Pa: From 1 Different Sources
see posteroanterior.
An unpleasant sensory or emotional experience that is derived from sensory stimuli and modified by individual memory, expectations and emotions.... pain
Inflammation of the pancreas... pancreatitis
Benign epithelial neoplasm in which neoplastic cells cover finger-like processes of dermis. Also anybenign epithelial neoplasm growing outward from an epithelial surface.... papilloma
Stroke affecting one side... paraplegia
Disease, particularly one with clear and obvious changes in structure or function; the study of same.... pathology
Panacea is a term applied to a remedy for all diseases, or more usually to a remedy which bene?ts many di?erent diseases.... panacea
This is a gland situated above the navel in the abdominal cavity that extends from the left side to the center, with its head tucked into the curve of the duodenum. It is 6-8 inches long, weighs 3 or 4 ounces, secretes pancreatic enzymes and alkali into the duodenum in concert with the gallbladder and liver, and secretes the hormones insulin and glucagon into the blood. Insulin acts to facilitate the absorption of blood glucose into fuel-needing cells, and glucagon stimulates a slow release of glucose from the liver, primarily to supply fuel to the brain. That most cherished organ uses one-quarter of the sugar in the blood and has no fuel storage. Pancreatic enzymes are basically those that digest fats, carbohydrates and proteins into their smaller components of fatty acids+glycerol, maltose, and amino acids...as well as curdling milk (thought you might want to know).... pancreas
A widespread epidemic which may affect large areas of the world.... pandemic
Paralysis, or PALSY, is loss of muscular power due to some disorder of the NERVOUS SYSTEM. Weakness – rather than total movement loss – is sometimes described as paresis. Paralysis may be temporary or permanent and may be accompanied by loss of feeling.
Paralysis due to brain disease The most common form is unilateral palsy, or HEMIPLEGIA, generally arising from cerebral HAEMORRHAGE, THROMBOSIS or EMBOLISM affecting the opposite side of the BRAIN. If all four limbs and trunk are affected, the paralysis is called quadraplegia; if both legs and part of the trunk are affected, it is called paraplegia. Paralysis may also be divided into ?accid (?oppy limbs) or spastic (rigid).
In hemiplegia the cause may be an abscess, haemorrhage, thrombosis or TUMOUR in the brain. CEREBRAL PALSY or ENCEPHALITIS are other possible causes. Sometimes damage occurs in the parts of the nervous system responsible for the ?ne control of muscle movements: the cerebellum and basal ganglion are such areas, and lack of DOPAMINE in the latter causes PARKINSONISM.
Damage or injury Damage to or pressure on the SPINAL CORD may paralyse muscles supplied by nerves below the site of damage. A fractured spine or pressure from a tumour may have this e?ect. Disorders affecting the cord which can cause paralysis include osteoarthritis of the cervical vertebrae (see BONE, DISORDERS OF), MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS (MS), MYELITIS, POLIOMYELITIS and MENINGITIS. Vitamin B12 de?ciency (see APPENDIX 5: VITAMINS) may also cause deterioration in the spinal cord (see also SPINE AND SPINAL CORD, DISEASES AND INJURIES OF).
Neuropathies are a group of disorders, some inherited, that damage the peripheral nerves, thus affecting their ability to conduct electrical impulses. This, in turn, causes muscle weakness or paralysis. Among the causes of neuropathies are cancers, DIABETES MELLITUS, liver disease, and the toxic consequences of some drugs or metals – lead being one example.
Disorders of the muscles themselves – for example, muscular dystrophy (see MUSCLES, DISORDERS OF – Myopathy) – can disturb their normal working and so cause partial or complete paralysis of the part(s) affected.
Treatment The aim of treatment should be to remedy the underlying cause – for example, surgical removal of a displaced intervertebral
disc or treating diabetes mellitus. Sometimes the cause cannot be recti?ed but, whether treatable or not, physiotherapy is essential to prevent joints from seizing up and to try to maintain some tone in muscles that may be only partly affected. With temporary paralysis, such as can occur after a STROKE, physiotherapy can retrain the sufferers to use their muscles and joints to ensure mobility during and after recovery. Patients with permanent hemiplegia, paraplegia or quadraplegia need highly skilled nursing care, rehabilitative support and resources, and expert help to allow them, if possible, to live at home.... paralysis
A condition whose main characteristic is the delusion (see DELUSIONS) that other people are (in an unclear way) connected to the affected individual. A sufferer from paranoia constructs a complex of beliefs based on his or her interpretation of chance remarks or events. Persecution, love, jealousy and self-grandeur are among the emotions evoked. Acute paranoia – a history of less than six months – may be the result of drastic changes in a person’s environment, such as war, imprisonment, famine or even leaving home for the ?rst time. Chronic paranoia may be caused by brain damage, substance abuse (including alcohol and cannbis), SCHIZOPHRENIA or severe DEPRESSION. Those affected may become constantly suspicious and angry and tend to live an isolated existence, exhibiting di?cult and odd behaviour. Often believing themselves to be normal, they do not seek treatment. If treated early with antipsychotic drugs, they often recover; if not, the delusions and accompanying erratic behaviour become entrenched. (See MENTAL ILLNESS.)... paranoia
A plant or animal which lives upon or within or upon another living organism at whose expense it obtains some advantage without compensation. By convention, human parasitology covers the study of the protozoa, helminths and arthropods infecting humans.... parasite
Equality or comparability between two things. Parity legislation, usually applicable to mental health conditions like depression or schizophrenia, requires that health insurers adhere to a principle of equal treatment when making decisions regarding mental health benefits, comparable with medical benefits.... parity
Cyclic manifestation of acute illness in malaria, characterised by a rise in temperature with accompanying symptoms, usually caused by invasion of the blood by a brood of parasites released from RBC’s.... paroxysm
(American) Resembling the garnish Parslee, Parsleigh, Parsly, Parsli, Parslie, Parslea... parsley
Indicative of, or caused by, a disease or condition.... pathological
An outdated term for the tertiary stage of SYPHILIS.... general paralysis of the insane
Ill-de?ned discomfort and pains that occur in the limbs of some children. They occur mainly at night between the ages of 6–12 years. The cause is unknown, but the condition is not signi?cant and does not require treatment once other more important conditions have been ruled out.... growing pains
Paediatrics means the branch of medicine dealing with diseases of children (see also NEONATOLOGY).... paediatrics
The partition between the cavity of the mouth, below, and that of the nose, above. It consists of the hard palate towards the front, which is composed of a bony plate covered below by the mucous membrane of the mouth, above by that of the nose; and of the soft palate further back, in which a muscular layer, composed of nine small muscles, is similarly covered. The hard palate extends a little further back than the wisdom teeth, and is formed by the maxillary and palate bones. The soft palate is concave towards the mouth and convex towards the nose, and it ends behind in a free border, at the centre of which is the prolongation known as the uvula. When food or air is passing through the mouth, as in the acts of swallowing, coughing, or vomiting, the soft palate is drawn upwards so as to touch the back wall of the throat and shut o? the cavity of the nose. Movements of the soft palate, by changing the shape of the mouth and nose cavities, are important in the production of speech.... palate
Unusual paleness of the SKIN caused by a reduced ?ow of blood or a de?ciency in normal pigments. Pallor may be a sign of fright, SHOCK, ANAEMIA, or other diseases.... pallor
Examination of the surface of the body and the size, shape, and movements of the internal organs, by laying the ?at of the hand upon the skin.... palpation
Another name for PARALYSIS. CEREBRAL PALSY involves total or partial paralysis of a limb or limbs due to a perinatal or early infancy brain lesion.... palsy
Pancreatin preparations (often in the form of a powder) contain the four powerful enzymes (see ENZYME), trypsin, chymotrypsin, lipase, and amylase, which continue the digestion of foods started in the stomach (see PANCREAS – Functions; DIGESTION). They are given by mouth for the relief of pancreatic de?ciency in conditions such as pancreatitis (see PANCREAS, DISORDERS OF) and CYSTIC FIBROSIS. Pancreatin is also used for the preparation of pre-digested, or so-called peptonised, foods, such as milk and some starchy foods.... pancreatin
A small projection, such as those with which the corium of the skin is covered, and which project into the epidermis and make its union with the corium more intimate; or those covering the tongue and projecting from its surface.... papilla
Swelling of the OPTIC DISC of the EYE, speci?cally due to raised intracranial pressure. It can be seen by examining the back of the eye using an OPHTHALMOSCOPE and is an important sign in managing the care of patients with intracerebral disease such as tumours or MENINGITIS.... papilloedema
Small (less than 5 mm) solid elevation of the skin or mucous membranes. A larger lesion is called a nodule.... papule
A pre?x meaning near, aside from, or beyond.... para
The puncture by hollow needle or TROCAR and CANNULA of any body cavity (e.g. abdominal, pleural, pericardial), for tapping or aspirating ?uid. (See ASPIRATION.)... paracentesis
(US, acetaminophen.) A non-opioid analgesic (see ANALGESICS) similar in e?cacy to aspirin, but without any demonstrable antiin?ammatory activity. It also has the advantage over aspirin of causing less gastric irritation. It is indicated for mild to moderate pain and pyrexia in a dose of 0.5–1g by mouth (maximum 4 doses every 24 hours).... paracetamol
A term applied to unusual feelings, apart from mere increase, or loss, of sensation, experienced by a patient without any external cause: for example, hot ?ushes, numbness, tingling, itching. Various paraesthesiae form a common symptom in some nervous diseases.... paraesthesia
A disorder or injury of the NERVOUS SYSTEM in which the affected individual suffers from weakness in both legs and sometimes of the muscles in the lower trunk.... paraparesis
The constriction of the PENIS behind the glans by an abnormally tight foreskin that has been retracted. The condition causes swelling and severe pain. Sometimes the foreskin can be returned by manual manipulation after an ice pack has been applied to the glans or a topical local anaesthetic applied. Sometimes an operation to cut the foreskin is required.... paraphimosis
The branch of PSYCHOLOGY that studies extrasensory perception. This includes precognition (seeing into the future); psychokinesis (a supposed ability of some people to move or change the state of objects by thinking); telepathy (communicating thoughts from one person to another); and clairvoyance (the ability to visualise events at a distance). These phenomena have no scienti?c explanation and some of these ‘abilities’ may be manifestations of mental illness such as SCHIZOPHRENIA.... parapsychology
A general term applied to agents or substances destructive to parasites (see PARASITE).... parasiticide
A contact herbicide widely used in agriculture and horticulture. People using paraquat should be careful to protect their eyes and skin so as not to come into contact with it: a mouthful is enough to kill, and the substance is involved in around 40 suicides annually in the UK. Its major misuse has resulted from its being decanted from the professional pack into soft-drink bottles and kept in the kitchen. Medical assistance should be obtained as soon as possible, as some victims of poisoning may require hospital inpatient care, including renal DIALYSIS. Several medical centres have been set up throughout the country to provide treatment in cases of paraquat poisoning. Details of these can be obtained from the National Poisons Information Service.... paraquat
Mimicking major aspects of parasympathetic function. EXAMPLES: Amanita muscaria mushrooms, Pilocarpine, Lobelia.... parasympathomimetic
One of the ORGANOPHOSPHORUS insecticides. It is highly toxic to humans and must therefore be handled with the utmost care.... parathion
A state of partial PARALYSIS.... paresis
The term applied to anything pertaining to the wall of a cavity: for example, parietal pleura, the part of the pleural membrane which lines the wall of the chest.... parietal
Parkinson’s disease characterised by rigidity of muscles and tremor of the hands... parkinsonism
In?ammation of the PAROTID GLAND caused by infection or by many AUTOIMMUNE DISORDERS. Epidemic parotitis is another name for MUMPS.... parotitis
One of the ANTIDEPRESSANT DRUGS in the SELECTIVE SEROTONIN-REUPTAKE INHIBITORS (SSRIS) group. (See also MENTAL ILLNESS.)... paroxetine
Labour – see PREGNANCY AND LABOUR.... parturition
This is used to identify possible substances that may be causing a patient’s ALLERGY. Small amounts of di?erent substances are placed on the skin – usually of the back or arm. If the patient is allergic then a red ?are and swelling will appear, usually within about 15 minutes. Sometimes the reaction may take longer – up to three days – to develop.... patch test
Also known as the knee-cap, this is a ?at bone shaped somewhat like an oyster-shell, lying in the tendon of the extensor muscle of the thigh, and protecting the knee-joint in front. (See also KNEE.)... patella
See DUCTUS ARTERIOSUS.... patent ductus arteriosus
An organism or substance which caused diseases.... pathogen
This term means disease-producing, and is a term applied, for example, to bacteria capable of causing disease.... pathogenic
A term applied to signs or symptoms which are especially characteristic of certain diseases, and on the presence or absence of which the diagnosis depends. Thus the discovery of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis in the sputum is said to be pathognomonic of pulmonary tuberculosis.... pathognomonic
A form of calcium sulphate, which, after soaking in water, sets ?rmly. For this reason it is widely used as a form of splinting in the treatment of fractures, for producing casts to immobilise parts of the body, and for dental models. Splints are made with bandages impregnated with plaster and a suitable adhesive. Its great advantage, compared with an ordinary splint, is that it can be moulded to the shape of the limb.... plaster of paris
Paralysis of the 7th (facial) nerve which controls muscles of the face. One-sided stiffness and distortion of the face which lacks expression. Inability to close eyes or whistle. Rarely painful.
Aetiology. Injury, virus infection, cold, stroke. Recovery usually spontaneous. Herpes Simp. Alternatives. Chamomile, Wood Betony, Bryonia, Black Cohosh, Barberry, Asafoetida, Lobelia, Rosemary, Valerian, Sage. Echinacea has been used with convincing results internally and externally.
Tea. Equal parts. Chamomile, Wood Betony. Sage. 1 heaped teaspoon to each cup boiling water; infuse 15 minutes. 1 cup 3 times daily.
Decoctions. Black Cohosh, Rosemary, Valerian, Echinacea.
Tablets/capsules. Black Cohosh. Ginseng. Echinacea. Valerian.
Powders. Formula. Rosemary 1; Echinacea 2; Valerian 1. Dose: 500mg (two 00 capsules or one-third teaspoon) thrice daily.
Tinctures. Formula. Echinacea 2; Rosemary 1; Black Cohosh 1; Pinch Tincture Capsicum. 1-2 teaspoons 3 times daily.
Evening Primrose oil. 4 × 500mg capsules daily.
Aromatherapy. 10 drops Oil Juniper to eggcup Almond oil; gentle massage affected side of face. Diet. Lacto-vegetarian.
Vitamin E. (400iu daily). ... bell’s palsy
(Sir James Paget, 1814-99) Osteitis deformans. Chronic inflammation of bone at focal points (Pagetic sites), often widespread. Chronic. Progressive softening followed by thickening with distortion. Renewal of new bone outstrips absorption of old bone. Enlargement of the skull (‘Big head’) and of the long bones. Broadened pelvis, distorted spine (kyphosis) from flattened vertebra. Male predominence. Over 40 years. Spontaneous fractures possible. Paget’s disease and diabetes may be associated in the same family.
Some authorities believe cause is vitamin and mineral deficiency – those which promote bone health being calcium and magnesium (dolomite). Supplementation helps cases but evidence confirms that some pet-owners are at risk – a virus from cats and dogs possibly responsible. The prime candidate is one exposed to canine distemper. Dogs are involved twice as much as cats. The virus is closely related to the measles virus in humans.
Symptoms. Limbs deformed, hot during inflammatory stage. Headaches. Dull aching pain in bones. Deafness from temporal bone involvement. Loss of bone rigidity. Bowing of legs.
Surgical procedures may be necessary. Appears to be a case for immunisation of dogs against distemper.
Alternatives. Black Cohosh, Boneset, Cramp bark, Bladderwrack, German Chamomile, Devil’s Claw, Helonias, Oat husks, Prickly Ash, Sage, Wild Yam.
Tea. Oats (mineral nutrient for wasting diseases) 2; Boneset (anti-inflammatory) 1; Valerian (mild analgesic) 1; Liquorice quarter. Mix. 1 heaped teaspoon to each cup boiling water; infuse 15 minutes. 1 cup thrice daily.
Decoction. Cramp bark 1; White Willow 2. Mix. 4 heaped teaspoons to 1 pint (500ml) water gently simmered 20 minutes. Dose: half-1 cup thrice daily.
Tablets/capsules. Cramp bark, Devil’s Claw, Echinacea, Helonias, Prickly Ash, Wild Yam.
Formula. Devil’s Claw 1; Black Cohosh 1; Valerian 1; Liquorice quarter. Dose: Powders: 500mg (two 00 capsules or one-third teaspoon). Liquid extracts: 1 teaspoon. Tinctures: 2 teaspoons. Action enhanced when taken in cup of Fenugreek tea. Thrice daily. Every 2 hours acute cases.
Practitioner’s analgesic. Tincture Gelsemium: 10 drops in 100ml water. Dose: 1 teaspoon every 2 hours (inflammatory stage).
Topical. Comfrey root poultice.
Diet. High protein, low salt, low fat. Oily fish.
Supplements. Daily. Vitamin C (500mg); Vitamin D (1000mg); Calcium citrate (1 gram); Dolomite (1 gram); Beta-Carotene (7500iu). Kelp. ... paget’s disease
A ?ssure in the roof of the mouth (palate) and/ or the lip which is present at birth. It is found in varying degrees of severity in about one in 700 children. Modern plastic surgery can greatly improve the functioning of lips and palate and the appearance of the baby. Further cosmetic surgery later may not be necessary. The parent of the child who has cleft lip and/ or palate will be given detailed advice speci?c to his or her case. In general the team of specialists involved are the paediatrician, plastic surgeon, dentist or orthodontic specialist, and speech therapist. (See PALATE, MALFORMATIONS OF.)... cleft palate
Formerly entitled consultant paediatrician (community child health), these are specialists dealing with children with chronic problems not involving acute or hospital care. For example, they have a primary role in dealing with disabled children, children with special educational needs and abused children.... community paediatrician
Crutch palsy is weakness or paralysis of muscles in the wrist and hand, due to pressure exerted by the CRUTCH head on the nerves that control the affected muscles. It usually occurs because the crutch is too long for the individual, and/or if he or she attempts too much walking. The nerve damage is temporary and symptoms disappear if the crutch is properly used or left aside for a time.... crutch palsy
See CYSTIC FIBROSIS.... fibrocystic disease of the pancreas
A condition characterised by pain and PARAESTHESIA on the front and outer aspect of the thigh. It is more common in men than in women, and the victims are usually middle-aged, overweight and out of condition. It is due to compression of the lateral cutaneous nerve of the thigh, and exacerbated by an uncomfortable driving position when motoring long distances. Reduction in weight, improvement in general ?tness and correction of faulty posture usually bring relief. If these fail, surgical decompression of the nerve may help.... meralgia paraesthetica
Pacinian corpuscles, or lamellated corpuscles, are minute bulbs at the ends of the nerves scattered through the SKIN and subcutaneous tissue, and forming one of the end-organs for sensation.... pacinian corpuscles
That fraction of the blood’s total volume made up of red cells. The packed cell volume is found by centrifuging blood in a tube and measuring the depth of the column of red cells as a fraction of the whole column of blood. (See also HAEMATOCRIT.)... packed cell volume
See PICTURE ARCHIVING AND COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM (PACS).... pacs
A cardiac or arti?cial pacemaker is a device that helps a faulty HEART to maintain normal rhythm. It consists of a battery that stimulates the heart by an electric current passed through an insulated wire which is attached either to the surface of the ventricle (epicardial pacemaker) or to the heart lining (endocardial pacemaker). In a normal heart, the regular electrical impulses are initiated by a special area of tissue (sinoatrial node). A cardiac pacemaker is used when a person’s sinoatrial node is malfunctioning or when there is interference with the passage of normal impulses. Some devices send out signals at a ?xed rate; others monitor the rate and, when it falters in any way, stimulate regular contractions. Implantation is carried out under a local anaesthetic, and the lithium batteries can last for several years. People with pacemakers should avoid any source of powerful electromagnetic radiation – radio or radar transmitters or airport security screens. (See also CARDIAC PACEMAKER.)... pacemaker
Also called paliphrasia, this means the involuntary repetition of words or sentences. It is a symptom of GILLES DE LA TOURETTE’S SYNDROME.... palilalia
An adjective describing symptoms or diseases that recur. For example, palindromic rheumatoid arthritis is a condition in which symptoms wax and wane with periods of complete remission.... palindromic
A term applied to treatment that eases the symptoms of a disorder rather than curing the condition. (See also HOSPICE; PALLIATIVE CARE.)... palliative
The active total care offered to a person and that person’s family when it is recognized that the illness is no longer curable, in order to concentrate on the person’s quality of life and the alleviation of distressing symptoms. The focus of palliative care is neither to hasten nor postpone death. It provides relief from pain and other distressing symptoms and integrates the psychological and spiritual aspects of care. It offers a support system to help relatives and friends cope during an individual’s illness and with their bereavement.... palliative care
Also known as pallidectomy, this is a neurosurgical procedure in which the activities of the globus pallidus area of the BRAIN are destroyed or modi?ed. The operation is sometimes used to relieve the symptoms of PARKINSONISM and other neurological conditions in which involuntary movements are a signi?cant and disabling symptom.... pallidotomy
Relating to the eyelid (see EYE).... palpebral
In?ammation of the pericardium, myocardium, and endocardium at the same time (see HEART – Structure).... pancarditis
A fall in the number of red ERYTHROCYTES and white LEUCOCYTES, as well as of platelets (see BLOOD – Composition). The condition is found in aplastic ANAEMIA, tumours of the BONE MARROW, enlarged SPLEEN, and other disorders.... pancytopenia
In?ammation of the subcutaneous fat (see FAT – Body fat). It may occur anywhere on the body surface.... panniculitis
1) Blood vessels growing into the cornea (see EYE) beneath its epithelium. Seen in TRACHOMA and to a lesser extent in patients who are long-term soft-contact-lens wearers. 2) In?ammatory tissue which replaces CARTILAGE in RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS.... pannus
See CERVICAL SMEAR.... papanicolaou test
A smooth-muscle (see MUSCLE) relaxant once used to treat IMPOTENCE (erectile dysfunction). The drug is injected directly into the corpora caverosa (spongy, blood-?lled erectile tissue) of the PENIS. Men with psychogenic or neurological impotence may respond to this treatment. Its use is less common since SILDENAFIL (Viagra®) was introduced for the treatment of erectile dysfunction.... papaverine
In?ammation of any PAPILLA, but especially of the prominence formed by the end of the optic nerve in the retina (see EYE) – also known as OPTIC NEURITIS.... papillitis
(Native American) Resembling ivy Papinah, Papyna, Papena, Papeena, Papiena, Papeina, Papeana... papina
The reverse of the normal movements of breathing (see RESPIRATION). The chest wall moves in instead of out when breathing in (inspiration), and out instead of in when breathing out (expiration). The spaces between the ribs are indrawn on inspiration – a symptom seen in children with respiratory distress, say, as a result of ASTHMA or lung infections. Patients with CHRONIC OBSTRUCTIVE PULMONARY DISEASE (COPD) often suffer from paradoxical breathing; and trauma to the rib cage, with fractured sternum and ribs, also cause the condition. Treatment is of the underlying cause.... paradoxical breathing
One of the small ovoid collections of cells occurring in the walls of the ganglia of the SYMPATHETIC NERVOUS SYSTEM adjacent to the SPINAL CORD. They are CHROMAFFIN cells and sometimes secrete ADRENALINE.... paraganglion
A tropical disease found mainly in the Far East. It is caused by infections of the lungs by a parasitic ?uke called Paragonimus westermani. The infection is acquired by eating insu?ciently cooked shell?sh. The affected person has symptoms similar to those of chronic BRONCHITIS; treatment is with the drugs CHLOROQUINE and bithionol.... paragonimiasis
A generic title for the professions which work closely with or are reponsible to the medical profession in caring for patients. A paramedical worker, coloquially called a ‘paramedic’, has skills, experience and quali?cations in certain spheres of health care. Examples are ambulance crew – primarily those trained to deal with emergencies; physiotherapists (see PHYSIOTHERAPY); radiographers (see RADIOGRAPHER); and dieticians (see DIETETICS).... paramedical
A measurement of a certain factor – for example, pulse rate, blood pressure, or haemoglobin concentration – that is relevant to a disorder under investigation. Often wrongly used to describe the range of test results.... parameter
A derangement of the MEMORY in which words are used without a comprehension of their meaning; it is also applied to illusions of memory in which a person in good faith imagines and describes experiences which never occurred to him or her.... paramnesia
Misplacement of words, or use of wrong words, in speech as a result of a lesion in the speech region of the BRAIN.... paraphasia
A form of PARANOIA. (See also MENTAL ILLNESS.)... paraphrenia
Non-fatal self-poisoning or self-injury, or attempted suicide. It is most common in the 12–15 age group. As a rule, the intention is not to commit suicide but to sound a cry for help to resolve an acute domestic, social or personal upset.... parasuicide
That part of the AUTONOMIC NERVOUS SYSTEM which is connected with the BRAIN and SPINAL CORD through certain nerve centres in the midbrain, medulla, and lower end of the cord. The nerves from these centres are carried in the third, seventh, ninth and tenth cranial nerves and the second, third and fourth sacral nerves. The action of the parasympathetic system is usually antagonistic to that of the sympathetic system. Thus it inhibits the action of the HEART and augments the action of the INTESTINE; whereas the sympathetic augments the action of the heart and inhibits that of the intestine. (See diagram of sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems under NERVOUS SYSTEM.)... parasympathetic nervous system
See ENTERIC FEVER.... paratyphoid fever
A term meaning originally all the soft tissues of internal organs except their supporting structures, although now reserved for the secreting cells of the glandular organs.... parenchyma
Administration of drugs by any route other than by the mouth or by the bowel – for example, by intramuscular or intravenous injection or infusion.... parenteral
Either one of a pair of bones that form the top and sides of the cranium of the SKULL.... parietal bone
A major section of each cerebral hemisphere (see BRAIN). The two lobes lie under the parietal bones and contain the sensory cortex.... parietal lobe
A perverted sense of SMELL; everything may smell unpleasant to the affected individual. The most common cause is some septic condition of the nasal passages (see NOSE), but the condition may occasionally be due to a lesion in the BRAIN involving the centre responsible for the sense of smell.... parosmia
One of the SALIVARY GLANDS. It is situated just in front of the ear, and its duct runs forwards across the cheek to open into the interior of the mouth on a little projection opposite the second last tooth of the upper row. The parotid gland is generally the ?rst of the salivary glands to become enlarged in MUMPS.... parotid gland
See PSITTACOSIS.... parrot disease
Non-sexual reproduction. In other words, development of the OVUM into an individual without fertilisation by a SPERMATOZOON. It is common in plants and has been produced in animals experimentally.... parthenogenesis
A method of recording the degree of dilatation, or opening, of the cervix (or neck) of the UTERUS in labour (see PREGNANCY AND LABOUR) to assess how labour is progressing.... partogram
A movement induced by someone other than the patient. Physiotherapists (see PHYSIOTHERAPY) manipulate joints by passive movement in order to retain and encourage function of a nerve or muscle that is not working normally because of injury or disease.... passive movement
A group of bacilli. They are essentially animal parasites (see PARASITE) that under certain conditions are transmitted to humans, and include the micro-organism responsible for PLAGUE and TULARAEMIA.... pasteurella
In the medical context, a term meaning open – for example, patent DUCTUS ARTERIOSUS. The term is also used for proprietary MEDICINES which, because of the research and cost involved in producing many of them, are protected by a patent. This means that without an agreement, no company or organisation other than the patent-holder can produce the substance.... patent
A pre?x indicating relationship to a disease – for example, PATHOLOGY, a study of disease.... patho
The ways in which a disease or disorder starts and develops. The term applies in particular to the physiological and cellular activities that are involved in the mode of origin and development of the condition.... pathogenesis
(Latin) An open-minded woman... patia
A person in contact with the health system seeking attention for a health condition.... patient
Group of lymphoid tissue in the small intestine, especially involved in typhoid infections.... peyer’s patches
A big fall in a person’s systolic BLOOD PRESSURE when he or she breathes in. It may occur in conditions such as constrictive PERICARDITIS and pericardial e?usion, when the normal pumping action of the heart is hindered. ASTHMA may also cause pulsus paradoxus, as can CHRONIC OBSTRUCTIVE PULMONARY DISEASE (COPD).... pulsus paradoxus
A rare complication of MEASLES due to infection of the brain with the measles virus. It develops 2–18 years after the onset of the measles, and is characterised by mental deterioration leading on to CONVULSIONS, COMA and death. The annual incidence in Britain is about one per million of the childhood population. The risk of its developing is 5–25 times greater after measles than after measles vaccination (see MMR VACCINE; IMMUNISATION).... subacute sclerosing panencephalitis
A type of anxiety disorder, characterized by recurrent panic attacks of intense anxiety and distressing physical symptoms.... panic disorder
The scientific study of parasites. Although viruses and many types of bacteria and fungi are parasites, their study is conducted under the title of microbiology.... parasitology
A viral infection that causes a rash and joint inflammation. Many children have no symptoms, but some have a bright red rash on the cheeks, a mild fever, and sometimes mild joint inflammation. Symptoms are more severe in adults; they include a rash on the palms and soles of the feet and severe inflammation in the knee, wrist, and hand joints. A diagnosis is made from the symptoms and a blood test. The infection usually clears up within 2 weeks without treatment.... parvovirus
The process of heating foods to destroy disease-causing microorganisms, and to reduce the numbers of microorganisms responsible for fermentation and putrefaction.... pasteurization
A suffix that denotes a disease or disorder.... pathy
See stork mark.... salmon patch
The sensation of being unable to move at the moment of going to sleep or when waking up, usually lasting only a few seconds. It may be accompanied by hallucinations. Sleep paralysis most often occurs in people with narcolepsy. (See also cataplexy.)... sleep paralysis
Inability to move a part of the body, accompanied by rigidity of the muscles. Causes of spastic paralysis include stroke, cerebral palsy, and multiple sclerosis. (See also paralysis.)... spastic paralysis
D. Don.Synonym: A. bisma (Buch.-Ham.) Rapaics.... aconitum palmatum
Linn.Adansonia digitata Linn.
Family: Bombacaceae.
Habitat: Native to tropical Africa; common along the west coast of India.
English: Baobab, Monkey Bread tree, African calabash.
Ayurvedic: Sheet-phala, Ravanaam- likaa, Gorakshi, Panchparni.
Unani: Gorakh Imli.
Siddha/Tamil: Papparapuli.
Folk: Gorakh Imli; Gorakh Chinchaa.
Action: Cooling, refrigerant (allays burning sensation). Leaves— diaphoretic (used as a prophylactic against fevers). Fruit—antidysen- teric, antiseptic, antihistaminic.
The fruit pulp is a source of vitamin C (175.0-445.4 mg/100 g); dried pulp contains calcium and vitamin B1. Furfural (9.6%) is obtained after distillation of the fruit. In Africa, dried leaves provide much of the dietary calcium. Aqueous extract of the bark is used for treating sickle cell anaemia.An infusion of the leaves and flowers is given in respiratory disorders. (Powdered leaves prevented crisis in asthma induced by histamine in guinea pigs.) Dried fruit pulp also gives relief in bronchial asthma, allergic dermatitis and urticaria.
Family: Leguminosae; Mimosaceae.
Habitat: The western Ghats, the Andamans and sub-Himalayan tract; also cultivated.
English: Coral Wood, Red Wood.
Ayurvedic: Rakta Kanchana, Rakta Kambala.
Siddha/Tamil: Anai-gundumani.
Folk: Ghumchi (bigger var.).
Action: Astringent and styptic (used in diarrhoea, haemorrhage from the stomach, haematuria), anti-inflammatory (in rheumatic affections, gout). Seeds— anticephalgic; also used for the treatment of paralysis. A decoction is given in pulmonary affections.
The seed contains an anti-inflammatory active principle, O-acetyletha- nolamine. The leaves contain octa- cosanol, dulcitol, glucosides of beta- sitosterol and stigmasterol. The bark contains sitgmasterol glucoside.... adenanthera pavonina
A system in which prices for health services and payment methods are the same, regardless of who is paying. For instance, in an all payer system, federal or state government, a private insurer, a self-insured employer plan, an individual, or any other payer could pay the same rates. The uniform fee bars health care providers from shifting costs from one payer to another. See “cost shifting”.... all payer system
See PROSTHESIS.... artificial limbs and other parts
See PARALYSIS; MOTOR NEURONE DISEASE (MND).... bulbar paralysis
Corypha elataDescription: This tree may reach 18 meters in height. It has large, fan -shaped leaves up to 3 meters long and split into about 100 narrow segments. It bears flowers in huge dusters at the top of the tree. The tree dies after flowering.Habitat and Distribution: This tree grows in coastal areas of the East Indies.Edible Parts: The trunk contains starch that is edible raw. The very tip of the trunk is also edible raw or cooked. You can get large quantities of liquid by bruising the flowering stalk. The kernels of the nuts are edible.CAUTIONThe seed covering may cause dermatitis in some individuals.Other Uses: You can use the leaves as weaving material.... burl palm
A combination of services designed to meet a person’s assessed needs.... care package
An agreed and explicit route an individual takes through health and social care services. Agreements between the various providers involved will typically cover the type of care and treatment, which professional will be involved and their level of skills, and where treatment or care will take place. See also “care plan”; “care programme”.... care pathway
Fixed cost for a case. See also “fee for service”.... case payment
A group of sensory organs at the posterior end of some male nematodes (excluding “phasmids” which are situated on the lateral aspects of the tip of the tail); the number and arrangement of caudal papillae are used for identification of nematodes such as in Ascarididae and Thelaziidae.... caudal papillae
Wall. ex Nees
Family: Acanthaceae.
Habitat: Throughout India, from Himachal Pradesh to Assam and Mizoram, and all over southern India.
English: Creat.
Ayurvedic: Kaalmegha, Bhuunimba, Bhuuminimbaka, Vishwambharaa, Yavtikta, Kalpanaatha, Kiraata-tikta (var.).
Unani: Kiryaat.
Siddha/Tamil: Nilavembu.
Action: Hepatoprotective, cholin- ergic, antispasmodic, stomachic, anthelmintic, alterative, blood purifier, febrifuge. It acts well on the liver, promoting secretion of bile. Used in jaundice and torpid liver, flatulence and diarrhoea of children, colic, strangulation of intestines and splenomegaly; also for cold and upper respiratory tract infections.
Key application: As bitter tonic, febrifuge and hepatoprotective. (Indian Herbal Pharmacopoeia.)Kaalmegha, officinal in IP, consists of dried leaves and tender shoots, which yield not less than 1% andro- grapholide on dry-weight basis.Several active constituents have been identified from the leaf and rhizome, including andrographolide, deoxyan- drographolide and other diterpenes.Andrographolide exhibited strong choleretic action when administered i.p. to rats. It induces increase in bile flow together with change in physical properties of bile secretion. It was found to be more potent than sily- marin.Andrographolide was found to be almost devoid of antihepatitis-B virus surface antigen-like activity (when compared with picroliv.)The leaf and stem extracts of Kaal- megha/andrographolide given s.c. or orally did not change blood sugar level of normal or diabetic rats.Alcoholic extract of the plant exhibited antidiarrhoeal activity against E. coli enterotoxins in animal models.Clinical evidence of effectiveness of andrographis in humans is limited to the common cold. Preliminary evidence suggests that it might increase antibody activity and phagocytosis by macrophages, and might have mast cell-stabilizing and antiallergy activity. (Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 2007.)The herb is contraindicated inbleed- ing disorders, hypotension, as well as male and female sterility (exhibited infertility in laboratory animals).
Dosage: Whole plant—5-10 ml juice; 50-100 ml decotion; 1-3 g powder. (CCRAS.)... andrographis panicultata
A group of sensory organs around the mouth opening (excluding amphids which are situated on the lateral aspects of the mouth); the number and arrangement of the cephalic papillae are significant for the classification of nematodes.... cephalic papillae
A multidisciplinary set of daily prescriptions and outcome targets for managing the overall care of a specific type of patient, e.g. from pre-admission to post-discharge for patients receiving inpatient care. Clinical pathways are often intended to maintain or improve quality of care and decrease costs for patients in particular diagnosis-related groups.... clinical pathway
The specified portion (cost amount or percentage) that health insurance, or a service programme, may require a person to pay towards his or her medical bills or services.... co-payment
An excellent analgesic treatment for the skin pain of many envenomations, especially those of jellyfish stings. It is usually less effective than heat for the treatment of stonefish, stingray and other venomous-spined fish envenomations.... cold packs
Linn.
