Abrasion
The rubbing of the surface of the skin due to mechanical injury. It generally results in an open wound. It can allow infection to enter.

Abscess
Localised collection of pus such as boils which can develop rapidly and come up in a few days. Chronic abscesses (long term) take weeks or months to develop and can occur in conditions such as tuberculous.

Achalasia
A term for spasm but may actually be the result of failure to relax in muscles and in particular occurs in the oesophagus (gullet)

Achlorhydria
Is the absence of acid in the stomach and can occur in association with a number of diseases such inflammation of stomach lining (gastritis), cancer of the stomach and pernicious anaemia.

Achondroplasia
Is the shortening of arms and legs giving rise to dwarfs. This is a hereditary condition.

Acidosis
Is a reduction in the alkali component of the blood and may occur in diseases of the kidneys or respiratory (breathing) conditions.

Acne (Acne Vulgaris)
Chronic skin condition affecting most teenagers/adolescents. It is caused by the obstruction of the ducts of the sebaceous glands in the skin and these become infected. These glands are under the control of the male sex hormone( which is found in men and women) and predominantly affect face, back and chest. The male sex hormone is secreted in the testes in male and the adrenal glands in the females.

Acrocyanosis
Condition in which there is persistent blueness of limbs, feet, nose and ears and may occur particularly in women.

Acromegaly
Is the overgrowth of bones of the limbs, jaw, skull and feet and normally occurs in adults and is caused by increased secretion of growth hormone due to a tumour of the pituitary gland at the base of the brain.

Actinomycosis
Suppurative disease that normally affects cattle, but can occur in humans, it is caused by fungus actinomyces. This fungus can be found in the mouth but particularly occurs if there has been trauma to the mouth and jaw and which will give rise to abscesses.

Addison's Disease
Deficiency of the hormones secreted by the adrenal gland results in skin pigmentation, low blood pressure because of an imbalance in the salts in the blood. The opposite of this is aldosteronism.

Adenoma
Any benign tumour composed of glandular tissues. They can occur anywhere in the body

Adhesions
This occurs particularly after abdominal operation and fibrous layers, which prevent the bowel from moving freely. it may result in abdominal cramping.

Agnosia
Loss of ability to recognise and object by any senses. It can occur particularly after brain damage that can be as a result of strokes, tumours etc.

Agranulocytosis
Absence or greatly reduced number of white blood cells.

Agraphia
Loss of ability to express ideas by writing.

Agenesis
Incomplete development of any part of an organ or the body.

AIDS
This is the acronym for acquired immune deficiency syndrome that at present is an incurable disease caused by the HIV (human immuno-deficiency virus). This results in the inability of the body to ward off infection and is generally transmitted by unprotected sexual intercourse, infected syringes and blood products.

Akinesia
Loss or impairment of voluntary movement.

Albinism
Absence/decrease in the amount of pigment in the skin. This pigment, melanin, gives our skin, hair and eyes colour and this is generally an inherited disease.

Albuminuria
An excess amount of albumin in the urine may be a sign of kidney or heart disease.

Aldosteronism
Causes high blood pressure, headaches, weakness due to increased produced of aldosterone, which regulates salt metabolism in the body and is produced by the adrenal gland. The opposite of this is Addison's.

Alkalosis
Is a reduction in the concentration of hydrogen in the blood that makes the blood more alkaline and can occur if large amounts are taken for treatment of stomach ulcers.

Alkaptonuria
A hereditary disorder where the body is incapable of producing an enzyme to utilise certain amino acids. As a result of incomplete metabolism the urine turns dark on standing in a bottle. It may also cause discoloration of cartilage and lead to arthritis.

Allergy
This is an abnormal reaction to certain substances that would normally cause no problems in most people. This can occur with certain foods, pollen and insect bites and symptoms would include itching, rashes, and difficulty breathing. It is caused by a release of histamine.

Alopecia
Another name for hair loss

Alveolitis
Inflammation of the alveoli (air sacs of the lungs) and this is generally caused by an allergic reaction, although it can be caused by infection.

Alzheimer's disease
Degenerative disorder of the cerebral cortex that produces dementia in the middle or late life. First manifestation of this condition is loss of memory, particular short-term memory and is a non-curable condition that generally results in death over longterm.

Amaurosis Fugax
This is sudden transitory blindness or impairment of vision and may well be due to disturbance of blood flow within the blood vessels of the eye.

Amenorrhoea
Absence of menstrual period during the time of life when periods should occur. The commonest cause is pregnancy.

Amnesia
Loss of memory

Amoebiasis
Infection by the protozoa Entamoeba histolytica causes amoebic dysentery. Complications of this include bleeding into the gut, abscesses of the gut and perforation of the gut.

Amyloidosis
A build up of the protein amyloid that infiltrates various organs in the body. This can be a primary condition (no other medical problems) or a secondary condition (for example as a result of tuberculosis).

Anaphylaxis
This is an excessive reaction as a result of allergy giving rise to acute rash, swelling or tongue and upper airway, reduced blood pressure, shortness of breath and may in extreme cases cause death.

Anklyosing spondylitis
Inflammatory condition that involves the vertebra and is most common in males aged 20-40. The vertebras become fixed.

Angioneurotic Oedema
Acute local swelling under the skin, often as a result of allergy and occurs particularly around the face and tongue. It needs to be treated often with steroids and antihistamine to reduce the swelling.

Aneurysm
A blood filled sac formed by dilation of the artery walls. As a result the artery becomes weak and is susceptible to rupture and consequently bleeding. It can occur in different arteries in the body and often if it is in the aorta it can be fatal if it bursts.

Angina Pectoris
Crushing or gripping pain in the chest normally related to exertion and particularly occurs in those with problems with sufficient flow through the coronary arteries of the heart.

