Strep throat (streptococcal pharyngitis)
Strep throat, also known as streptococcal pharyngitis, is a common infection caused by bacteria called Group A Streptococcus. It primarily affects the throat and tonsils, leading to a sore, scratchy throat that often feels painful when swallowing. This condition is contagious and can spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
Symptoms of strep throat include sudden onset of throat pain, fever, swollen lymph nodes, and red spots on the roof of the mouth. In some cases, white patches or a coating on the tonsils may also be present. It's important to seek medical advice if you suspect strep throat, as a healthcare provider can confirm the diagnosis with a simple test and prescribe antibiotics to clear up the infection.
Treating strep throat promptly is crucial to prevent complications and reduce the likelihood of spreading it to others. With proper treatment, symptoms often improve within a few days, and affected individuals can usually return to their normal activities after 24 hours on antibiotics.
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.
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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.
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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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