Medical dictionary

What is the common cold? The common cold, which is often referred to simply as a cold, is a viral disease of the upper respiratory tract, affecting the nose, throat and sinuses. It is the most frequent infectious disease among humans. There are over 200 strains of the cold virus with around 50 percent being rhinoviruses. A rhinovirus is a type of virus that grows in temperatures of 33-35 &de

The thyroid gland is an endocrine gland located in the front of the neck, below the Adam’s apple. The thyroid is shaped a little like a butterfly, and is responsible for producing hormones throughout your body. The hormones produced by the thyroid help to control such things as the burning of calories in your body, the speed of your body’s metabolism, and regulates the body’s dev

What are thyroid disorders? The thyroid is an essential gland in the body which produces thyroid hormones. These hormones control and influence many bodily functions, such as body temperature, energy levels, and metabolism.   Thyroid disorders occur for many different reasons and can disrupt the thyroid’s normal production of these hormones, with a knock-on effect on the body&r

What is an ultrasound?   Ultrasound is a diagnostic imaging procedure that allows you to see organs and soft structures inside the body. At present, they can be 2D, 3D or four-dimensional images. Ultrasound is a non-invasive technique, in which radiation is not used. Thanks to this, it is used to visualise developing foetuses in pregnancy.     What does an ultraso

What is a urinary tract infection?Urinary tract infection (UTI) refers to inflammation in the urinary tract caused by bacteria, the most common type of infection in the urinary tract. An infection occurs when bacteria reaches the bladder (cystitis) or kidneys, multiplying in the urine. If left untreated, the infection may cause permanent damage to the bladder or kidneys.You should see a urologist

  What are vaginal problems? The most common vaginal problems are:  Sexually-transmitted infections (STIs); Dryness; Pelvic floor relaxation – supporting ligaments and connective tissues can weaken and lead to prolapse; Sexual problems.  Infections can also lead to a number of vaginal problems. Common infections that aff

Vomiting involves the “throwing up” of the contents of your stomach. Rather than a condition in itself, vomiting is a symptom of a wide variety of illnesses. What can cause vomiting? There are many conditions which can cause vomiting, so it can be difficult to know for certain. In children, vomiting is commonly a reaction to motion sickness, over-eating, a milk allergy, food

What is weight loss? Weight loss is a decrease in body weight by either following a diet and exercise regime or because of involuntarily circumstances such as illness. Body weight is determined by the amount of energy that is consumed as food and the amount of energy expended during daily activities. If a person wants to intentionally lose weight, it is recommended that they eat a lower quan

What are weight loss injections, and what are the different types? Weight loss injections have garnered significant attention as an innovative approach to combating obesity. These injectable medications are designed to assist individuals in achieving and maintaining a healthier weight by modulating appetite, enhancing metabolic functions, and promoting fat loss. As obesity continues to be a maj