a form of treatment, particularly in medical or therapeutic contexts.

Similar spelling word for PHOTOTHERAPY

Infographic

Correct spelling for phototherapy
Add the infographic to your website: