Health, Wellness, Fitness, Diet and Alternative Medicine Glossary of Terms
We've collected hundreds of Health, Wellness, Diet and Alternative Medicine terms and definitions to create this Glossary. Simply click one of the letters below to view the glossary of terms
Health Terms beginning with "P"
Pain clinics
Centers that specialize in the prevention, evaluation, diagnosis and treatment of painful disorders through a combination of treatments including medication, physical and rehabilitative services, education, massage, meditation and other methods.
Palliation
To ease the severity of a pain or a disease without removing the cause.
Palliative care
Also called comfort care, it involves total care of patients with progressive, incurable illness. Focus is on quality of life through control of pain and other symptoms and dealing with psychological, social and spiritual issues.
Pandemic
A global epidemic.
Panic disorder
A condition marked by episodes of immediate and intense anxiety at inappropriate times; sufferers may experience palpitations, feelings of faintness, chest pains and a sensation that death is imminent, even when there is no apparent threat or danger. If you experience four or more unexplained attacks in a month or have fewer attacks but live in constant fear of such an episode, you may be suffering from the disorder.
Papaverine hydrochloride
A drug used for the prevention of migraine. It produces blood vessel dilation.
Pap smear
A test in which cells are scraped off the cervix and examined for abnormalities; used to detect changes that might precede cervical cancer such as human papilloma virus (HPV).
Paraneoplastic syndrome
A group of signs and symptoms that appear in reaction to a tumor. Paraneoplastic syndromes can result from a number of causes from the tumor, including hormones or other products made by the tumor. They may also result from a blockade of the effect of a hormone, immune suppression, autoimmunity or immune-complex production.
Paranoia
A tendency toward excessive or irrational suspiciousness and mistrustfulness.
Paranoid schizophrenia
When a person experiences feelings that he or she is being persecuted.
Parasitic myomas
Fibroids that receive their blood supply from structures outside the uterus.
Parenthesia
Numbness or tingling. Parenthesia in the hands or feet can be a symptom of fibromyalgia.
Paresthesia
Numbness or tingling. Paresthesia in the hands or feet can be a symptom of fibromyalgia.
Parietal lobe epilepsy
Epilepsy that originates in the parietal lobe of the brain. The symptoms of parietal lobe epilepsy closely resemble those of temporal lobe epilepsy or other syndromes.
Parkinson`s disease
A disorder of the brain characterized by tremors and difficulty with walking, movement and coordination. The disease is associated with damage to a part of the brain that controls muscle movement.
Paroxetine
A type of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). This category of antidepressant is prescribed to treat cataplexy, hypnagogic hallucinations and sleep paralysis.
Partial seizures
Seizures that occur in just one part of the brain.
Pastoral counselor
A member of the clergy who is trained to help parishioners cope with problems. If you are depressed, they may help you understand the illness, solve problems and manage situations that contribute to or trigger depression.
Pathologist
A health care professional who specializes in diagnosing disease by studying cells and tissues removed from the body.
PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyl)
A chemical compound used in industrial applications.
PCP
(Phencyclidine) A substance that induces hallucinations.
PDXA (peripheral dual energy x-ray absorptiometry)
A type of bone density test that measures bone density at the wrist, heel or finger.
Peak bone mass
Refers to the point when bones are the strongest, before any deterioration begins, usually around the ages of 25 to 30.
Peak flow meter
A device used by health care professionals to measure how much air you can blow out in a fast blast. Asthma sufferers also use these devices at home to measure their air flow levels.
Pectoral muscle
The chest wall muscle. During breast implant surgery, the implant is inserted behind this muscle to reduce the risk of complications.
Pediatrician
Pediatricians are physicians who have specialized training in treating children's illnesses. Like the family practitioner, pediatricians may or may not have experience with ADHD. Because ADHD is most prevalent in children, it is likely that a pediatrician has experience in the ADHD screening process and can help rule out (or identify) medical conditions similar to behavior or learning patterns of ADHD. In addition, pediatricians will have more experience than a family physician in prescribing medications for children. And like family physicians, they are an excellent resource for therapeutic referrals to local ADHD specialists.