Family: Caricaceae.
Habitat: Native to West Indies and Central America; now cultivated in Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra and South India.
English: Papaya, Papaw.
Ayurvedic: Erand-karkati, Papitaa.
Unani: Papitaa Desi.
Siddha/Tamil: Pappaali, Pappayi.
Action: Ripe fruit—stomachic, digestive, carminative, diuretic, galactagogue. Useful in bleeding piles, haemoptysis, dysentery and chronic diarrhoea. Seeds— emmengagogue, abortifacient, vermifuge. Juice of seeds is administered in enlarged liver and spleen, and in bleeding piles.
Key application: Papain, the enzyme mixture extracted from raw papain (latex of Carica papaya), has been included among unapproved herbs by German Commission E. Experiment-based as well as clinical research indicate that papain may be effective (in the treatment of inflammations) in high doses (daily dose 1500 mg corresponding to 2520 FIP units).Unripe fruit—emmengagogue and abortifacient. Latex—applied topically on eczema, ringworm, psoriasis, corns, warts, sloughing wounds, carbuncles and eschar of burns.Green parts of the plant and seed contain an alkaloid carpaine. Seeds also contain carpasemine.Latex contain enzymes—papain and chymopapain and alkaloids carpaine and pseudocarpaine. A proteinaceous material from latex showed anticoagulant activity; in higher doses it is heart depressant and as a spasmogen on smooth muscle of guinea pig ileum. An alkaloid solution showed depressant action on heart, blood pressure and intestine.The anthelmintic action of seeds against Ascaris lumbricoides is due to carpasemine.Papain, an enzyme mixture prepared from the fruit, seeds and leaf, hydrolyses polypeptides, amides and esters, particularly when used in an alkaline environment, and is used in digestive disorders.Papain inhibits platelet aggregation, which may further increase the risk of bleeding in patients also taking anticoagulants. Concurrent administration of cyclophosphamide with papain caused sever damage to lung tissues in rats. (Sharon M. Herr.)Chymopapin C is an immunosup- pressive enzyme from plant extract. Carpaine, extracted from the plant, exhibited anti-tubercular activity, also antitumour in vitro, and hypotensive.
Dosage: Leaf—40-80 ml infusion; latex—3-6 g (CCRAS.)... carica papaya
Attacks of uncontrollable coughing or “whooping”, often relating to whooping cough or bronchiectasis, but they can also be caused by the smoke from burning plastics and (memories of yesteryear) hash oil.... cough, paroxysmal
A treatment protocol based on a consensus of clinicians that includes only those few vital components or items proved to affect patient outcomes, either by the omission or commission of the treatment or the timing of the intervention.... critical pathway
Willd.
Family: Celastraceae.
Habitat: Sub-Himalayan tract up to 2,000 m and South Indian hills.
English: Staff tree, Intellect tree.
Ayurvedic: Jyotishmati, Paaraavat- padi. Kangunikaa, Kanguni, Vegaa, Maalkaanguni, Svarnalatikaa, Kaakaandaki, Katuveekaa.
Unani: Maalkangani.
Siddha/Tamil: Vaaluluvai.
Action: Seeds—nervine and brain tonic, diaphoretic, febrifugal, emetic. Seed-oil—used for treating mental depression, hysteria and for improving memory; also used for scabies, eczema, wounds, rheumatic pains, paralysis. A decoction of seeds is given in gout, rheumatism, paralysis and for treating leprosy and other skin diseases. Leaves— antidysenteric, emmenagogue. Root—a paste of root-bark is applied to swollen veins and pneumonic affections.
Key application: As a tranquilizer (Indian Herbal Pharmacopoeia) and brain tonic (The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India). The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India indicated the use of ripe seed in leucoderma and vitiligo.The seeds are reported to contain the alkaloids, celastrine and paniculatine, which are the active principles of the drug.In experimental animals, the drug showed lowering of leptazol toxicity, motor activity and amphetamine toxi- city, and raising the capacity for learning process. It showed significant CNS depressant effect and a clear synergism with pentobarbital. The seed extract showed hypolipidaemic effect and prevented atherogenesis in rabbits.The seed oil showed tranquillizing effect and hastened the process of learning in experimental animals. It produced fall in blood pressure in anaesthetized dog, depressed the heart of frog, and was found to be toxic to rats.In addition to the seed, 70% alcoholic extract of the plant showed sedative, anti-inflammatory and antipyretic, anti-ulcerogenic effect in experimental animals.Methanolic extract of flowers showed both analgesic and anti- inflammatory activities experimentally.
Dosage: Ripe seed, devoid of capsule wall—1-2 g; oil—5-15 drops. (API Vol. II.)... celastrus paniculatus
Any activities by a health professional involving direct interaction, treatment, administration of medications or other therapy or involvement with a patient.... direct patient care
Erb’s paralysis is a form of paralysis of the arm due to stretching or tearing of the ?bres of the brachial nerve plexus. Such damage to the brachial plexus may occur during birth, especially when the baby is unusually large, and it is found that the arm lies by the side of the body with elbow extended, forearm pronated, and the ?ngers ?exed. The infant is unable to raise the arm.... erb’s paralysis
Linn.
Family: Menispermaceae.
Habitat: The tropical and subtropical parts of India.
English: Velvet-Leaf Pareira, Pareira Brava.
Ayurvedic: Paathaa, Ambashthaa, Varatiktaaa, Vriki, Aviddhakarni, Piluphalaa, Shreyashi.Bigger var., Raaja Paathaa, is equated with Stephania hernandifolia Walp.)
Unani: Paathaa.
Siddha/Tamil: Paadakkizhangu, Appatta.
Action: Root astringent, an- tispasmodic (used for cramps, painful menstruation), analgesic, antipyretic, diuretic, antilithic and emmenagogue. Prescribed for diarrhoea, dysentery, piles, urogenital affections (cystitis, nephritis, menorrhagia) Root paste is applied topically on scabies and eruptions on the body. Also used for preventing miscarriage.
The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia ofIn- dia attributed blood purifying properties to the root and indicated it in lactal disorders.Hayatine (dl-beberine) is the principal alkaloid of the root. Its derivatives, methiodide and methochloride are reported to be potent neuromus- cular-blocking agents.Not to be confused with Abuta grandiflora, a South American medicinal plant.
Dosage: Root—3-6 g powder. (API Vol. I.) the plant hastens fracture-healing by reducing the total convalescent period by 33% in experimental rats and dogs; it aids in recovery of the strength of the bones up to 90% in 6 weeks.
Dosage: Stem—10-20 ml juice. (API Vol. III.)... cissampelos pareira
Macf.
Family: Rutaceae.
Habitat: Khasi Hills, submountain- ous Himalayan ranges in Garhwal, Kumaon in U.P., Maland areas of South, Pachmarhi (Madhya Pradesh), Sikkim and Western Ghats.
English: Citron.
Ayurvedic: Maatulunga, Lunga, Maatulaka, Mahaalunga, Bijpuura, Bijaahva.
Unani: Turanj.
Siddha/Tamil: Kadaranrathai, Naarthankai, Thurinjippazham.
Folk: Bijoraa.
Action: Fruit—antiscorbutic, refrigerant, astringent, carminative, stomachic, antibacterial. Used for dyspepsia, bilious vomiting, cold, fever, hiccough. Root— anthelmintic. Flowers and buds— astringent.
The peel contains coumarins, limet- tin, scoparone, scopoletin and um- belliferon; besides nobiletin, limonin,
Family: Rutaceae.
Habitat: Native to the West Indies. Commercialized in the USA. Cultivated mainly in Punjab.
English: Grapefruit, 'Marsh' Grapefruit.
Folk: Chakotraa. Chima Bombili- maas (Tamil Nadu).
Action: Young leaves—decoction is used to relieve cold or headache. Fruit—used for developing resistance against colds and influenza.
Grapefruit is rich in vitamins, minerals, potassium and pectin, which balance the acid reaction in the stomach and stimulate appetite. Half grapefruit contains vitamin A 318 IU, vitamin C 46.8 mg, niacin 0.2 mg, potassium 158 mg. The fruit contains beta- carotene and cartenoid lycopene. Ly- copene is especially noted for reducing the risk of prostate cancer. The fruit juice contains furanocoumarins, including bergamottin, also naringin, naringenin, limonin, quercetin, kaem- pferol and obacunone.For drug interactions with grapefruit juice, see Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 2007.Grapefruit is not to be confused with grape (Vitis vinifera).... citrus paradisi
Phoenix dactyliferaDescription: The date palm is a tall, unbranched tree with a crown of huge, compound leaves. Its fruit is yellow when ripe.Habitat and Distribution: This tree grows in arid semitropical regions. It is native to North Africa and the Middle East but has been planted in the arid semitropics in other parts of the world.Edible Parts: Its fruit is edible fresh but is very bitter if eaten before it is ripe. You can dry the fruits in the sun and preserve them for a long time.Other Uses: The trunks provide valuable building material in desert regions where few other treelike plants are found. The leaves are durable and you can use them for thatching and as weaving material. The base of the leaves resembles coarse cloth that you can use for scrubbing and cleaning.... date palm
Lust, Luck, Love, Money, Wishes ... grains of paradise
Abnormally rapid and irregular beating of the heart... heart palpitations
See BELL’S PALSY.... idiopathic facial nerve palsy
Love... indian paint brush
An old name for POLIOMYELITIS.... infantile paralysis
Injury as a result of the stretching of a baby’s brachial plexus during its birth may cause partial paralysis of the arm with atrophy of the muscles of the forearm and hand.... klumpke’s paralysis
If you’re a fan of herbal teas, you have to try saw palmetto tea! It’s special, as it is made from the berries of a small palm. Read more about its health benefits and side effects!
About Saw Palmetto Tea
Saw palmetto tea is made from the fruit saw palmetto, also known by its scientific name, Serenoa repens. It is the sole species which remains classified in the genus Serenoa. It is a small palm, native to the southeastern part of the United States.
Its height varies between 2 and 4m. Its leaves are 1-2m long and have a bare petiole, with a rounded fan of about 20 leaflets at the end; the petiole has fine, sharp teeth or spines. The flowers are small, yellowish-white and produced in dense panicles, and the fruit is a large, reddish-black berry.
How to prepare Saw Palmetto Tea
A cup of saw palmetto tea can be prepared with either the plant’s berries, or normal teabags.
In case you’re using saw palmetto berries, add a teaspoon of the fruits to a cup of freshly boiled water. Let it steep for about 5 minutes, before you strain to remove the berries. Sweeten it, if necessary, with honey or fruit juice.
If you’ve got saw palmetto tea bags, follow the instructions on the tea box.
Saw Palmetto Tea Constituents
Saw palmetto tea gets many active constituents from its main ingredient: saw palmetto berries. The constituents of the berries include a high concentration of fatty acids and phytosterols, as well as beta-sitosterol, capric acid, ferulic acid, palmitic acid, and stearic acid.
Saw Palmetto Tea Benefits
Saw palmetto tea is known for its important role in treating urinary tract infections. Drinking this tea helps to gently stimulate urination; thanks to this, the infectious microorganisms are “flushed out” along with the urine.
Drinking saw palmetto tea helps remove toxins and waste products which can affect and reduce the functions of the kidneys, liver, and bladder. It also helps with the digestive system; it is drunk to treat diarrhea, acid reflux, gas, bloating, and irritable bowel syndrome.
Saw palmetto tea also helps calm coughs and treats various forms of chest congestion. It is useful if you’ve got a headache. It can be used to treat benign prostate enlargement and prostatitis, as well.
Saw Palmetto Tea Side Effects
You shouldn’t drink saw palmetto tea if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding. It can act like a hormone, which might lead to problems.
Drinking saw palmetto tea before a surgery is also bad. It might slow down the blood clotting process, which might lead to extra bleeding both during and after the surgery. It is recommended that you stop drinking this tea two weeks before you’ve got a surgery scheduled.
Although rare, the possibility of getting an allergic reaction to saw palmetto tea still exists. Symptoms include rashes, itchiness, difficulty in breathing, and swelling of the mouth, tongue or nose.
Also, be careful with the amount of saw palmetto tea you drink. The recommended amount is 3-4 cups a day. If you drink too much, you might get some of the following symptoms: dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting, constipation, and diarrhea.
Saw palmetto tea can easily be used as a daily hot beverage. You’re bound to enjoy both the taste and its many health benefits.... discover saw palmetto tea!
O?cially known as Zinc and Salicylic Acid Paste, BP, this preparation is an old remedy for eczema (see DERMATITIS).... lassar’s paste
A fee paid by the consumer of health services directly to the provider at the time of delivery.... out-of-pocket payment
(Hindi) One who is pure; chaste Pavna, Paavnah, Pavnah, Paavani, Pavani, Pavany, Pavaney, Pavanie, Pavanee, Pavanea... paavna
(Spanish) A little girl Pabiolla, Pabiolah, Pabiollah, Pabyola, Pabeola, Pabeolla, Pabyolla... pabiola
(Spanish) One who is free... paca
(American) A charismatic young woman Paice, Payce, Paece, Pase, Paise, Payse, Paese... pace
The colloquial term for the multi-tentacled hydrozoan colony Physalia physalis, recentlydescribed on the eastern coast of Australia.... pacific man-o’war
(Spanish) A peaceful woman Pacifika, Pacyfyca, Pacyfyka, Pacifyca, Pacifyka, Pacyfica, Pacyfika... pacifica
Caryota urensDescription: Fishtail palms are large trees, at least 18 meters tall. Their leaves are unlike those of any other palm; the leaflets are irregular and toothed on the upper margins. All other palms have either fan-shaped or featherlike leaves. Its massive flowering shoot is borne at the top of the tree and hangs downward.Habitat and Distribution: The fishtail palm is native to the tropics of India, Assam, and Burma. Several related species also exist in Southeast Asia and the Philippines. These palms are found in open hill country and jungle areas.Edible Parts: The chief food in this palm is the starch stored in large quantities in its trunk. The juice from the fishtail palm is very nourishing and you have to drink it shortly after getting it from the palm flower shoot. Boil the juice down to get a rich sugar syrup. Use the same method as for the sugar palm to get the juice. The palm cabbage may be eaten raw or cooked.... fishtail palm
A homosexual act between an adult man and a boy or young man (see HOMOSEXUALITY).... paederasty
A medical specialist skilled in the care of children’s health and diseases.... paediatrician
(American) A dramatic woman Pagent, Padgeant, Padgent... pageant
(English) A young assistant Page, Payge, Paege... paige
A set of strategies to address an individual’s pain management requirements and supportive of the individual’s pain control.... pain management programme
(English) Woman of the church Paisly, Paisli, Paislie, Paislee, Paysley, Paysly, Paysli, Payslie, Payslee, Pasley, Pasly, Pasli, Paslie, Paslee, Paizley, Payzley, Pazley, Paislea, Paizlea, Paslea, Payslea... paisley
(Finnish) Born during daylight Paeva, Payva... paiva
(African) A catlike woman Pakah, Pakka, Packa, Pacca... paka
(African) A witness of God Pakki, Packi, Pacci, Pakie, Pakkie, Paky, Pakky, Pakey, Pakkey, Pakee, Pakkee, Pakea, Pakkea... paki
(Native American) Resembling a deer running through the hills Pakunah, Pakoona, Packuna, Pacuna, Pakouna, Pacouna... pakuna
(Native American) Resembling a frog Pakwah... pakwa
(Native American) Woman of the water Palah... pala
Nipa fruticansDescription: This palm has a short, mainly underground trunk and very large, erect leaves up to 6 meters tall. The leaves are divided into leaflets. A flowering head forms on a short erect stern that rises among the palm leaves. The fruiting (seed) head is dark brown and may be 30 centimeters in diameter.Habitat and Distribution: This palm is common on muddy shores in coastal regions throughout eastern Asia.Edible Parts: The young flower stalk and the seeds provide a good source of water and food. Cut the flower stalk and collect the juice. The juice is rich in sugar. The seeds are hard but edible.Other Uses: The leaves are excellent as thatch and coarse weaving material.... nipa palm
(Hawaiian) An independent woman Pallani, Palanie, Palany, Palaney, Palanee, Pallanee, Palanea, Pallanea, Pallanie, Pallany, Pallaney... palani
(Spanish) A fair-haired woman... palba
(Spanish) A kindhearted woman Palemond, Palemona, Palemonda... palemon
(Latin) In mythology, goddess of shepherds and flocks Paless, Palesse, Palus, Palles, Pallus... pales
(African) Resembling a flower Palessa, Palesah, Palysa, Palisa, Paleesa... palesa
(Hawaiian) A birdlike woman Palilla, Palilah, Pallila, Pallilla, Palyla, Palylla... palila
(Greek) Full of wisdom and understanding; a maiden; in mythology, a friend of Athena Palla... pallas
(Indian) Resembling new leaves Palavi, Pallavie, Palavie, Pallavy, Palavy, Pallavey, Palavey, Pallavee, Palavee, Pallavea, Palavea... pallavi
Fertility, Potency... palm, date
Sabal palmettoDescription: The palmetto palm is a tall, unbranched tree with persistent leaf bases on most of the trunk. The leaves are large, simple, and palmately lobed. Its fruits are dark blue or black with a hard seed.Habitat and Distribution: The palmetto palm is found throughout the coastal regions of the southeastern United States.Edible Parts: The fruits are edible raw. The hard seeds may be ground into flour. The heart of the palm is a nutritious food source at any time. Cut off the top of the tree to obtain the palm heart.... palmetto palm
Means “stick or wood of (plant name)”; look up the plant name which follows this description of the plant part used for medicine.... palo de
(Spanish) Dovelike Palomah, Palloma, Palomina, Palomyna, Palomeena, Poloma, Palomeana, Palomeina, Palomiena... paloma
(Hebrew) My escape; deliverance Paltie, Palty, Paltee, Paltey, Paltea... palti
(African) In mythology, the mother of the people... pamba
(Native American) Born during the water moon... pamuy
(Native American) Resembling a partridge Panah... pana
(Greek) Feminine form of Panagiotis; a holy woman... panagiota
(English) Resembling the bamboo- eating animal Pandah... panda
(Indian) A good wife Pandarah, Pandarra, Pandaria, Pandarea... pandara
(Greek) In mythology, the personification of brightness Pandiah, Pandea, Pandiya, Pandya, Pandeah, Pandiyah, Pandyah... pandia
Lam.
