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Glossary

Health & Telehealth Glossary

Plain-language explanations of common medical, prescription and telehealth terms, curated by the ConsultNow team.

A

Abdominal Pain

Pain felt anywhere between the chest and pelvis, with causes ranging from mild and self-limiting to conditions requiring urgent medical assessment.

ABG (arterial blood gas)

A blood test taken from an artery that checks oxygen, carbon dioxide and acid levels to see how well the lungs and kidneys are working.

Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Service

A primary healthcare service initiated and governed by the local Aboriginal community it serves, providing culturally appropriate medical and social support.

Abrasion

A wound caused by scraping the skin against a rough surface, removing the top layer of skin, commonly known as a graze.

Absence from work

Time an employee spends away from their scheduled work, for reasons such as illness, injury or personal responsibilities.

ACE Inhibitor

A class of medication that relaxes blood vessels and lowers blood pressure, commonly used to treat hypertension and heart failure.

Acetaminophen

A widely used medicine, known as paracetamol in Australia, that eases pain and helps bring down a fever.

ACL Injury

A sprain or tear of the anterior cruciate ligament, one of the key stabilising ligaments of the knee, commonly occurring during sports involving sudden stops or direction changes.

Acne

A common skin condition where hair follicles become blocked with oil and dead skin, causing pimples, blackheads and cysts, most often on the face, chest and back. Mild to moderate acne can usually be assessed and treated through a telehealth consultation.

ACS (acute coronary syndrome)

A group of serious heart conditions, including heart attack, caused by a sudden drop in blood flow to the heart muscle.

Actinic Keratosis

A rough, scaly patch of skin caused by years of sun exposure, considered a precancerous change that can occasionally progress to skin cancer if untreated.

Active Ingredient

The component of a medication responsible for its therapeutic effect, as distinct from inactive ingredients such as fillers, coatings or preservatives.

Active Script List

A digital list, linked to a patient's Medicare card, that securely stores their current electronic prescriptions so any pharmacy can access and dispense them without needing the individual SMS or email token.

Acute (sudden onset or short duration)

A medical term for a condition that starts suddenly and usually lasts only a short time, unlike a long-lasting chronic condition.

Acute Pain

Pain of recent onset, usually linked directly to an injury, illness or procedure, that is expected to resolve as the underlying cause heals.

Acyclovir

An antiviral medicine used to treat infections such as cold sores, genital herpes and shingles, caused by herpes-family viruses.

Adalimumab

An injected biologic medicine that reduces inflammation in conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis and Crohn's disease.

Addiction

A medical condition marked by compulsive use of a substance or behaviour that continues despite causing harm.

Addison's Disease

A rare condition in which the adrenal glands do not produce enough of certain hormones, leading to fatigue, weight loss and low blood pressure. It requires lifelong hormone replacement.

Adenoiditis

Inflammation of the adenoids, glands at the back of the nasal cavity, common in children and causing nasal congestion and snoring.

Adenovirus

A family of viruses that can cause a range of illnesses, including colds, conjunctivitis and gastroenteritis.

ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder)

A common condition, usually starting in childhood, that affects a person's ability to focus, sit still and control impulses.

Adjustment Disorder

A short-term emotional or behavioural reaction to a significant life change or stressful event, more intense or prolonged than would typically be expected.

ADL (activities of daily living)

The basic everyday tasks, like washing, dressing and eating, that people need to manage to stay independent.

Adrenal gland

Small hormone-producing glands sitting on top of each kidney that help regulate stress response, metabolism and blood pressure.

Adrenaline (epinephrine)

A hormone and emergency medicine that helps the body react to stress or danger, and is used to treat severe allergic reactions.

Adrenaline (Epinephrine)

A hormone and emergency medication that rapidly reverses the effects of severe allergic reaction, used as first-line treatment for anaphylaxis.

Adrenaline Autoinjector (EpiPen)

A device that delivers a pre-measured dose of adrenaline into the muscle, used as emergency first aid treatment for anaphylaxis.

Advance Care Directive

A legal document in which a person records their wishes for future medical treatment, used to guide care if they later become unable to make or communicate decisions themselves.

Advance Care Planning

An ongoing process of discussing and documenting a person's future healthcare preferences, which may result in a formal Advance Care Directive.

After-Hours Consultation

A medical consultation provided outside standard clinic hours, including evenings, weekends and public holidays, available through some telehealth and home doctor services.

After-Hours Home Doctor Service

A service that sends a doctor to a patient's home for urgent, non-emergency medical care outside standard clinic hours, generally bulk billed.

Aged Care Assessment (ACAT/ACAS)

A formal assessment that determines a person's eligibility for government-subsidised aged care services, such as home support or residential care.

Agoraphobia

An anxiety disorder involving fear of situations where escape might be difficult, often leading to avoidance of crowded places or leaving home.

AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency)

The national body responsible for registering and regulating doctors and other health practitioners in Australia. Every legitimate practitioner has a searchable AHPRA registration number confirming they are qualified and authorised to practise.

Allergen

A substance, such as pollen or certain foods, that triggers an allergic reaction in people who are sensitive to it.

Allergen Immunotherapy

A long-term treatment that gradually exposes a person to small, increasing amounts of an allergen to reduce their sensitivity over time.

Allergies

A condition where the immune system overreacts to normally harmless substances, causing symptoms ranging from mild irritation to severe reactions.

Allergist

A doctor who specialises in diagnosing and treating allergies and related immune system conditions.

Allergy

An overreaction of the immune system to a normally harmless substance, such as pollen, food or medication, causing symptoms ranging from mild itching to severe anaphylaxis. Severe allergic reactions are a medical emergency and require immediate in-person care.

Allergy Testing

Tests, including skin prick tests and blood tests, used to identify specific substances a person may be allergic to.

Alopecia

A general medical term for hair loss, which can range from common pattern baldness to autoimmune conditions that cause patchy or total hair loss.

ALP (alkaline phosphatase)

An enzyme measured in blood tests that helps doctors check how well the liver and bones are working.

Alprazolam

A short-term medicine used to treat anxiety and panic disorders by calming activity in the brain.

ALS (Advanced Life Support)

A set of emergency medical techniques used to treat life-threatening conditions such as cardiac arrest or severe trauma.

ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis)

A progressive disease that damages nerve cells controlling movement, gradually causing muscle weakness and loss of function.

ALT (alanine aminotransferase, a liver enzyme)

A liver enzyme measured through a blood test, with raised levels often signalling liver damage or disease.

Alzheimer's Disease

The most common cause of dementia, a progressive brain condition that gradually affects memory, thinking and the ability to carry out everyday tasks.

Amblyopia (Lazy Eye)

Reduced vision in one eye caused by abnormal visual development in early childhood, most effectively treated when identified and managed early.

Ambulance Cover

Insurance or a state-based membership that covers the cost of emergency ambulance transport, which is not funded by Medicare in most states.

Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring

A test that records blood pressure at regular intervals over 24 hours during normal daily activity, providing a more complete picture than a single clinic reading.

Amenorrhoea

The absence of menstrual periods, which can be caused by pregnancy, hormonal imbalance, extreme weight change or other underlying conditions.

Amlodipine

A commonly prescribed calcium channel blocker used to lower blood pressure and treat angina.

Amnesia (memory loss)

A condition involving partial or complete loss of memory, affecting either past events, new memories, or both.

Amniotic Fluid

The protective fluid surrounding a baby in the uterus during pregnancy, which cushions the baby and supports lung development.

Amoxicillin

A widely used penicillin-based antibiotic prescribed for a range of bacterial infections, including ear, chest and urinary tract infections.

Amoxicillin-clavulanate

A combination antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections that plain amoxicillin alone may not clear.

Ampicillin

A penicillin-type antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections in areas such as the ears, chest, bladder and throat.

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)

A progressive nerve disease that gradually weakens the muscles controlling movement, speech, swallowing and breathing.

Anaemia

A condition where the blood lacks enough healthy red blood cells or haemoglobin to carry adequate oxygen around the body, often causing fatigue, paleness and shortness of breath. Diagnosis usually requires a blood test.

Anal Fissure

A small tear in the lining of the anus, often caused by passing a hard stool, resulting in pain and sometimes bleeding during bowel movements.

Analgesic

A general term for any medication used to relieve pain, ranging from simple options such as paracetamol to stronger prescription-only medicines.

