Medical Dictionary

Health Glossary

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

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Sebum

Sebum is a natural oily substance produced by sebaceous glands that helps lubricate, waterproof, and protect the skin and hair.…

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Sepsis

A life-threatening condition where the body reacts dangerously to an infection. Sepsis can lead to: Warning signs may include: Related:

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Septic Shock

A severe and dangerous condition where sepsis causes extremely low blood pressure and organ failure. Septic shock is a medical…

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Severe

Very serious or intense. A severe illness or symptom is more dangerous and may require urgent medical care. Examples: Related:

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Shortness of Breath

Difficulty breathing or feeling unable to get enough air. It may occur with: Related:

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Skin

The skin is the body’s largest organ and forms a protective covering over the entire body. The skin protects against…

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Skin barrier

The skin barrier is the outermost protective layer of the skin that helps retain moisture and defend the body against…

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Skin microbiome

The skin microbiome is the community of bacteria, fungi, viruses, and other microorganisms that naturally live on the skin. Most…

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Stress

The body’s physical or emotional response to pressure or challenges. Stress may affect: Related:

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Stroke

A medical emergency that happens when blood flow to part of the brain is interrupted. Stroke can cause: Early treatment…

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Surgery

A medical procedure used to treat disease, injury, or abnormalities through an operation. Surgery may involve: Related:

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Surveillance

The continuous monitoring of diseases and health events within populations. Public health surveillance helps detect outbreaks and health trends early.…

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Sweat

Sweat is a clear fluid produced by sweat glands to help regulate body temperature. Sweat itself does not cause acne.…

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Symptom

A physical or mental sign that may indicate illness or disease. Symptoms can include: Related:

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Tissue

A tissue is a group of similar cells that work together to perform a specific function. The human body contains…

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Transmission

The way a disease spreads from one person, animal, or place to another. Diseases may spread through: Related:

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Trauma

Serious physical injury or emotional distress caused by harmful events. Medical trauma may result from: Related:

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Treatment

Medical care used to manage, improve, or cure illness or disease. Treatment may include: Related:

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Tuberculosis

An infectious disease caused by bacteria that usually affects the lungs. Tuberculosis spreads through the air when infected people cough…

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Tumor

An abnormal growth of tissue in the body. Tumors may be: Related:

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Typhoid

A bacterial infection usually spread through contaminated food or water. Typhoid commonly causes: Related:

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Ultrasound

A medical imaging test that uses sound waves to create pictures inside the body. Ultrasound is commonly used during pregnancy…

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Underlying Condition

A health problem that already exists before another illness develops. Underlying conditions can increase the risk of severe disease. Related:

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Undernutrition

A condition where the body does not receive enough nutrients or calories. It may lead to: Related:

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