Pedigree
A graphical representation of family history that shows the pattern of inheritance for a disease.
Pelvic exam
Part of a gynecological examination in which the genital area is inspected for abnormalities. An instrument called a speculum is inserted into the upper vagina to hold open the birth canal while the cervix is examined and specimens are obtained. The health care professional may also use his or her hands to feel for abnormal swelling, masses or tenderness.
Pelvic floor muscles
Muscles that run from the pubic bone in front to the tail bone in back that support organs in the pelvis.
Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
This is a broad term that can include infection of the cervix (cervicitis) and the uterus (endometritis). The formal medical term for PID is salpingitis and refers primarily to infection of the fallopian tubes, which if left untreated can cause abscesses, leading to scarring and infertility.
Pelvic organ prolapse
Relaxation or dropping of the female pelvic organs (bladder, uterus, vagina, rectum) due to decreased structural support of the pelvic floor and/or vagina.
Pelvic Surgery
Laparoscopy, hysteroscopy, laparotomy and other surgeries used to evaluate and treat diseases of the female reproductive tract.
Pelvis
The lower part of the abdomen between the hip bones. Organs in the female pelvis include the uterus, vagina, ovaries, fallopian tubes, bladder and rectum.
Pemoline
A central nervous system stimulant sometimes prescribed for narcolepsy.
Pendunculated Fibroid
These fibroids grow on stalks out from the uterus or into the uterine cavity, like mushrooms. If these stalks twist, they can cause pain, nausea or fever, or can become infected.
Percutaneous nephrolithotomy
A method for removing kidney stones through keyhole surgery.
Perimenopause
The time before menopause, beginning two to eight years before the final period.
Perimetry
A test that measures your side or peripheral vision.
Perineum
The tissue and muscle between the anus and the vagina in women and the anus and scrotum in males.
Periodic limb movements in sleep (PLMS)
A sleep disorder characterized by involuntary jerking or bending leg movements during sleep that typically occur every 10 to 60 seconds.
Periodontal debridement
In this procedure, irritants to the tooth and root surface such as bacteria and endotoxins produced by the bacteria are removed using ultrasonic scalers.
Periodontal disease
The word "periodontal" literally means "around the tooth." Periodontal disease refers to oral health problems involving the teeth and gums.
Periodontitis
The later stage of gum disease in which plaque hardens into calculus (tartar). With periodontitis, as plaque and calculus continue to build up, the gums begin to recede (pull away) from the teeth, and pockets form between the teeth and gums. With advanced periodontitis, the gums recede farther, destroying more gum tissue and progressing to the bone. At this late stage of gum disease, teeth (even healthy teeth) can become loose, fall out or have to be extracted by a dentist.
Peripheral arterial disease (PAD)
A disease of the arteries beyond the heart, that results from clogged arteries and usually affects the blood supply to the legs. It is usually a sign that there is atherosclerotic disease elsewhere in the body such as the brain, heart or kidneys.
Peripheral vascular disease
Describes any disease of the arteries or veins. A more precise term is "peripheral arterial disease."
Persistent anxiety
Also called generalized anxiety disorder, it’s an excessive or unrealistic worry that is unrelated to another illness and can last six months or more.
Personal trainer
An exercise and fitness professional who provides one-on-one exercise and sometimes diet-related goal-setting help, motivation, professional expertise and personalized attention. Accrediting organizations include the American Council on Exercise, the American College of Sports Medicine and the American Aerobics and Fitness Association.
Pessary
A ring-shaped device inserted in the vagina to support the organs in the pelvis. Pessaries can treat stress incontinence.
Petit mal seizures
Undetectable seizures that are often associated with a loss of awareness (brief staring spell) and may be incorrectly diagnosed as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
pH
The pH level is the measure of acidity. In vaginal fluids, a pH level greater than 4.5 is one criteria for a bacterial vaginosis diagnosis.
Pharmaceutical
A medicinal drug.
Pharmacogenomics
A new technology that seeks to correlate drug response to a person's genetic profile. Most drugs work for some people, don't work for others and can cause severe side effects in a few. Pharmacogenomics identifies genes that cause these varying responses to develop tests for determining who will benefit from a drug and who will not.