Synonym: P. tectorius auct. non Soland ex Parkinson. P. odoratissimus Linn. f.
Family: Pandanaceae.
Habitat: Sea coast of the Indian Peninsula on both sides, and the Andaman Islands.
English: Screw Pine.
Ayurvedic: Ketaka, Ketaki, Suuchikaa pushpaa, Jambuka, Trinshunya, Ketakark, Krakchhada.
Unani: Keoraa.
Siddha/Tamil: Thazhai, Thalay.
Action: Flower—carminative, stomachic, cooling, antiseptic. Used for headache, ulcers, dysuria, scabies and other skin diseases. Root— used for osteoarthritis, leucorrhoea and amenorrhoea; contraindicat- ed during pregnancy. Leaves— used for skin diseases, small pox, scabies, leprosy. The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India recommends the decoction of the root in abdominal inflammation. Oil and otto—stimulant, antispasmodic, antirheumatic.
The chief constituent of the oil is methyl ether of beta-phenylethyl alcohol. The oil also contains diterpene, d-linalool, phenylethyl acetate, citral, phenylethyl alcohol, ester of phthalic acid, fatty acids and stearoptene.The leaves contain the piperidine alkaloids.
Dosage: Root—29-30 g for decoction (API, Vol. I); flower linctus—25-30 ml. (CCRAS.).... pandanus facicularis
(Indian) A studious woman Panditah, Pandyta, Pandeta, Pandeyta, Pandeeta, Pandeata... pandita
(Greek) A gifted, talented woman; in mythology, the first mortal woman, who unleashed evil upon the world Pandorah, Pandorra, Pandoria, Pandorea, Pandoriya... pandora
(Chinese) One who is innovative... pang
(Greek) One who is sacred Pangyota, Pangeota... pangiota
A compound flower head that forms a raceme.... panicle
(Hindi) Resembling an emerald Pannah... panna
(Greek) One who is all-knowing Panolah, Panolla, Panollah, Panolia, Panoliah, Panolea, Panoleah, Panoliya, Panoliyah... panola
(Greek) Of the gods and goddesses Pantheah, Panthia, Panthiya, Pantheia, Panthya... panthea
Panic attacks, or panic disorders, are recurrent short episodes of acute distress. Some sufferers may be mentally confused and fear impending death. Initially these attacks tend to occur unexpectedly but, if recurrent, they often become associated with certain places such as a con?ned space (lift) or among crowds. Symptoms include a feeling of breathing diffculties, including overbreathing, PALPITATION, dizziness, sweating, faintness and pains in the chest. Attacks are usually short (a few minutes) but not often associated with physical illness, although victims may have an anxiety disorder or PHOBIA. If troublesome or disabling, attacks can be treated symptomatically with short-term ANXIOLYTICS or on a long-term basis with BEHAVIOUR THERAPY.... panic attacks
(Latin) A woman who is free Pantxikey, Pantxikye, Pantxeke, Pantxyke... pantxike
(Slavic / Latin) An enthroned woman; crowned with laurel / a small child; mousy Panyah, Panyin, Panyen... panya
The hydrochlorides of ALKALOIDS of OPIUM. Papaveretum relaxes smooth MUSCLE and has the pain-relieving and narcotic effects of MORPHINE, but fewer side-effects. It is largely used to prepare patients for ANAESTHESIA.... papaveretum
Carica papayaDescription: The papaya is a small tree 1.8 to 6 meters tall, with a soft, hollow trunk. When cut, the entire plant exudes a milky juice. The trunk is rough and the leaves are crowded at the trunk’s apex. The fruit grows directly from the trunk, among and below the leaves. The fruit is green before ripening. When ripe, it turns yellow or remains greenish with a squashlike appearance.Habitat and Distribution: Papaya is found in rain forests and semievergreen seasonal forests in tropical regions and in some temperate regions as well. Look for it in moist areas near clearings and former habitations. It is also found in open, sunny places in uninhabited jungle areas.Edible Parts: The ripe fruit is high in vitamin C. Eat it raw or cock it like squash. Place green fruit in the sun to make it ripen quickly. Cook the young papaya leaves, flowers, and stems carefully, changing the water as for taro.CAUTIONBe careful not to get the milky sap from the unripe fruit into your eyes. It will cause intense pain and temporary--sometimes even permanent--blindness.Other Uses: Use the milky juice of the unripe fruit to tenderize tough meat. Rub the juice on the meat.... papaya or pawpaw
Small raised bumps or nipples on a tissue surface. Lingual papillae are taste buds.... papillae
These include the human papilloma viruses (HPV), of which nearly a hundred strains have been identi?ed. HPV cause verrucae (see WARTS) on skin and, less often, on the mucous membranes of mouth, larynx, genitalia and the cervix. Some strains may predispose to eventual cancer.... papova viruses
Linn.
Family: Papaveraceae.
Habitat: Kashmir and throughout the plains of North India; cultivated in gardens.
English: Corn Poppy, Red Poppy.
Ayurvedic: Rakta Posta.
Siddha/Tamil: Sivappu, Kasakasa.
Folk: Laal Posta, Laal Kaskas.
Action: Latex from capsules— narcotic. Petal—expectorant, antitussive, sudorific. Used for diseases of the respiratory tract, for disturbed sleep and as a sedative for the relief of pain. (Included among unapproved herbs by German Commission E.)
The petals contain cyanidine derivatives. An alkaloid rhoeadine is present in leaves and flowers (0.031%), unripe capsules (0.035%) and in roots
Family: Papaveraceae.
Habitat: Native to Asia; now grown in Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh.
English: Opium Poppy.
Ayurvedic: Ahiphena, Aaphuuka. Post-daanaa (seed).
Unani: Afyum. Tukhm-e- khashkhaash (seed).
Siddha/Tamil: Kasakasa (seeds).
Action: Opium is obsolete as a drug. Narcotic, sedative, hypnotic, analgesic, sudorific, anodyne, antispasmodic. Crushed poppyheads were in use as a topical poultice for crippling pain in terminal diseases. Poppy seed—nutritive, demulcent, emollient, spasmolytic, devoid of narcotic properties. Specific against obstinate constipation, also used in catarrh of the bladder. Poppy seed oil is also free from narcotic properties. Used against diarrhoea, dysentery and scalds.
Opium contains isoquinoline alkaloids; the major one is morphine with narcotine, codeine, papaverine and thebaine. Poppy seeds, used in Indian medicine, do not contain alkaloids. The seeds contain thiamine 420, riboflavin 49, folic acid 30, pantothenic acid 2667 and niacin 1877 mcg/100 g. The seed oil (from Turkey) contains gamma-tocopherol 220, alpha-toco- pherol 40 and beta-tocopherol 20 mcg/ 100 g. Some low-molecular proteins (15% of total protein) have been isolated, along with cysteine, glutamic acid and arginine. The seeds yield a fatty oil (45%) containing palmitic, stearic, oleic, linoleic and linolenic acids.The extract of seeds showed highly significant antisecretory (antidiarr- hoeal activity) against E. coli entero- toxin-induced secretory responses in experimental animals.The triglycerides isolated from seeds showed anti-tumour activity against Ehrlichs ascites in mice.The aqueous extract of seeds showed marked hypoglycaemic activity when administered to glucose-loaded and al- loxan diabetic rats.The seeds were found to increase the activity of carcinogen detoxifying enzyme, glutathione-S-transferase by more than 78% in the stomach, liver and oesophagus in mice.Following Papaver sp. are found in India:P. argemone Linn. (indigenous to the Mediterranean region; commonly grown in gardens in India) contains 0.15% of alkaloids including rhoeadine, protopine, and anthocyanins. Petals are sudorific.P dubium Linn. (North-western Himalaya form Kashmir to Garhwal; as a winter weed in North Indian plains) contains rhoeagenine as the principal alkaloid, besides rhoeadine, protopine. Petals contain cyanidin B and pelargonidin C. Petals are sudorific.P. hybridum Linn. (gardens of Punjab and Uttar Pradesh) is diaphoretic (petals). Plant latex contains alkaloids including berberine, coptisine, pahybrine, papaverrubines A, B, D and E and sanguinarine. Plant also gave glaucine and glucamine.P. nudicaule Linn. (Gulmarg, Kashmir, at altitudes of 3,300-3,600 m), known as Iceland Poppy, gave alkaloids including papaverrubines B and D; leave gave cyanogenic glycosides including dhurrin and triglochinin. The flower and fruit are mild diaphoretic.P. orientale Linn. (indigenous to Mediterranean region; grown in Indian gardens), known as Oriental Poppy, contains 0.16% of alkaloids including thebaine, isothebane, protopine, glaucidine and oripavine. Latex from poppy capsule is narcotic.... papaver somniferum
One of the early antituberculous (see TUBERCULOSIS) antibiotics. It tended to cause DYSPEPSIA and has been replaced by newer antituberculous drugs with fewer side-effects. The ?rst-line drugs for tuberculosis are now rifampicin, isoniazid, and ethambutol.... para-amino salicylic acid
(Russian) Born on Good Friday Paraha, Parashy, Parashie, Parashi, Parashey, Parashee, Parashea... paraaha
(English) From the perfect place Paradice, Paradyse, Paradyce... paradise
The general name used to designate a series of saturated hydrocarbon compounds derived from petroleum. Liquid para?n is used in the treatment of CONSTIPATION. Externally, the hard and soft para?ns are used in various consistencies, being very useful as OINTMENTS and lubricants.... paraffin
Misplacement of words, or of letters in words, or wrong spelling, or use of wrong words in writing as a result of a lesion in the speech region of the BRAIN.... paragraphia
These are included in the paramyxoviruses (see MYXOVIRUSES) and divided into four types, all of which cause infection of the respiratory system (see RESPIRATION). Infection with type 3 begins in May, reaches a maximum in July or August and returns to base-line level in October. Types 1 and 2 are predominantly winter viruses. Children are commonly affected and the manifestations include CROUP, fever, and a rash.... parainfluenza viruses
See PARKINSONISM.... paralysis agitans
Poisoning by saxitoxin, a toxin present in some shellfish, usually in tropical or subtropical seas. Symptoms of respiratory arrest, or brain involvement occur in some 8% of cases, resulting in death. Saxitoxin is related to tetrodotoxin.... paralytic shellfish poisoning
Statistical techniques designed for use when data have certain characteristics.... parametric statistics
Sited within some of the bones of the SKULL, these are spaces ?lled with air and lined by MUCOUS MEMBRANE. The sinuses comprise frontal and maxillary (a pair of each), ethmoidal (a group of small spaces), and two sphenoid sinuses. They drain into the nasal cavities (see NOSE). When a person has an upper respiratory infection, the sinuses sometimes become infected: this causes pain, purulent discharge from the nose and obstruction of the nasal passages (see SINUSITIS). Generally all that is required is a decongestant and antibiotic but, occasionally, infection may spread to produce a cerebral abscess or cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (see BRAIN, DISEASES OF).... paranasal sinus
(Indian) A woman against whom others are measured... paras
Parasites circulating in the blood stream.... parasitaemia
The number of malaria parasites in a specified volume of blood.... parasite density
A type of association where one organism depends for metabolism on the other.... parasitism
A division of the autonomic (involuntary) nervous system that controls normal digestive, reproductive, cardiopulmonary, and vascular functions and stimulates most secretions. This subsystem works as a direct antagonist to the sympathetic division, and organ functions balance between them.... parasympathetic
An intermediate host which becomes infected by consuming another intermediate host and in which the parasite does not develop any further than in the first intermediate host. Also called a “transport host”.... paratenic host
These are several minute glandular masses embedded in the lower edge of the thyroid gland. They produce Parathyroid Hormone (PTH), part of the calcium-phosphorus control system. Calcium levels in the blood MUST be within a narrow band of safety. If free calcium drops too low, PTH acts on the kidneys and blocks calcium loss in urine, amplifies calcium absorption into the portal blood (from food and from submucosal storage) and stimulates release of calcium from bone storage. When levels are back up, the hormone backs off. Oddly enough, the thyroid gland secretes its virtual antagonist, calcitonin, which, when calcium levels are too high, stimulates the urine excretion, bone retention and digestive resistance to calcium, and when the blood levels drop, recedes. The body finds calcium levels to be so critical that it has in place TWO separate, mutually antagonistic negative feedback systems,,,like a binary star system. (Be thankful I didn’t bring in the calcium maintenance of minerocortical steroid hormones or vasopressin)... parathyroids
Administration, other than orally, of a substance e.g. intramuscular or intravenous.... parental
Numbness, prickly sensations without point specificity, or abnormal hypersensitivities, all local to one part of the body, and without an obvious cause. Your foot falling asleep is paresthetic, but not paresthesia...the cause is you sat funny.... paresthesia
These are cells in a tissue or tissues in an organ that are concerned with function. These are the characteristic cells or tissues that do the actual stuff. The importance to us is that parenchymal tissues expend much vital energy in their functions and are less tolerant of a degraded environment than the structural mesenchyme. A congested and impaired organ like the liver of a heavy drinker has so much regular dysfunction that eventually the more tolerant and metabolically less particular mesenchymal cells become more common, and the distressed, overworked, and metabolically compromised parenchymal cells become a minority. The structural cells can multiply with ease in a poor environment, the more delicate functional cells cannot-and you end up with the type of cirrhosis sometimes termed mesenchymal invasion disease. The point of this is that the sooner you return an organ or tissue back to the healed state, the more likely you are to have a healthy balance between the structural and functional.... parenchymal
Tingling and burning in the skin frequently described as “pins and needles”. It is caused by irritation of cutaneous nerves by a variety of causes including trauma and envenomation.... paresthesiae
(Persian) A fairylike young girl Parie, Pary, Parey, Paree, Parisa, Parihan, Parehan, Paryhan, Parea... pari
(English) Woman of the city in France Pariss, Parisse, Parys, Paryss, Parysse... paris
(Chinese) Of the cypress tree Parke, Parka... park
(English) The keeper of the park... parker
(English) One who negotiates Parly, Parli, Parlie, Parlee, Parleigh, Parlea... parley
(Persian) Daughter born to royalty Parmidah, Parmyda, Parmeda, Parmeeda, Parmita, Parmyta, Parmeta, Parmeeta, Parmeada, Parmeata... parmida
(Hindi) An attractive lady Parmender, Parmynder, Parmindar, Parmendar, Parmyndar... parminder
(Indian) A successful woman Parnikah, Parnikka, Parnicka, Parnyka, Parneka, Parnita, Parneta, Parnyta... parnika
A pair of salivary glands tucked into the notch in front of each ear and emptying through parotid ducts by each upper 2nd molar. Although the fluid has some of the thick viscous lubricant nature of saliva from the glands in the floor of the mouth, the parotids secrete high levels of ptyelin and amylase (starch-digesting enzymes) lysozymes (antimicrobial enzymes) and a group of proteins loosely called parotin that stimulate epithelial and nerve cell growth...a lot more here than just spit.... parotid
The proportion of female mosquitoes that have laid eggs at least once. Use for age-grading a mosquito population.... parous rate
(Latin) Woman of the church Parish, Parrishe, Parishe, Parrysh, Parysh, Paryshe... parrish
(Welsh) Daughter of Harry Parri, Parrie, Parrey, Parree, Parrea... parry
(English) A member of the clergy Parsan, Parsun, Parsin, Parsyn... parson
(Greek) In mythology, a siren... parthenope
A qualitative data collection technique in which the researcher participates in activities in a setting to observe and record (or simply study) actors’ behaviour. Not all participant observation requires the researcher to conceal his/her identity (thus participate as a member of the group).... participant observation
A process in which the researcher facilitates analysis by a range of stakeholder groups of the themes being investigated.... participatory research
Inducing the contractions of labour at childbirth... partiurient
A voluntary agreement between two or more partners to work cooperatively towards a set of shared health outcomes.... partnership for health promotion
(Persian) Resembling a butterfly Parveneh, Parvane, Parvene... parvaneh
(Indian) Born during a full moon Parvanie, Parvany, Parvaney, Parvanee, Parvanea... parvani
(Hindi) Daughter of the mountain; in Hinduism, a name for the wife of Shiva Parvatie, Parvaty, Parvatey, Parvatee, Pauravi, Parvatea, Pauravie, Pauravy, Pauravee, Pauravea... parvati
(from parvus, Latin for small) is a group of viruses responsible for outbreaks of WINTER VOMITING DISEASE. One strain is the cause of ERYTHEMA infectiosum (slapped-cheek syndrome).... parvoviruses
(French) Born on Easter Paschasia, Pasua... pascasia
(African) A spiritual woman Paschell, Paschele, Paschelle, Paschela, Paschella... paschel
(French) A clever woman Pashe, Pasch, Pasche... pash
(Greek) Woman of the sea Pashah, Passha, Passhah... pasha
(Greek) In mythology, the wife of Minos and mother of the Minotaur Pasiphay, Pasiphai... pasiphae
(American) A sensual woman Pashon, Pashun, Pasyun, Passyun... passion
Peace, Sleep, Friendship ... passion flower
Health promotion and disease prevention initiatives which do not require the direct involvement of the individual (e.g. fluoridation programmes) are termed “passive”.... passive intervention
(Spanish) A shepherdess Pastore, Pastoria, Pastorea, Pastoriya... pastora
Money, Fertility, Lust... patchouly
See REFLEX ACTION.... patellar reflex
Also known as jumper’s knee. In?ammation of the tendon of the extensor muscle of the thigh, in which the PATELLA or knee-cap is secured. Usually the result of injury or excessive use or stress – for example, in athletic training – symptoms include pain, tenderness and sometimes restricted movement of the parent muscle. Treatment may include NON-STEROIDAL ANTIINFLAMMATORY DRUGS (NSAIDS), ULTRASOUND treatment and PHYSIOTHERAPY, and, if persistent, injection of a corticosteroid drug (see CORTICOSTEROIDS) around the tendon.... patellar tendinitis
Ability to cause disease.... pathogenicity
Micro-organisms that cause diseases, parasitising plants, animals and humans (see PARASITE). Some organisms are frequently PATHOGENIC, whereas others rarely cause disease. Opportunistic pathogens are those which rarely cause serious infection in healthy people but can do so in patients with weakened immune systems (immunocompromised – see IMMUNITY). Pathogens include BACTERIA, viruses (see VIRUS), prions (see PRION), fungi (see FUNGUS), PROTOZOA and metazoa (multicellular microorganisms called HELMINTHS or worms). The pathogenicity of an organism is called its virulence, which is measured by the number of organisms required to cause disease. The 50 per cent of lethal dose (LD50) is the quantity of a particular pathogen needed to cause infection in half of the hosts invaded.... pathogens
A doctor that specialises in the interpretation of changes in tissues.... pathologist
(African) One who fishes Patie, Paty, Patey, Patee, Patea... pati
Standardized tools to determine patient characteristics and abilities, what assistance they need and how they may be helped to improve or regain abilities. Patient assessment forms are completed using information gathered from medical records, interviews with the patient, other informants (e.g. family members) and direct observation.... patient assessment (resident)
See “care plan”.... patient care planning
See ETHICS.... patient choice
See ETHICS.... patient consent
An approach to care that consciously adopts a patient’s perspective. This perspective can be characterized around dimensions such as respect for patients’ values, preferences and expressed needs; coordination and integration of care; information, communication and education; physical comfort, emotional support and alleviation of fear and anxiety; involvement of family and friends; or transition and continuity.... patient-centred care