Analgesics

Medicines used to relieve pain, ranging from everyday options like paracetamol to stronger prescription-only drugs.

Anaphylaxis

A severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that can cause airway swelling, a sudden drop in blood pressure and difficulty breathing within minutes of exposure to a trigger. Call 000 immediately if anaphylaxis is suspected.

Anaphylaxis Action Plan

A personalised written plan prepared by a doctor outlining the steps to take, including adrenaline autoinjector use, if a person experiences a severe allergic reaction.

Andropause

A gradual, age-related decline in testosterone levels in men, sometimes associated with fatigue, reduced libido and mood changes.

Anemia

A condition where the blood lacks enough healthy red blood cells to carry sufficient oxygen around the body.

Anesthesia (anaesthesia)

A medical technique that blocks pain and sensation during surgery or procedures, ranging from numbing a small area to full unconsciousness.

Anesthetic (general or local anesthetic)

A drug that stops pain during a medical procedure, either by numbing one area or making the whole body unconscious.

Angina

Chest pain or discomfort caused by reduced blood flow to the heart muscle, often triggered by exertion or stress, and a warning sign of underlying coronary artery disease.

Angiogram

An imaging procedure that uses contrast dye and X-rays to visualise blood vessels, commonly used to check for blockages in the heart or elsewhere.

Angioplasty

A minimally invasive procedure that widens a narrowed or blocked artery using a small balloon, often combined with placing a stent.

Animal Bite

A bite from an animal, which carries a risk of infection and, depending on the animal and location, may require wound care, antibiotics or a tetanus check.

Ankylosing Spondylitis

A form of inflammatory arthritis that primarily affects the spine, causing pain and stiffness that can, over time, lead to reduced spinal flexibility.

Anorexia nervosa

A serious eating disorder involving an intense fear of weight gain, a distorted body image, and severely restricted eating.

Anosmia

The partial or complete loss of the sense of smell, which can be temporary, such as during a cold, or longer-lasting after certain infections or injuries.

Antacid

A medication that neutralises stomach acid to provide quick relief from heartburn and indigestion.

Antenatal Care

The regular health checks and support provided to a person throughout pregnancy to monitor the health of both parent and baby.

Anterior

A medical term meaning the front part of the body or an organ, used to describe location precisely.

Anthrax

A rare but serious bacterial infection that can affect the skin, lungs or digestive system, and is treated with antibiotics.

Antibiotic

A medication used to treat infections caused by bacteria by killing the bacteria or stopping them from multiplying. Antibiotics have no effect on viral illnesses such as colds or flu, which is why a doctor will assess symptoms before prescribing one.

Antibiotic Resistance

A growing problem where bacteria evolve to survive medications that once killed them, often driven by unnecessary or incomplete antibiotic use. It is a key reason doctors follow prescribing guidelines rather than issuing antibiotics on request.

Antibiotics

Medicines that treat bacterial infections by killing bacteria or stopping them multiplying, but which don't work against viruses.

Anticoagulant

A class of medication, sometimes called a blood thinner, that reduces the blood's ability to clot, used to prevent or treat conditions such as DVT, pulmonary embolism and stroke.

Antidepressant

A broad category of medication used to treat depression and, for some types, anxiety disorders, by adjusting the levels of certain chemicals in the brain.

Antidepressants

Medicines that help ease depression by adjusting brain chemicals that influence mood.

Antiemetic

A medication used to prevent or relieve nausea and vomiting, commonly used for motion sickness, migraine or as part of chemotherapy treatment.

Antifungal Medication

A medicine used to treat infections caused by fungi, such as thrush, ringworm or athlete's foot, available as creams, tablets or other forms.

Antihistamine

A class of medication that blocks the effects of histamine, the chemical the body releases during an allergic reaction, easing symptoms such as sneezing, itching and hives.

Antihistamines

Medicines that ease allergy symptoms by blocking the effects of histamine, a chemical the body releases during allergic reactions.

Antihypertensive

A broad category of medication used to lower and manage high blood pressure.

Antioxidant

A compound that helps protect the body's cells from damage caused by unstable molecules known as free radicals, found in many fruits and vegetables.

Antipsychotic

A class of medication used to manage symptoms of psychosis and certain other mental health conditions, by affecting dopamine and other brain chemical activity.

Antitussive

A medication used to suppress a persistent, dry cough.

Antiviral Medication

A medicine designed to slow or stop the reproduction of a virus, used for conditions such as influenza, herpes and shingles. Antivirals are often most effective when started early in the illness.

Anxiety

A mental health condition involving persistent, excessive worry or fear that can interfere with daily life, often accompanied by physical symptoms such as a racing heart or restlessness. It is a common and treatable reason patients seek telehealth support.

Aortic Aneurysm

An abnormal bulge in the wall of the aorta, the body's largest artery, which can be life-threatening if it ruptures and is often monitored or treated once detected.

Appendectomy

Surgical removal of the appendix, most commonly performed as an urgent procedure to treat appendicitis.

Appendicitis

Inflammation of the appendix, typically causing pain that starts near the belly button and moves to the lower right abdomen, usually requiring urgent surgical removal.

Arrhythmia

An irregular heartbeat, where the heart beats too fast, too slow, or with an uneven rhythm. Some arrhythmias are harmless while others require urgent assessment, particularly if accompanied by chest pain, dizziness or fainting.

Artery

A blood vessel that carries oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the rest of the body.

Arthritis

A general term for joint inflammation that causes pain, swelling and stiffness. The two most common forms are osteoarthritis, caused by wear on joint cartilage, and rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune condition.

Arthritis – osteoarthritis (OA)

A common joint condition where the cartilage cushioning the bones wears down, leading to pain, stiffness and reduced movement.

Arthritis – rheumatoid arthritis (RA)

An autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks the joints, causing pain, swelling and potential joint damage.

Ascites

An abnormal build-up of fluid in the abdominal cavity, often linked to liver disease, which can cause noticeable swelling and discomfort.

Ascites (abdominal fluid buildup)

A build-up of fluid in the abdomen, often a sign of a more serious underlying illness such as liver or heart disease.

Aspirin

A common medicine that eases pain, reduces inflammation and fever, and in some cases helps prevent heart attacks and strokes.

Asthma

A chronic condition in which the airways narrow and swell, producing extra mucus and making breathing difficult, often triggered by allergens, exercise or respiratory infections. Ongoing asthma management, including repeat prescriptions, can often be handled via telehealth.

Asthma Action Plan

A personalised written plan prepared by a doctor outlining daily asthma management and the steps to take during a flare-up or emergency.

Astigmatism

A common vision condition caused by an irregularly shaped cornea or lens, resulting in blurred or distorted vision at any distance.

Ataxia

A term describing a loss of coordination and balance, caused by dysfunction in the part of the brain that controls movement.

Athlete's Foot

A common fungal infection of the skin on the feet, causing itching, redness and peeling, particularly between the toes.

Athlete's foot (tinea)

A contagious fungal skin infection on the feet that causes itching, redness and cracked skin, especially between the toes.

Atorvastatin

A commonly prescribed statin medication used to lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Atrial Fibrillation

The most common type of irregular heart rhythm, where the heart's upper chambers beat chaotically, increasing the risk of stroke and heart failure if untreated.

Atropine

A medicine that relaxes muscles and dries up bodily fluids, used for eye tests, some poisonings and to steady a slow heartbeat.

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

A neurodevelopmental condition affecting attention, impulse control and, in some cases, activity levels, which can present in childhood or be diagnosed later in life.

Audiologist

A health professional who assesses and manages hearing and balance disorders, including fitting hearing aids.

Audiometry

A hearing test that measures a person's ability to hear sounds at different pitches and volumes, used to diagnose hearing loss.

Auscultation

The clinical technique of listening to internal body sounds, usually the heart, lungs or bowel, typically with a stethoscope, to help assess a patient's condition during an in-person examination.

Australian Dietary Guidelines

Evidence-based national recommendations on the types and amounts of food Australians should eat to support good health and reduce disease risk.

Australian Immunisation Register

A national register that records vaccinations given to people in Australia, used to track immunisation status and coverage.

Authority prescription

An extra layer of approval needed in Australia before certain medicines can be subsidised and dispensed under the PBS.

Autism

Autism spectrum disorder is a lifelong developmental condition that affects how a person communicates, interacts and experiences the world.

