Medical dictionary

What is connective tissue disease? A connective tissue disease is any one of a number of conditions that affect the connective tissues of the body. Connective tissues are those that join and support different organs and body parts, and include tendons, ligaments, cartilage, adipose (fat) tissue, and bone. Connective tissues are made up of proteins such as collagen and elastin. In connect

What is Conn’s syndrome? Primary hyperaldosteronism/aldosteronism, which is sometimes known as Conn’s syndrome, is a condition where the adrenal gland produces and releases too much aldosterone hormone into the bloodstream. Aldosterone is the hormone that regulates blood pressure and the water-salt metabolism.    Most cases are caused by a benign tumour growing

What is consanguinity? Consanguinity refers to when a couple are blood relatives (they share an ancestor). An example is a when a couple are first cousins. Consanguinity is quite common in many cultures.   If a couple are consanguineous (related) their children have a higher chance of being affected by autosomal recessive genetic disorders. These only occur if a child has a mutation (c

What is conscious sedation?Conscious sedation involves applying a sedative to relax and an anaesthetic to alleviate pain during a medical or dental procedure. It is often used so that you are less tense, allowing the professional to work more calmly and efficiently. During the procedure, you will remain awake but won’t have the ability to speak. The effects of conscio

What is constipation?The term “constipation” refers to infrequent bowel movements or difficulty passing stool. Constipation is usually defined as when a patient makes less than three bowel movements a week. These bowel movements may be difficult, even painful, and the individual may strain themselves trying to go.Occasional constipation is common, and can be related to change of routine, going on

What is astigmatism? Astigmatism is a condition in which the eye is slightly oval-shaped, leading to blurred vision. It is fairly common and is usually treated by an ophthalmologist who will recommend glasses.    What are contact lenses for astigmatism? Many patients with astigmatism believe they cannot use contact lenses, but most, in fact, can. There are several forms of co

What are contact lens related problems? Wearing contact lenses can cause a range of problems, from mild discomfort and blurred vision, to dry eye, an allergic reaction, scratches on the cornea, and corneal infection. Some of these problems can be resolved by replacing the lenses with a new pair, or a pair in a slightly different size. To treat any infections or damage to the eye it is import

What are contraceptive methods? Contraceptive methods prevent or reduce the possibility of pregnancy. They also help to plan the optimal time to have a child. Currently, there are multiple types of contraceptives administered orally, vaginally, as an injection, by subcutaneous, or physical implant. Common contraceptives include the pill, patch, implant, IUD, IUS and condoms. Regarding their

What is Coolsculpting?Coolsculpting is a relatively new fat-reduction treatment which, unlike liposuction, involves no surgery. Coolsculpting kills fat cells by freezing them using a special machine applied to the skin.  Who is Coolsculpting for?Coolsculpting is not a weight-loss procedure for people who are obese. It is a cosmetic procedure, so the best candidate is someone who has a sm