A technique whereby a patient can deliver an analgesic substance (see ANALGESICS) in amounts related to the extent of the PAIN that he or she is suffering. For example, to combat post-operative pain, some hospitals use devices which allow patients to give themselves small intravenous amounts of opiates when they are needed. Pain is more e?ectively controlled if it is not allowed to reach a high level, a situation which tends to happen when patients receive analgesics only on ward drug rounds or when they ask the nursing sta? for them.... patient-controlled analgesia
A study, generally undertaken by an individual health programme or health planning agency to determine the geographic distribution of the residences of the patients served by one or more health programmes. Such studies help define catchment and medical trade areas and are useful in locating and planning the development of new services.... patient-origin study
A set of rights, privileges, responsibilities and duties under which individuals seek and receive health care services. As patients’ rights are often not explicit, the composition of the set varies from country to country and over time.... patients’ rights
At a personal level, the engagement of individuals in decisions about their health and about the diagnosis, treatment and after-care of their illness, injuries and other disorders. At a public level, the engagement of all members of the public in the planning, provision and performance of their health-care services. Traditionally, at both personal and public levels, the patient has generally been regarded as naturally subordinate to the politicians and managers who plan and run the health-care system(s), and to health professionals and medical institutions who provide personal health care. The public and patients are increasingly unwilling to accept this traditional model and are asserting themselves, for example through patient help groups, complaints, litigation and local political action with the aim of securing changes in how health care is organised and a much greater say in their own care.... patient empowerment
(American) Born into the nobility Patreena, Patriena, Patreina, Patryna, Patreana... patrina
A test for MONONUCLEOSIS which is based upon the fact that patients with this disease develop ANTIBODIES which agglutinate sheep red blood cells.... paul-bunnell test
(Hindi) Resembling the moon Paushah... pausha
(Indian / Latin) Resembling a fresh breeze / a dancer of the court Pavane, Pavania, Pavana, Pavanea... pavan
(English) From the warrior’s village Paton, Paeton, Paiton, Payten, Paiten... payton
The use of digital imaging systems to replace conventional X-ray pictures and other imaging techniques. Though expensive to operate, digital imaging and storage systems o?er promising possibilities for transmission of clinical images within and between hospitals and community health-care units, providing fast access and remote working that will bene?t patients and health-care sta? alike. When security and con?dentiality are assured, images could be transferred via the Internet and teleradiology. In future, hospitals might be able to eliminate the costly physical transfer and storage of X-ray ?lms. The integration of PACS with hospital information systems in the NHS will (hopefully) facilitate the introduction of electronic radiology.... picture archiving and communications system (pacs)
The term applied to anything happening immediately after childbirth: for example, postpartum haemorrhage. (See also PREGNANCY AND LABOUR.)... post-partum
The atypical mycobacteria. The commonest PPEM to cause human disease is the Mycobacterium avium-intracellulare complex. PPEM differ from M. tuberculosis in their source (environmental or zoonotic), rate of growth, temperature of growth and ability to produce pigment on culture. Mostly infect immunologically compromised humans and the disease caused by some species may be clinicallyindistinguishable from true human tuberculosis.... potentially pathogenic environmental mycobacteria (ppem)
A system whereby reimbursement rates are set for a given period of time prior to the circumstances giving rise to actual reimbursement claims.... prospective payment system
See NAEVUS – Naevus simplex.... salmon patches
Saw palmetto improves the actions of other herbs, particularly those that support the prostate gland (such as sarsaparilla), enabling optimal sexual functioning.... saw palmetto
Another name for writer’s cramp (see MUSCLES, DISORDERS OF).... scrivener’s palsy
See “care package”.... service package
Calamus speciesDescription: The rattan palm is a stout, robust climber. It has hooks on the midrib of its leaves that it uses to remain attached to trees on which it grows. Sometimes, mature stems grow to 90 meters. It has alternate, compound leaves and a whitish flower.Habitat and Distribution: The rattan palm is found from tropical Africa through Asia to the East Indies and Australia. It grows mainly in rain forests.Edible Parts: Rattan palms hold a considerable amount of starch in their young stem tips. You can eat them roasted or raw. In other kinds, a gelatinous pulp, either sweet or sour, surrounds the seeds. You can suck out this pulp. The palm heart is also edible raw or cooked.Other Uses: You can obtain large amounts of potable water by cutting the ends of the long stems (see Chapter 6). The stems can be used to make baskets and fish traps.... rattan palm
Metroxylon saguDescription: These palms are low trees, rarely over 9 meters tall, with a stout, spiny trunk. The outer rind is about 5 centimeters thick and hard as bamboo. The rind encloses a spongy inner pith containing a high proportion of starch. It has typical palmlike leaves clustered at the tip.Habitat and Distribution: Sago palm is found in tropical rain forests. It flourishes in damp lowlands in the Malay Peninsula, New Guinea, Indonesia, the Philippines, and adjacent islands. It is found mainly in swamps and along streams, lakes, and rivers.Edible Parts: These palms, when available, are of great use to the survivor. One trunk, cut just before it flowers, will yield enough sago to feed a person for 1 year. Obtain sago starch from nonflowering palms. To extract the edible sage, cut away the bark lengthwise from one half of the trunk, and pound the soft, whitish inner part (pith) as fine as possible. Knead the pith in water and strain it through a coarse cloth into a container. The fine, white sago will settle in the container. Once the sago settles, it is ready for use. Squeeze off the excess water and let it dry. Cook it as pancakes or oatmeal. Two kilograms of sago is the nutritional equivalent of 1.5 kilograms of rice. The upper part of the trunk’s core does not yield sage, but you can roast it in lumps over a fire. You can also eat the young sago nuts and the growing shoots or palm cabbage.Other Uses: Use the stems of tall sorghums as thatching materials.... sago palm
Spiritual pain is what may be felt when one of a person’s four key spiritual relationships (with other people, with oneself, with the world around, or with ‘Life’ itself) is traumatised or broken. A bad trauma in one of the ?rst three relationships can lead to damage to the last of them – that of the relationship with Life itself. For example, a wife deserted by her husband for another woman may not only feel devastated by the loss of her partner around the place, but may also feel a pain caused by the shattering of her beliefs about life (about faithfulness, hope, love, security, etc.). It is as if there is a picture at the centre of each person of what life should be about – whether or not held in a frame by a belief in God; this picture can be smashed by a particular trauma, so that nothing makes sense any more. The individual cannot get things together; everything loses its meaning. This shattering of someone’s picture of life is the source of the deepest pain in any spiritual trauma. The connection is often made between spiritual pain and meaninglessness. If the shattering of the picture, on the other hand, is done by the individual – for instance, by breaking his or her own moral or religious code – the pain may take the form of guilt and associated feelings. Hence, the therapist will be intent upon helping a client to recognise and come to terms with this ‘pain beneath the pain’.... spiritual pain
Arenga pinnataDescription: This tree grows about 15 meters high and has huge leaves up to 6 meters long. Needlelike structures stick out of the bases of the leaves. Flowers grow below the leaves and form large conspicuous dusters from which the fruits grow.Habitat and Distribution: This palm is native to the East Indies but has been planted in many parts off the tropics. It can be found at the margins of forests.Edible Parts: The chief use of this palm is for sugar. However, its seeds and the tip of its stems are a survival food. Bruise a young flower stalk with a stone or similar object and collect the juice as it comes out. It is an excellent source of sugar. Boil the seeds. Use the tip of the stems as a vegetable.CAUTIONThe flesh covering the seeds may cause dermatitis.Other Uses: The shaggy material at the base of the leaves makes an excellent rope as it is strong and resists decay.... sugar palm
These yellow smooth nodules of LIPID-laden cells occur in and around the eyelids (see EYE). Blood lipids are usually normal, but there is an association with hypercholesterolaemia (see CHOLESTEROL; HYPERLIPIDAEMIA) in a minority of sufferers.... xanthelasma palpebrarum
Chairman, Department of Phyto-therapy, Faculty of Medicine, Bobigny, University of Paris. European authority on use of essential oils (Aromatherapy) in medicine. Commended for his work on Tea Tree oil. ... belaiche, dr paul
Back pain is usually an affection caused by both external and internal problems.
Standing too long, pregnancy, weight lifting or pulmonary problems could cause severe back pains.
Other than a prolonged pain localized in your back area, this affection could also interfere with your coronary and circulatory systems: the blood pressure is high and it’s hard for your heart to pump oxygen in your system.
How a Tea for Back Pain Works
A Tea for Back Pain’s main purpose is to make your body release enough endorphins to induce a state of calmness and well-being to your entire organism.
In order to do that, a Tea for Back Pain must contain an important amount of nutrients, acids, volatile oils, antioxidants, enzymes and minerals (such as sodium, iron, magnesium and manganese).
Efficient Tea for Back Pain
An efficient Tea for Back Pain must show results as quickly as possible and be one hundred percent sure (when choosing an herbal treatment, always be well informed of the risks).
If you don’t know which teas could have a positive effect on your health, here’s a list for guidance:
- Ginger Tea – will bring relief to your pain and improve your general health in no time. You can also take it in case you’re suffering from anemia, asthenia, loss of appetite or headaches.
However, in order to avoid other health complications, make sure you’re using a small amount of herbs when preparing this decoction. Otherwise, you might develop an acid foods and drinks intolerance.
- Turmeric Tea – not very popular among Europeans, this Tea for Back pain acts as a great pain reliever, calming all your affected areas and restoring your general health in no time.
You may also want to try it in case you’re suffering from inflammations, bruises, spreads, skin or digestive issues. Make sure you don’t drink more than 2 cups per day and everything will be fine.
- Valerian Tea – used as a great sedative since ancient times, when the Greeks and the Romans drank a cup of it before every night, this Tea for Back Pain will nourish your nervous system and bring relief to your wounded areas.
However, make sure you pay attention to the amount of tea you’re ingesting in order to avoid hallucinations and even death.
Tea for Back Pain Side Effects
When taken properly, these teas are generally safe. However, exceeding the number of cups recommended per day may lead to a series of affections, such as nausea, upset stomach, vomiting and even death.
If you’ve been taking one of these teas for a while and you’ve noticed some unusual reactions from your body, ask for medical assistance immediately!
If you have the green light from your doctor and there’s nothing that could interfere with your treatment, choose a Tea for Back Pain that fits best your needs and enjoy its health benefits!... tea for back pain
The first medical records of Ancient Egypt containing 876 substances, most of them herbal including Castor oil, Valerian, Dill, Senna leaves; and goat fat as a base for ointments. The papyrus, written about 1500 BC contains prescriptions and formulae covering wide range. Medicines still in use today: Myrrh, Wormwood, Peppermint, Anise, Fennel, Lotus flowers, Linseed, Juniper berries, Gentian, etc. ... ebers papyrus
Menstrual pain is known for its acute and localized action on the abdominal area. However, not all women suffer from this affection.The good thing about menstrual pain, however, is that this is not a chronic disease and that it can go away as quickly as it came to you.
All you have to do is treat it properly and wait for your body to respond. If the pain is very powerful and you need to put a stop to it, you may want to try taking an herbal treatment, in which case Raspberry leaf tea, Corn silk tea and Wild yam tea could be the answer.
How Teas for Menstrual Pain Work
Most of these Teas for Menstrual Pain involve helping your body release the right amount of endorphins in order to fight localized pain. Although menstrual pain is probably the most popular cause of distress for women around the world, alternative medicine found new ways to fight it alongside with traditional medicine.
However, choosing one of these Teas for Menstrual Pain will only make your system healthier, without having to worry for possible side effects. The main characteristic of these Teas for Menstrual Pains is that they have a pleasant taste and fragrance and that they are generally safe, unlike traditional medicines.
A cup of raspberry leaf tea brings relief to your abdominal area, by calming the muscles and increasing the uterus action.
Efficient Teas for Menstrual Pain
If you have a heavy menstrual flow or a severe pain crisis during periods, you may find out that the following Teas for Menstrual Pain could be the right answer to your problems:
- Cramp Bark Tea – thanks to its antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties, Cramp Bark Tea is one of the best Teas for Menstrual Pain there is! Unfortunately, it’s rather inaccessible to the European public.
However, if you find a shop that specializes in Cramp Bark products, hold on to it! Cramp Bark Tea can also be used as a detoxifier and a good face cleanser; when used topically, it may bring relief to your skin sores.
- Raspberry Leaf Tea – this is a tea that may also come in hand in case you want to perform natural cosmetic procedures at home. Just soak a compress in Raspberry Leaf Tea and apply it on your face for 5 minutes to open and clean your pores. However, a cup of Raspberry Tea per day will improve your general health, bringing relief to those of you who are suffering from severe menstrual pain.
- Corn Silk Tea – on this Teas for Menstrual Pain list, Corn silk Tea use needs extra caution. It is true that it can calm your menstrual pain, but you also need to measure the amount of tea you drink in order to avoid other complications: Corn Silk Tea is a very powerful urinary stimulant.
- Wild Yam Tea – one of the most dangerous Teas for Menstrual Pain, Wild Yam Tea can bring relief to all kinds of pain, starting with menstrual pain, stomach pain and ending with migraines and severe headaches. However, don’t take this tea if you have protein S deficiency or a hormone-sensitive condition, such as breast cancer, uterine fibroids or endometriosis.
Teas you should avoid
During menstruation, you may want to avoid all teas based on a high level of acids, such as green or black teas . They will only make your pain insufferable, by increasing your stomach acidity and also your heart beat.
Teas for Menstrual Pain Side Effects
When taken according to specifications, these Teas for Menstrual Pain are rarely dangerous.
However, if you’ve been taking one of them for a while and you’re experiencing some unusual reactions from your body, talk to a doctor as soon as possible. In high dosages, these teas may cause urinary dysfunctions, nausea, headaches and vomiting.
First, make sure you’re not allergic to the tea you’re about to take in order to avoid other health complications. Once you have the green light from your doctor, give these Teas for Menstrual Pain a try and enjoy their wonderful benefits wisely!... teas for menstrual pain
Oil Eucalyptus 1.16 per cent, Oil Peppermint 1.12 per cent, Menthol 0.1 per cent, Oil Juniper berry 0.067 per cent, Oil Wintergreen 0.047 per cent, and Oil Clove 0.0025 per cent. Respiratory obstruction and cough. (Lane’s, UK) ... olbas pastilles
Inca cancer cure. See: LAPACHO TREE. ... pacho tea
Thyme Tea has been used since the old times to cure respiratory problems thanks to a very important volatile oil called thymol that acts as an antiseptic. Thyme is a perennial edible herb with small green leaves and lavender purple flowers.
The best thing about it is that can be harvested all year round, even if in the winter the roots are frozen and dried and you need to pay more attention. Thyme is usually pest free, but if you’re thinking about growing it in your backyard, watch out for greenfly.
Thyme Tea Properties
Thyme Tea is usually added in cures concerning coughs, cold or fever episodes, not to mention its anti-fungal properties. Thanks to this particular quality, Thyme Tea is used to treat athlete’s foot and other skin conditions. The main ingredient of this tea is thymol, which has been discovered recently. However, people used to drink Thyme Tea for ages thanks to its curative properties.
Thyme Tea Benefits
The benefits of Thyme Tea are many, starting with its wonderful help concerning chest and respiratory problems, sore throat or even flatulence. Also, Thyme Tea it’s a great remedy for menstrual pains and premenstrual symptoms as well. The thymol found in this tea is used by the great medical companies to produce mouthwashes to treat gums infections and any other respiratory track inflammation.
Thyme Tea had expectorant properties and it’s prescribed by many doctors as an adjuvant in clearing lung mucus. And let’s not forget the wonderful benefits that Thyme Tea offers when treating some of the digestive track problems such as excessive flatulence, nausea, indigestion, colic and loss of appetite. Aside from that, you can apply Thyme leaves on your cuts and opened wounds in order to disinfect and calm the affected area.
How to make Thyme Tea
Preparing Thyme Tea is easy. If you want to make 2 cups of tea, you need 2 cups of boiling water and 2 teaspoons of Thyme leaves. First, finely chop the herbs and pour the boiling water over it. Let it steep for about 10 or 15 minutes, depending on how concentrated you want it to be. You can drink it hot or keep it in your refrigerator and drink it cold whenever you want. However, don’t let the herbs boil too much: boiled plants lose their curative properties and you’ll not be able to try Thyme Tea’s wonderful benefits.
Thyme Tea Side Effects
According to many herbalists, drinking too much Thyme Tea can cause allergic reactions in your body or even increase its toxicity level. Also, if you are allergic to rosemary, basil, catmint, hyssop, oregano and celery, you’ll also be allergic to this tea. The best thing you can do is talk to your doctor before starting a treatment based on Thyme Tea. If you don’t know which aliments and teas cause you allergic reactions, see a specialist before taking any type of herbal treatment.
Thyme Tea Contraindications
Do not take Thyme Tea if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Also, if you are experiencing vomiting episodes, it is best to talk to your doctor before making any move. Since Thyme Tea causes a highly expectorant reaction, it is indicated to drink a small quantity of it in order to avoid ulcers and other gastric problems. Drinking Thyme Tea usually causes no problem if you don’t drink more than 2 cups per day.