Autism Spectrum Disorder

A neurodevelopmental condition affecting how a person communicates, interacts and experiences the world, with a wide range of presentations and support needs.

Autoimmune Disease

Any condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own healthy tissue, including conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus and Type 1 diabetes.

Autosomal Dominant Inheritance

A pattern of genetic inheritance in which only one copy of a mutated gene, from either parent, is needed for a condition to be expressed.

Autosomal Recessive Inheritance

A pattern of genetic inheritance in which a condition only appears if a person inherits two copies of a mutated gene, one from each parent.

AXR (abdominal X-ray)

An abdominal X-ray is a quick scan that uses low-dose radiation to picture the organs inside your belly.

Azithromycin

An antibiotic often prescribed as a short course for respiratory infections and certain sexually transmitted infections.

B

Back pain

Back pain is discomfort anywhere from the neck to the hips, ranging from a mild ache to severe pain, with many possible causes.

Bacterial Vaginosis

A common condition caused by an imbalance of bacteria in the vagina, resulting in discharge and odour, treated with antibiotics.

Balanitis

Inflammation of the head of the penis, often caused by infection or irritation, usually treated with topical medication and improved hygiene.

Bandage

A bandage is a strip of material used to cover wounds, support injuries and help control bleeding.

Barmah Forest virus infection

A mosquito-borne illness common in parts of Australia that causes joint pain, rash, fatigue and fever.

Barrett's Oesophagus

A change in the cells lining the lower oesophagus, usually caused by long-term acid reflux, that requires monitoring due to a small increased cancer risk.

Basal Body Temperature

The body's resting temperature, which rises slightly after ovulation, sometimes tracked as a way of identifying the fertile window.

Basal Cell Carcinoma

The most common type of skin cancer, arising from cells in the outer layer of skin. It grows slowly and rarely spreads, but should be treated promptly when found.

BD (twice daily)

BD is a medical abbreviation meaning a medicine should be taken twice a day, roughly 12 hours apart.

Bedwetting (Enuresis)

Involuntary urination during sleep, common in young children and usually resolving naturally, though persistent cases can be discussed with a doctor.

Bee Sting

A puncture wound from a bee that injects venom, typically causing localised pain and swelling, though it can trigger a severe allergic reaction in some people.

Bell's Palsy

A sudden, usually temporary, weakness or paralysis of the muscles on one side of the face, caused by inflammation of the facial nerve.

Benign

Benign describes a growth or condition that is not cancerous and generally does not spread to other parts of the body.

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

A common, non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland that can occur with age, potentially causing urinary symptoms such as a weak stream or frequent urination.

Benzodiazepine

A class of medication with sedative and anti-anxiety effects, generally prescribed short-term due to the risk of tolerance and dependence.

Bereavement Support

Counselling and support services offered to people grieving the death of a loved one.

Beta Blocker

A class of medication that slows the heart rate and reduces blood pressure, used to manage conditions such as hypertension, angina and arrhythmias.

Better Access Initiative

A Medicare-funded program that gives patients with an assessed mental health condition access to a set number of rebated sessions with a psychologist or other allied mental health provider, usually via a Mental Health Care Plan.

Beyond Blue

A national organisation providing information and support for anxiety, depression and suicide prevention, including a 24-hour support line.

BID (twice a day)

BID is a medical shorthand meaning a medicine should be taken twice daily, usually once in the morning and once in the evening.

Biologic Medication

A class of medication derived from living organisms, often used to treat autoimmune and inflammatory conditions by targeting specific parts of the immune system.

Biopsy

A medical procedure in which a small sample of tissue is removed from the body for laboratory examination, commonly used to check for cancer or to diagnose skin, organ or tissue abnormalities.

Bipolar Disorder

A mental health condition characterised by episodes of extreme mood shifts, ranging from depressive lows to manic or hypomanic highs.

Bird flu

Bird flu, or avian influenza, is a virus that mainly infects birds but can occasionally cause serious illness in people.

Bisoprolol

Bisoprolol is a beta-blocker medicine that slows and softens the heartbeat to treat high blood pressure, heart failure and angina.

Bladder

The bladder is a muscular organ in the pelvis that stores urine made by the kidneys until it's ready to leave the body.

Bladder Cancer

Cancer that begins in the cells of the bladder lining, often first noticed as blood in the urine, with smoking a significant risk factor.

Blepharitis

Inflammation of the eyelid margins, causing redness, irritation and crusting, often linked to blocked oil glands or bacteria.

Blindness

Blindness is the significant loss or total absence of eyesight, which can be present from birth or develop later in life.

Blister

A small pocket of fluid that forms between layers of skin, usually caused by friction, heat or irritation, acting as a natural cushion while the skin heals.

Bloating

A feeling of fullness or swelling in the abdomen, often caused by gas, digestive upset or, less commonly, an underlying condition.

Blood

Blood is the fluid that carries oxygen, nutrients and waste around the body and helps fight infection.

Blood Culture

A laboratory test that checks a blood sample for the presence of bacteria or fungi, used to diagnose serious bloodstream infections.

Blood Glucose Monitoring

The regular checking of blood sugar levels, typically with a finger-prick test, used by people with diabetes to guide day-to-day management.

Blood Pressure

The force of blood pushing against artery walls as the heart pumps, expressed as two numbers (systolic over diastolic). Consistently high readings, known as hypertension, increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Blood pressure cuff (sphygmomanometer)

A sphygmomanometer, or blood pressure cuff, is a device doctors use to measure the force of blood pushing against your artery walls.

Blood Transfusion

A medical procedure in which donated blood or blood components are given to a patient, used to treat blood loss, anaemia and certain other conditions.

Blood vessels

Blood vessels are the network of tubes, including arteries, veins and capillaries, that carry blood around the body.

BLS (Basic Life Support)

Basic Life Support is emergency first aid, including CPR, used to keep someone alive until more advanced medical help arrives.

BMI (body mass index)

Body Mass Index is a simple sum using your weight and height to estimate whether your weight falls in a healthy range.

Body Dysmorphic Disorder

A mental health condition involving persistent, distressing preoccupation with perceived flaws in physical appearance that are often not noticeable to others.

Body Mass Index (BMI)

A simple calculation using height and weight to estimate whether a person is in an underweight, healthy, overweight or obese range. It is a screening tool rather than a full picture of individual health.

Boil (Furuncle)

A painful, pus-filled lump that forms under the skin when a hair follicle becomes infected with bacteria, often needing warm compresses or, in some cases, drainage.

Bone

Bones are rigid organs that make up the skeleton, giving the body structure, protecting organs and storing minerals.

Bone Density Scan (DEXA)

A low-radiation scan that measures bone mineral density, used to diagnose osteoporosis and assess fracture risk.

Bone fracture

A bone fracture is a break or crack in a bone, usually caused by an injury, fall or accident.

Booster Dose

An additional dose of a vaccine given after the initial course to maintain or renew immunity over time.

Botulism

Botulism is a rare but life-threatening illness caused by a powerful toxin, often linked to improperly preserved food.

Bowel Cancer

Cancer affecting the colon or rectum, one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in Australia, with regular screening improving the chances of early detection and successful treatment.

Bowel Obstruction

A blockage that prevents the normal passage of contents through the intestine, causing pain, bloating and vomiting, and often requiring urgent hospital treatment.

BP (blood pressure)

Blood pressure is a measurement of how hard blood pushes against your artery walls, an important marker of heart health.

BPM (beats per minute)

BPM, or beats per minute, is a count of how many times your heart beats in one minute, used to check heart health and fitness.

Bradycardia

Bradycardia is a slower than normal heart rate, below 60 beats per minute, which may or may not need treatment.

Brain

The brain is the body's control centre, processing information from the senses and directing both conscious and automatic body functions.

Brain tumor

A brain tumour is an abnormal growth of cells in the brain, which may be non-cancerous or cancerous and needs medical assessment.

Brain Tumour

An abnormal growth of cells in or around the brain, which can be benign or malignant, and causes symptoms depending on its size and location.

Brand name (medication brand)

A medication's brand name is the commercial name a drug company gives it, separate from its generic, scientific name.

Braxton Hicks Contractions

Irregular, usually painless tightening of the uterus that can occur throughout pregnancy, sometimes called "practice contractions", distinct from true labour.