Phase I, II, III and IV trials
Clinical testing of drugs is done by stages. The first stage, Phase I, usually enrolls few participants and looks primarily at safety. If a drug passes this test, it moves on to a larger Phase II study, during which safety is again measured, along with effectiveness. Phase II trials may be conducted in several closely related diseases to determine the best indication for the drug. The drug is then tested in one or more Phase III trials, which are the make-or-break tests of effectiveness. In Phase IV trials a drug is often compared with other drugs already in the market, its long-term safety is monitored, the effectiveness and impact on a patient's quality of life is studied and the cost-effectiveness of the drug therapy relative to other traditional and new therapies is examined.
Phlebitis
An inflammation of the leg veins, either in the surface veins (more common) or deep veins; most commonly caused by an infection or an injury. The affected vein looks red, feels like a cord in the calf or thigh, is painful and may be itchy. Phlebitis can cause a blood clot to form, and this clot can then embolize (break away and travel through the bloodstream), resulting in a pulmonary embolism where the clot gets stuck in the lungs and can be fatal.
Phobia
A persistent, irrational fear or dread of an object, activity or situation that compels a person to avoid it, and causes distress and function impairment.
Photodynamic laser therapy
A therapy in which a low-powered laser beam activates a light-sensitive drug to destroy leaking blood vessels without damaging surrounding tissues.
Phototherapy
A treatment for seasonal affective disorder in which the patient sits in front of a box-like device emitting bright light for 30 minutes a day.
Physiatrist
A doctor who specializes in the diagnosis and management of injuries and diseases causing pain, loss of function and disability. Treatment plans often include the use of exercise, massage, heat, electricity, relaxation techniques, splints and braces and local injections to relieve pain.
Physical abuse
Hitting, slapping, beating, burning or other abuse that physically harms a person.
Physical therapy
Rehabilitation designed to restore/improve movement and strength in people whose mobility has been impaired; it can include heat, hydrotherapy, massage, exercise and the use of assistive devices.
Physiological change
Alterations in the way your body functions.
Pigment dispersion syndrome
A condition in which grains of pigment on the back of the iris flake off into the aqueous humor fluid, clogging the fluid drainage system, raising eye pressure and causing angle-closure glaucoma.
Pilocarpine tablets (Salagen) and cevimeline (Evoxac)
These drugs may be used to increase salivary flow. But they should not be used if you have a number of other conditions, including asthma and acute angle glaucoma.
Pinch test
A test in which the area slated for liposuction is pinched to determine the amount of fat present and the degree of skin elasticity.
Pineal gland
A cone-shaped structure in the brain that releases the sleep-inducing hormone melatonin.
Pituitary
A gland that secretes the hormones involved with ovulation.
Placebo
An inactive substance that may be given to participants as part of a clinical study. Placebos are not used in clinical trials for cancer treatments.
Placenta
The vascular organ that is connected to the amniotic sac, which holds your baby. It's the source for nutrition and oxygen for your baby.
Plant estrogens
Also called phytoestrogens, these weaker plant analogues of estrogen are found in foods and supplements and help alleviate menopausal symptoms (though supplement products are not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, so quality and consistency are difficult to ensure). Plant estrogens are found naturally in legumes (such as soybeans and chickpeas) and oily seeds (such as flax), as well as grains, fruits and vegetables (though in lesser amounts). Supplements are typically derived from soy, and the active ingredients are called isoflavones.
Plaque
A sticky, colorless film that constantly forms on your teeth. Plaque contains bacteria, which produce toxins. Plaque is the main cause of gum disease.
Plaque (in a blood vessel)
Fatty cholesterol deposits found inside artery walls; they can lead to atherosclerosis and stenosis of the arteries. (See atherosclerosis.)
Plasticity
The ability to be formed or molded; in reference to the brain, the ability to adapt to deficits and injury.
Platelets
Structures found in blood that are known primarily for their role in blood coagulation.
Pleura
The thin covering that cushions and protects the lungs. The pleura are made up of two layers of tissue separated by a small amount of fluid.
Pneumonectomy
A surgical procedure during which the entire lung is removed.
