Hair (as a body structure)
Hair, as a body structure, is a unique and versatile feature of mammals, including humans. It consists of slender, elongated strands made primarily of a protein called keratin. Hair grows from follicles located within the skin and covers various parts of the body, such as the scalp, arms, legs, and face. Each strand of hair extends through the skin's surface, often serving differing functions for humans and other species.
The primary purpose of hair is to provide protection. For humans, it helps shield the skin from sun exposure and various environmental elements like dust and debris. In other animals, it might serve additional roles like camouflage or sensory awareness. Hair also plays a significant role in regulating body temperature. For example, it can help retain heat during cold weather or wick away sweat when it's hot, thus contributing to temperature balance.
Beyond its functional roles, hair is often important for self-expression and personal style. It can be altered through cutting, styling, dyeing, and other cosmetic treatments, adding to its cultural and societal significance. Despite its diverse functions and meanings, the basic biological composition of hair remains fairly consistent: a simple structure with complex implications for both protection and personal identity.
An ABG (arterial blood gas) test measures levels of oxygen, carbon dioxide, and acidity in the blood to assess lung and kidney function.
Absence from work is when an employee is not present during scheduled working hours due to various reasons like illness or personal commitments.
Acetaminophen is a common medication used to relieve pain and reduce fever, often found in over-the-counter and prescription products.
Acne is a common skin condition that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells, leading to pimples and other lesions.
Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS) is a serious heart condition where blood flow to the heart is suddenly reduced, requiring immediate medical attention.
"Acute" refers to a medical condition that appears suddenly and resolves over a short time.
Acyclovir is a medication used to treat infections caused by certain viruses like herpes and shingles, reducing the severity and duration of symptoms.
Adalimumab is a medication used to treat inflammatory conditions by reducing inflammation through targeting specific proteins in the body.
Addiction is a compulsive engagement with substances or behaviors that negatively impact one's life.
Addison's disease is a rare condition leading to insufficient hormone production by the adrenal glands, causing symptoms like fatigue and low blood pressure.
ADHD is a common condition affecting attention, impulse control, and activity level, characterized by symptoms like distractibility, impulsivity, and restlessness.
ADL (activities of daily living) refers to essential daily self-care tasks, crucial for maintaining independence and well-being.
The adrenal glands are small, triangle-shaped organs on top of the kidneys that produce hormones essential for stress response, metabolism, and blood pressure regulation.
Adrenaline (epinephrine) is a hormone and medication that helps the body respond to stress and is used in medical emergencies, like severe allergic reactions.
An allergen is a substance that can trigger an allergic reaction in certain people.
Allergies are the immune system's overreaction to typically harmless substances such as pollen or certain foods, causing symptoms from sneezing to potential severe reactions.
An allergist is a medical specialist who diagnoses and treats allergies and related immune system reactions.
An allergy is an immune system response to a harmless substance, mistakenly identified as a threat.
ALP (alkaline phosphatase) is an enzyme found in the body that helps in protein breakdown, with its levels indicating liver and bone health.
Alprazolam is a medication used to treat anxiety and panic disorders by calming the brain through its effects on natural chemicals in the body.
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