Health Glossary

Demystifying medical language. Browse or search for clear, human-centered explanations of common medical terms.

Vein

A vein is a blood vessel that carries blood toward the heart. Most veins carry oxygen-poor blood, but the pulmonary…
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Virus

An infectious biological entity that contains genetic material and can reproduce only by using the machinery of a suitable host…
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Vitamin Deficiency

An organic micronutrient required in small amounts for normal growth, metabolism, maintenance, and physiological function. Humans need several vitamins, including…
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Weakness

A reduction in the ability to generate normal muscle force or perform physical activity effectively. True muscle weakness means reduced…
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Wheezing

A high-pitched whistling sound that may occur during breathing, especially when airways become narrowed or partially obstructed. Wheezing is usually…
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WHO

WHO stands for the World Health Organization, the United Nations (UN) agency responsible for international cooperation and leadership on global…
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X-ray

A form of high-energy electromagnetic radiation that can pass through the body and is used to create images of internal…
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