Medical dictionary

What is integrative medicine? Integrative medicine is a new patient-focused medical approach and philosophy that prioritises the well-being of patients suffering from chronic or acute health conditions through a combined use of medicine and evidence-based therapies. In simpler terms, integrative medicine is a personalised, holistic, and healing-oriented process that sees the patient's needs

What is an intrauterine device (IUD)?An intrauterine device, more commonly known as an IUD, is a contraceptive device. It is a small copper device that is T-shaped and inserted into the uterus. No hormones are released by this device, as copper changes the cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to reach an egg and survive. This change in mucus also stops a fertilised egg implanting itself.

What is irritable bowel syndrome?Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional disorder of the large intestine.What are the symptoms?IBS is characterised by abnormal movements in the muscles of the intestine, which cause discomfort and abnormal function, as well as constipation and diarrhoea alternately. IBS can also provoke abdominal pain, gas, bloating and changes in bowel habits.What are

What are joint injections? Joint injections are administered in a joint or periarticular soft tissue that is affected by inflammation. Injections – when prescribed correctly – can be an excellent solution for problems such as bursitis or tendonitis, or for physical discomforts that prevent daily activities from being carried out. Therefore, joint injections can provide relief, as

What is lactose intolerance? Lactose intolerance is a food intolerance that occurs after the ingestion of lactose. Lactose is a sugar that’s found in milk and milk products. If you are lactose intolerant, your body is unable to break down this sugar.    What causes lactose intolerance?   To digest lactose, the body needs an enzyme called lactase. Lactose int

What is laryngitis? Laryngitis is the medical term used to refer to the inflammation of the voice box (larynx) or vocal chords, often due to viral infection. Typically, the voice box will become swollen and irritated as a direct result of the inflammation in the throat area.  What causes laryngitis? Typically, laryngitis is caused by viral infections such as cold or flu. All

How is lifestyle medicine defined? Lifestyle medicine is a branch of medicine which aims to prevent, limit or reverse health problems where possible by improving a patient’s lifestyle, rather than by using medication or surgical treatment. It is an evidence-based branch of healthcare which is informed by research about how our lifestyles affect our overall health and our likelih

What is a liver function test?Liver functions tests help diagnose and monitor liver disease by testing the blood.The tests measure the level of certain proteins and enzymes in the blood. Certain enzymes are released by the liver when it is damaged or diseased, and therefore it is helpful to measure these as an indicator. The same can be said for measuring proteins, such as bilirubin, which is a bl

What is long COVID? Long COVID is the medical term given to the continuation of symptoms associated with the COVID-19 virus, that persist for 12 weeks or more. This can otherwise be known as post-COVID syndrome.  What are the main symptoms of long COVID? It has been medically proven that symptoms of long COVID include: tiredness/fatigue shortness of breath