Medical dictionary

What is a cluster headache? A cluster headache is a very serious, but fortunately rare, type of headache. They present with a shooting pain that affects only one side of the head, often in the area near the eye, and affects approximately one person in every 500. Generally, cluster headaches appear for the first time in people in their 30s and 40s, although it can occur at all ages. They are mo

What is a CO2 surgical laser and what is it used for?   A CO2 surgical laser is a type of laser that is used in dermatological and gynaecological surgery. CO2 laser surgery is a simple procedure that is performed on an outpatient basis. It is quick, safe and painless, and only requires a topical anaesthetic cream.   The laser is highly precise and allows the effective removal

What is personal development coaching?Coaching is a psychological discipline involving a process of personalised counselling and training during which the coach (or trainer) accompanies the individual in their personal development to achieve the established goals or objectives. During this process, the coach helps the individual to discover and optimise their abilities and performance, building an

What is analysed? The coagulation cascade is the activation of clotting factors (proteins) in a sequence when blood clotting tests are performed. What does the result mean? The result provides insights into the blood clotting process, specifically focusing on the series of events that lead to the formation of a blood clot. Why conduct the analysis? The coagulation cascade test i

What is being analysed? Coagulation factors are proteins in the blood that are essential for the clotting process. This analysis measures the levels of specific coagulation factors to assess the blood's ability to clot properly. What does the result mean? The results indicate whether the levels of coagulation factors are within the normal range, which is crucial for effective bloo

Coagulopathy (also called a bleeding disorder) is a condition where the blood’s ability to coagulate (form clots) is affected. They can be congenital (such as haemophilia, Von Wilebrand disease or hereditary platelet diseases) or acquired (caused by a defective synthesis of plasma coagulation factors or by the absorption of antibodies that attack blood clotting functions. In the latter

What are cochlear implants? Cochlear implants are small electronic devices that help people hear. They are usually an option for patients with inner-ear damage who do not benefit from hearing aids. A cochlear implant works by bypassing the damaged sections of the ear by transforming sound signals into electrical signals that stimulate the auditory nerve. A cochlear implant is not the same as a

What is coeliac disease? Coeliac disease is a pathology characterised by permanent intolerance to gluten. This substance is present in wheat, barley, rye and oats. Gluten damages the lining of the small intestine, causing it not to absorb the necessary components of the food, i.e nutrients. It occurs in genetically predisposed individuals who suffer from atrophy of the villi of the small intest

What is being analysed? Coeliac disease tests primarily analyse the presence of specific antibodies in the blood that indicate an immune response to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye.   What does the result indicate? A positive result suggests the presence of coeliac disease or gluten intolerance. Negative results generally indicate the absence of a significant