BRCA Gene

A gene that, when mutated, significantly increases the risk of breast and ovarian cancer, which can be identified through genetic testing.

Breast

The breast is a chest organ made of glandular, fatty and connective tissue, whose main biological role is producing milk.

Breast Cancer

Cancer that develops in breast tissue, one of the most common cancers affecting women, with early detection through screening and self-awareness significantly improving outcomes.

Breastfeeding

The feeding of an infant with breast milk, recommended as the primary source of nutrition for babies in their first months of life.

BreastScreen Australia

A free national screening program offering mammograms every two years to women aged 40 and over, aimed at detecting breast cancer early.

Bronchiolitis

A common viral lung infection in infants that inflames the small airways, causing coughing, wheezing and difficulty feeding.

Bronchitis

Inflammation of the bronchial tubes that carry air to the lungs, causing a persistent cough, mucus production and sometimes wheezing. Acute bronchitis is usually caused by a viral infection and often resolves without antibiotics.

Bronchodilator

A class of medication that relaxes and widens the airways, making breathing easier, commonly used to manage asthma and COPD.

Bronchoscopy

A procedure that uses a thin camera to examine the airways and lungs, used to investigate breathing problems or take tissue samples.

Bruise (Contusion)

A discolouration of the skin caused by bleeding under the surface after an injury, which typically changes colour and fades over one to two weeks.

Bruxism

The habit of grinding or clenching the teeth, often during sleep, which can lead to jaw pain, headaches and worn tooth enamel over time.

Bulk Billing

An arrangement where a doctor bills Medicare directly for the full cost of a consultation, meaning the patient pays nothing out of pocket. Many private telehealth services, including ours, operate on a private-pay basis instead, sometimes with a partial Medicare rebate available.

BUN (blood urea nitrogen)

Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) is a blood test that measures a waste product from protein breakdown, used to check kidney health.

Bunion

A bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe, often causing pain and difficulty with footwear, which can worsen gradually over time.

Buprenorphine

Buprenorphine is a medicine used to treat opioid addiction by easing cravings and withdrawal symptoms as part of recovery.

Burn

An injury to skin or tissue caused by heat, chemicals, electricity or radiation, classified by depth as superficial, partial-thickness or full-thickness.

Burnout

A state of emotional, physical and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged or excessive stress, often related to work, leading to reduced motivation and effectiveness.

Burns

Burns are skin injuries from heat, chemicals, electricity or radiation, graded by depth as first, second or third degree.

Bursitis

Inflammation of a bursa, the small fluid-filled sac that cushions joints, causing pain and swelling, commonly affecting the shoulder, elbow, hip or knee.

C

Cachexia

Severe weight and muscle loss associated with chronic illness such as advanced cancer, distinct from weight loss caused by reduced eating alone.

Caesarean Section

A surgical procedure to deliver a baby through an incision in the abdomen and uterus, performed when a vaginal birth is not possible or advisable.

Calcium

A mineral essential for building and maintaining strong bones and teeth, and for normal muscle and nerve function.

Callus

An area of thickened skin that develops in response to repeated friction or pressure, commonly on the hands or feet.

Calorie deficit

A calorie deficit is when the body burns more energy than it takes in from food and drink, which can lead to weight loss.

Cancer

Cancer is a disease in which some body cells grow out of control and can spread to other parts of the body.

Cancer (general term for malignancy)

Cancer is a general term for diseases in which abnormal cells multiply uncontrollably and can invade or spread through the body.

Cancer Staging

A system used to describe the size of a cancer and how far it has spread, which helps guide treatment decisions and prognosis.

Cancer Survivorship

The ongoing physical, emotional and practical aspects of life during and after cancer treatment, including monitoring for recurrence and managing long-term effects.

Candidiasis

Candidiasis is a fungal infection, often called thrush, caused by overgrowth of Candida yeast on the skin or in the body.

Canker Sore (Aphthous Ulcer)

A small, painful ulcer that develops inside the mouth, usually healing on its own within one to two weeks.

Cannula

A thin tube inserted into a vein, allowing fluids, medications or blood to be given directly into the bloodstream.

Cannula (IV cannula)

An IV cannula is a thin, flexible tube inserted into a vein so fluids, medicines or blood can be given directly into the bloodstream.

Capsule

A capsule is a small dissolvable container, usually made of gelatin, used to deliver medicine in an easy-to-swallow form.

Carbamazepine

Carbamazepine is a medicine used to control seizures, ease nerve pain and stabilise mood in certain conditions.

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

A potentially fatal poisoning caused by inhaling carbon monoxide, an odourless gas produced by faulty heaters and engines, causing headache, confusion and, if severe, loss of consciousness.

Cardiac Arrest

A sudden loss of heart function, breathing and consciousness caused by an electrical malfunction in the heart. It is a medical emergency requiring immediate CPR and a call to 000.

Cardiac Rehabilitation

A structured program of exercise, education and support for people recovering from a heart attack, heart surgery or other cardiac event.

Cardiac Stress Test

A test that monitors heart function while the body is under physical exertion, usually on a treadmill, to check how well the heart copes with increased demand.

Cardiologist

A cardiologist is a doctor who specialises in diagnosing and treating conditions of the heart and blood vessels.

Cardiomyopathy

A disease of the heart muscle that makes it harder for the heart to pump blood effectively, which can lead to heart failure if untreated.

Cardiovascular Disease

A broad category of conditions affecting the heart and blood vessels, including coronary artery disease, heart failure and stroke, often linked to risk factors such as high blood pressure, cholesterol and smoking.

Carer

A person who provides ongoing, unpaid care and support to a family member or friend with a disability, chronic illness, mental illness or who is frail due to age.

Carer's leave

A type of paid or unpaid leave in Australia that lets employees take time off work to look after a sick or injured family member.

Carotid Artery Disease

A narrowing of the carotid arteries in the neck that supply blood to the brain, which increases the risk of stroke if significant.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

A condition caused by pressure on the median nerve as it passes through the wrist, leading to numbness, tingling and weakness in the hand.

Cartilage

Cartilage is a smooth, flexible tissue that cushions joints and gives shape to body parts such as the ears and nose.

Case Conference

A meeting between a patient's treating health professionals to discuss and coordinate their care, particularly for complex or chronic conditions.

Cataract

A clouding of the eye's natural lens that causes blurred vision, most commonly age-related, and treatable with a routine surgical procedure.

Cataract Surgery

A common, generally low-risk surgical procedure that removes a clouded lens from the eye and replaces it with a clear artificial one.

Catheter

A thin, flexible tube inserted into the body, most commonly into the bladder, to drain fluid or administer treatment.

CBC (complete blood count)

A complete blood count (CBC) is a routine blood test that checks red cells, white cells and platelets to give doctors a picture of your general health.

CCF (congestive cardiac failure)

Congestive cardiac failure (CCF), also called heart failure, is a condition where the heart cannot pump blood around the body as well as it should.

Cefalexin

A commonly prescribed cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat a range of bacterial infections, including skin and urinary tract infections.

Cefalexin (cephalexin)

Cefalexin, also spelled cephalexin, is an antibiotic that treats bacterial infections of the skin, ears, chest and urinary tract.

Ceftriaxone

Ceftriaxone is a strong injectable antibiotic used in hospitals and clinics to treat serious bacterial infections.

Cellulitis

A bacterial skin infection that causes redness, swelling, warmth and pain, usually in the lower legs, and can spread quickly if untreated. It typically requires prompt antibiotic treatment.

Cerebral Palsy

A group of lifelong conditions affecting movement and posture, caused by abnormal brain development or damage before, during or shortly after birth.

Certificate of capacity

A certificate of capacity is a document from a doctor that explains how a health condition or injury affects someone's ability to work.

Cervical Cancer

Cancer that develops in the cells of the cervix, most commonly caused by persistent HPV infection, with regular screening and vaccination significantly reducing risk.

Cervical Mucus

Fluid produced by the cervix that changes in texture throughout the menstrual cycle, often used as an indicator of fertility.

Cervical Screening Test

A test that has replaced the traditional Pap smear in Australia, checking for the human papillomavirus (HPV) that can lead to cervical cancer, recommended every five years for eligible people from age 25.

Cervix

The cervix is the lower part of the uterus that connects it to the vagina and plays a key role in menstruation, fertility and childbirth.