Anorexia Nervosa
Predominantly occurs in women manifested by deep aversion to food and they often have a mistaken belief that they are overweight and when they diet to excess the condition can lead to extreme emaciation and death.

Aphonia
Loss of voice due to a disorder of the throat.

Aplastic Anaemia
Serious form of anaemia as a result of failure of bone marrow to form new blood cells, can be caused by certain medicines.

Apnoea
Temporary stoppage of bleeding, can either be due to blockage of the airway or lack of stimulation by the centre in the brain that controls breathing.

Arcus Senilis
A white ring around the outer edge of the cornea of the eye.

Arthropathy
Term applied to any form of joint disease.

Ascites
Accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity.

Atelectasis
Collapse of part of a lung.

Athletes Foot
Fungal infection that particularly occurs between the toes.

Atheroma
A condition where cholesterol and fatty substances build up inside the artery. As a result the blood flow in the artery reduces.

Atrophy
A state of wasting away or shrinking in the size of any part of the body, it can occur in muscles or organs.

Bacteraemia
The term that describes the event of bacteria being present in the blood.

Bacteruria
The presence of bacteria in the urine, may be a signal of infection in the urinary tract which includes the kidneys, urethra and bladder.

Bell's Palsy
Paralysis of the muscles of the face due to damage/swelling of the facial nerves. The muscles are normally paralysed temporarily but it can in certain cases be permanent.

Blepharitis
Inflammation of the eyelid.

Bradycardia
Slow heart beat.

Borborygmus
Excess gas in the bowel causing flatulence.

Bronchiectasis
Where the bronchi (main air passage of the lungs) become larger, usually as a result of recurrent infection and as a result become obstructed by infection and stop working. Often secretions are difficult to remove and as a result starts to destroy the lining of the lung.

Bronchitis
Inflammation of the bronchi (lining of the tubes and lung) can occur as a result of infection but most commonly occurs as a result of damage due to smoking.

Bulimia Nervosa
There is, as in anorexia nervosa, a morbid fear of obesity and this condition is most common in women.

Cachexia
Emaciation as a result of general ill health. Generally as a result of serious disease such as cancer.

Cancer
Also known as carcinoma. It is a general name for any malignant tumour. Carcinomas/cancers invade and destroy tissues.

Candida
Infection as a result of a fungus, Candida albicans. It may occur in the mouth or vagina (thrush). It presents as white patches and discharge.

Caries
Dental decay where the calcium of the tooth is destroyed by disease.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Pain and tingling in the fingers caused by pressure on the median nerve as it passes through a narrow channel in the wrist. It can be relieved by an operation to cut the ligament in the wrist that tethers the nerve down.

Cellulitis
A spreading inflammation of the tissue under the skin.

Cerebral Palsy
A condition where paralysis occurs in infancy or early childhood, may be genetic or trauma at childbirth.

Cerebrovascular Accident
Another name for a stroke due to an interruption of the blood supply to the brain that causes a weakness on one side of the body.

Chicken Pox
Highly infectious condition characterised by a rash that occurs mainly in children. It is due to a type of herpes virus.

Cholangitis
Inflammation of the bile ducts

Cholecystitis
Inflammation of the gallbladder.

Cholelithiasis
The presence of gall stones.

Coeliac Disease
Inability to absorb fat through the small intestine wall, as a result excess of fat is found in the stools. This is due to intolerance of gluten that causes damage to the lining of the small intestine.

Colostomy
Surgically created opening of the colon through to the wall of the abdomen.

Coma
A state of profound deep unconsciousness where the patient cannot be roused. The causes of this are many but include head injury, poisoning, stroke, diabetes, liver and kidney disease or epilepsy but there are many other conditions that can cause coma.

Concussion
The person may be dizzy, sleepy, nauseated, have cold skin, as a result of a fall or violent blow in which the brain receives shaking or jarring.

Conjunctivitis
Inflammation of the conjunctiva. This is the mucous membrane that covers the inside of the eyelid and the front of the eye. It can be the result of an infection or allergy, generally results in a pink sore looking eye.

Coryza
Another name for a cold.

Crohn's Disease
An inflammatory bowel disease affecting any part of the bowel from the stomach to the anus. Patients suffer from attacks of abdominal pain, diarrhoea and bleeding.

Cushing's Syndrome
Disorder resulting from excessive output of steroids from the adrenal glands. It is characterised by obesity, acne, increased hair growth and increased blood pressure. It can be also due to a pituitary tumour, which causes an increasing release of steroids from the adrenal glands, or a tumour within the adrenal gland itself.

Cystitis
Inflammation of the bladder generally as a result of infection by bacteria. It is common in women giving rise to burning or stinging when passing water, as well as increased frequency of passing water and sometimes blood in the urine.

Cyst
Cavity/hollow sac that contains liquids.

Dementia
General term for any mental deterioration that causes impairment of intellect and may lead to confusion.

Dermatitis
Inflammatory of the skin which may be as a result of light or irritation due to products in contact with the skin.

Diabetes Insipidus
This is a condition caused by lack of antidiuretic hormones that results in an excessive thirst and passing large amounts of urine.

Diabetes Mellitus
A defect in the production of the hormone insulin by the pancreas and is characterised by elevated blood sugar. There are 2 types. Type 1 or insulin dependent in which patients require insulin injections and type 2 that occurs generally in later life and may well be a result of obesity. Type 2 can often be controlled with dietary advice although oral medication may become necessary.

Diplopia
Another name for double vision.

Dislocation
The displacement of a bone from its normal position that generally occurs as a result of trauma or a fall.

Diverticulitis
Inflammation of pockets of the large intestine. Diverticulae are pouches that occur particularly in the elderly and is thought to be as a result of altered bowel habit or constipation.

Dupuytren's Contracture
The thickening of the skin and tissue of the palm of the hand, which results in pulling the fingers down towards the palm of the hand. It generally affects the little finger first but can occur across the ring and the index finger.

Dysarthria
Slurring or weakness of speech may be caused by damage to the muscles of speech but also caused by damage affecting the speech centres in the brain. It may occur as a result of stroke, Parkinson's or any neurological disease.

Dysmenorrhoea
Painful menstruation/periods.

Dyspareunia
Pain experienced by women during sexual intercourse.

Dyspepsia
Indigestion

Dysphagia
Difficulty in swallowing.

Dysphasia
Difficulty in understanding languages. This particularly occurs after stroke or brain damage.

Dyspnoea
Difficulty in breathing.

Dysuria
Difficulty or pain in passing urine.

Ecchymosis
Discoloured patch resulting from the escape of blood into tissues just under the skin (almost the same as bruising).

Eclampsia
Serious form of convulsions that occurs in late pregnancy or during and after delivery. It is an extreme manifestation of infection in pregnancy or it can well be caused by high blood pressure.

Ectropion
The eyelid turns outwards, more commonly in the lower than the upper lid.

Eczema
General term for inflammation of the skin, usually an allergic-type reaction to a wide range of a stimulant or irritants.

Effusion
Movement of fluid from blood vessels which is normally contained, into an organ such as the lungs or body cavity as a result of inflammation or injury.

Elephantiasis
This is characterised by gross overgrowth of skin and tissue spaces underneath. It is often seen in tropical countries in those who have been bitten by the parasite filaria bancrofti. This parasite blocks lymphatic vessels and results in massive overgrowth of skin and tissue.

Embolism
The obstruction of a blood vessel by an embolus. An embolus consists of material carried by the blood stream and can be a blood clot, a mass of bacteria or an air bubble. It can cause destruction of that part of an organ because of lack of blood caused by blockage of the blood vessel.

Emesis
Another term for vomiting.

Emphysema
Abnormal presence of air in a part of the body.

Empyema
Accumulation of pus within a cavity.

Encephalitis
Inflammation of the brain normally due to a virus.

Encephalomyelitis
Inflammation of the brain and spinal cord.

Encephalopathy
When there is a signs of cerebral irritation (brain irritation) without any localised lesion to account for it. It can be as a result of certain diseases such as kidney disease or in people who are withdrawing from alcohol and substance abuse.

Endocarditis
Inflammation of the lining of the heart.

Enteritis
Inflammation of the intestines (gastroenteritis), inflammation of the stomach and intestines which leads to diarrhoea and vomiting.

Entropion
The eyelid turns inward (see opposite ectropion)

Epiglottitis
Inflammation of the epiglottis, this is quite rare now due to the introduction of the haemophilus influenza B vaccine, but nevertheless is still a serious condition in adults and children where the epiglottis (part of the voice box) becomes very swollen and may obstruct the airway.

Epilepsy
Sudden attacks of involuntary muscle convulsions.

Epistaxis
Bleeding from the nose.

Eructation
Belching

Erysipelas
Acute bacterial infection affecting the skin and underlying tissues. Normally accompanied by a high temperature. The infection is caused by streptococcus.

Erythema
Redness of the skin

Exophthalmos
Bulging eyes. This condition characterised by certain forms of thyroid disease.

Fainting
Temporary loss of consciousness caused by temporary reduction in blood supply reaching the brain. It is also known as syncope or vasovagal attack.

Faschiititis
Inflammation of the fascia that is the lining of muscles and tendons.

Fibroid
A term applied to a benign (non-cancerous) tumour of the womb (uterus). Fibrosis is the formation of fibrous or scar tissue.

Fissure
A break or a crack in the skin or membrane.

Fistula
An abnormal channel between body parts e.g. bladder to bowel.

Fractures
Breaks in the structures of bone produced by excess force.

Frozen Shoulder
Painful condition in the shoulder that is accompanied by limitation of movements and stiffness.

Furuncle
Another name for a boil.

Ganglion
A name given to a cyst around a tendon sheath that is normally found on the back of the wrist. These may require surgery.

Gallstones
Stones which are formed in the gallbladder or its ducts as a result of inflammation, increased concentration of cholesterol or pooling of bile. They may or may not cause symptoms

Gastric Ulcer
An ulcer occurring in the stomach lining causing pain and rarely bleeding and perforation.

Gastritis
Inflammation of the stomach.

Gastrostomy
An opening made in the front of the stomach and fluid can be passed directly in through the stomach wall.

German Measles
Also known as rubella which is an acute virus accompanied by increase in temperature and a pink rash. The particular concern with rubella is if it occurs in the early stage of pregnancy it may be responsible for congenital defects of the unborn child.

Gingivitis
Inflammation of the gums.

Glandular Fever
Also known as infectious mononucleosis. A viral infection affecting adolescents and adults, normally characterised by increased temperature, sore throat and enlarged glands in the neck. It may also cause enlarged spleen and jaundice. Unfortunately this infection cannot be treated with antibiotics as it is a virus and has to take its own natural course. It may cause increased lethargy for many months following initial viral infection.

Glaucoma
A condition of the eye where pressure of the fluid in the eye is raised. The condition may reduce vision and damage the nerves of the eye leading to blindness.

Glioma
A tumour found in the brain and spinal cord.

Glomerulonephritis
An acute or chronic inflammation of the blood filtering mechanism within the kidneys.

Glossitis
Inflammation of the tongue.

Glue Ear
Another name for otitis media where fluid builds up behind the eardrum in the middle ear.

Glycosuria
The presence of sugar in the urine.

Greenstick fracture
A fracture occurring in children when the bones are still supple.

Haemangioma
Benign tumour made up of tortuous blood vessels.

Haemarthrosis
Bleeding into joint.

Haematemesis
Vomiting blood, may be as a result of peptic or gastric ulceration. It can also be a sign of inflammation of the lining of the stomach and cancer of the stomach.

Haematuria
Passing of blood in the urine.

Haemochromotosis
Progressive disease characterised by increased deposits of iron in organs of the body. As a result it may cause cirrhosis of the liver, enlarged spleen, diabetes and increased pigmentation in the skin.

Haemophilia
Hereditary disease occurring in males predominantly but carried by females. As a result there is a deficiency of clotting factor VIII in the blood and there is uncontrollable haemorrhage (another name for bleeding).

Haemoptysis
Coughing or spitting up blood.

Haemorrhoids
Also known as piles, dilated varicose veins around the opening of the anus. This is quite a common condition and can also occur temporarily in pregnancy. They may become painful and need surgery.

Hand, foot and mouth disease
Most common in children but nevertheless still a rare condition. Eruptions of blisters on the palms of the hands, on the feet and toes. It is caused by an infection with the Coxsackie virus (this is not the same as foot and mouth disease).

Hay Fever
An allergic condition affecting the membranes of the eyes, nose and air passages. It is due to a reaction to pollens of grasses, wheats or trees.

Heart Block
This occurs when transmission of the impulses from the atria to the ventricles is interrupted. (see anatomy of the heart)

Heartburn
A burning sensation in the region of the lower chest and back of the throat due to excess acidity in the stomach.

Heatstroke
This is a serious reaction to the exposure of heat. The patient may become lethargic with headache, nausea and vomiting and may have a temperature. Treatment is by cooling with tepid sponges and rehydration.

Hemiplegia
A paralysis limited to one side of the body, usually as a result of stroke.

Henoch's/Schonlein's Purpura
Allergic form of haemorrhage into the skin. The first sign of this may be pain in the abdomen and joints. This is associated with certain types of infection and rheumatic fever and recovery is usually spontaneous.

Hepatitis
Inflammation of the liver, usually caused by a virus. However, it can also be caused by alcohol toxins and certain parasitic infections.

Hernia
Another name for a rupture, which results as protrusion of an organ through the cavity that normally, contains it.

Herpes Simplex
Also known as cold sores, due to a viral infection.

Herpes Zoster
Another name for shingles or chicken pox.

Hodgkin's Disease
A cancerous condition affecting the lymph nodes.

Hydrocele
A swelling of the scrotum from the accumulation of fluid in the sac of the membrane that covers the testicles.

Hydradenitis Suppurativa
Chronic inflammatory disease of the sweat glands. Normally occur in the armpits. It may result in abscess formation and require surgery to cure the problem.

Hyperacusis
Abnormally acute (high level) sense of hearing.

Hyperaesthesia
Over-sensitivity of one part of the body.

Hypercalcinuria
Abnormally large amount of calcium in the urine.

Hypercapnia
Abnormally large amount of carbon dioxide in the blood.

Hypercholesterolaemia
A higher level than normal of cholesterol in the blood stream.

Hyperemesis
Excessive vomiting.

Hyperglycaemia
An excessive amount of sugar in the blood, normally found in diabetes.

Hyperhidrosis
Excessive amount of sweating.

Hyperlipidaemia
Excessive amount of fats found in the blood.

Hypermetropia
Long sightedness

Hyperpyrexia
Excessively high temperature.

Hypertension
High blood pressure

Hyperthermia
High temperature (see hyperpyrexia)

Hyperthyroidism
Excess activity of the thyroid gland.

Hypocalcaemia
Decreased blood calcium

Hypoglycaemia
Reduction in the level of sugar in the blood.

Hypogonadism
Deficiency of hormones produced by the gonads (testicles and ovaries).

Hypothermia
Reduction in body temperature.

Hypothyroidism
Reduced action of the thyroid gland.

Icterus
Jaundice

Ileitis
Inflammation of the ileum causing abdominal pain. May also cause irregular bowel movements.

Impetigo
Infection of skin characterised by pustules that burst and form thick yellow crusts. Normally caused by Staphylococcus aureus and normally occurs on the face.

Impotence
Inability to sustain an erection for sexual intercourse.

Incontinence
The inability to control bladder or bowel.

Infarction
An area of dead tissue due to reduction in or cessation of blood supply.

Infestation
The presence of parasites in the intestines.

Inflammation
The reaction of tissue to injury.

Influenza (flu)
An infection due to a virus which cannot be treated with antibiotics.

Insomnia
Inability to sleep.

Intermittent Claudication
Pain in the legs after walking certain distance that is relieved by resting. It is normally caused by narrowing of the arteries that supply blood to the legs.

Jaundice
Yellow discoloration of the skin due to build up of bile pigments in the body. It is caused by an abnormality of the liver or blockage of the bile passages that prevent bile from being removed in the intestines.

Keloid
The overgrowth of tissue around the sides of an old scar.

Keratitis
Inflammation of the cornea of the eye.

Keratosis
Normally overgrowth of the skin giving rise to callous.

Kleptomania
Irresistible compulsion to steal things without needing them regardless of their material value.

Koilonychia
A term applied to nails when they are hollowed out and have the visual appearance of spoons. It is normally associated with iron deficiency.

Kyphosis
Forward curvature of the spine.

Laparotomy
Term applied to any operation in which the abdomen is opened.

Laryngitis
Inflammation of the lining of the larynx be it acute or chronic. There will be change in the voice associated with laryngitis.

Leptospirosis
Infection by the spirochaete Leptospira giving rise to Weil's disease which is transmitted by rat's urine and occurs particularly in sewage workers. Characterised by fever, jaundice, enlarged liver, bleeding from mucous membranes.

Leukaemia
Malignant condition of the blood and bone marrow. It is characterised by increased production of white blood cells.

Lipoma
Benign (non-cancerous) tumour of the fat cells. Normally superficial and causes soft fatty lumps under the skin.

Liver Spots
Brownish marks appearing on the skin that are often seen in pregnancy.

Lordosis
Unnatural forward curvature of the spine.

Lymphadenitis
Inflammation of the lymph glands.

Lymphoedema
Swelling of part of the body due to obstruction of their lymph containing vessels (see elephantiasis).

Lymphoma
Malignant tumour of the lymph glands.

Lymphosarcoma
Malignant (cancerous) growth of lymphoid of elements of the body.

Malignancy
Another name for cancer.

Macroglossia
An abnormally large tongue.

Malaria
A disease caused by one of the malaria parasites that are transmitted by female mosquitoes. The disease is characterised by cycles of chills, sweating and fever. Treatment is either preventative or curative.

Malaise
Vague feeling of illness.

Mastalgia
Pain in the breast

Mastoiditis
Inflammation in the mastoid bone behind the ear as a result of infection spreading from the middle ear.

Mastitis
Inflammation of the breast due to bacterial infection. It normally occurs in women who are breast feeding.

Malaena
Passing of dark stools (faeces) due to bleeding in the stomach or small intestine. The dark colour is due to digestion of the blood as it goes through the bowel.

Melanoma
A tumour arising from the melanin producing cells within the skin.

Malignant melanoma
Cancer of the moles

Meningitis
Inflammation of the membranes around the brain and spinal cord. It can be a viral or bacterial infection. Viral meningitis is generally a self-limiting infection but a bacterial infection can cause septicaemia and if untreated generally will result in rapid death. The condition is accompanied by temperature, headaches, vomiting, intolerance of light and stiffness of neck.

Menopause
Cessation of menstruation at the end of reproductive life.

Menorrhagia
Excessive bleeding at the time of period.

Migraine
Sometimes is a condition characterised by intense headaches that generally occur in women more often than men, normally affecting only one side of the head and often accompanied by nausea and intolerance of light. The attacks can be triggered by certain foods, alcohol and anxiety.

Motor Neurone Disease
Caused by breakdown of grey matter within the spinal cord. Results in wasting of muscles and paralysis.

Mouth Ulcers
Ulcers of the mucous membranes of the mouth. The cause is generally unknown but is thought to be due to viral infection. Treatment is with painkillers for symptomatic relief but they are generally recurring.

Mumps
A viral infection that is in the early phase very infectious causing swelling of the salivary glands around the face, particularly the parotid gland. It can also cause inflammation of the pancreas as well as inflammation of the testes. Both of these are generally painful and if you have swelling and inflammation of the testes may render the person sterile.

Muscular Dystrophy
A congenital wasting disease that results in gradual irreversible muscular deterioration and eventually incapacity.

Myasthenia Gravis
A chronic disease characterised by rapid fatigue of certain muscles followed by a prolonged time to recover. Those muscles most commonly affected are the eyelids making it difficult to open eyes and the throat. It is thought to be an auto-immune disease affecting certain hormone transmitters in the nerves.

Myeloma
A malignant tumour made up of bone marrow cells.

Myocarditis
Inflammation of the muscular wall of the heart.

Myopathy
Any disease of the muscle.

Myositis
Inflammation of muscles.

Myxoedema
A disease caused by underactivity of the thyroid gland, characterised by dry skin, swelling around the lips and face, reduced metabolic rate and mental deterioration. It can normally be controlled by administration of thyroxine.

Nephritis
Chronic inflammatory condition of the kidneys.

Narcolepsy
A condition that is characterised by sudden attacks of deep sleep and also a feeling of wanting to vomit.

Neoplasm
An abnormal growth of tissue. This can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous).

Neutropenia
A reduction in the number of neutrophils (component of white cells) in the blood.

Nocturia
Excessive passing of urine during the night.

Obesity
Over accumulation of fat.

Oesophagitis
Inflammation of the lining of the oesophagus.

Oligospermia
Abnormally few sperm in the semen.

Oliguria
Abnormally low secretion of urine.

Orchidectomy
Removal of one or both testicles.

Orchitis
Inflammation of the testicles.

Orthopnoea
Difficulty in breathing when lying flat which prevents the patient from lying down to sleep.

Osteochondritis
Inflammation of bone and cartilage.

Osteomyelitis
Inflammation of the bone which may be as a result of infection.

Osteoarthritis
Chronic degeneration of the bone end around the joint that leads to deformity and pain which occurs generally in older people.

Osteoporosis
Brittleness of the bones resulting in liability to fracture, more common in elderly people particularly in women after the menopause.

Otitis
Inflammation of the ear.

Otorrhoea
Chronic discharge from the ear.

Palpitation
Condition in which the heart beats irregularly and the patient becomes conscious of this.

Pancreatitis
Inflammation of the pancreas that can be in acute or chronic forms. Acute causes pain and reduction in blood pressure. It can be due to conditions of the gallbladder and chronic elevated alcohol intake.

Paralysis
Loss of power due to interference of the nervous system.

Paraplegia
Paralysis of the lower limbs.

Parotitis
Inflammation of the parotid gland.

Pericarditis
Inflammation of the sac that surrounds the heart.

Pernicious Anaemia
Condition where the acid producing cells of the stomach are destroyed as a result vitamin B12 cannot be absorbed and as a result anaemia occurs because vitamin B12 helps to prevent anaemia. The skin becomes pale and the tongue becomes smooth. It can also cause numbness of the hands and feet and if untreated can cause neurological problems including destroying the spinal cord.

Phlebitis
Inflammation of the walls of the vein.

Photophobia
Sensitivity of the eyes to light.

Pica
Abnormal craving for unusual foods, particularly occurs in pregnancy.

Pleurisy
Inflammation of the pleura (covering of the lungs) which cause sharp pains which are aggravated by deep breathing.

Pneumonectomy
Removal of a lung.

Pneumonia
Inflammation of the lung caused by viral or bacterial infection, as a result the lungs fill up with secretions and are unable to work effectively.

