Medical Dictionary

Health Glossary

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

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Complication

An additional problem that develops during or after an illness or treatment. Complications may make recovery more difficult. Related:

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Confusion

Difficulty thinking clearly or understanding surroundings. Confusion may result from: Related:

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Congenital

Present at birth. Some congenital conditions develop before a baby is born. Related:

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Connective Tissue

Connective tissue is one of the four main types of tissue in the body and provides support, protection, and structural…

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Contagious

Able to spread from one person to another. Contagious illnesses may spread through: Related:

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Cosmetic residue

Cosmetic residue refers to small amounts of makeup, sunscreen, moisturisers, or other skincare products that remain on the skin or…

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COVID-19

An infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. It can affect: Symptoms may range from mild illness to severe breathing…

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CT Scan

A medical imaging test that uses X-rays and computers to create detailed pictures of the inside of the body. CT…

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Cutibacterium acnes

Cutibacterium acnes (also known as C. acnes) is a bacterium that normally lives on healthy human skin. Formerly known as…

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Cyst

A cyst is a closed sac beneath or within the skin that contains fluid, semi-solid material, or other substances. Many…

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Dead skin cells

Dead skin cells are skin cells that have naturally reached the end of their life cycle and are shed from…

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Dehydration

A condition that happens when the body loses more fluid than it takes in. Dehydration can happen because of: Symptoms…

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Depression

A mental health condition involving persistent sadness, loss of interest, or emotional difficulty that affects daily life. Depression can affect:…

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Dermis

The dermis is the middle layer of the skin that provides strength, flexibility, and support. Located beneath the epidermis, the…

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Diabetes

A condition where the body has difficulty controlling blood sugar levels. Diabetes can damage: Related:

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Diagnosis

The process of identifying a disease or medical condition. Doctors make diagnoses using: A correct diagnosis helps guide treatment and…

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Diarrhea

Frequent loose or watery stool. Diarrhea may be caused by: Severe diarrhea can lead to dehydration. Related:

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Digestive System

The group of organs involved in breaking down food and absorbing nutrients. It includes: Related:

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Disease

A condition that affects how the body or mind functions. Diseases may be: Related:

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Drug

Any substance that changes how the body works. Drugs may be used for: Some drugs are medical, while others may…

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Dust mite

A dust mite is a tiny microscopic arthropod that commonly lives in household dust and feeds primarily on dead skin…

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Edema

Swelling caused by excess fluid collecting in body tissues. Edema commonly affects: It may be linked to heart, kidney, liver,…

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Embryo

The early stage of development after fertilization. During this stage: Related:

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Emergency

A serious health situation that requires immediate medical attention. Examples include: Related:

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