Medical terminology
Below is a detailed list of medical terminology and vocabulary that can help you discuss various medical concepts and practices in English, suitable for the IELTS band score range of 6.5-8.0:
-
Diagnosis:
-
Definition: The identification of a disease or condition based on symptoms, patient history, and medical tests.
-
Example: The doctor made an accurate diagnosis of the patient's illness.
-
-
Symptom:
-
Definition: Any subjective evidence of a disease or abnormality experienced by the patient.
-
Example: Fever is a common symptom of many infections.
-
-
Treatment:
-
Definition: Medical care given to improve or cure a disease or condition.
-
Example: The doctor prescribed antibiotics as part of the treatment for the bacterial infection.
-
-
Medication:
-
Definition: Drugs or pharmaceutical substances used to treat diseases or symptoms.
-
Example: The patient is taking medication to manage his high blood pressure.
-
-
Prognosis:
-
Definition: The likely course and outcome of a disease or condition.
-
Example: With proper treatment, the prognosis for recovery is good.
-
-
Surgery:
-
Definition: Medical procedures that involve cutting into the body to treat a disease or injury.
-
Example: The patient underwent surgery to remove the tumor.
-
-
Anesthesia:
-
Definition: The use of drugs to prevent pain during surgery or medical procedures.
-
Example: The anesthesiologist administered anesthesia before the surgery.
-
-
Infection:
-
Definition: The invasion and multiplication of harmful microorganisms in the body.
-
Example: The wound became infected, causing redness and swelling.
-
-
Vaccination:
-
Definition: The administration of a vaccine to stimulate the body's immune system and prevent diseases.
-
Example: Children should receive regular vaccinations to protect against preventable diseases.
-
-
Immune System:
-
Definition: The body's defense system against infections and diseases.
-
Example: The immune system produces antibodies to fight off viruses.
-
-
Chronic:
-
Definition: Persisting over a long period of time or characterized by slow progression.
-
Example: Diabetes is a chronic condition that requires lifelong management.
-
-
Acute:
-
Definition: Severe and sudden onset of symptoms, often short-lived.
-
Example: The patient was admitted to the hospital for treatment of acute chest pain.
-
-
Rehabilitation:
-
Definition: The process of restoring physical or mental abilities after an injury or illness.
-
Example: The athlete underwent rigorous rehabilitation to recover from the sports injury.
-
-
Diabetes:
-
Definition: A chronic metabolic disorder characterized by high blood sugar levels.
-
Example: Type 2 diabetes can be managed through diet and medication.
-
-
Hypertension:
-
Definition: High blood pressure, a risk factor for heart disease and stroke.
-
Example: Regular exercise and a balanced diet can help manage hypertension.
-
-
Cardiovascular:
-
Definition: Relating to the heart and blood vessels.
-
Example: Cardiovascular diseases are a leading cause of mortality worldwide.
-
-
Respiratory:
-
Definition: Relating to the organs and structures involved in breathing.
-
Example: Smoking can lead to respiratory problems such as chronic bronchitis.
-
-
Neurological:
-
Definition: Relating to the nervous system and the brain.
-
Example: The patient underwent a neurological examination to assess cognitive function.
-
-
Gastrointestinal:
-
Definition: Relating to the digestive system.
-
Example: Gastrointestinal disorders can cause symptoms like abdominal pain and bloating.
-
-
Radiology:
-
Definition: The branch of medicine that uses medical imaging techniques, such as X-rays, to diagnose and treat diseases.
-
Example: The radiologist reviewed the X-ray to look for any abnormalities.
-
-
Pathology:
-
Definition: The study of diseases and their causes, processes, and effects.
-
Example: The pathologist examined tissue samples to determine the nature of the tumor.
-
-
Emergency:
-
Definition: A sudden and severe medical condition requiring immediate attention.
-
Example: The patient was rushed to the emergency room after a car accident.
-
-
Cholesterol:
-
Definition: A fatty substance present in the blood, high levels of which can contribute to heart disease.
-
Example: The doctor advised the patient to lower their cholesterol through diet and exercise.
-
-
Allergy:
-
Definition: A hypersensitivity reaction of the immune system to a substance, often resulting in symptoms like sneezing and itching.
-
Example: The patient experienced an allergic reaction after eating peanuts.
-
-
Genetics:
-
Definition: The study of heredity and the variation of inherited characteristics.
-
Example: Genetic testing can identify the presence of certain inherited diseases.
-
By familiarizing yourself with these medical terms, you can communicate more effectively about health-related topics, contributing to a higher band score in the IELTS exam. Good luck with your studies!
Comments: