Medical dictionary

What is malnutrition?Malnutrition is the result of following an unbalanced diet in which there is a lack of nutrients or the intake of nutrients is not proportionate. Malnutrition increases the risk of infection and disease.What are the symptoms of malnutrition?The main symptoms of malnutrition are:Major weight lossLoss of muscle massWeak and brittle hair and nailsProlonged diarrhoeaTiredness and

A mammography, or mammogram, is a breast cancer screening to look for signs of breast cancer in women who otherwise show no signs or symptoms. It can also be used when a breast lump has been detected. Mammography uses X-ray imaging to detect signs of breast cancer in the early stages before they become noticeable.   What happens during a mammography? A mammography takes two X-ra

What is menopause? The menopause refers to the process which naturally occurs in women as a result of ageing, meaning they no longer have periods and are unable to conceive. Menopause usually happens between the ages of 45 and 55, with the average age in the UK for women being 51. It is a new stage in a woman’s life and brings a number of both physical and emotional changes. During&nbs

Menopause support Menopause is when the menstrual cycle stops due to a change in hormones, and the ovarian follicles stop functioning. Among other bodily changes that occur during menopause, one key aspect is the loss of fertility. This is an expected, natural process that is part of ageing and all menstruating people will go through it in their lives, typically around the age of 45 to

What is a men’s health check? A men’s health check is a screening service that can detect the early warning signs of a range of health conditions affecting men, such as diabetes and prostate cancer.   Using the results of a men's health check, specialists can build a clear picture of what your current health is like and identify any future risks. After you have t

What is a mental health assessment?A mental health assessment or evaluation is a procedure in which a psychologist or psychiatrist gathers information about the patient via tests and interviews, in order to evaluate cognitive functioning and abilities in specific areas and to predict future behaviour.What does it involve?The psychological evaluation is carried out by means of interviews, psyc

What is a methacholine challenge test?   The methacholine challenge test, also known as a bronchial challenge test, is a medical test that is used to assist in the diagnosis of asthma. Methacholine is a type of drug that you inhale that causes slight narrowing of the airways in the lungs, similar to asthma. This testis usually performed by a respiratory specialist.   The test

What is a migraine? A migraine is a type of headache which occurs due to a chronic nervous system disorder. It is a debilitating headache which normally comes with other symptoms, such as nausea or photophobia (light sensitivity).   It is estimated that around 1 in 7 people are affected by migraines globally. Migraines tend to affect women more than men, so it’s thought t

What is musculoskeletal pain? Musculoskeletal pain can include pain felt anywhere in your bones, muscles, ligaments or tendons. The location of the pain, its severity, and how widespread it is depends on what condition or injury you have. The type of pain you experience is related to whether it comes from your bones, muscles or tendons: Muscle pain can be quite intense, particularly wh