Otitis media (ear infection)
Otitis media, commonly known as an ear infection, occurs when the middle ear, located just behind the eardrum, becomes inflamed and filled with fluid. This condition is particularly common in children but can also affect adults. One key reason for its prevalence in children is the fact that their Eustachian tubes, which connect the middle ear to the back of the throat, are shorter and more horizontal, making it easier for infections to travel.
The causes of otitis media can range from common colds or allergies, which can block the Eustachian tubes, to bacterial and viral infections. Symptoms usually include ear pain, reduced hearing, a feeling of fullness in the ear, and sometimes fluid draining from the ear. Fever may also accompany these symptoms, especially in children.
Most cases of otitis media can be diagnosed by a healthcare professional using an instrument called an otoscope, which helps them examine the ear. Treatments often include pain relief medications and, in some cases, antibiotics. While ear infections often resolve on their own, chronic or recurring infections may require further medical intervention.
Early detection and appropriate management of otitis media can help prevent any complications or long-term hearing problems.
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.
Filter