Cetirizine

A commonly used, non-drowsy antihistamine used to relieve allergy symptoms such as hay fever and hives.

Chalazion

A small, painless lump that forms on the eyelid due to a blocked oil gland, which usually resolves on its own or with warm compresses.

Cheilitis (Chapped Lips)

Inflammation, dryness or cracking of the lips, often caused by weather, dehydration or irritation, and generally eased with a protective balm.

Chemical Burn

Skin or tissue damage caused by contact with a corrosive substance, requiring immediate rinsing with water and prompt medical assessment.

Chemist (pharmacy)

A chemist, or pharmacist, is a trained health professional who prepares and supplies medicines and gives advice on their safe use.

Chemotherapy

A cancer treatment that uses medication to destroy or slow the growth of cancer cells, which can be given alone or alongside other treatments.

Chest Pain

Discomfort or pain in the chest, which can stem from causes as varied as muscle strain and reflux to serious heart or lung conditions. New or severe chest pain should always be assessed urgently.

Chickenpox

A highly contagious viral infection causing an itchy, blistering rash and fever, most common in childhood, and preventable through vaccination.

Chickenpox (varicella)

Chickenpox is a contagious viral illness, most common in children, that causes an itchy blistering rash along with fever and tiredness.

Chilblains

Small, itchy, red or purple swellings on the skin caused by an abnormal reaction to cold, most often affecting the fingers and toes.

Child Dental Benefits Schedule

A Medicare-linked program that provides benefits towards basic dental services for eligible children.

Chills

Chills are episodes of feeling cold and shivering, often a sign the body is raising its temperature to fight an infection.

Chlamydia

One of the most common bacterial sexually transmitted infections in Australia, often causing no symptoms but treatable with antibiotics if detected through testing.

Chloramphenicol

Chloramphenicol is an antibiotic reserved for serious bacterial infections, and in Australia it is mainly used as eye drops for bacterial eye infections.

Choking

A blockage of the airway, often by food or a foreign object, that prevents normal breathing and requires immediate first aid, such as back blows or abdominal thrusts.

Cholecystectomy

Surgical removal of the gallbladder, most often performed to treat painful or recurrent gallstones.

Chromosome

A thread-like structure inside cells that carries genetic information in the form of DNA, with humans typically having 23 pairs.

Chronic

"Chronic" describes a health condition that lasts a long time, generally more than three months, and often needs ongoing care.

Chronic Bronchitis

A form of COPD involving long-term inflammation of the airways, causing a persistent productive cough lasting at least three months of the year.

Chronic Disease Management Plan

A structured care plan, sometimes called a GP Management Plan, prepared by a doctor for patients with an ongoing condition such as diabetes or heart disease, coordinating treatment and, where eligible, access to subsidised allied health services.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

A complex condition causing persistent, unexplained fatigue that is not relieved by rest and worsens with physical or mental activity, along with a range of other symptoms.

Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS)

Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a long-term condition causing severe tiredness that doesn't improve with rest and worsens with activity.

Chronic Kidney Disease

A long-term condition in which the kidneys gradually lose their ability to filter waste from the blood, often linked to diabetes and high blood pressure.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

COPD is a long-term lung disease, usually caused by smoking, that gradually narrows the airways and makes breathing harder.

Chronic Pain

Pain that persists for three months or longer, often continuing beyond the initial injury or illness, and generally requiring a broader management approach than acute pain.

Chronic Venous Insufficiency

A condition in which leg veins struggle to return blood efficiently to the heart, leading to swelling, aching and skin changes over time.

Ciprofloxacin

Ciprofloxacin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic used to treat infections of the urinary tract, chest, skin and other parts of the body.

Circadian Rhythm

The body's internal 24-hour clock that regulates the sleep-wake cycle and other physiological processes, influenced heavily by light exposure.

CKD (chronic kidney disease)

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a long-term condition in which the kidneys gradually lose their ability to filter waste from the blood.

Claudication

Cramping pain in the legs brought on by walking and relieved by rest, typically caused by reduced blood flow from peripheral artery disease.

Cleft Lip and Palate

A birth condition in which the lip or roof of the mouth does not form completely, generally treated with a series of surgeries over childhood.

Clindamycin

Clindamycin is an antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections of the skin, chest and internal organs.

Clinic

A clinic is a healthcare facility, staffed by doctors, nurses or other professionals, where people can get medical care without staying overnight.

Clinical Assessment

The process by which a doctor gathers information about a patient's symptoms, history and examination findings to form a diagnosis and decide on appropriate treatment.

Clonazepam

Clonazepam is a prescription medicine used to treat epilepsy and panic disorder by calming activity in the brain.

Clopidogrel

Clopidogrel is a medicine that helps prevent blood clots in people with certain heart or blood vessel conditions.

Club Foot

A birth condition in which a baby's foot is twisted out of its normal shape or position, generally treatable with early, non-surgical correction.

Cluster Headache

A rare but severe type of headache that occurs in repeated clusters, typically causing intense pain around one eye, often at the same time each day.

CMP (comprehensive metabolic panel)

A comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP) is a blood test that checks blood sugar, electrolytes, and liver and kidney function.

Co-Payment

A set fee a patient contributes towards the cost of a service or medication, such as the standard PBS co-payment for subsidised prescriptions.

Coagulopathy

A general term for a disorder affecting the blood's ability to clot normally, which can lead to excessive bleeding or, conversely, excessive clotting.

Cochlear Implant

A surgically implanted electronic device that provides a sense of sound to people with severe hearing loss who gain limited benefit from hearing aids.

Codeine

An opioid pain medication, prescription-only in Australia, used for moderate pain and, at lower doses, as a cough suppressant.

Coeliac Disease

An autoimmune condition in which eating gluten damages the lining of the small intestine, causing digestive symptoms and nutrient malabsorption. It is managed with a strict, lifelong gluten-free diet.

Coeliac disease (celiac)

Coeliac disease is an autoimmune condition where eating gluten damages the small intestine, requiring a strict, lifelong gluten-free diet.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

A structured, evidence-based form of talking therapy that helps people identify and change unhelpful thought and behaviour patterns, commonly used for anxiety and depression.

Cold (common cold)

The common cold is a mild, contagious viral infection of the nose and throat that usually clears up on its own within a week or two.

Cold Sore

A small, fluid-filled blister that typically appears on or around the lips, caused by the herpes simplex virus. Cold sores often recur and can be managed with antiviral cream or medication.

Colic

Frequent, prolonged and intense crying in an otherwise healthy infant, with no clear cause identified, that usually improves by around three to four months of age.

Colon (large intestine)

The colon, also called the large intestine, absorbs water and forms waste into stool as the final stage of digestion.

Colonoscopy

A procedure that uses a flexible camera to examine the inside of the large intestine, used to investigate symptoms, screen for bowel cancer or remove polyps.

Colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer is cancer that develops in the colon or rectum, often starting from small growths called polyps, and is detectable through screening.

Colour Blindness

A reduced ability to distinguish between certain colours, most commonly red and green, usually inherited and present from birth.

Coma

A coma is a deep, prolonged state of unconsciousness in which a person cannot be woken and does not respond to their surroundings.

Common Cold

A mild, self-limiting viral infection of the nose and throat causing symptoms such as a runny nose, sneezing and mild cough, usually resolving within a week or two.

Community Health Centre

A local, often government-funded, service offering a range of health and allied health care, sometimes at reduced or no cost, outside of a hospital setting.

Community Nursing

Nursing care delivered in a person's home or local community, supporting recovery, chronic disease management or aged care needs outside of hospital.

Comorbidity

Comorbidity is the medical term for having one or more other health conditions alongside a person's main diagnosis.

Compassion Fatigue

A state of emotional and physical exhaustion that can affect people in caring roles, resulting from prolonged exposure to others' suffering.

Complex PTSD

A condition that can develop after prolonged or repeated trauma, involving the core features of PTSD along with difficulties in emotional regulation, self-image and relationships.

Concession Card

A card issued by Services Australia or the Department of Veterans' Affairs that entitles eligible holders to cheaper medicines, bulk billing incentives and other government concessions.

Concussion

A mild traumatic brain injury caused by a blow or jolt to the head, which can cause headache, confusion, dizziness and temporary memory problems, and requires careful monitoring and rest.

Congenital disorder (birth defect)

A congenital disorder, or birth defect, is a health condition present from birth that affects how part of the body looks, works or develops.

