Medical Vocabulary #14

Either of the two upper chambers of the human heart.

The gastrointestinal, or digestive, tract.

Pertaining to the period beginning immediately after giving birth.

A stress hormone that puts the body on high alert, causing faster heartbeat, more rapid breathing, greater energy, and higher blood pressure. Also called epinephrine.

An adverse reaction that may have similar symptoms to an allergic reaction but does not engage the immune system, and thus is not an allergy.

Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath.

Any of the white blood cells that protect the body from disease by attacking and consuming foreign particles.

To widen or enlarge.

A pharmacological technique used during heart surgery to temporarily stop the heart and protect it from damage.

The use of a machine to remove wastes and impurities from the blood when the kidneys are not working properly.

Cosmetic surgery to improve the appearance of droopy eyelids by removing excess skin and fat.

Any drug or procedure that has a calming effect and relieves anxiety and tension.

A disorder of ongoing, severe tiredness that interferes with a person’s ability to function well, isn’t improved with rest, and isn’t caused by another illness.

A medical device used to support, correct, or immobilize a part of the body, e.g., a custom shoe insert that helps cushion or realign the foot.

A doctor licensed to practice medicine, perform surgery, and prescribe drugs. The training is similar to that of a regular M.D., but more emphasis is placed on the importance of the musculoskeletal system and the body’s ability to heal itself.

Narrowing of the spinal canal in the lower portion of the spine.

A device for measuring blood pressure.

A serious condition related to high blood pressure that can threaten the life of a pregnant woman and her fetus.

The ability to adapt to change and recover quickly from setbacks such as illness, injury, or misfortune.

An advanced stage of gum disease that attacks the teeth’s supporting structures.

Any substance in foods that the body needs to survive.

A mineral that protects teeth from decay and cavities.

Any of the airways that connect the lungs to the trachea (windpipe) and allow air to pass into and out of the lungs.

A medical doctor who specializes in correcting disorders of the bones, joints, muscles, and tendons.