Pollen
Microscopic particles released from trees, weeds, grasses and flowers meant to fertilize parts of other plants. The lighter ones, commonly ragweed, Kentucky bluegrass, Bermuda grass, oak, ash, elm, and several others, travel easily through the air, especially on sunny, windy days. Samples of ragweed pollen have been collected 400 miles out at sea and two miles up into the atmosphere.
Pollen allergy
An allergy to pollen; the sufferer's symptoms will appear only seasonally, usually in the spring or fall, during the season the pollen is released from plants.
Pollen count
A measure of how much pollen is in the air. The count represents the concentration of all the pollen or of one particular type, like ragweed, and is expressed in grains of pollen per square meter of air collected over 24 hours.
Polycystic ovarian disease
Also known as hyperandrogenic anovulation, this is a condition where multiple cysts are found on your ovaries. It typically prevents ovulation.
Polycystic ovarian syndrome
Used to be called Stein-Leventhal Syndrome. This condition is characterized by excessive production of androgen hormones in women, resulting in such symptoms as acne, increased facial and body hair growth, irregular menstrual cycles and infertility. From 5 to 10 percent of American women have PCOS. About 60 percent of women with PCOS are obese; many also are at increased risk of having heart disease and diabetes. The syndrome is often accompanied by enlarged ovaries containing multiple small cysts. The cysts are the result of incomplete ovulations. During the normal ovulatory process, an egg is matured in an ovarian follicle, which then ruptures and releases the egg. In women with PCOS, high levels of hormones called androgens halt the follicle's development, leaving an enlarged follicle containing the immature egg. These follicles, whose appearance on ultrasound is sometimes likened to a string of pearls, are the cysts observed in PCOS.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
Used to be called Stein-Leventhal Syndrome. This condition is characterized by excessive production of androgen hormones in women, resulting in such symptoms as acne, increased facial and body hair growth, irregular menstrual cycles and infertility. From 5 to 10 percent of American women have PCOS. About 60 percent of women with PCOS are obese; many also are at increased risk of having heart disease and diabetes. The syndrome is often accompanied by enlarged ovaries containing multiple small cysts. The cysts are the result of incomplete ovulations. During the normal ovulatory process, an egg is matured in an ovarian follicle, which then ruptures and releases the egg. In women with PCOS, high levels of hormones called androgens halt the follicle's development, leaving an enlarged follicle containing the immature egg. These follicles, whose appearance on ultrasound is sometimes likened to a string of pearls, are the cysts observed in PCOS.
Polyp
A benign or cancerous tumor found in the colon. One type of polyp - an adenomatous polyp - is considered a precancerous condition, because a fraction of these growths can turn into cancers if they are not removed.
Polysomnogram
A diagnostic test for narcolepsy and sleep apnea which involves continuous recording of brain waves and a number of nerve and muscle functions during nighttime sleep.
Polyunsaturated fat
An unsaturated fat found in greatest amounts in foods from plants, including safflower, sunflower, corn and soybean oils.
Positive symptoms
Demonstrate an excess or distortion of normal functions such as hallucinations or delusions.
Positron emission tomography (PET)
A highly specialized imaging technique that allows for observation of the brain at work.
Positron emission tomography (PET) scan
A type of neurological test that takes pictures of brain function. Health care professionals can use it to tell if there is something going on that resembles Alzheimer's disease.
Possible Alzheimer`s
A diagnosis that indicates Alzheimer's disease is the primary cause of your dementia symptoms, but another disorder or disease may be present as well and can possibly affect the more common progression of Alzheimer's.
Post-coital test
A test to that evaluates the egg-sperm interaction. It is now rarely used.
Post-exertional malaise
An increase and/or reccurrence of symptoms that occurs after physical or mental exertion. This typically occurs within 12 to 48 hours after the activity and can persist for days or weeks.
Postmenopausal hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
Commonly referred to as HRT or HT, it’s a combination of the hormones estrogen and progestin used to relieve menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes and vaginal dryness, by keeping estrogen circulating in a woman's body after menopause.
Postmenopausal hormone therapy (HT)
Commonly referred to as HT, it’s a combination of the hormones estrogen and progestin used to relieve menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes and vaginal dryness, by keeping estrogen circulating in a woman's body after menopause.