So, if you have a sore throat and you are willing to try a natural remedy, Thyme Tea can be the right answer. Just pay attention to our indications and enjoy the wonderful benefits of this tea!... thyme tea treats menstrual pains
Herbs taken orally for relief of mild pain. May also be applied externally. An analgesic may also be an antispasmodic, relieving cramp (Cramp bark etc.). Throughout history, Opium Poppy has always been the most effective analgesic, but must be given by a qualified medical practitioner except applied externally as a poultice. The same rule may apply to Aconite, Arnica and Belladonna.
Mild analgesics:– Black Cohosh, Black Willow, Catnep, Chamomile, Cowslip root (Bio-Strath), Cramp bark, Devil’s Claw, Gelsemium, Guaiacum, Hops, Jamaican Dogwood, Ladyslipper, Lobelia, Passion flower, Rosemary, Skullcap, St John’s Wort, Skunk Cabbage, Valerian, White Willow bark, Wild Lettuce, Wild Yam, Wintergreen, Yerbe Mate tea, Poke root, White Poplar.
Skullcap, Mistletoe, Valerian and Feverfew are herbs of choice. All four are believed to have an anti- prostaglandin effect, the first three given in combination; the latter (Feverfew) appearing to work best singly. ... analgesics - pain-relievers - anodynes
Cancer of the mammary ducts (rare). Nipple: encrusted, red, inflamed. See: CANCER OF THE BREAST. ... paget’s disease of the nipple
See: ANALGESICS. ... pain-relievers
See: CASTOR OIL. ... palma christi
An agent to influence activity of the pancreas. Barberry, Goat’s Rue, Mountain Grape, Karela, Fringe Tree. All bitters have a toning effect on the pancreas. ... pancreatant
Wood Betony Tea has been known since ancient time as an herb able to cure almost any affection (cure-all), from gastric aliments to nervous system deviations. Wood Betony is a perennial herb that grows mainly in areas like Eastern Europe, Asia and Africa.
You can recognize it by its oval toothed-like green leaves and bright purple flowers. Also known as stachys officinalis, this herb never grows taller than 70 cm and it can be harvested for medical purposes only during the summer. In ancient times, people believed that wood betony had magical powers and that a ritual made using it could fulfill wishes.
Wood Betony Tea Properties
Scientific research showed that Wood Betony Tea is a good remedy not only when it comes to external and internal use, but also as a stress releaser and a great purifier. Its main ingredients include betaine, caffeic acid, chlorogenic acid, harpagide, rosmarinic acid, stachydrine and tannin, which, through their simultaneous action, can heal a large variety of diseases and aliments.
Wood Betony Tea Benefits
Wood Betony Tea shows its benefits in many areas of the alternative medicine. Not only that is a very good adjuvant in case you want to maintain a good general health, but it also triggers positive reactions from your body in cases of chronic and serious diseases. You may find Wood Betony Tea useful if you suffer from one of the following conditions:
- Sore throat, due to flu or long term smoking. Wood Betony tea can clear your respiratory system and also give you a boost of energy.
- Headaches or severe migraines, thanks to its wonderful ingredients that prevent inflammations and treat localized pain.
- Anxiety, by calming the nerves and increasing the natural endorphins level.
- Elevated blood pressure, elevated cholesterol and elevated blood flow. Wood Betony Tea can ease your natural reactions down by inhibiting negative reactions from your heart and brain.
- Severe diarrhea and other problems of the digestive track, by fighting bacteria and all possible microbial accumulations.
How to make Wood Betony Tea Infusion
When preparing Wood Betony Tea infusion, you need freshly picked or dried herbs that you can buy from almost any teashop. Use about 1 teaspoon of herbs for every cup of tea you want to make, add boiling water and wait for 10 minutes. Strain and drink it hot or cold, keeping in mind the fact that this is a medical treatment and cannot replace your coffee habit.
Wood Betony Tea Side Effects
When taken properly, Wood Betony Tea has no side effects at all. However, high dosages may lead to a series of health problems, such as ulcers, gastritis and nausea. If you’ve been taking Wood Betony Tea for a while and you’re experiencing some unusual reactions, ask for medical help as soon as possible!
Wood Betony Tea Contraindications
Don’t take Wood Betony Tea if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding. It may lead to uterine contractions and internal bleeding. Also, avoid any treatment based on Wood Betony Tea if you’re preparing for a surgery or need to take blood thinners or anti-coagulant. Children under 2 years should not take this tea since the risks in this case remain unknown.
However, if you have your doctor’s approval and you feel confident enough to give it a try, add it to your shopping cart next time you’re in a teashop and enjoy the wonderful benefits of this tea responsibly!... wood betony tea panacea
A form of enteric fever caused by bacteria of the Salmonella group. A notifiable disease. Treatment the same as for TYPHOID FEVER. ... paratyphoid
1567-1650. Apothecary to two kings; first James I. When Charles I came to the throne he was named Botanicus Regis Primarius. Books: Paradise in Sole Paradisus Terristris (1629). It was a pun on his name: Park-in-suns Earthly Paradise, and referred to as a ‘speaking garden’. Theatre of Plants (1640). Describes 3,800 plants. A herbal in every sense of the word; most comprehensive in the English language. ... parkinson, john
Adeno-carcinoma. Cause: often related to chronic pancreatitis, alcoholism. Beer drinkers, more than 7 pints a week, run a three times greater risk of the disease than one in a 100 threat to the rest of the population. (Imperial Cancer Research Report, April, 1989) Diabetes. A study carried out at Harvard School of Public Health found strong evidence in favour of the excessive consumption of coffee. Seventh Day Adventists and Mormons, who abstain from coffee, have much lower rates than the average. Relative risk was 1-8 with up to two cups a day and 2.7 with three or more. (New England Journal of Medicine, 1981, March 12, Vol 304, No 11, p630)
Symptoms. Weight loss. Pain upper abdomen. Change of bowel habit. Phlebitis. Low blood sugar. Sugar in the urine. Jaundice when head of the pancreas is involved. As little benefit is said to be gained from chemotherapy or radiotherapy, and because a majority of these tumours are unresectable, there would appear to be good grounds for herbal medicine, either as primary or supportive treatment.
Of possible therapeutic value for relief of accompanying gastric and pressure symptoms only: Sarsaparilla, Liquorice, Dandelion, Peppermint, Fennel, German Chamomile.
Tea. Barberry bark. 1 teaspoon to each cup of cold water. Steep overnight. Dose: half-1 cup 3 or more times daily.
Formula. Equal parts: Barberry bark, Dandelion, Galangal. Dose: Powders: 500mg (two 00 capsules or one-third teaspoon). Liquid extracts: 1 teaspoon (5ml). Tinctures: 2 teaspoons. Thrice daily to commence: after fourteen days increase as tolerated.
Primrose oil. High doses GLA believed to improve immune system and prevent weight loss.
Macrobiotic diet. A retired English doctor had cancer of the pancreas, inoperable, the size of a cricket ball, for which conventional treatment could do nothing. Regression being almost impossible, he would die within a few months. In the meantime he was advised to try the Macrobiotic diet comprising wholefoods, compost grown vegetables, vegetable oils and natural drinks such as carrot juice and herbal teas. He and his wife, living in Italy, carefully followed the diet, drank water only from a local spring and ate vegetables organically grown on their own land. The tumour diminished in size and the doctor recovered.
Note: Cessation of cigarette smoking will result in a decreased incidence of the disease in the male adult population. (American Journal of Public Health 1989 79 1016)
A substance found in fish oil has been shown experimentally to prevent cancer of the pancreas. Mackerel, herring and sardines are among fish with the ingredient.
Treatment by oncologist or general practitioner. ... cancer – pancreas
Paeonia lactiflora, Paeonia suffruticosa. German: Paeonie. French: Pivoine. Italian: Peonia. Iranian: Fawania Aod-el-Salib. Indian: Ud salap. Chinese: Bai shae Yae. Parts used: root and root bark.
Constituents. Alkaloids, benzoic acid, asparagin, volatile oil.
Action: antispasmodic, sedative, diuretic, emmenagogue. CNS relaxant, antibacterial, hypotensive, anti- inflammatory, analgesic, liver protector, stimulant to circulatory vessels.
Uses: Old English traditional: epilepsy, chorea. Painful spasm induced by gall or renal stone, whooping cough, children’s convulsions, anal fissure, piles, ulceration of the perineum or coccyx (suppositories, or bathing with strong infusion).
Preparations: Strong infusion: 2oz bruised leaves to 1 pint boiling water; infuse 15 minutes. External use only.
Tincture of the fresh root gathered in spring. 2oz bruised root in 1 pint 45 per cent alcohol. Macerate 8 days, shake daily; filter. Bottle in stoppered amber-coloured bottle. Dose, 10-20 drops thrice daily for the above conditions or when epileptic attack is suspected.
Contra-indications: large doses toxic. For use by medical practitioner only. ... paeony
Chronic inability to resist impulses to gamble, resulting in personal or social problems.... gambling, pathological
The means of applying ice to the skin (in a towel or other material) in order to relieve pain, stem bleeding, or reduce inflammation. Cold causes the blood vessels to contract, reducing blood flow. Ice-packs are used to relieve pain in a variety of disorders, including severe headache. They are used on sports injuries to minimize swelling and bruising, and they also help to stop bleeding from small vessels, as in a nosebleed. ... ice-packs
1490-1541. Theophrastus Bombastus Hohenheim. Physician and alchemist. Owed his early education to his father, a physician. Learned the practice of medicine from many sources but lost faith in the orthodox profession of his day. Supported the Doctrine of Signatures, which is really a doctrine of analogies that suggest every herb reveals by its shape, colour and scent the disease it can cure. See: DOCTRINE OF SIGNATURES. The first to introduce into pharmacy the minerals antimony, mercury and sulphur, now known to be inimical to health and which have led the practice of medicine further away from the pure Hippocratic concept. He taught that diseases were specific entities and should be cured by specific remedies. ... paracelsus
A failure, usually temporary, of the normal contractility of the muscles of the intestine. Paralytic ileus commonly follows abdominal surgery and may also be induced by severe abdominal injury, peritonitis, internal bleeding, acute pancreatitis, or interference with the blood or nerve supply to the intestine. Symptoms include a swollen abdomen, vomiting, and failure to pass faeces. The condition is treated by resting the intestine. A tube passed through the nose or mouth into the stomach or intestine removes accumulated fluids and keeps the stomach empty. Body fluid levels are maintained by intravenous infusion (drip).... ileus, paralytic
See temporomandibular joint syndrome.... myofascial pain syndrome
(PD). Paralysis agitans. First described by James Parkinson, 1817. His description is as apt today as when it appeared in his book “Essay on the Shaking Palsy”. He wrote: “It is characterised by involuntary tremulous motion, with lessened muscular power in parts not in action and even when supported. There is a tendency to bend the trunk forward and to pass from a walking to a running pace. The senses and intellect are uninjured.”
Added to the above are:– muscular rigidity, loss of reflexes, drooling – escape of saliva from the mouth. Muscles of the face are stiff giving a fixed expression, the back presents a bowed posture. The skin is excessively greasy and the patient is unable to express emotional feelings. Loss of blinking. Pin- rolling movement of thumb and forefinger.
Causes: degeneration of groups of nerve cells deep within the brain which causes a lack of neurotransmitting chemical, dopamine. Chemicals such as sulphur used by agriculture, drugs and the food industry are suspected. Researchers have found an increase in the disease in patients born during influenza pandemics.
Treatment. While cure is not possible, a patient may be better able to combat the condition with the help of agents that strengthen the brain and nervous system.
Tea. Equal parts: Valerian, Passion flower, Mistletoe. 1 heaped teaspoon to each cup water; bring to boil; simmer 1 minute; dose: half-1 cup 2-3 times daily.
Gotu Kola tea. (CNS stimulant).
Tablets/capsules. Black Cohosh, Cramp bark, Ginseng, Prickly Ash, Valerian.
Formula. Ginkgo 2; Black Cohosh 1; Motherwort 2; Ginger 1. Mix. Dose. Powders: 500mg (two 00 capsules or one-third teaspoon). Liquid extracts: 1 teaspoon. Tinctures: 1-3 teaspoons in water or honey. Fava Bean Tea.
Case report. Two patients unresponsive to Levodopa treatment reported improvement following meals of fresh broad beans. (Vicia faba) The beans contain levodopa in large amounts. (Parkinson Disease Update Vol 8, No 66, p186, Medical Publications, PO Box 24622-H, Philadelphia, USA) See also: BROAD BEANS. L-DOPA.
Nacuna Pruriens. Appropriate. Essential active constituent: L-dopa. (Medicinal plants and Traditional Medicine in Africa, by Abayomi Sofowora, Pub: John Wiley)
Practitioner. To reduce tremor: Tincture Hyoscyamus BP. To reduce spasm: Tincture Belladonna BP. To arrest drooling: Tincture Stramonium BP.
Diet. It is known that people who work in manganese factories in Chile may develop Parkinson’s disease after the age of 30. Progress of the disease is arrested on leaving the factory. Two items of diet highest in manganese are wheat and liver which should be avoided, carbohydrates in place of wheat taking the form of rice and potatoes.
Supplements. Daily: B-complex, B2, B6, niacin. C 200mg to reduce side-effects of Levodopa. Vitamin E 400iu to possibly reduce rigidity, tremors and loss of balance.
Treatment of severe nerve conditions should be supervised by neurologists and practitioners whose training prepares them to recognise serious illness and to integrate herbal and supplementary intervention safely into the treatment plan.
