Medical dictionary

What is assertiveness? Assertiveness is defined as the ability to express yourself in an open, calm, and direct way whilst still respecting others. It’s considered to be an important quality in everyday life, from relationships at work or with family and friends. Assertiveness is the middle ground of communicating between a passive style and an aggressive style.   Many people m

What is assisted reproductive technology (ART)?Assisted reproductive technology (ART) aims to help women that want to become pregnant who may have had some difficulties in doing so through sexual intercourse alone. Some of these techniques include artificial insemination or in vitro fertilisation (IVF). There are a variety of treatments, but it depends on the individual circums

What is asthma? Asthma is a condition which occurs when the upper airways constrict as a result of a particular trigger, for example, an extreme reaction to some sort of allergen/stimulus such as viral infections, pollen, or overwhelming stress or exercise. Asthma can present at any age though it is usually not diagnosed in early childhood (especially infants) unless there is a strong fa

What is asthma in children? Asthma is a common pulmonary condition that often begins during childhood. The lungs and airways become inflamed and produce mucus when exposed to certain triggers. Common triggers include allergies, colds and exercise.   What are the symptoms? Difficulties breathing or shortness of breath Tightness in the chest Congestion Intermi

What is astigmatism? Astigmatism is a condition where the shape of your eye is more like a rugby ball than a football, causing blurriness in vision. People with astigmatism are generally born with it, but sometimes the condition can develop as a result of surgery, injury, or an illness. Astigmatism is usually accompanied with long-sightedness or short-sightedness. What are the

What is ataxia? Ataxia is the term for a group of neurological disorders that affect muscle control, causing difficulties with balance, coordination and speech. There are different types of the disorders that can affect people in different ways. Any part of the body can be affected by ataxia but overall people have difficulties with: Balance and walking: People with ataxia have

What is atherosclerosis? Atherosclerosis is the most frequent disease of the arteries. It consists of the formation of plaque in the blood vessels through which oxygen and nutrients are transported. The plaque is a sticky substance formed by fat, cholesterol or calcium, which over time can harden and narrow the arteries causing a lack of blood flow to the tissues and organs. Although it often a

What is atheroembolic renal disease? Atheroembolic renal disease occurs when minute particles become dispersed along the small blood vessels in the kidneys. These particles are made of solidified fat and cholesterol, and other substances. What are the symptoms of atheroembolic renal disease? It should be borne in mind that the disease may be asymptomatic. If there are symptoms, t

What is atopic dermatitis?   Atopic dermatitis (or atopic eczema) is a chronic inflammation of the skin that results in an itchy rash. It is more common in children than adults.   This condition is “atopic” because it does not affect a specific area; it can affect several different areas of the body and is not necessarily where the skin is in direct contact with a