Postmenopause
Refers to when a woman has not had a menstrual period for more than 12 months and absence of menstrual periods cannot be attributed to any medical condition.
Postpartum depression
Symptoms of major depression that first appear in a woman within six months after she gives birth.
Post-polio syndrome (PPS)
A collection of symptoms and signs that appear from 20 to 40 years after the initial polio infection and at least 10 years after what was thought to be recovery from polio. The typical features of PPS include weakness, muscle fatigue, pain, breathing and/or swallowing difficulties, sleep disorders, muscle twitching and gastrointestinal problems.
Post-traumatic stress disorder
A condition that results from experiencing or witnessing an unusually distressing event; symptoms range from repeatedly reliving the trauma, such as in dreams or flashbacks, to general emotional numbness, which often causes sufferers to withdraw from family and friends.
Post-void residual (PVR) measurement
A diagnostic test to determine how much urine is left in the bladder after it is emptied. It can be performed by inserting a catheter through the urethra into the bladder to drain urine or by using ultrasound to produce images of the bladder from which the amount of urine remaining in the bladder can be determined.
Postvoid residual urine volume test
A test that determines if any urine remains in your bladder after voiding.
Potassium
A substance needed by all plants and animals to live, it helps control the nerves and muscles; it is taken in through food.
Potency
In homeopathic medicine, the strength of a homeopathic remedy (see potentization).
Potentization
The process of diluting and vigorously shaking a homeopathic solution to make it stronger; homeopathy holds that the more it is shaken and diluted, the more powerful it is.
Power of attorney
Written document authorizing one person to take legal actions on behalf of the person giving the power of attorney.
Power or power-assisted liposuction
A liposuction technique that uses a motorized cannula to help break up the fat.
Pranayama
Rhythmic control of breath in yoga.
Pre-diabetes
An increasingly common condition in which blood glucose levels are higher than normal but not yet diabetic. Most people with pre-diabetes develop type 2 diabetes within 10 years unless changes are made to diet and physical activity.
Predispose
To be susceptible to some stimulus or influence.
Prednisone
Prednisone is effective at reducing inflammation suppressing the immune system activity that is at the root of lupus, but the drug has numerous side effects and should not be taken for extended periods of time, if it is possible to avoid doing so.
Preeclampsia
Also known as toxemia, this condition usually occurs in women during the second half of pregnancy. If you have this condition, you will have signs that include high blood pressure, swelling that doesn't subside and higher-than-normal amounts of protein in your urine. It's more likely to happen to you if it's your first pregnancy or if your mother or sisters had it. It's also more prevalent in women who are pregnant with more than one baby, are in their teen years, or are over the age of 40. If you have high blood pressure or kidney disease, you also are at greater risk for preeclampsia.
Pre-eclampsia
Also known as toxemia, this condition usually occurs in women during the second half of pregnancy. If you have this condition, you will have signs that include high blood pressure, swelling that doesn't subside and higher-than-normal amounts of protein in your urine. It's more likely to happen to you if it's your first pregnancy or if your mother or sisters had it. It's also more prevalent in women who are pregnant with more than one baby, are in their teen years, or are over the age of 40. If you have high blood pressure or kidney disease, you also are at greater risk for pre-eclampsia.
Pre-existing condition
A health problem that existed before the date your insurance became effective. Be sure you understand how any policy will treat pre-existing conditions you may have.
Preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD)
A couple with a high risk for having a child with a particular genetic disease may opt for this procedure in conjunction with in vitro fertilization. PGD tests the embryos created during the IVF process for the genetic mutation(s) in question; only embryos free of the mutation are implanted. This is not yet possible for all diseases.
Premarin
Brand name of the first commercially available conjugated estrogens.
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder differs from the more common PMS, because it's far more severe. About 5 to 7 percent of all women experience PMDD. The most common symptoms are heightened irritability, anxiety and mood swings. Women who have a history of major depression, postpartum depression or mood disorders are at higher risk for PMDD. Although some symptoms of PMDD and major depression overlap, they are different: * PMDD-related symptoms (both emotional and physical) are cyclical. When a woman starts her period, the symptoms subside within a few days. * Depression-related symptoms, however, can persist for weeks, months or years and are not related to a woman's cycle. * Pregnant and post-menopausal women cannot experience PMDD.
