Medical dictionary

What is a coronary stent? A coronary stent is an expandable cylindrical device, usually made of mesh, which is inserted within a vessel or duct to keep the passageway open and to preserve its shape and functionality. They are used in procedures to treat narrowed or blocked coronary arteries, which restrict blood flow to the heart. The procedure is called a coronary angioplasty, and is perf

What is coronary surgery?       Heart surgery, also known as coronary artery bypass surgery or a coronary bypass surgery, is a type of surgery used to divert the blood and avoid blocked coronary arteries. The blockage may affect one or more of the arteries that carry blood to the heart, and may be partial or total (stenosis).    When arteries are blocke

What is a coronavirus? Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that cause mild to moderate upper-respiratory illnesses ranging from the common cold to more severe illnesses such as pneumonia, severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS). Almost everyone will get infected by a coronavirus at least once in their life, and most of the time t

What is analysed? Coronavirus (COVID-19) tests analyse the presence of the virus SARS-CoV-2, which causes COVID-19. COVID-19 tests include: The PCR (polymerase chain reaction) test: Analyses the genetic material of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The test detects the presence of viral RNA to confirm an active infection. The antigen test: Analyses the presence of specific viral proteins (the nu

What is analysed? Cortisol analysis involves measuring the levels of cortisol hormone in the blood, urine, or saliva to assess adrenal function and stress response. How is it used? Cortisol levels are used to evaluate adrenal gland function, diagnose conditions such as Cushing's syndrome or Addison's disease, monitor stress response, and assess cortisol replacement therapy.

What is cosmetic dentistry? Cosmetic, or aesthetic dentistry is a branch of dentistry that deals with the overall health and harmony of the whole mouth and creating a perfect smile. It is offered to people that have asymmetry in their smile, with overcrowding. Why is cosmetic dentistry performed? Dental aesthetic treatment is aimed at achieving a perfect smile. It is used to treat pro

What is cosmetic dermatology? Cosmetic dermatology (or aesthetic medicine) is a specialised field of dermatology that focuses on improving the skin on the face and neck for cosmetic purposes rather than for treating a medical condition. It can have a huge impact on a person's mental wellbeing and confidence. Procedures such as Botox, dermal fillers, skin peels, and laser hair

What is costochondritis? Costochondritis is a painful condition caused by the inflammation of the cartilage that joins the upper ribs with the rib cage. The condition causes chest pain, and while it is painful, it is relatively harmless and the pain often goes away on its own without treatment.  Usually affecting adults aged 40 and over, costochondritis doesn't cause permament

What is a cough? A cough can be a voluntary or involuntary action, or reflex, that clears the throat and airways to get rid of irritants, fluids, mucus or microbes. A cough may be a sign of an illness but it will usually go away by itself within three weeks. If a cough is difficult to diagnose then a chest X-ray may be necessary. There are three phases to a cough: the first i