Congenital Heart Defect

A structural problem with the heart present from birth, ranging from minor issues that need no treatment to complex defects requiring surgery.

Conjunctivitis

Inflammation of the thin membrane covering the white of the eye and inner eyelid, commonly known as pink eye, causing redness, discharge and irritation. It can be viral, bacterial or allergic in origin.

Conjunctivitis (pink eye)

Conjunctivitis, or pink eye, is inflammation of the eye's surface caused by infection, allergy or irritation, leading to redness and discharge.

Consciousness

Consciousness is the state of being awake and aware of your surroundings, thoughts and feelings.

Constipation

Infrequent or difficult bowel movements, often linked to low fibre or fluid intake, reduced activity, certain medications or an underlying bowel condition.

Constipation in Children

Difficulty or infrequency passing bowel motions in children, a common issue often related to diet, fluid intake or toilet-training anxiety.

Contact Dermatitis

A type of skin inflammation triggered when the skin comes into direct contact with an irritant or allergen, resulting in redness, itching and sometimes blistering.

Contact Tracing

The process of identifying and notifying people who may have been exposed to someone with an infectious disease, used to help contain outbreaks.

Contagious

"Contagious" describes an illness that can spread from one person to another, typically through close contact, coughing or sneezing.

Continuous Glucose Monitor

A small wearable device that tracks blood glucose levels throughout the day and night, reducing the need for frequent finger-prick testing.

Contraception

Methods used to prevent pregnancy, including the oral contraceptive pill, implants, intrauterine devices and barrier methods. A doctor can discuss suitable options and, where appropriate, issue a prescription during a consultation.

Contraceptive Implant

A small, flexible rod inserted under the skin of the upper arm that releases hormone to provide contraception for several years.

Contraindication

A specific condition or circumstance in which a particular medication, treatment or procedure should not be used because it could cause harm.

Contraindications

A contraindication is a medical reason why a particular treatment or medicine should not be used for a person because it could cause harm.

Contrave (naltrexone/bupropion)

Contrave is a prescription weight-management tablet combining naltrexone and bupropion, used alongside diet and exercise in eligible adults.

Controlled drug

A controlled drug is a medicine or substance regulated by Australian law because of its potential for harm or misuse.

COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)

COPD is an umbrella term for long-term lung conditions that narrow the airways, most often caused by smoking, leading to breathlessness.

COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)

A group of progressive lung conditions, including emphysema and chronic bronchitis, that cause airflow blockage and breathing difficulties, most often linked to long-term exposure to smoking or irritants.

Copper IUD

A hormone-free, long-acting contraceptive device inserted into the uterus, which can also be used as emergency contraception if fitted soon after unprotected sex.

Corn (Skin)

A small area of thickened, hardened skin that develops from repeated friction or pressure, often on the toes.

Corneal Abrasion

A scratch on the clear front surface of the eye, often causing pain and light sensitivity, which usually heals within a few days.

Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery

A surgical procedure that reroutes blood flow around a blocked coronary artery, used to treat severe coronary artery disease.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19)

COVID-19 is a contagious respiratory illness caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, ranging from mild symptoms to severe illness.

Corticosteroid

A class of anti-inflammatory medication, available as tablets, creams, inhalers or injections, used to treat conditions ranging from asthma and eczema to autoimmune disease.

Costochondritis

Inflammation of the cartilage connecting the ribs to the breastbone, causing chest pain that can mimic heart-related pain but is musculoskeletal in origin.

Counselling

A form of talking therapy in which a trained professional helps a person explore and work through emotional difficulties, life challenges or mental health concerns.

COVID-19

A respiratory illness caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, with symptoms ranging from mild cold-like signs to severe illness, particularly in older or vulnerable people.

Cow's Milk Protein Allergy

An immune reaction to proteins in cow's milk, most common in infants, causing symptoms such as rash, reflux or digestive upset.

CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation)

CPR is an emergency first-aid technique using chest compressions and rescue breaths to keep blood and oxygen moving during cardiac arrest.

CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation)

An emergency first aid technique combining chest compressions and rescue breaths, used to keep blood and oxygen flowing when someone's heart has stopped.

Cradle Cap

A common, harmless condition in infants causing scaly, greasy patches on the scalp, which usually clears up on its own within the first year.

Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease

Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease is a rare, fast-progressing brain disorder that severely affects memory, personality and movement.

Crohn's Disease

A chronic inflammatory bowel disease that can affect any part of the digestive tract, causing abdominal pain, diarrhoea, fatigue and weight loss.

Croup

A common childhood viral infection causing swelling around the vocal cords, leading to a distinctive barking cough and, at times, noisy breathing.

CRP (C-Reactive Protein) Test

A blood test that measures a marker of inflammation in the body, used to help identify or monitor infection or inflammatory conditions.

Crutches

Crutches are walking aids that support body weight through the arms, helping people move safely while a leg injury heals.

Cryotherapy (Skin)

A treatment that uses extreme cold, usually liquid nitrogen, to freeze and remove skin lesions such as warts or sun-damaged spots.

CSF (cerebrospinal fluid)

Cerebrospinal fluid is a clear fluid that cushions the brain and spinal cord and carries away waste products.

CT (computed tomography)

A CT scan is an imaging test that uses X-rays and a computer to build detailed cross-sectional pictures of the body.

CT Scan

An imaging test that combines multiple X-ray images to create detailed cross-sectional pictures of the body, useful for assessing organs, bones and injuries.

CT scanner

A CT scanner is the machine that takes X-ray images from multiple angles and combines them into detailed cross-sectional pictures of the body.

CTG (cardiotocography)

A CTG is a pregnancy test that monitors a baby's heart rate and the mother's contractions, usually late in pregnancy or during labour.

Cushing's Syndrome

A condition caused by prolonged exposure to high levels of the hormone cortisol, resulting in weight gain, thinning skin and other metabolic changes.

CVD (cardiovascular disease)

Cardiovascular disease refers to conditions affecting the heart and blood vessels, often linked to lifestyle factors and largely preventable.

CXR (chest X-ray)

A chest X-ray uses a low dose of radiation to produce images of the heart, lungs and ribs, helping diagnose chest problems.

Cyanosis

A bluish discolouration of the skin or lips caused by low oxygen levels in the blood, which requires prompt medical assessment.

Cyclophosphamide

Cyclophosphamide is a prescription medicine used to treat some cancers and autoimmune conditions by slowing abnormal cell growth.

Cystic Fibrosis

An inherited condition that causes thick, sticky mucus to build up in the lungs and digestive system, requiring lifelong specialist management.

Cystitis

Inflammation of the bladder, most commonly caused by a bacterial infection, leading to a frequent, urgent need to urinate along with a burning sensation. It is one of the most common forms of urinary tract infection.

Cystoscopy

A procedure that uses a thin camera passed through the urethra to examine the inside of the bladder.

D

Day Surgery

A surgical procedure performed without an overnight hospital stay, with the patient admitted and discharged on the same day.

De Quervain's Tenosynovitis

Inflammation of the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist, causing pain with gripping or twisting movements, common in new parents from repetitive lifting.

Debridement

The removal of dead, damaged or infected tissue from a wound to promote healing.

Decongestant

A medication that relieves nasal congestion by narrowing swollen blood vessels in the nasal passages.

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

A blood clot that forms in a deep vein, usually in the leg, which can cause pain and swelling and, if it breaks free, travel to the lungs as a pulmonary embolism.

Defibrillator (AED)

A portable device that delivers an electric shock to the heart to restore a normal rhythm during cardiac arrest, designed for use by trained and untrained bystanders alike.

Degenerative Disc Disease

Age-related changes to the discs of the spine that can cause chronic back or neck pain as the discs lose height and flexibility.

Dehydration

A condition that occurs when the body loses more fluid than it takes in, impairing normal function. Symptoms include thirst, dark urine, dizziness and fatigue, and severe cases can require urgent medical attention.

Delirium

A sudden, often fluctuating state of confusion and reduced awareness, which can be triggered by infection, medication or other acute illness, particularly in older adults.

Dementia

A general term for a decline in memory, thinking and reasoning severe enough to affect daily life, most commonly caused by Alzheimer's disease.

Dengue Fever

A mosquito-borne viral infection common in tropical regions, causing fever, severe headache and joint pain, with no specific antiviral treatment.