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
PMS describes a wide range of severe, recurrent symptoms you may experience seven to 10 days before your menstrual cycle. Symptoms range from bloating to breast tenderness to moodiness.
Premium
The amount you and/or your employer pay for insurance coverage. Premiums are usually paid on a monthly basis.
Prenatal testing
Testing performed before birth to determine whether a child has, or is likely to have, various genetic, chromosomal or developmental defects.
Prepackaged-meal diet
Often offered through commercial weight-loss clinics, these diets require you to buy prepackaged meals. Before you sign up, find out how much the meals will cost. And remember—simply eating prepackaged food won't result in the lifestyle changes you need for good nutrition and long-term weight loss. Eventually, you will need to create your own healthful meals.
Prescription
A health care professional's written instruction for the preparation and administration of a medication.
Prescription drug
A controlled medication available only by the order of a physician's prescription.
Primary care physician
Your first contact for health care; often a family physician, general practitioner or internist, but many women use their gynecologist. A primary care physician monitors your health, diagnoses and treats minor health problems and refers you to specialists if further care is needed.
Primary infection
Also referred to as first episode or primary outbreak, this is an event following the initial herpes infection that is marked by various symptoms, including sores, headache and fever. Not everyone infected experiences the symptoms of primary infection. Those who do are more likely to have symptomatic recurrences.
Primary insomnia
Insomnia for which there is no medical, physical or psychological cause.
Primary outbreak
Also referred to as first episode or primary infection, this is an event following the initial herpes infection that is marked by various symptoms, including sores, headache and fever. Not everyone infected experiences the symptoms of primary infection. Those who do are more likely to have symptomatic recurrences.
Primary progressive MS
This type of multiple sclerosis is characterized by a gradual decline in functionality with no remission. There may be temporary plateaus with minor relief from symptoms, but no long-lasting relief.
Primary Sjögren's syndrome
When Sjögren's syndrome occurs alone, it is called primary Sjögren's syndrome. It's a chronic, incurable disorder in which immune-system cells attack and destroy the glands that produce tears and saliva. The syndrome is named after Swedish ophthalmologist Henrik Sjögren. When associated with other autoimmune/rheumatic diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus it's called secondary Sjögren's syndrome.
Probable Alzheimer`s
This diagnosis is presented when a health care professional has ruled out other dementia disorders, and symptoms strongly point toward Alzheimer's disease.
Prodrome
A group of symptoms that acts as a forerunner to the onset of disease. In the case of herpes, the typical symptoms of the prodrome stage are a tingling or itching sensation in the buttocks or upper thighs that is a precursor to an outbreak or at the site where the outbreak generally occurs.
Progesterone
Produced by the ovaries, rising levels of this hormone signal the body to prepare the uterus with a lining of tissue in preparation for a fertilized egg. If no egg is fertilized, levels of this hormone fall, signaling the body to shed the lining and menstruation to take place.
Progestin
A synthetic hormone that mimics the body's progesterone. A progestin is usually included in an oral birth control pill and in postmenopausal hormone replacement therapy to prevent endometrial cancer.
Progestin implant
This long-acting reversible hormonal contraceptive contains levonorgestrel, a type of progestin similar to the progesterone produced by a woman's ovaries. The hormone comes in six flexible plastic capsules about the size of a matchstick, which are implanted under the skin of the upper arm by a health care professional. The implants prevent pregnancy for five years and are more than 99 percent effective. The implants must be removed by a health care professional.
Progestin shot
This long-acting reversible hormonal contraceptive is administered by a health care professional by injection into the buttocks or arm every three months. It contains a type of progestin that is more than 99 percent effective at preventing pregnancy, when used correctly.
Progestogen
A synthetic or natural version of the hormone progesterone.
Progressive-relapsing MS
This rare form of multiple sclerosis takes a progressive course from the outset, with obvious acute attacks.
Proinflammatory
Tending to cause inflammation
Prolactin
A protein hormone that induces lactation and is thought to have a role in PMS.
