1. Glossary
  2. Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a medical condition where bones become thin, fragile, and more prone to fractures. It develops gradually over several years, often without noticeable symptoms until a minor fall or sudden impact causes a bone to break. This condition primarily affects older adults, particularly women after menopause, due to lower levels of estrogen, a hormone that helps maintain bone density.

Our bones undergo constant renewal, absorbing old bone tissue and forming new bone. In osteoporosis, the creation of new bone doesn't keep pace with the removal of old bone, leading to porous and weakened bones. Key areas affected can include the hips, spine, and wrists. Factors like age, family history, and lifestyle choices such as diet and exercise can influence one's risk of developing osteoporosis.

Early diagnosis and treatment can help manage osteoporosis. Approaches may include medication, nutritional supplements like calcium and vitamin D, and lifestyle changes that focus on strengthening bones and preventing falls. Regular bone density scans can aid in early detection and management of the condition.

Other glossary terms

ABG (arterial blood gas)

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

Absence from work is when an employee is not present during scheduled working hours due to various reasons like illness or personal commitments.

Acetaminophen

Acetaminophen is a common medication used to relieve pain and reduce fever, often found in over-the-counter and prescription products.

Acne

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.

ACS (acute coronary syndrome)

Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS) is a serious heart condition where blood flow to the heart is suddenly reduced, requiring immediate medical attention.

Acute (sudden onset or short duration)

"Acute" refers to a medical condition that appears suddenly and resolves over a short time.

Acyclovir

Acyclovir is a medication used to treat infections caused by certain viruses like herpes and shingles, reducing the severity and duration of symptoms.

Adalimumab

Adalimumab is a medication used to treat inflammatory conditions by reducing inflammation through targeting specific proteins in the body.

Addiction

Addiction is a compulsive engagement with substances or behaviors that negatively impact one's life.

Addison's disease

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 (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder)

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)

ADL (activities of daily living) refers to essential daily self-care tasks, crucial for maintaining independence and well-being.

Adrenal gland

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)

Adrenaline (epinephrine) is a hormone and medication that helps the body respond to stress and is used in medical emergencies, like severe allergic reactions.

Allergen

An allergen is a substance that can trigger an allergic reaction in certain people.

Allergies

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.

Allergist

An allergist is a medical specialist who diagnoses and treats allergies and related immune system reactions.

Allergy

An allergy is an immune system response to a harmless substance, mistakenly identified as a threat.

ALP (alkaline phosphatase)

ALP (alkaline phosphatase) is an enzyme found in the body that helps in protein breakdown, with its levels indicating liver and bone health.

Alprazolam

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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