Antioxidants. Evidence has been advanced showing how nutritional antioxidants, high doses of Vitamin C and E, can retard onset of the disease, delaying the use of Levodopa for an average of 2 and a half years. (Fahn S., High Dose Alpha-tocopherol and ascorbate in Early Parkinson’s Disease – Annals of Neurology, 32-S pp128-132 1992)
For support and advice: The Parkinson’s Disease Society, 22 Upper Woburn Place, London WC1H 0RA, UK. Send SAE. ... parkinson’s disease
See analgesic drugs.... painkillers
Treatment that relieves the symptoms of a disorder but does not cure it.... palliative treatment
Imaging of the pancreas or its ducts using CT scanning, MRI, ultrasound scanning, X-rays (following injection of a radiopaque contrast medium into the pancreatic ducts during exploratory surgery), or with ERCP.... pancreatography
Prefixes that may mean beside or beyond, closely resembling or related to, or faulty or abnormal.... par-/para-
The active ingredient of many sunscreen preparations. Its abbreviation is.... para-aminobenzoic acid
A tumour-like swelling under the skin caused by prolonged exposure to paraffin. Paraffinomas may form in the lungs if paraffin is inhaled.... paraffinoma
A rare, inherited condition that affects young people. Periodic paralysis is characterized by episodes of muscle weakness, which vary in frequency from daily to every few years and last from a few minutes to a few hours. In some cases, there is a drop in the potassium levels in the blood; in others, the levels rise. A carbohydraterich meal may trigger an attack. The condition often clears up without treatment by age 40.... paralysis, periodic
A term for any health-care worker other than a doctor, nurse, or dentist. The term usually refers to ambulance staff who attend accidents or medical emergencies.... paramedic
Inflammation of the parotid glands, often due to infection with the mumps virus.... parotitis
The common name for psittacosis.... parrot fever
Involuntary inhalation of tobacco smoke by people who do not smoke. Passive smoking has been shown to increase the risks of chest and ear infections in children and of tobaccoinduced cancers in adults.... passive smoking
Also called cytopathology, the branch of cytology concerned with the effects of disease on cells.... pathology, cellular
Another name for clinical biochemistry, the study of abnormalities in the chemistry of body tissues in disease.... pathology, chemical
The study of the effects of disease on body functions.... pathophysiology
See abdominal pain.... pelvic pain
See dysmenorrhoea.... period pain
Pain in the central region of the chest, behind the sternum. Causes include irritation of the oesophagus, angina pectoris, or myocardial infarction. (See also chest pain.)... retrosternal pain
Loss of vision short of total blindness. Partial sight may involve loss of visual acuity and/or visual field.... sight, partial
See transdermal patch.... skin patch
Pain in a testis may be caused by mild injury, a tear in the wall of the testis due to a direct blow, orchitis, epididymo-orchitis, and torsion of the testis (see testis, torsion of). Sometimes, no cause is found and the pain disappears without treatment. If the wall of the testis is torn, an operation to repair it may be needed. ... testis, pain in the
A method of administering a drug through the skin. The drug is released from the patch over a period of time and is absorbed by the skin.... transdermal patch
an extra electrical conduction pathway between the atria and ventricles, anatomically separate from the *atrioventricular node, that predisposes to *re-entry tachycardia. The pathway conducts faster than the atrioventricular node, giving rise to pre-excitation recognized by a characteristic delta wave at the beginning of the QRS complex on the electrocardiogram in normal rhythm. The presence of this pathway, with the occurrence of intermittent tachycardias, is known as the *Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome.... accessory pathway
adj. the ethical distinction between actively doing something to a patient and simply allowing it to happen or failing to act (the acts and omissions doctrine). For instance, doctors should act to save life if possible, but when death is inevitable it is permissible to let it happen, although the prohibition against killing would not allow active intervention. See also dying.... active/passive
termination of a *tachycardia by temporarily pacing the heart at a faster rate.... antitachycardia pacing
see persistent idiopathic facial pain.... atypical facial pain
the linking of the two strands of a DNA molecule by means of hydrogen bonds between the bases of the nucleotides. Adenine always pairs with thymine and cytosine with guanine. See DNA.... base pairing
(BPPV) a common cause of vertigo in which the patient complains of brief episodes of rotatory vertigo precipitated by sudden head movements. It is thought to be due to microscopic debris derived from the *otoliths of the utricle and displaced into one of the semicircular canals, most commonly the posterior semicircular canal. The debris is most commonly thought to be free in the canal (canalithiasis; see canalith) but can be attached to the *cupula (cupulolithiasis; see cupulolith). Diagnosis is by performing a *Dix–Hallpike test. Treatment is with a predetermined set of head movements to move the debris from the semicircular canal (see Epley particle repositioning manoeuvre; Semont liberatory manoeuvre; Brandt-Daroff exercises). Surgery is occasionally used to occlude the relevant semicircular canal, cut the *singular nerve or vestibular nerves, or perform a *labyrinthectomy. Drugs are generally ineffective in the treatment of this condition.... benign paroxysmal positional vertigo
(in Britain) an incomplete list of persons who are technically blind or partially sighted due to reduced visual acuity, or who have severely restricted fields of vision (see blindness). Registration is voluntary, but it is a precondition for the receipt of some financial benefits. The list is maintained by local authorities (England and Wales), regional or island councils (in Scotland), or the Health and Social Care Board (Northern Ireland).... blind and partially sighted register
in the USA, very low-income patients who receive health care free or at reduced prices; criteria for eligibility differ from state to state, hospital to hospital, and physician to physician. Providers of charity care may be reimbursed through *Medicaid, *Medicare, or other government programmes. So-called medically indigent patients may also be eligible for help. These are patients who earn too much to qualify for charity care but not enough to afford health insurance, and who may incur medical bills that are far beyond their means. The *Affordable Care Act 2010 was intended largely to help those in this position.... charity patients
see persistent idiopathic facial pain.... chronic idiopathic facial pain
(CPP) intermittent or constant pain in the lower abdomen or pelvis of at least six months’ duration, not occurring exclusively with menstruation or intercourse and not associated with pregnancy. It may be caused by an underlying gynaecological condition, such as *endometriosis or adhesions, but bowel or bladder disorders (e.g. irritable bowel syndrome, interstitial cystitis), visceral hypersensitivity, and psychological conditions may all contribute.... chronic pelvic pain
see epilepsy.... complex partial seizure
the route that a patient takes through the health-care system, from first admission to a hospital or treatment centre to final discharge. This may consist of one or more *spells in particular hospitals and one or more *finished consultant episodes. For example, a patient admitted to a district general hospital, transferred to a tertiary hospital for a specialist procedure, and then transferred back to the district general hospital for recovery would experience one continuous patient pathway but three spells.... continuous patient pathway
(CRPS, reflex sympathetic dystrophy, RSD, Sudek’s atrophy) neurological dysfunction in a limb following trauma, surgery, or disease, characterized by intense burning pain, swelling, stiffness, and sweaty shiny mottled skin. It is caused by overactivity of the sympathetic nervous system. The *ESR is often elevated, X-rays may reveal some patchy osteoporosis, and a bone scan usually demonstrates increased blood flow. Early treatment with splinting and physiotherapy are essential, in combination with *sympatholytic drugs, corticosteroids, and regional sympathetic blocks; *sympathectomy may be required in chronic cases.... complex regional pain syndrome
see coupling agents.... defibrillation gel pads
see delusional infestation.... delusional parasitosis
(DPT) a special form of tomogram (see tomography) that provides a picture of all the teeth of both jaws on one film. Newer equipment can produce three-dimensional images of part of the jaw.... dental pantomogram
see pamidronate.... disodium pamidronate
a series of head and body movements used to move microscopic debris from the posterior *semicircular canal in the inner ear. It is used in the treatment of *benign paroxysmal positional vertigo.... epley particle repositioning manoeuvre
paralysis of the facial nerve, causing weakness and loss of function of the muscles it serves. It occurs in *Bell’s palsy. The commonest cause is infection with the herpes simplex virus.... facial paralysis
see elastase.... faecal pancreatic elastase
a twin fetus that has died in the uterus and become flattened and mummified.... fetus papyraceous
a process in which a drug administered by mouth is absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and transported via the portal vein to the liver, where it is metabolized. As a result, in some cases only a small proportion of the active drug reaches the systemic circulation and its intended target tissue. First-pass metabolism can be bypassed by giving the drug via sublingual or buccal routes.... first-pass metabolism
a piece of equipment used instead of a conventional X-ray film to acquire the image in *digital radiography.... flat-panel detector
a reflex action of the body that develops by five to six months and never disappears. If the body is held by the waist face down and lowered, the arms and legs extend automatically.... forward parachute reflex
see dermatomyositis.... gottron’s papules
a projection of the dermis that is surrounded by the base of the hair bulb. It contains the capillaries that supply blood to the growing *hair.... hair papilla
n. a patient who is admitted to a bed in a hospital ward and remains there for a period of time for treatment, examination, or observation. Compare out-patient.... in-patient
a multidisciplinary plan for delivering health and social care to patients with a specific condition or set of symptoms. Such plans are often used for the management of common conditions and are intended to improve patient care by reducing unnecessary deviation from best practice. See clinical governance.... integrated care pathway
see parapharyngeal space.... lateral parapharyngeal space
see case control study.... matched pair study
see charity patients.... medically indigent patients
(NPSA) formerly, a special health authority that led and coordinated work to improve all aspects of patient safety in England. The NPSA comprised three divisions: the National Reporting and Learning Service, the National Research Ethics Service, and the National Clinical Assessment Service. It closed in 2012, with its key functions transferred to *NHS England. In 2016 the same functions were transferred from NHS England to the newly formed *NHS Improvement.... national patient safety agency
n. a patient who receives treatment at a hospital, either at a single attendance or at a series of attendances, but is not admitted to a bed in a hospital ward. Large hospitals have *clinics at which out-patients with various complaints can be given specialist treatment. Compare in-patient.... out-patient
see arachnoid villus. [A. Pacchioni (1665–1726), Italian anatomist]... pacchionian body
combining form denoting 1. thickening of a part or parts. 2. the dura mater.... pachy
n. abnormal enlargement of the fingers and toes, occurring either as a congenital abnormality or as part of an acquired disease (such as *acromegaly).... pachydactyly
n. abnormal thickness of the tongue.... pachyglossia
n. inflammation of the dura mater, one of the membranes (meninges) covering the brain and spinal cord (see meningitis).... pachymeningitis
n. the *dura mater, outermost of the three meninges.... pachymeninx
n. an instrument used to measure the thickness of the cornea. —pachymetry n.... pachymeter
a rare genetically determined skin disorder (see genodermatosis) characterized by thickening of the nails together with other ectodermal abnormalities.... pachyonychia congenita
n. thickening of parts of the body, which occurs in certain diseases.... pachysomia
n. the third stage of the first prophase of *meiosis, in which *crossing over begins.... pachytene
n. a pad of folded moistened material, such as cotton-wool, applied to the body or inserted into a cavity.... pack
a three-question tool designed to uncover any connection between an individual’s attendance at an A & E department and alcohol-related problems, thereby creating the potential for intervention and referral.... paddington alcohol test
(paedo-) combining form denoting children.... paed
a clinic that specializes in the management and relief of pain. Pain clinics are usually directed by anaesthetists.... pain clinic
see Gardner–Diamond syndrome.... painful bruising syndrome
n. (in pharmacy) a liquid preparation that is applied to the skin or mucous membranes. Paints usually contain antiseptics, astringents, caustics, or analgesics.... paint
combining form denoting 1. ancient. 2. primitive.... palaeo
n. the anterior lobe of the cerebellum. In evolutionary terms it is one of the earliest parts of the hindbrain to develop in mammals.... palaeocerebellum
n. the study of the diseases of humans and other animals in prehistoric times, from examination of their bones or other remains. By examining the bones of specimens of Neanderthal man it has been discovered that spinal arthritis was a disease that existed at least 50,000 years ago.... palaeopathology
n. see pallidum.... palaeostriatum
n. the anterior and central part of the *thalamus, older in evolutionary terms than the lateral part, the neothalamus, which is well developed in apes and humans.... palaeothalamus
rhythmical contraction of the palatal muscles. There are two forms, ordinary and essential. Ordinary palatal myoclonus is idiopathic and can result in *pulsatile tinnitus. Essential palatal myoclonus has no link to pulsatile tinnitus but may be associated with lesions of the brainstem.... palatal myoclonus
either of a pair of approximately L-shaped bones of the face that contribute to the hard *palate, the nasal cavity, and the orbits. See skull.... palatine bone
combining form denoting 1. the palate. 2. the palatine bone.... palato
n. surgery to alter the shape or physical characteristics of the palate. This can be plastic surgery of the roof of the mouth, usually to correct cleft palate or other defects present at birth. Other palatoplasty operations are carried out under local or general anaesthesia to shorten and/or stiffen the palate in the treatment of snoring or obstructive sleep apnoea. They may use conventional surgical techniques (*uvulopalatopharyngoplasty), laser (*laser-assisted uvulopalatoplasty), insertion of stiffening materials, or injection of sclerosants. It is also possible to use radiofrequency energy in a process called radiofrequency palatal myoplasty (RPM), also known as somnoplasty.... palatoplasty
n. see staphylorrhaphy.... palatorrhaphy
(palin-) combining form denoting repetition or recurrence.... pali
n. repetition of phrases while speaking: a form of *stammering or a kind of *tic.... paliphrasia
(palaeostriatum) n. one of the dense collections of grey matter, deep in each cerebral hemisphere, that go to make up the *basal ganglia.... pallidum
n. the outer wall of the cerebral hemisphere as it appears in the early stages of evolution of the mammalian brain. In the modern brain it corresponds to the *cerebral cortex.... pallium
reddening of the palms. This may be a variant of normal or a feature of pregnancy. It is also associated with chronic liver disease, connective tissue disease (such as rheumatoid arthritis), endocrine disorders (such as diabetes mellitus and thyrotoxicosis), certain infections, drugs, and smoking. There is no specific management for this condition.... palmar erythema
an entry site for minimal-access surgery (see laparoscopy), especially when there is an increased risk from previous abdominal surgery. It is located in the left upper quadrant (see abdomen), 3 cm below the middle of the left costal margin. See Veress needle.... palmer’s point
see fatty acid.... palmitic acid
(hand–foot syndrome) a skin reaction marked by redness, numbness, and desquamation of the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. It can be caused by many chemotherapy drugs, particularly fluorouracil and capecitabine, and tyrosine kinase inhibitors. Treatment requires cessation of the drug.... palmoplantar erythrodysaesthesia
see Patient Advice and Liaison Service.... pals
n. see malaria.... paludism
a *bisphosphonate drug used to treat malignant *hypercalcaemia, breast cancer that has spread to the bones, and Paget’s disease. Side-effects include flulike symptoms, nausea, and vomiting.... pamidronate disodium
pain and paralysis involving the lower branches of the brachial plexus due to infiltration by a malignant tumour of the apical region of the lung. *Horner’s syndrome may also be present. [H. K. Pancoast (1875–1939), US radiologist]... pancoast syndrome
a congenital abnormality in which the pancreas develops in two parts draining separately into the duodenum, the small ventral pancreas through the main ampulla and the larger dorsal pancreas through an accessory papilla. In rare instances this is associated with recurrent abdominal pain, probably due to inadequate drainage of the dorsal pancreas. Diagnosis is made by CT imaging, magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP), or *ERCP.... pancreas divisum
(PERT) a therapeutic approach using supplements of the digestive enzymes lipase, amylase, and protease (Creon, Pancrex), which are given when there is insufficient endogenous production of pancreatic enzymes: for example, to patients with pancreatic cancer or cystic fibrosis. The capsules must be taken with all meals and snacks to be effective. PERT treats the symptoms of *steatorrhoea.... pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy
the digestive juice secreted by the *pancreas. Its production is stimulated by hormones secreted by the duodenum, which in turn is stimulated by contact with food from the stomach. If the duodenum produces the hormone *secretin the pancreatic juice contains a large amount of sodium bicarbonate, which neutralizes the acidity of the stomach contents. Another hormone (see cholecystokinin) stimulates the production of a juice rich in digestive enzymes, including trypsinogen and chymotrypsinogen (which are converted to *trypsin and *chymotrypsin in the duodenum), *amylase, *lipase, and *maltase.... pancreatic juice
a hormone released from the D cells of the *islets of Langerhans of the pancreas in response to protein in the small intestine. Its actions are to inhibit pancreatic bicarbonate and protein enzyme secretion and to relax the gall bladder. It belongs to a family of similar hormones that have actions on appetite and food metabolism.... pancreatic polypeptide
n. a radiographic image of the pancreatic ducts obtained by injecting contrast material into them by direct puncture under ultrasound guidance. It has largely been replaced by noninvasive techniques involving MRCP (see cholangiography).... pancreatogram
n. surgical incision of the pancreatic duct to inspect the duct, to join the duct to the intestine, or to inject contrast material in order to obtain X-ray pictures of the duct system.... pancreatotomy
n. the name originally given to the fraction of the hormone *cholecystokinin that acts on the pancreas.... pancreozymin
n. see muscle relaxant.... pancuronium
a sign of bilateral periorbital *haematoma associated with injury to the anterior cranial fossa, the front of the skull cavity that supports the frontal lobes of the brain. The name derives from its similarity in appearance to the black eye patches of a panda.... panda sign
n. random mating within a population, i.e. when there is no selection of partners on religious, racial, social, or other grounds.... panmixis
n. a membranous sheet of tissue. For example, the panniculus adiposus is the fatty layer of tissue underlying the skin.... panniculus
n. inflammation involving the whole of the interior of the eye.... panophthalmitis
n. a genus of large bloodsucking bugs (see reduviid). P. megistus is important in transmitting *Chagas’ disease to humans in Brazil.... panstrongylus
(panto-) combining form. see pan-.... pant
a double sac comprising the sac of an indirect (external) and a direct (internal) inguinal *hernia on the same side.... pantaloon hernia
a cytotoxin responsible for increased virulence of *Staphylococcus aureus (see leukocidin). It may cause fatal necrotizing pneumonia or, more commonly, deep skin abscesses that tend to recur frequently. [Sir P. N. Panton (1877–1950) and F. C. Valentine (20th century), British pathologists]... panton–valentine leukocidin
n. see proton-pump inhibitor.... pantoprazole
adj. describing a virus that can invade and affect many different tissues of the body, for example the nerves, skin, or liver, without showing a special affinity for any one of them.... pantropic
adj. nipple-like. Papillary epithelial neoplasms are composed of slender fronds of epithelial cells supported by fine fibrovascular cores. See papilloma.... papillary
n. a condition in which many *papillomas grow on an area of skin or mucous membrane.... papillomatosis
n. the operation of cutting the *ampulla of Vater to widen its outlet in order to improve biliary drainage and allow the passage of stones from the common bile duct. It is usually performed using a diathermy wire through a *duodenoscope during *ERCP.... papillotomy
n. one of a group of small DNA-containing viruses producing tumours in animals (subgroup polyomaviruses) and in animals and humans (subgroup papillomaviruses). See also human papillomavirus.... papovavirus
pregnancy-associated plasma protein A: a plasma protein in the serum of pregnant women that is used as a marker for Down’s syndrome (levels are decreased in comparison to normal pregnancies). Measurement of PAPP-A and *human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) can be combined in a *prenatal screening test during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy.... papp-a
see sandfly fever.... pappataci fever
combining form denoting a papule or pimple.... papulo
adj. describing a rash that is both papular and scaly.... papulosquamous
n. a genus of yeast-like fungi causing infection of the skin and mucous membranes. The species P. brasiliensis causes a chronic skin disease, South American *blastomycosis.... paracoccidioides
adj. describing a hormone that is secreted by an endocrine gland and affects the function of nearby cells, rather than being transported distally by the blood or lymph.... paracrine
n. any distortion of hearing.... paracusis
n. the vestigial remains of part of the embryonic *mesonephros that are found near the testis of the adult. Some of the mesonephric collecting tubules persist as the functional *vasa efferentia but the rest degenerate almost completely. A similar vestigial structure (the paroophoron) is found in females.... paradidymis
n. (in *family therapy) a surprising interpretation or suggestion made in the course of therapy in order to demonstrate the relationship between a psychological symptom and a system of family relationships.... paradox