Propantheline
(Propanthel, Pro-Banthine) An inexpensive, antispasmodic drug used for urologic or digestive conditions; may be effective for urge incontinence for those who can tolerate a full dose.
Prophylactic mastectomy
Removal of the breasts to prevent breast cancer in high-risk women.
Propranolol
A drug used to prevent migraines with or without aura; stops blood vessel dilation.
Prostaglandin analogs
A class of drugs in drop form used to treat glaucoma that works near the drainage area of the eye to stimulate outflow of aqueous humor through secondary pathways other than through the trabecular meshwork.
Prostaglandins
A pain-producing substance released from various tissues and blood cells.
Prosthesis
Surgeons may replace affected joints with artificial joints called prostheses, which can last from 10 to 15 years or more. These joints can be made from metal alloys, high-density plastic and ceramic material, and can be joined to bone surfaces by special cements. About 10 percent may need revision. Surgeons choose the design and components of prostheses according to their patient's weight, sex, age, activity level and other medical conditions.
Protein
Genes contain the instructions for building proteins, the large molecules that serve as the body's building blocks, signaling agents and catalysts.
Proteinuria
Too much protein in the urine. It can mean that you have kidney damage.
Prothrombotic
Predisposed to blood clots
Protocol
A design or plan for a clinical trial. The plan states what will be done in the study and why. It outlines the number and type of participants, what tests they will receive and how often, and the treatment plan.
Protozoal infections
Infections cased by parasites.
Protozoan
A single-celled organism that is larger than bacteria.
Protriptyline
A type of antidepressant prescribed to treat cataplexy, hypnagogic hallucinations and sleep paralysis.
Proving
A method of testing homeopathic remedies developed by Samuel Hahnemann, a German physician who founded homeopathy, in which healthy people receive full-strength doses of a substance and their symptoms are observed and recorded. Highly diluted amounts of the substance are then determined to be remedies for those symptoms in an unhealthy person.
Prozac
Brand name for the antidepressant fluoxetine (see separate entry).
Psoriasis
A chronic disease that causes the skin to become inflamed with red thickened areas that become covered with flaky, silvery scales. Lesions are often triggered by stress, infection, climate changes and medications.
Psychiatric nurse specialist
A registered nurse with a master's degree or other specialized training in the treatment of mental illness.
Psychiatric (or clinical) social worker
Has advanced degree in social work and is trained in counseling and psychotherapy. Social workers are also trained in client-centered advocacy, including information, referral and direct intervention with governmental and civic agencies.
Psychiatrist
A physician who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders and is trained to provide counseling, psychotherapy and medication. A psychiatrist is the only mental health professional who can prescribe medications.
Psychodynamic psychotherapy
A form of psychotherapy that concentrates on working through unresolved conflicts from childhood.
Psychological abuse
Threats, screaming, humiliation or emotional mistreatment on a regular basis.
Psychologist
A psychologist is qualified to diagnose and treat psychiatric disorders. They can provide psychotherapy but cannot conduct medical exams or prescribe medication.
Psychosis
A mental disorder in which a serious inability to think, perceive and judge clearly causes loss of touch with reality.
Psychosocial interventions
Interventions that include supportive psychotherapy, family participation in therapy and psychosocial and vocational rehabilitation.
Psychotherapy
Talking to a counselor to focus on changing negative thinking and behaviors and/or unhealthy relationships that can contribute to mental illness. Also called psychological counseling.
Psychotic episode
For the schizophrenic patient, a state of mind where hallucinations and other delusions occur that have no basis in reality.
Puberty
The physical and emotional changes during teenage years that are a natural part of a child's development into an adult. Puberty lasts for several years. Natural chemicals in your body, called hormones, cause these changes.
Pulmonologist
A physician who specializes in the lungs and breathing systems.
Punch biopsy
A sample of skin obtained with an instrument that takes a cylindrical core sample of the skin layers and part of the fat layer.
Puncta
A channel in the inner corner of the eye through which tears drain into the back of the throat.
Pupil
The dark-colored center of the eye that opens and closes to vary the amount of light entering the eye.
Pyelonephritis
An infection of the kidney.