Decompensation

/ˌdiːkɒmpənˈseɪʃən/ noun

Definition

The failure of the body or mind to maintain normal function when dealing with stress or disease.

Etymology

From decompensate + -ion (suffix forming nouns). Medical terminology combining de- (loss of) + compensation (adaptive balance).

Kelly Says

Acute decompensation in heart failure patients is why they sometimes go from stable to hospitalized overnight—once the heart can't compensate anymore, everything cascades quickly.

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