n. one of a series of hydrocarbons derived from petroleum. Paraffin wax (hard paraffin), a whitish mixture of solid hydrocarbons melting at 45–60°C, is used in medicine mainly as a base for ointments and in microscopy for *embedding specimens. Liquid paraffin is a mineral oil formerly used as a laxative; combined with soft paraffin (white or yellow), it is used as an emollient, as a lubricating ointment for treating dry eyes, and to impregnate gauze dressings to prevent the fibres from sticking.... paraffin
n. a tumour, related to *phaeochromocytoma, arising from *paraganglion cells. Such tumours can occur around the aorta, the carotid artery (carotid body tumour), and the cervical portion of the vagus nerve (*glomus tumour), as well as in the abdomen and the eye. They are usually benign and treated by surgery, but occasionally can be malignant, requiring systemic treatment.... paraganglioma
(parageusis) n. abnormality of the sense of taste.... parageusia
n. a genus of large tropical parasitic *flukes that are particularly prevalent in the Far East. The adults of P. westermani live in the human lungs, where they cause destruction and bleeding of the tissues (see paragonimiasis). However, they may also be found in other organs of the body. Eggs are passed out in the sputum and the larvae undergo their development in two other hosts, a snail and a crab.... paragonimus
n. a former name for one of the types of *Hodgkin’s disease. It is now known as lymphocyte-predominant Hodgkin’s disease and has the best prognosis of all the types.... paragranuloma
a group of large RNA-containing viruses that cause infections of the respiratory tract producing mild influenza-like symptoms. They are included in the paramyxovirus group (see myxovirus).... parainfluenza viruses
adj. situated close to or beside the *median plane.... paramedian
see Müllerian duct.... paramesonephric duct
see significance.... parametric test
(pelvic cellulitis) n. inflammation of the loose connective tissue and smooth muscle around the uterus (the parametrium). The condition may be associated with *puerperal infection.... parametritis
n. the layer of connective tissue surrounding the uterus.... parametrium
a rare disorder in which prolonged contraction of muscle fibres (see myotonia) is precipitated by cold and exercise. It is due to a mutation in the sodium-channel gene.... paramyotonia congenita
n. see myxovirus.... paramyxovirus
the air-filled spaces, lined with mucous membrane, within some of the bones of the skull. They open into the nasal cavity, via the meatuses, and are named according to the bone in which they are situated. They comprise the frontal sinuses and the maxillary sinuses (one pair of each), the ethmoid sinuses (consisting of many spaces inside the ethmoid bone), and the two sphenoid sinuses. See illustration.... paranasal sinuses
signs or symptoms occurring in a patient with cancer that result from antibodies or *ectopic hormones produced by the cancer and are not due directly to local effects of the cancer cells. Examples are *myasthenia gravis secondary to a tumour of the thymus, a cerebellar syndrome in patients with lung cancer (due to anti-*Purkinje cell antibody), and a peripheral neuropathy in patients with breast cancer. Removal of the cancer usually leads to resolution of the problem.... paraneoplastic syndrome
(lateral parapharyngeal space) the region at the side of the *pharynx. Infection in this space can result in a parapharyngeal abscess. It is also a site where tumours can develop.... parapharyngeal space
n. an abnormal protein of the *immunoglobulin series. Paraproteins appear in malignant disease of the spleen, bone marrow, liver, etc. Examples of paraproteins are *myeloma globulins, *Bence-Jones protein, and *macroglobulin.... paraprotein
n. an obsolete name for the earliest phase of *mycosis fungoides.... parapsoriasis
adj. situated close to the sternum. The parasternal line is an imaginary vertical line parallel to and midway between the lateral margin of the sternum and the vertical line through the nipple.... parasternal
adj. relating to the area around a *stoma, which often appears as a hernia or bulge. Following surgery, muscle structure is interrupted making it weaker and prone to stretching. Straining can cause intestinal contents to herniate through the weakened spot.... parastomal
adj. opposing the effects of the *parasympathetic nervous system. *Antimuscarinic drugs have this effect by preventing acetylcholine from acting as a neurotransmitter.... parasympatholytic
n. the tissue of a tendon sheath that fills up spaces round the tendon.... paratenon
n. see parathyroid hormone.... parathormone
n. surgical removal of one or more of the *parathyroid glands, usually as part of the treatment of *hyperparathyroidism.... parathyroidectomy
(PTH-RP) a protein that is secreted by certain malignant tumours and is the main cause of malignant *hypercalcaemia. PTH-RP, which has effects similar to *parathyroid hormone, stimulates generalized bone resorption and excessive calcium reabsorption in the kidney tubules. It is most commonly produced by lung tumours, squamous-cell carcinomas of other organs, melanomas, and tumours of the breast, liver, pancreas, bladder, and prostate.... parathyroid hormone-related protein
n. misperception of random stimuli as real things or people, as when faces are vividly seen in the flames of a fire.... pareidolia
see section 30 order.... parental order
n. (pl. parietes) 1. the enveloping or surrounding part of an organ or other structure. 2. the wall of a cavity.... paries
(oxyntic cells) cells of the *gastric glands that secrete hydrochloric acid in the fundic region of the stomach.... parietal cells
(in England) an official responsible to Parliament and appointed to protect the interests of patients in relation to administration of and provision of health care by the *National Health Service. He or she can investigate complaints about the NHS when they cannot be resolved locally. In Scotland, and in Wales, this role is undertaken by a Public Services Ombudsman.... parliamentary and health service ombudsman
n. the vestigial remains of part of the Wolffian duct (see mesonephros) in the female, situated next to each ovary. It is associated with a similar structure, the epoophoron. Both are without known function.... paroophoron
adj. having given birth to one or more children.... parous
(PNH) a type of acquired haemolytic *anaemia that results from an abnormality of the red blood cell membrane. It is due to a defect in the formation of glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI), whose role is to anchor proteins to the lipid framework of the membrane. This leads to increased *complement-mediated destruction of red blood cells, which results in the release of haemoglobin in the circulation and then in the urine, giving the latter a reddish colour. Some patients may develop blood clots.... paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria
a drug that blocks the action of the PARP enzyme, which is required for *DNA repair in cancer cells with faulty *BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. These drugs are used in the treatment of cancer in patients with BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations. They are also undergoing trials to see if they are useful in the treatment of other cancers.... parp inhibitor
n. a specific part of an organ or other structure, such as any of parts of the pituitary gland.... pars
part of the *uvea, one of the three layers that comprise the eye. As a part of the *ciliary body, it is about 4 mm long, located near the point where the iris and sclera touch, and is scalloped in appearance. It is a good site of entry for intraocular surgery.... pars plana
(in England) a legal order made by a magistrate on application by the local authority, in accordance with The Health Protection (Part 2A Orders) Regulations 2010, to exercise powers over a person, place, or thing that presents a risk to public health for a period of up to 28 days. Typically, fewer than ten such orders are issued annually. They may be used, for example, to detain an individual with infectious drug-resistant tuberculosis against their will in a setting with appropriate infection-control measures, or to seize equipment used by unregistered tattooists with poor infection-control practices.... part 2a order
residential accommodation provided by local authorities, under the terms of Part III of the National Assistance Act 1948, for adults who, because of age, disability, illness, or any other reason, are in need of care and support.... part iii accommodation
an apparent decrease in the visibility of a structure in a *cross-sectional imaging technique, such as CT or MRI, when either the thickness of the object is much less than that of the slice being used to make the image, or the object is only partially imaged within the slice. See artifact.... partial volume artifact
(PAR) a radical approach to public health issues that actively involves communities in collaboration, reflection, data collection, and activities that empower them to improve their own health. See empowerment.... participatory action research
n. a school of moral thought proposing that attention to the specifics and details of a situation is required to determine the preferred course of action. Such an approach is contrary to theories that depend on universal norms or principles, such as *Kantian ethics.... particularism
n. see epulis.... parulis
(parvo-) combining form denoting small size.... parvi
n. the *SI unit of pressure, equal to 1 newton per square metre. Symbol: Pa.... pascal
particles that occur in the cells of skin rashes in patients with *cowpox or *smallpox; they are thought to be the virus particles. [E. Paschen (1860–1936), German pathologist]... paschen bodies
see psoriasis area severity index.... pasi
n. (in psychiatry) a *Schneiderian first-rank symptom in which a patient has the impression that his or her feelings or actions are those of another or others, usually an unknown outside power.... passivity
n. (in pharmacy) a medicinal preparation of a soft sticky consistency, which is applied externally.... paste
n. a medicinal preparation containing gelatine and glycerine, usually coated with sugar, that is dissolved in the mouth so that the medication is applied to the mouth or throat.... pastille
a chromosome disorder in which there are three no. 13 chromosomes (instead of the usual two), causing abnormal brain development, severe learning disabilities, and defects in the heart, kidney, and scalp. Affected individuals rarely survive. [K. Patau (20th century), US geneticist]... patau syndrome
(knee jerk) reflex contraction of the quadriceps (thigh) muscle so that the leg kicks, elicited in a patient sitting with one knee crossed over the other by sharply tapping the tendon of the muscle below the kneecap. The reflex is mediated through nerves emanating from the third and fourth lumbar spinal levels (see spinal nerves). This is a test of the connection between the sensory nerves attached to stretch receptors in the muscle, the spinal cord, and the motor neurons running from the cord to the thigh muscle, all of which are involved in the reflex. The patellar reflex is reduced or absent when there is disease or damage of the spinal cord at or below the level of the reflex and exaggerated in disorders above the level of the reflex.... patellar reflex
n. the relative openness or lack of obstruction in a tube or vessel, such as an artery or Fallopian tube.... patency
failure of the *foramen ovale to close shortly after birth resulting in an *atrial septal defect. A patent foramen ovale is present in everyone before birth but closes off in about 80% of people. It usually causes no symptoms; an isolated patent foramen ovale without any other structural heart defect is usually of no haemodynamic significance.... patent foramen ovale
n. an attitude or policy that overrides a person’s own wishes (*autonomy) in pursuit of his or her *best interests. The classic argument against paternalism of the philosopher John Stuart Mill is that intervention is justified only when trying to prevent a person from causing harm to others, not to himself. However, a form of paternalism may be justified when a person lacks the capacity to make decisions for him- or herself, assuming there is no valid *advance directive, decision, or statement or a proxy with *power of attorney to represent the patient’s wishes. See also therapeutic privilege. —paternalistic adj.... paternalism
(patho-) combining form denoting disease. Example: pathophobia (morbid fear of).... path
a fracture through diseased or abnormal bone, usually resulting from a force insufficient to fracture a normal bone. Tumour, infection, congenital bone defects, and osteoporosis are among the causes.... pathological fracture
(PALS) (in England) a confidential service provided by each NHS trust to support patients, their families, and carers by giving advice and information in response to questions and concerns about local NHS services. See also advocacy.... patient advice and liaison service
see PHQ-9.... patient health questionnaire
(PPACA) see Affordable Care Act 2010.... patient protection and affordable care act
adj. open or distended. A patulous Eustachian tube is abnormally open. Air passing the nasal end of the tube sucks air from the middle ear. This creates symptoms including a flapping sensation, *autophony, and a paradoxical sensation that the ear is blocked.... patulous
n. see arthritis.... pauciarthritis
(pavementing) n. the sticking of white blood cells to the linings of the finest blood vessels (capillaries) when inflammation occurs.... pavementation
pale or skin-coloured papules that cluster around the corona of the glans penis in young uncircumcised men. They are asymptomatic but may be mistaken for viral warts.... penile pearly papules
(PPN) the delivery of nutrients directly into a peripheral vein (in the arm). Feed solutions must have a low *osmolality (<1200 mOsm/l), and PPN can be given only for a short period (less than four weeks). There is a risk of *phlebitis. See artificial nutrition and hydration; total parenteral nutrition.... peripheral parenteral nutrition
(atypical facial pain, chronic idiopathic facial pain) a chronic pain in the face that has no known cause and does not fit the classic presentation of other cranial neuralgias. It may be stress-related, and in some cases appears to be associated with defective metabolism of *tyramine. Treatment may involve the use of antidepressants.... persistent idiopathic facial pain
(PIP) a tax-free benefit replacing (from April 2013) *disability living allowance (DLA) for people aged 16–64 (DLA is still paid to children). It has two components – a daily living component (including help with washing, dressing, using the toilet, preparing and eating food, and taking medicines) and a mobility component (for help with walking).... personal independence payment
oval masses of *lymphoid tissue on the mucous membrane lining the small intestine. [J. C. Peyer (1653–1712), Swiss anatomist]... peyer’s patches
(Steele–Richardson–Olszewski syndrome) a progressive neurological disorder resulting from degeneration of the motor neurons, basal ganglia, and brainstem. Starting in late middle age, it is characterized by a staring facial expression due to impaired ability to move the eyes up and down, progressing to difficulties in swallowing, speech, balance, and movement and general spasticity. The condition enters the differential diagnosis of *parkinsonism, with which it is often confused in its early stages.... progressive supranuclear palsy
(RPM) see palatoplasty.... radiofrequency palatal myoplasty
pain without prior exertion, usually experienced in the feet or chest (*angina pectoris), that indicates an extreme degree of *ischaemia.... rest pain
(in *nuclear medicine) a scan that can help to localize the site of a parathyroid adenoma before surgical removal, to treat primary *hyperparathyroidism. The tracer is technetium-99m-labelled sestamibi (a small protein), which is selectively absorbed by overactive parathyroid glands.... sestamibi parathyroid scan
an archaic name for Parkinson’s disease (see parkinsonism).... shaking palsy
a type of health-care system in which there is only one purchaser of health-care services, usually the government. The NHS is a single-payer system.... single-payer system
n. a late effect of syphilitic infection of the nervous system in which the patient shows features of *tabes dorsalis and *general paralysis of the insane.... tabo-paresis
the source of payment for hospital or medical services when this is neither the patient (directly) nor the health-care provider. A third-party payer may be the government, an insurance company, an employer, or a philanthropic organization.... third-party payer
a condition in which attacks of sudden weakness and flaccidity occur in patients with *thyrotoxicosis, seen most often in males of Asian descent. The attacks last from hours to days; they can be prevented by potassium supplements and subsequent treatment of the thyrotoxicosis.... thyrotoxic periodic paralysis
A benign bony growth that develops on the palate, most commonly on the midline.... torus palatinus
(TPN) the delivery of all the essential nutrients directly into the bloodstream through a catheter in a vein. This may be by the peripheral route, via a vein in the upper arm (see PICC line) for short-term use (see peripheral parenteral nutrition), or centrally, into the subclavian vein in the neck (see Hickman catheter), for longer than two weeks. TPN has a risk of complications and should only be used when the gastrointestinal tract is not functioning. *Enteral feeding is always the preferred route. See also artificial nutrition and hydration; nutrition.... total parenteral nutrition
see optic nerve.... visual pathway
the calyx in a composite flower having feathery hairs, scales or bristles.... pappus
aiding childbirth.... parturient
a congenital abnormality of heart conduction caused by the presence of an *accessory pathway of conduction between the atria and ventricles. It results in premature excitation of one ventricle and is characterized by an abnormal wave (delta wave) at the start of the QRS complex on the electrocardiogram. The accessory pathway predisposes the patient to episodes of fast heart rate due to the rapid self-sustaining circulation of an electrical impulse from the atria to the ventricles and back again (*atrioventricular reciprocating tachycardia). Emergency treatment is in the form of drugs that temporarily block the re-entry circuit. Permanent destruction of the accessory pathway by *radiofrequency ablation is usually curative. [L. Wolff; Sir J. Parkinson (1885–1976), British physician; P. D. White (1886–1973), US cardiologist]... wolff–parkinson–white syndrome
Cymbopogon martinii var. martinii
FAMILY: Graminaceae
SYNONYMS: Andropogon martinii, A. martinii var. motia, East Indian geranium, Turkish geranium, Indian rosha, motia.
GENERAL DESCRIPTION: A wild-growing herbaceous plant with long slender stems and terminal flowering tops; the grassy leaves are very fragrant.
DISTRIBUTION: Native to India and Pakistan; now grown in Africa, Indonesia, Brazil and the Comoro Islands.
OTHER SPECIES: Of the same family as lemongrass and citronella; also closely related to gingergrass which is a different chemotype known as C. martinii var. sofia. Gingergrass is considered an inferior oil but in some parts of India the two types of grass are distilled together.
HERBAL/FOLK TRADITION: ‘The oil term “Indian” or “Turkish” geranium oil, which formerly was applied to palmarosa oil, dates back to the time when the oil was shipped from Bombay to ports of the Red Sea and transported partly by land, to Constantinople and Bulgaria, where the oil was often used for the adulteration of rose oil.’.
ACTIONS: Antiseptic, bactericidal, cicatrisant, digestive, febrifuge, hydrating, stimulant (digestive, circulatory), tonic.
EXTRACTION: Essential oil by steam or water distillation of the fresh or dried grass.
CHARACTERISTICS: A pale yellow or olive liquid with a sweet, floral, rosy, geranium-like scent. It blends well with cananga, geranium, oakmoss, rosewood, amyris, sandalwood, guaiacwood, cedarwood and floral oils.
PRINCIPAL CONSTITUENTS: Mainly geraniol; also farnesol, geranyl acetate, methyl heptenone, citronellol, citral, dipentene and limonene, among others. Several chemotypes depending upon source – the cultivated varieties are considered of superior quality.
SAFETY DATA: Non-toxic, non-irritant, non-sensitizing.
AROMATHERAPY/HOME: USE
Skin care: Acne, dermatitis and minor skin infections, scars, sores, wrinkles; valuable for all types of treatment for the face, hands, feet, neck and lips (moisturizes the skin, stimulates cellular regeneration, regulates sebum production).
Digestive system: Anorexia, digestive atonia, intestinal infections – ‘This is an essence which acts on the pathogenic intestinal flora, in particular on the coli bacillus, the Eberth bacillus and the bacillus of dysentery ... this essence favours the transmutation of the pathogenic agent into normal cells of intestinal mucous membranes. Thus it arrests the degeneracy of the cells for the latter, swiftly impels groups of normal cells towards an inferior form in their hierarchy. The essence does not appear to contain any acid.’.
Nervous system: Nervous exhaustion, stressrelated conditions.
OTHER USES: Used extensively as a fragrance component in cosmetics, perfumes and especially soaps due to excellent tenacity. Limited use as a flavouring agent, e.g. tobacco. Used for the isolation of natural geraniol.... palmarosa
Pogostemon cablin
FAMILY: Lamiaceae (Labiatae)
SYNONYMS: P. patchouly, patchouly, puchaput.
GENERAL DESCRIPTION: A perennial bushy herb up to 1 metre high with a sturdy, hairy stem, large, fragrant, furry leaves and white flowers tinged with purple.
DISTRIBUTION: Native to tropical Asia, especially Indonesia and the Philippines. It is extensively cultivated for its oil in its native regions as well as India, China, Malaysia and South America. The oil is also distilled in Europe and America from the dried leaves.
OTHER SPECIES: Closely related to the Java patchouli (P. heyneanus), also known as false patchouli, which is also occasionally used to produce an essential oil.
HERBAL/FOLK TRADITION: The oil is used in the East generally to scent linen and clothes, and is believed to help prevent the spread of disease (prophylactic). In China, Japan and Malaysia the herb is used to treat colds, headaches, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain and halitosis. In Japan and Malaysia it is used as an antidote to poisonous snakebites.
ACTIONS: Antidepressant, anti-inflammatory, anti-emetic, antimicrobial, antiphlogistic, antiseptic, antitoxic, antiviral, aphrodisiac, astringent, bactericidal, carminative, cicatrisant, deodorant, digestive, diuretic, febrifuge, fungicidal, nervine, prophylactic, stimulant (nervous), stomachic, tonic.
EXTRACTION: Essential oil by steam distillation of the dried leaves (usually subjected to fermentation previously). A resinoid is also produced, mainly as a fixative.
CHARACTERISTICS: An amber or dark orange viscous liquid with a sweet, rich, herbaceous earthy odour – it improves with age. It blends well with labdanum, vetiver, sandalwood, cedarwood, oakmoss, geranium, clove, lavender, rose, neroli, bergamot, cassia, myrrh, opopanax, clary sage and oriental-type bases.
PRINCIPAL CONSTITUENTS: Patchouli alcohol (40 per cent approx.), pogostol, bulnesol, nor patchoulenol, bulnese, patchoulene, among others.
SAFETY DATA: Non-toxic, non-irritant, non-sensitizing.
AROMATHERAPY/HOME: USE
Skin care: Acne, athlete’s foot, cracked and chapped skin, dandruff, dermatitis, eczema (weeping), fungal infections, hair care, impetigo, insect repellent, sores, oily hair and skin, open pores, wounds, wrinkles.
Nervous system: Frigidity, nervous exhaustion and stress-related complaints.
OTHER USES: Extensively used in cosmetic preparations, and as a fixative in soaps and perfumes, especially oriental types. Extensively used in the food industry, in alcoholic and soft drinks. It makes a good masking agent for unpleasant tastes and smells.... patchouli
Health Encyclopedia