Dental Abscess

A painful pocket of infection that can form at the root of a tooth or in the surrounding gum, usually requiring dental treatment and sometimes antibiotics.

Depression

A common mental health condition involving persistent low mood, loss of interest in activities and a range of physical and emotional symptoms that affect daily functioning. It is treatable with support, therapy and, where appropriate, medication.

Dermatitis

A general term for inflamed, irritated skin, which can appear as redness, swelling, itching or a rash. Common types include contact dermatitis, seborrhoeic dermatitis and atopic dermatitis (eczema).

Dermatologist

A dermatologist is a doctor who specialises in diagnosing and treating conditions of the skin, hair and nails.

Developmental Milestone

A skill or ability, such as walking or talking, that most children are expected to reach within a general age range, used to track healthy development.

Developmental Screening

A brief, structured check used to identify whether a child's development is on track, or whether further assessment may be needed.

Deviated Septum

A condition in which the thin wall between the nostrils is displaced to one side, which can make breathing through the nose more difficult.

Diabetes

A chronic condition in which the body cannot properly regulate blood glucose levels, either because it produces too little insulin (Type 1) or cannot use insulin effectively (Type 2). Ongoing monitoring and medication management are often supported through regular GP or telehealth reviews.

Diabetes Insipidus

A rare condition unrelated to blood sugar, in which the body cannot properly regulate fluid balance, leading to excessive thirst and urination.

Diabetes mellitus

Diabetes mellitus is a long-term condition where the body can't properly regulate blood sugar due to problems with insulin.

Diabetic Foot Care

Regular checks and preventive care of the feet in people with diabetes, important because reduced sensation and circulation can allow injuries to go unnoticed.

Diabetic Ketoacidosis

A serious and potentially life-threatening complication of diabetes, occurring when a severe lack of insulin causes the body to break down fat for energy, producing a build-up of acids called ketones. It requires urgent hospital treatment.

Diabetic Neuropathy

Nerve damage caused by prolonged high blood glucose, most commonly affecting the feet and legs, causing numbness, tingling or pain.

Diabetic Retinopathy

Damage to the blood vessels of the retina caused by prolonged high blood glucose, a leading cause of vision loss in people with diabetes if unmonitored.

Diagnosis

The process of identifying a disease or condition based on a patient's symptoms, history, examination and, where needed, test results.

Dialysis

A medical treatment that artificially filters waste and excess fluid from the blood when the kidneys can no longer do so effectively.

Diaphragm

The diaphragm is a dome-shaped muscle beneath the lungs that drives breathing by separating the chest from the abdomen.

Diarrhoea

Loose, watery bowel movements occurring more frequently than usual, often caused by infection, food intolerance or medication. Most cases resolve within a few days, but persistent or severe diarrhoea warrants medical review.

Diastolic (blood pressure)

Diastolic blood pressure is the lower number in a reading, showing the pressure in your arteries while the heart rests between beats.

Diazepam

A benzodiazepine medication used short-term for anxiety, muscle spasm or seizures, due to its risk of dependence with prolonged use.

DIC (disseminated intravascular coagulation)

DIC is a serious condition where abnormal blood clotting throughout the body leads to both dangerous clots and excessive bleeding.

Diclofenac

Diclofenac is an anti-inflammatory medicine commonly used to relieve pain from arthritis, back pain and muscle injuries.

Dietary Fibre

The indigestible part of plant foods that supports healthy digestion, helps regulate blood sugar and contributes to a feeling of fullness.

Dietitian

An allied health professional qualified to provide evidence-based advice on nutrition and diet to manage health conditions or improve wellbeing.

Digestive system

The digestive system is the group of organs that break down food, absorb nutrients and remove waste from the body.

Digital health

Digital health is the use of technology, such as apps and telehealth, to support healthcare delivery and personal health management.

Digoxin

Digoxin is a medicine that strengthens and steadies the heartbeat, used to treat heart failure and some irregular heart rhythms.

Diltiazem

Diltiazem is a medicine that relaxes blood vessels and eases the heart's workload, used for high blood pressure and chest pain.

Diphenhydramine

Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine used to relieve allergy symptoms and, because it causes drowsiness, sometimes as a short-term sleep aid.

Diphtheria

A serious bacterial infection affecting the throat and airway, now rare in Australia thanks to routine childhood vaccination.

Discharge Summary

A document prepared when a patient leaves hospital, summarising their admission, treatment and follow-up plan, usually sent to their regular GP to support continuity of care.

Disease

A disease is any abnormal condition that disrupts normal body function, ranging from mild to serious, and may or may not be contagious.

Disease Prevention

Actions taken to reduce the risk of developing a disease, ranging from vaccination and screening to healthy lifestyle choices.

Dispense

To dispense a medicine means a pharmacist prepares and supplies it to a patient according to a doctor's prescription.

Dissociative Disorder

A group of conditions involving a disconnection between thoughts, memories, surroundings or identity, often linked to past trauma.

Distal

"Distal" is a medical term describing a body part that is further away from the centre of the body or a point of attachment.

Diuretic

A class of medication that increases urine production to help the body remove excess fluid and salt, commonly used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure.

Diverticulitis

Inflammation or infection of small pouches that can form in the wall of the large intestine, causing abdominal pain, fever and changes in bowel habits.

Diverticulosis

The presence of small pouches in the wall of the large intestine, common with age and usually harmless unless they become inflamed (diverticulitis).

Dizziness

A general term describing sensations of lightheadedness, unsteadiness or a spinning feeling (vertigo). It can stem from causes ranging from dehydration and low blood pressure to inner ear problems.

DNR (do not resuscitate)

A DNR order is a legal document recording a person's wish not to receive CPR or other resuscitation if their heart or breathing stops.

Do Not Resuscitate Order

A medical order indicating a patient does not wish to receive CPR if their heart or breathing stops, usually made in consultation with their doctor and family.

DOB (date of birth)

DOB stands for date of birth, the specific day, month and year a person was born, used to confirm identity and age.

Doctor's note

A doctor's note, or medical certificate, is written confirmation from a doctor that verifies a patient's illness or medical appointment.

DOE (dyspnoea on exertion)

DOE means breathlessness that occurs during physical activity, ranging from a minor issue to a sign of an underlying health condition.

DOMS (Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness)

Muscle soreness and stiffness that develops a day or two after unaccustomed or intense exercise, generally resolving within a week.

Dorsal

"Dorsal" describes the back or upper side of the body, such as the area around the spine in humans and other animals.

Dosage

Dosage is the amount and frequency of a medicine that should be taken to make sure it works safely and effectively.

Dose

A dose is the specific amount of medicine taken at one time or at set intervals, tailored to the person and their condition.

Dose Administration Aid

A pharmacy-packed container, often called a Webster Pack, that organises a person's medications by day and time to help them take the right dose at the right time.

Down Syndrome

A genetic condition caused by an extra copy of chromosome 21, associated with characteristic physical features and varying degrees of developmental delay.

Doxycycline

A commonly prescribed antibiotic used to treat infections including acne, chest infections and certain sexually transmitted infections, and also used for malaria prevention.

Drug Allergy

An immune system reaction to a medication, which can range from a mild skin rash to a severe, life-threatening reaction.

Drug Interaction

A change in how a medication works caused by taking it alongside another medicine, food or supplement, which can increase side effects or reduce effectiveness.

Drug interactions

Drug interactions happen when one medicine changes how another works, altering its effects or increasing the risk of side effects.

Dry Eye Syndrome

A common condition in which the eyes do not produce enough quality tears, causing irritation, redness and a gritty sensation.

Dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist

A dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist is a prescription medicine that acts on two gut hormones involved in blood sugar and appetite control.

Duloxetine

Duloxetine is a medicine that treats depression, anxiety and certain types of nerve pain by adjusting brain chemical levels.

Dupuytren's Contracture

A condition in which tissue in the palm thickens and tightens, gradually pulling one or more fingers into a bent position.

Duromine (phentermine)

Duromine is a brand of phentermine, a prescription appetite suppressant used short-term to support weight loss under medical supervision.

Dust Mite Allergy

An allergic reaction to proteins found in the droppings of dust mites, commonly causing year-round symptoms such as sneezing, congestion and itchy eyes.

