Medical dictionary

What is ventricular tachycardia? Ventricular tachycardia (V-tach or VT) is a type of arrhythmia (heart rhythm disorder) in which abnormal electrical signals in the ventricles (the lower chambers of the heart) cause them to beat unusually quickly and out of sync with the contractions of the atria (upper chambers). This acceleration and lack of coordination can mean that the chambers of the he

What is vertebroplasty? Vertebroplasty is a minimally-invasive intervention to treat acute spinal fractures. In a vertebroplasty, a cement mixture is injected into the fractured bone via a hollow needle. Vertebroplasty is performed in a hospital or outpatient clinic. The procedure may be performed under local anaesthesia, in which case you will probably also receive medication to help yo

What is vertigo? Vertigo is not actually a condition in itself, but it is a symptom. It describes the feeling that everything around you is spinning, or that you are spinning yourself. In most cases, vertigo gets better by itself, but if it happens repeatedly or it keeps affecting you, it should be investigated.  ‘Attacks’ of vertigo can last for just a few seconds, but they ca

What is vesicoureteral reflux? Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR), also known as vesico-ureteric reflux, is a condition affecting the urinary system that usually occurs in children. Normally, urine flows from the kidneys to the bladder in one direction via tubes called ureters. However, in VUR, urine is able to reflux back up one or both ureters, sometimes even all the way to the kidneys. What

What's a vestibular migraine?A vestibular migraine is a neurological condition that causes episodes of vertigo or dizziness in individuals with a history of migraine. It’s considered one of the most common causes of recurring dizziness related to the inner ear and brain. Unlike typical migraines, vestibular migraines don’t always include headache. Instead, they often involve problems with balance,

What is vestibular testing? Vestibular testing is a series of tests that check the functioning of the vestibular (balance) section of the inner ear. The vestibular system and the eyes work together to maintain balance and to maintain clear vision when the head is moving. This is known as the vestibular-ocular reflex (VOR). People who complain of dizziness will often go through vestibular testin

What is video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS)? Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) stands as a cutting-edge, minimally invasive medical technique that offers a window into your pleural cavity. Through VATS, medical professionals can proficiently pinpoint, diagnose, and effectively treat a diverse range of chest and lung ailments. A cardiothoracic surgeon will carry out this pr

What is it? Muscle dysmorphia, also known as vigorexia or reverse anorexia, is a type of eating disorder (such as anorexia nervosa or bulimia) which mainly affects men. Muscle dysmorphia involves a person’s belief that their body is insufficiently muscular and that they should constantly improve their appearance. The quest to improve one’s body takes up inordinate amounts of time

What is hepatitis? Viral hepatitis is a form of hepatitis, which is the general term for inflammation affecting the liver, consequently causing it to function improperly. There are several kinds of viral hepatitis, including A, B, C, D, and E. Hepatitis can also be caused by drinking too much alcohol. There is also another form of hepatitis called autoimmune hepatitis, in which the