Medical dictionary

What is hearing loss? Hearing loss is a reduction in hearing sensitivity affecting one or both ears. It can be classified by type and degree. There are three main types of hearing loss: Sensorineural hearing loss: caused by nerve damage to the inner ear. This is often permanent. Conductive hearing loss: affects the external or middle ear, making it difficult for sound to move from th

What is a heart attack? A heart attack (myocardial infarction) occurs when a coronary artery becomes obstructed, thus obstructing the flow of blood to the heart. A heart attack is a medical emergency, and if it is suspected, call an ambulance. If blood supply is prolonged, permanent damage could result, which is life-threatening. If someone has had a heart attack, they will be conscious. Car

What is bypass surgery? Bypass surgery is a surgical technique that is used to restore blood flow to the heart. Bypass surgery involves using a blood vessel from another part of the body (usually the legs, arms or chest) and fixing it to the coronary artery above and below the blockage, which is called a graft. It is carried out under general anaesthetic. Why is bypass surgery carried o

What is a heart check-up?   A heart check-up (or heart screening) is used to detect any early heart abnormalities. The doctor will be able to determine if you are at risk of developing heart disease within the next five to 10 years. They will work with you to manage the risk of heart disease by encouraging lifestyle changes (including exercise and dietary adjustments), an

What is heart failure? Heart failure is a very serious health condition and results from various heart conditions. Heart failure is characterised by the heart’s inability to pump blood as well as it should be able to. Therefore, blood supply to the rest of the body is inadequate, ultimately resulting in the disruption of major bodily functions. Additionally, blood cannot carry enough o

What is a heart murmur? A heart murmur is a whistling, rasping sound that is heard during a heartbeat cycle. It is an extra sound made during a heartbeat cycle. Heart murmurs can be harmless, but they may also indicate a faulty valve, for example. Heart murmurs can be heard using a stethoscope and are diagnosed and treated by cardiologists.      Are heart murmurs ser

What is a heart murmur in children? Heart murmurs are whooshing sounds that the heart makes during the cycle of a heartbeat. The sounds can be heard with a stethoscope. A normal heartbeat makes two sounds, a “lubb and a dupp” sound when the valves open and close. A heart murmur is an extra sound that the heart makes as blood passes through it. Heart murmurs can be present at birt

What is a heart transplant?  A heart transplant is a surgical procedure that is carried out to replace a damaged, diseased, or failing heart with a healthy heart from a donor. It is only performed on people who have tried other available treatments and types of surgery but have not seen any improvement. A heart transplant is a complex procedure. Once performed, if mo

What is valvular heart surgery?  Valvular heart surgery is a technique used to treat problems or conditions of the heart valves, such as valvular stenosis, which occurs when there is a narrowing or closure of the valve, or valve insufficiency, also known as valve regurgitation, which occurs when the valve doesn’t close properly.   This is an open-heart operation in whi