Bloodletting
Bloodletting
Bloodletting (pronounced: /ˈblʌdˌlɛtɪŋ/) is a historical medical practice that involves the withdrawal of blood from a patient to cure or prevent illness and disease. The etymology of the term "bloodletting" is derived from the English words "blood" and "let", which means to allow or permit.
History
Bloodletting was a common medical practice in many cultures, including the Ancient Greeks and Ancient Egyptians. It was believed that the body contained four "humors" (blood, phlegm, black bile, and yellow bile) and that an imbalance in these humors could cause illness. Bloodletting was used to restore this balance.
Procedure
The procedure of bloodletting often involved the use of a lancet or a leech. The lancet, a small surgical instrument with a double-edged blade, was used to make incisions in the veins. Leeches were used in a procedure known as hirudotherapy, where they were placed on the skin to suck out blood.
Modern Use
In modern medicine, bloodletting is rarely used. However, it is still practiced in the treatment of a few specific conditions, such as hemochromatosis and polycythemia.
Related Terms
- Phlebotomy: The process of making an incision in a vein with a needle.
- Venesection: The surgical opening or puncture of a vein in order to withdraw blood.
- Cupping: A type of alternative therapy that originated in China. It involves placing cups on the skin to create suction, which facilitates healing with blood flow.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Bloodletting
- Wikipedia's article - Bloodletting
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