Tag: Prevention

  • Postpartum Depression

    Postpartum Depression: Definition and Description of Postpartum Depression: Postpartum Depression (PPD) is a complex psychological condition that can occur in women after giving birth. It is characterized by a pervasive feeling of sadness, anxiety, and exhaustion that significantly impacts a mother’s ability to care for herself and her newborn. According to the American Psychiatric Association,…

  • Posttraumatic Stress Syndrome

    Posttraumatic Stress Syndrome: Definition and Description of Posttraumatic Stress Syndrome: Posttraumatic Stress Syndrome (PTSS) is a psychological condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. The American Psychiatric Association (APA) characterizes it as a mental health disorder that may arise from exposure to extreme stress, leading to severe emotional distress. Individuals with…

  • Potassium (K)

    Potassium (K): Definition and Description of Potassium (K): Potassium (K) is a vital mineral and electrolyte that plays a crucial role in various bodily functions. It is an essential nutrient that helps maintain proper fluid balance, supports muscle contractions, and contributes to nerve function. Medically, potassium is classified as a cation, meaning it carries a…

  • Preeclampsia and High Blood Pressure

    Preeclampsia and High Blood Pressure: Definition and Description of Preeclampsia and High Blood Pressure: Preeclampsia is a serious pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure and signs of damage to another organ system, often the kidneys. Generally occurring after the 20th week of pregnancy, it affects about 5-8% of all pregnancies. High blood pressure, or…

  • Pregnancy with Asthma

    Pregnancy with Asthma: Definition and Description of Pregnancy with Asthma: Pregnancy with asthma refers to a condition where an expectant mother has asthma, a chronic respiratory condition characterized by inflammation and constriction of the airways, leading to difficulty in breathing. This condition can pose challenges during pregnancy, as the physiological changes a woman undergoes can…

  • Plaque

    Plaque: Definition and Description of Plaque: Plaque refers to a buildup of substances in the bloodstream, organs, or tissues which can lead to serious health complications. Medically, plaque is often described as a fatty deposit that can accumulate in the arteries, known as atherosclerotic plaque. This condition can hinder blood flow and increase the risk…

  • Platelet

    Platelet: Definition and Description of Platelet: Platelets, also known as thrombocytes, are small, disc-shaped cell fragments found in the blood. They are vital for blood clotting and play an essential role in hemostasis, which is the process of preventing and stopping bleeding. Platelets are produced in the bone marrow and released into the bloodstream. Normal…

  • Pleura

    Pleura: Definition and Description of Pleura: The pleura is a vital anatomical structure consisting of two thin layers of tissue that surround the lungs and line the chest cavity. The outer layer, known as the parietal pleura, adheres to the chest wall, whereas the inner layer, called the visceral pleura, covers the lungs directly. The…

  • Pleuritis

    Pleuritis: Definition and Description of Pleuritis: Pleuritis, also known as pleurisy, is an inflammatory condition of the pleura, which is the thin tissue layer lining the lungs and chest cavity. This condition leads to sharp chest pain that worsens during breathing, coughing, or sneezing. Pleuritis can result from various underlying health issues and may indicate…

  • Polycythemia Vera

    Polycythemia Vera: Definition and Description of Polycythemia Vera: Polycythemia Vera (PV) is a type of blood cancer that originates in the bone marrow, characterized by the overproduction of red blood cells. This increase in red blood cell mass thickens the blood, leading to potential complications including clotting and cardiovascular issues. The disease is classified as…