Shock (circulatory shock)
Shock, also known as circulatory shock, is a serious medical condition where the body doesn't get enough blood flow. When blood circulation is inadequate, vital organs such as the heart, brain, and kidneys do not receive enough oxygen and nutrients, which can lead to significant damage and potentially life-threatening consequences. This condition can occur due to various reasons, including severe infection, significant blood loss, or heart-related issues.
The symptoms of shock can include a rapid heartbeat, low blood pressure, confusion, weakness, and cold, clammy skin. It is crucial to identify shock early, as prompt treatment is essential for the best chance of recovery. Treatment typically involves addressing the underlying cause while also ensuring that the body's vital organs receive adequate blood flow. This might include administering intravenous fluids, medications, or in some cases, emergency procedures or surgery.
Understanding the signs and symptoms of shock can be life-saving. In an emergency, seeking immediate medical attention is crucial to manage this critical condition effectively.
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.
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"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.
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An allergist is a medical specialist who diagnoses and treats allergies and related immune system reactions.
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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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