Pneumothorax
A collection of air in the pleural cavity that surrounds the lungs and as a result they are unable to expand and collapse. Treatment is with a chest drain inserted into the chest to allow the air to escape.

Polydipsia
Excessive thirst.

Polyuria
Excessive passage of urine.

Pre-Eclampsia
Condition of complication of pregnancy characterised by swelling of the limbs, high blood pressure and proteins in the urine.

Presbycusis
Deafness which normally occurs with increasing age.

Proctitis
Inflammation of the rectum.

Proctalgia
Pain in the rectum or anus.

Prolapse
Slipping down of an organ from its original position.

Prostatism
Benign (non-cancerous) enlargement of the prostate gland.

Prosthesis
An artificial replacement which may be a limb, denture or breast.

Proteinuria
The presence of protein in the urine.

Pruritus
Itching.

Psoriasis
Skin condition causing itching and elevated lesions on various parts of the body including the scalp, nails and elbows.

Pulmonary embolism
A blood clot that is lodged in the lungs.

Purpura
When bleeding occurs in the skin due to deficiency in function or reduction in number of platelets.

Pyaemia
Blood poisoning in which abscesses appear in parts of the body.

Pyrexia
Another name for elevated temperature.

Pyuria
The presence of pus in the urine.

Quadriplegia
Paralysis of both arms and legs.

Quinsy
A name for an abscess around the tonsil, also known as peri-tonsillar abscess.

Rectocele
Bulging of the rectum through the rear wall of the vagina.

Reflux
Fluid flowing in the opposite direction to normal. This often actually refers to regurgitation of the stomach acid into the oesophagus causing heartburn.

Referred Pain
Pain felt in one part of the body that actually arises from a distant site. It normally occurs because the sites are developed from the same embryonic tissue that have a common pain pathway. An example of this is pain is often felt in the shoulder tip when the problem may be near the diaphragm (the muscle that separates the chest from the bowels).

Remission
A period when the disease has responded to treatment and there is no signs or symptoms of the disease.

Retinopathy
Disease of the retina in the eye.

Retroversion
Abnormal position of the placenta.

Retropharyngeal Abscess
An abscess in the tissue behind the throat.

Rheumatic Fever
An acute illness that causes joint pain, inflammation of the heart and rash. It is as a result of bacterial infection and the long-term consequences involve damage to the heart valves and arthritis.

Rheumatism
A painful condition affecting joints and muscles. Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disease affecting the lining of joints. It runs a prolonged course with periods of remission and exacerbation. It is more common in women than men.

Rhinitis
Inflammation of the membrane lining of the nose.

Rhinoplasty
Repair of the nose, straightening of the nose. It is either carried out by an ear, nose and throat surgeon or a plastic surgeon.

Rickets
This occurs in children due to a lack of vitamin D or insufficient exposure to sunlight (which creates vitamin D from substances in the skin).

Rigor
Another name for shivering, it occurs particularly when there is elevated temperature.

Rosacea
Another name for acne.

Sacroiliitis
Inflammation of the sacroiliac joints in the pelvis.

Salpingitis
Inflammation of the fallopian tubes.

Sarcoidosis
Chronic disease involving the lymph node skin, lungs and heart.

Sciatica
Pain in the path of the distribution of the sciatic nerve. It is primarily in the buttocks, radiating down the back of the thigh.

Scleritis
Inflammation of the eye due to inflammation of the sclera.

Scleroderma
A condition in which the skin becomes hard, causing stiffening of the joints and wasting of muscles. The skin looks tight and stretched over the body and can be painful. It can affect other organs including hearts and lungs.

Scoliosis
Abnormal curvature of the spine from side to side.

Scrofula
Lymph gland of the neck affected by tuberculosis.

Scurvy
A deficiency disease due to lack of vitamin C.

Sebaceous Cyst
A cyst in the skin as a result of blockage of the sebaceous gland.

Sepsis
Poisoning generally due to bacteria and inflammation.

Septicaemia
Bacterial infection of the blood.

Shock
A state of acute circulatory collapse in which the heart output is inadequate to provide normal blood supply to the body's organs. It normally manifests itself as lower blood pressure.

Singer's Nodules
Smallish swelling on the vocal cords causing hoarse voice which tends to occur in singers, particularly in those who shout a lot during their activities of daily living.

Sinusitis
Inflammation of the sinuses in the skull. It often presents as a cold.

Sjogren's Syndrome
A condition characterised by dryness of the eyes and mouth. It is sometimes associated with rheumatoid arthritis but may well occur independently.

Spasm
Involuntary and often painful contraction of a muscle or a hollow organ that can include the bowel.

Spastic
A condition where there is increased muscular tone that results in inability to move limbs fluidly and easily.

Spina Bifida
A congenital malformation of the spine and spinal cord in which some of the bony vertebrae have not developed properly. The sac that covers the spinal cord may protrude under the skin or even protrude onto the skin. It is a condition that presents at birth and may result in paralysis and incontinence.

Splenectomy
An operation for removal of the spleen.

Splenomegaly
Enlargement of the spleen.

Spondylolithesis
Defect of the spine which results in slipping forward of the affected vertebra.

Spondylosis
Degenerative lesions in the spine leading to stiffness and pain.

Sprains
Injuries to joints and ligaments resulting in inflammation and pain.

Stasis
The stoppage of flow of blood in the blood vessels.

Steatorrhoea
Passage of brown motion containing excess fat.

Stenosis
Unnatural narrowing in the any passage. It can occur in blood vessels or in the bowels.

Stertor
A term applied for noisy breathing.

Stoma
An opening constructed when the bowel has to be brought to the surface. It can be a colostomy when the large bowel is brought to the surface, an ileostomy when the small bowel is brought to the surface or a urostomy when urine is drained via a bag on the abdominal skin.

Stomatitis
The inflammation of the mouth.

