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09 Medicine DICTIONARY

Inflammation is the body’s natural response to injury or infection. It causes redness, heat, swelling, and pain.
Example: A sprained ankle becomes swollen.

An acute condition appears suddenly and lasts for a short period. It often needs quick treatment.
Example: High fever due to a viral infection.

A chronic condition develops slowly and lasts for months or years. It requires long term management.
Example: Diabetes needs daily monitoring.

Immunity is the body’s defense system that fights harmful germs. Strong immunity reduces chances of illness.
Example: Recovering faster from common colds.

A viral infection is caused by viruses that invade the body. Antibiotics do not work against viruses.
Example: Cough and cold during seasonal changes.

Bacterial infections are caused by bacteria and often require antibiotics. They can range from mild to severe.
Example: Throat infection treated with prescribed antibiotics.

Metabolism is the process by which the body converts food into energy. It affects weight and energy levels.
Example: A fast metabolism burns calories quickly.

Symptoms are signs felt by a person that indicate illness. They help diagnose conditions.
Example: Headache and fatigue during dehydration.

Diagnosis is the process of identifying a disease based on symptoms, tests, and examination.
Example: Confirming dengue after a blood test.

A treatment plan outlines steps to manage or cure an illness. It may include medicines, therapy, or lifestyle changes.
Example: Physical therapy for knee pain.

A prescription is a written medical instruction for medicine. Only licensed doctors can issue it.
Example: Receiving antibiotics with dosage instructions.

Side effects are unwanted reactions from medications or treatments. They can be mild or severe.
Example: Feeling sleepy after taking allergy medicines.

Dosage refers to the amount and frequency of a medicine. Correct dosage ensures safe and effective treatment.
Example: Taking one tablet twice a day.

Blood pressure measures the force of blood against artery walls. It affects heart health.
Example: High blood pressure requires lifestyle changes.

Heart rate is the number of times the heart beats per minute. It rises during exercise or stress.
Example: A fitness tracker showing a heart rate of 90.

An allergic reaction occurs when the body overreacts to harmless substances. Symptoms vary from mild to severe.
Example: Sneezing after exposure to pollen.

Hydration means having enough water in the body for normal function. Dehydration leads to tiredness and headaches.
Example: Drinking more water on hot days.

Nutrients are substances the body needs for growth and energy. They include proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals.
Example: Fruits provide essential vitamins.

Obesity means having excessive body fat that affects health. It increases the risk of lifestyle diseases.
Example: BMI showing higher than recommended values.

Immunization protects against diseases by using vaccines. It trains the immune system to fight infections.
Example: Taking the tetanus vaccine after a cut.

Infection control prevents the spread of germs. It involves hygiene and safe practices.
Example: Washing hands before eating.

Vital signs show essential body functions like temperature, pulse, breathing, and blood pressure. They reflect overall health.
Example: Checking temperature during fever.

Antibiotic resistance happens when bacteria stop responding to antibiotics. Overuse of antibiotics worsens the problem.
Example: A common antibiotic no longer cures an infection.

Preventive care focuses on avoiding diseases before they occur. It includes checkups and screenings.
Example: Annual blood tests to monitor health.

A pathogen is any organism that causes disease. It can be a virus, bacteria, or fungus.
Example: A flu virus entering the body.