Have you ever wondered what all the medical jargon means? As a [insert profession here], it’s important to have a solid understanding of medical terminology. That’s why I did some research and came across this handy list of medical terms.
Acute
Acute refers to a severe or sudden onset of symptoms. For example, acute pain is sudden and severe whereas chronic pain is long-lasting over a period of time.
Blood Pressure
Blood pressure is the measurement of the pressure of the blood in the arteries. The two numbers associated with blood pressure readings represent the systolic pressure (top) and the diastolic pressure (bottom).
Diagnosis
A diagnosis is the determination of the cause of an illness or condition. Medical professionals obtain a diagnosis through evaluating symptoms and conducting various tests such as blood work or imaging scans.
Emergency
An emergency refers to a serious situation that requires immediate medical attention. Examples of medical emergencies include heart attacks, strokes, and severe bleeding.
Genetics
Genetics refers to the study of genes and heredity. Medical professionals may use genetics to determine the likelihood of certain medical conditions or diseases based on a person’s family history.
Immune System
The immune system is the body’s defense against foreign invaders such as bacteria and viruses. It’s made up of various organs and cells that work together to protect the body from harmful pathogens.
Medical Record
A medical record is a written or electronic record of a patient’s medical history. It includes information such as past medical conditions, allergies, medications, and test results.
Prescription
A prescription is a written or electronic order from a medical professional for a specific medication or treatment. It includes information such as the dosage, frequency, and duration of the medication.
Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation refers to the process of recovering from an injury, illness, or surgery. It can include physical and occupational therapy, as well as other types of specialized care.
Symptom
A symptom is a physical or emotional manifestation of an illness or condition. For example, a cough and fever are common symptoms of the flu.
I’m so glad I found this resource on medical terminology. It’s important to continually educate ourselves on the latest information in our field.
What medical terms do you find most challenging to understand? Let me know in the comments below!