Stridor
The noise associated with breathing and is generally caused by narrowing of the upper airway, particularly the voice box (larynx)

Subarachnoid Haemorrhage
Haemorrhage into the subarachnoid space of the brain normally as a result of rupture of an aneurysm in one of the blood vessels around the brain.

Suffocation
Asphyxia or choking.

Suppuration
The process of pus formation.

Syncope
Another name for fainting.

Synovitis
Inflammation of the lining of the joint.

Tachycardia
Rapid pulse rate.

Tachypnoea
Rapid breathing.

Telangiectasia
Dilation of small blood vessels appearing as small red or blue lines on the skin. They may be completely benign (of no consequence) or they may be associated with diseases of the skin or liver.

Tenesmus
Straining to empty the bowel without success. It may be a symptom of disease such as piles, dysentery or tumours of the bowel.

Tenosynovitis
Inflammation of the tendon.

Tennis Elbow
Tenosynovitis around the elbow.

Tetany
Spasm of muscles caused by low calcium in the blood. The condition is caused by a reduction in calcium and may be due to hypoparathyroidism (lack of parathyroid hormone).

Thoracoplasty
Removal of a number of ribs so that the underlying lung collapses, it was thought to help in the treatment of tuberculosis.

Thrombocytopenia
The reduction in number of platelets in the blood. Platelets are necessary for blood coagulation so the condition sometimes results in excess bleeding and bruising.

Thrombophlebitis
Inflammation of the veins that may be associated with lodged blood clot within the veins. The veins of the legs are commonly affected and the legs and calves may become very tender.

Thrombosis
The formation of a blood clot within a blood vessel.

Thrush
A type of inflammation affecting the mouth but may also affect the vagina and is caused by a fungus. Generally the fungus is caused by candida.

Tinnitus
Any noise heard in the ears without any external cause.

Tinea Cruris
Ringworm.

Tonsillitis
Inflammation of the tonsils.

Torpor
This condition is bodily or mental inactivity when people are not asleep but are unable to carry out normal duties.

Torsion
A swinging process in which organs or tumours attached by pedicles become twisted and constrict the blood supply. An example of this is in the testicle where the blood supply is not restored then the testicle can die.

Toxaemia
A form of blood poisoning.

Toxic Shock Syndrome
This is characterised by high fever, diarrhoea, shock and rash. It sometimes is due to tampons that have been in situ for days or weeks. Over 10% of patients with this condition die.

Tracheitis
Inflammation of the trachea.

Tracheostomy
An operation to put a hole in the front of the neck into the windpipe which allows air to enter directly into the lungs.

Transient Ischaemic Attack
A transient episode in which the blood supply to the brain is interrupted for some reason. Symptoms may well last for minutes to hours but always improve within 24 hours. It is due to thickening of the arterial walls or clots in the cerebral circulation. The symptoms are similar to a stroke but improve as mentioned previously within 24 hours.

Ulcer
A break in the surface of the skin or any membranous lining of any cavity within the body.

Ulcerative Colitis
Inflammation of the colon or rectum characterised by ulcers on the wall of the intestine. It is associated with bloody diarrhoea. It can sometimes be treated with medication but if it becomes severe may require surgical removal of the affected part of the colon.

Urethritis
Inflammation of the urethra causing cystitis like pain and interference with the passage of urine.

Urticaria
Eruption of the skin causing a rash and itching. It can be due to stings from insects or nettles, or ingestion of materials such as nuts or shellfish.

Uveitis
Inflammation of the middle layer of the eye.

Vaginitis
Inflammation of the vagina.

Valgus
Inward displacement from any part of the body but it particularly occurs in knees leading to knock knees (opposite is varus)

Varicella
Another name for chickenpox.

Varicocele
A condition in which the veins of the testicles have distended.

Varus
(Opposite is valgus). Deformity of the legs causing them to bend outwards giving rise to bow legged.

Vasectomy
Surgical operation to render men sterile by cutting the ducts that allow sperm to be ejaculated.

Venesection
The withdrawal of blood from the vein.

Vertigo
The sensation of rotatory movement either of oneself or of the environment. True vertigo does not mean fear of heights.

Vitiligo
Patchy areas of depigmented skin leaving white patches, particularly on the face and arms.

Volvulus
Twisting or knotting of the bowel causing intestinal obstruction and may lead to gangrene.

Wheezing
The name applied to various sounds produced in the chest when the tubes leading to the lungs are narrowed. It particularly occurs in asthma and bronchitis.

Whiplash Injury
A popular name for the injury sustained when the head is suddenly thrown forwards and jerked backed. It occurs particularly in car accidents. The injury is a result of sprained neck where the muscles and the ligaments may be strained. There is rarely any damage to bones and nerves.

Whitlow
A popular term for acute inflammation of the deep tissues of the finger affecting the root of the nail.

Wilson's Disease
A hereditary disease caused by increased accumulation of copper in the brain, eyes, kidney and liver causing tremor, clumsiness, psychological disturbance.

Xanthelasmata
Yellow plaques of fat deposited on the skin. They tend to occur around the eyelids particularly in those patients with high levels of cholesterol.

Xanthomata
Deposits of fatty tissue in the tendon sheaths over spinary prominences.

Xerosis
Abnormal dryness especially the eyes.

Xerostomia
Dryness of the mouth due to lack of saliva.

Zoster
Also known as shingles. This is an infection caused by the same virus as chickenpox and occurs particularly in adults. It is characterised by skin eruptions along the nerves particularly of the chest, face and head and is often accompanied by severe pain. Unfortunately the virus remains in the body and can occur at any time over many years.

Abbreviations

AB Antibody

ACE inhibitors Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (type of blood pressure drug)

ADH Anti-diuretic hormone (controls the amount of urine produced)

AF Atrial fibrillation

AG Antigen

ALL Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia

ALT Amino transferase (liver enzyme)

AML Acute myeloid leukaemia

ANA Anti-nuclear antibodies

ARDS Adult respiratory distress syndrome

ASOT Anti streptolysin titre (specific test for type of bacteria)

AST Aspartame transaminase (liver enzyme)

AXR Abdominal X-ray

Ba Barium

BKA Below knee amputation

BP Blood pressure

CABG Coronary artery bypass graft

CAPD Chronic ambulatory peritoneal dialysis

CCF Congestive cardiac failure

CCU Coronary Care Unit

CF Cystic fibrosis

CI Contraindication

CK Creatinine kinase (one of the blood tests undertaken in some hospitals to indicate that the patient has had a heart attack)

CLL Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia

CML Chronic myeloid leukaemia

CNS Central nervous system

COAD Chronic obstructive airway disease

COPD Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

CPAP Continuous positive airway pressure (methods of ventilating patients and increasing oxygen supply to the lungs. They may be used on Intensive Care Units)

CPR Cardiopulmonary resuscitation

CRP C-reactive protein (indication of inflammatory process in body over a short time)

CSF Cerebrospinal fluid

CT Computerised tomography (body scan)

CVS Cardiovascular system

CXR Chest X-ray

DI Diabetes insipidus

DM Diabetes mellitus

DoH Department of Health

DU Duodenal ulcer

D&V Diarrhoea and vomiting

DVT Deep vein thrombosis

DXT Deep radiotherapy

ECG Electrocardiogram

EEG Electroencephalogram (brain wave recording)

EMD Electromechanical dissociation (this means there is electrical activity within the heart. However there is no active contraction and this will lead to death).

ENG Electronystagmography (eye movement and balance test)

ENT Ear, nose and throat

ERCP Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography

ESR Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (indication of inflammation within the body long term)

EUA Examination under anaesthetic

FB Foreign body

FBC Full blood count

FFP Fresh frozen plasma

GA General anaesthetic

GB Gallbladder

GCS Glasgow coma scale

GIT Gastrointestinal tract

GP General practitioner

GU Genitourinary

HB Haemoglobin

HBV Hepatitis B virus

HCV Hepatitis C virus

HDU High Dependency Unit

HDV Hepatitis D virus

HIV Human immunodeficiency virus

HOCM Hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (excess muscle of the ventricles. The ventricles pump blood around the body. As a result of the increase in muscle mass the heart is unable to pump effectively)

HRT Hormone replacement therapy

HSV Herpes simplex virus

ICP Intracranial pressure

IDA Iron deficiency anaemia

IDDM Insulin dependent diabetes mellitus

IHD Ischaemic heart disease

IM Intramuscular

INR International normalised ratio (this is an indication of the effectiveness of the blood clotting system in the body. The higher the number the longer it takes for the blood to clot. The normal INR is between 0.8 and 1.2. People on Warfarin have an elevated INR because Warfarin reduces the effectiveness of the blood clotting mechanism).

IPPV Intermittent positive pressure ventilation (methods of ventilating patients and increasing oxygen supply to the lungs. They may be used on Intensive Care Units)

ITU Intensive Care Unit

IV Intravenously

IVI Intravenous infusion

IVU Intravenous urography (specialist X-ray test of the kidneys and ureters. The ureters drain urine from the kidney to the bladder)

JVP Jugulovenous pressure

KUB Kidneys, ureter and bladder X-ray

LVF Left ventricular failure

LFTs Liver function tests

LH Luteinising hormone (female sex hormone)

LP Lumbar puncture

MAU Medical Assessment Unit

MCV Mean corpuscular volume (a measurement of blood cell volume)

MI Myocardial infarction

MND Motor neurone disease

MRI Magnetic resonance imaging (body scanning machine)

MS Multiple sclerosis

MSU Mid stream urine

NAD Nothing abnormal detected

NBM Nil by mouth

NG Nasogastric

NIDDM Non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus

NR Normal range

NSAIDs Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (pain killers)

OCP Oral contraceptive pill

OD Overdose

OGD Oesophagogastroduodenoscopy

OSA Obstructive sleep apnoea

PE Pulmonary embolus

PEFR Peak expiratory flow rate (used in asthma to measure the peak flow and capacity and assess the capacity of the lungs)

PEG Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (tube placed into stomach for feeding purposes)

PET Positron emission tomography (may indicate blood flow to certain areas of the body)

PID Pelvic inflammatory disease

PO Per os (by mouth)

PR Per rectum (by the rectum)

PT Prothrombin time

PTH Parathyroid hormone (regulates calcium metabolism in the body)

PUO Pyrexia of unknown origin

PV Per vaginam (by vagina)

qid Quater in die (4 times a day)

qds Quater die sumendus (to be taken 4 times a day)

RF Rheumatoid factor

RVF Right ventricular failure

SC Subcutaneous

SCBU Special Care Baby Unit

SE Side effects

SL Sublingual

SOB Short of breath

SOBOE Short of breath on exercise

Stat Statim (immediately)

SVT Supraventricular tachycardia

SXR Skull X-ray

T3 Tri-iodothyromine (the pre-cursor to thyroxine)

T4 Thyroxine

TB Tuberculosis

TC Technetium scanning (this is a bone scan to show up any bone lesions)

TFTs Thyroid function tests

TIA Transient ischaemic attack

tid Ter in die (3 times a day)

tds Ter die sumendus (to be taken 3 times a day)

TPR Temperature, pulse and respiration count

UC Ulcerative colitis

U&Es Urea and electrolytes (salts in the blood)

URT Upper respiratory tract

URTI Upper respiratory tract infection

UTI Urinary tract infection

USS Ultrasound scan

VF Ventricular fibrillation (fibrillation of the heart, unless restarted would lead to death)

VP scan Ventilation perfusion scan (looking at the circulation of the lungs and the air entry into the lungs. It can indicate infection pulmonary embolus)

VT Ventricular tachycardia

WCC White cell count