DVA Health Card

A card issued by the Department of Veterans' Affairs (Gold, White or Orange) that gives eligible veterans and their dependants subsidised or fully covered treatment for specified conditions.

Dyslexia

A common learning difficulty that primarily affects reading and spelling skills, unrelated to a person's overall intelligence.

Dysmenorrhoea

The medical term for painful periods, ranging from mild cramping to pain severe enough to interfere with daily activities.

Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder)

A condition affecting physical coordination, making everyday tasks and motor skills more difficult to learn and perform than expected for age.

E

e-Referral

An electronic version of a specialist referral letter, sent securely between healthcare providers rather than as a printed document.

E. coli

A type of bacteria normally found in the gut, most strains of which are harmless, though certain strains can cause food poisoning or urinary tract infections.

Ear

The ear is the organ responsible for hearing and balance, made up of outer, middle and inner sections that work together.

Ear infection

An ear infection is inflammation of the middle ear, usually caused by bacteria or a virus, and is especially common in children.

Ear Wax Buildup (Cerumen Impaction)

An accumulation of ear wax that can cause muffled hearing, discomfort or a blocked feeling, often treatable with ear drops or professional removal.

Eating Disorder

A serious mental health condition involving disturbed eating behaviours and distressing thoughts about food, weight or body shape, including conditions such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa and binge eating disorder.

Ebola virus disease (EVD)

Ebola virus disease is a rare but severe and often fatal illness that spreads through contact with an infected person's bodily fluids.

ECG (electrocardiogram)

An ECG is a painless test that records the heart's electrical activity to check its rhythm and detect possible problems.

ECG (Electrocardiogram)

A quick, painless test that records the heart's electrical activity, used to check heart rhythm and detect signs of heart problems.

Echocardiogram

An ultrasound scan of the heart used to assess its structure, pumping function and the health of its valves.

Ectopic Pregnancy

A pregnancy that implants outside the uterus, most often in a fallopian tube, which cannot continue safely and requires urgent medical treatment.

Eczema

A chronic skin condition causing dry, itchy, inflamed patches, most common in childhood but often persisting into adulthood. Flare-ups can be managed with moisturisers, topical treatments and avoiding known triggers.

Edema

Edema is swelling caused by a build-up of fluid in the body's tissues, often in the legs, feet or hands.

Edema (swelling)

Also called swelling, edema is a build-up of excess fluid in body tissues that can affect the limbs, lungs, brain or other organs.

EEG (electroencephalogram)

An EEG is a painless test that records the brain's electrical activity to help diagnose conditions like epilepsy and sleep disorders.

Egg Freezing

A fertility preservation procedure in which eggs are collected and frozen for potential future use, often for medical or personal reasons.

Elective Surgery

Planned surgery that is medically necessary but not an emergency, which can typically be scheduled in advance, often with a waiting period in the public system.

Electrical Burn

An injury caused by electrical current passing through the body, which can cause serious internal damage not always visible on the skin, requiring urgent assessment.

Electrocardiograph (ECG machine)

An electrocardiograph, or ECG machine, is the device used to record the heart's electrical activity as a readable graph.

Electrolyte Imbalance

A disruption in the levels of minerals such as sodium, potassium and calcium in the blood, which can affect muscle, nerve and heart function. Causes include dehydration, vomiting, diarrhoea and certain medications.

Electronic health record (EHR)

An electronic health record (EHR) is a secure digital file of a patient's medical history that authorised healthcare providers can access to help coordinate care.

Elimination Diet

A structured, supervised diet that removes suspected trigger foods before gradually reintroducing them, used to identify food intolerances or allergies.

Emergency Contraception

Medication taken after unprotected sex to reduce the chance of pregnancy, most effective the sooner it is taken.

Emergency Department

The hospital unit that provides urgent care for serious injuries and acute, life-threatening conditions. Telehealth is not appropriate for emergencies — call 000 or attend your nearest emergency department for symptoms such as chest pain or severe breathing difficulty.

EMG (electromyography)

EMG (electromyography) is a test that measures the electrical activity in muscles to check how well muscles and the nerves controlling them are working.

Emphysema

A form of COPD in which the air sacs in the lungs become damaged and less elastic, making it harder to breathe out fully.

Enalapril

Enalapril is a prescription medicine that relaxes blood vessels to lower blood pressure and ease strain on the heart.

Encephalitis

Encephalitis is swelling of the brain, most often caused by a viral infection, and it needs prompt medical care.

End-of-Life Care

Support and treatment provided in the final stages of a terminal illness, focused on comfort, dignity and quality of life for the patient and their family.

Endemic

A disease that is consistently present at a expected, baseline level within a particular population or region.

Endocarditis

An infection of the inner lining of the heart chambers and valves, which is serious and requires prompt hospital treatment.

Endocrine system

The endocrine system is the network of glands that release hormones into the blood to control growth, metabolism and mood.

Endocrinologist

A specialist doctor who treats conditions related to hormones and the glands that produce them, including diabetes, thyroid disorders and reproductive hormone imbalances. Patients are typically seen after a referral from a GP.

Endometriosis

A condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside it, often causing chronic pelvic pain, painful periods and, for some, fertility difficulties.

Endoscopy

A procedure in which a thin, flexible tube with a camera is used to examine the inside of the body, commonly the digestive tract, often under light sedation.

Enduring Guardian

A person legally appointed to make personal and healthcare decisions on someone's behalf if they lose the capacity to make those decisions themselves.

Enduring Power of Attorney

A legal document appointing someone to make financial and legal decisions on a person's behalf if they become unable to do so themselves.

Enoxaparin

Enoxaparin is an injectable blood-thinning medicine used to prevent and treat dangerous blood clots.

ENT (ear, nose and throat)

ENT is the medical specialty, also called otolaryngology, that deals with conditions affecting the ears, nose and throat.

ENT specialist (ear, nose and throat)

An ENT specialist, or otolaryngologist, is a doctor trained to diagnose and treat conditions of the ear, nose, throat, head and neck.

Eosinophilia

A higher-than-normal level of a type of white blood cell, often linked to allergic conditions, parasitic infection or, less commonly, other underlying causes.

Epidemic

A wider and more sustained spread of disease across a community or region than would normally be expected.

Epidemiology

Epidemiology is the scientific study of how diseases spread through populations, used to guide public health action and disease prevention.

Epididymitis

Inflammation of the epididymis, the tube behind the testicle that stores sperm, often caused by infection and treated with antibiotics.

Epilepsy

A neurological condition characterised by a tendency to have recurrent seizures caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain, usually managed with anti-seizure medication.

Epinephrine (adrenaline)

Epinephrine, also called adrenaline, is a natural hormone and emergency medicine that helps the body respond to stress and severe allergic reactions.

EpiPen (epinephrine auto-injector)

An EpiPen is an easy-to-use injector device that delivers a dose of adrenaline to treat life-threatening allergic reactions.

Episiotomy

A small surgical cut sometimes made during childbirth to widen the vaginal opening and assist delivery.

Erectile Dysfunction

The persistent inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for sexual activity, which can have physical, psychological or lifestyle-related causes and is often treatable.

Erythema Nodosum

A skin condition causing tender, red lumps, usually on the shins, often triggered by an infection, medication or underlying inflammatory condition.

Escitalopram

An SSRI antidepressant commonly prescribed for depression and generalised anxiety disorder.

eScript

An electronic prescription sent to a patient by SMS or email as a secure link, known as a Token, which can be presented at any pharmacy instead of a paper script. eScripts are the standard way prescriptions are issued after a telehealth consultation.

Esomeprazole

A proton pump inhibitor similar to omeprazole, used to reduce stomach acid and treat reflux and ulcer symptoms.

Esophagus (oesophagus)

The oesophagus is the muscular tube that carries food and drink from the mouth down to the stomach.

ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate)

ESR is a blood test that checks for inflammation in the body by timing how fast red blood cells settle in a tube.

ESR (Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate) Test

A blood test that measures how quickly red blood cells settle, used as a general marker of inflammation in the body.

Essential Tremor

A common neurological condition causing rhythmic shaking, most often in the hands, that tends to worsen with movement and can run in families.

Estrogen

Estrogen is a hormone that drives female reproductive development and also supports bone, heart and mood health in both sexes.

Etiology (aetiology) (cause of disease)

Aetiology, or etiology, is the study of what causes a disease, which helps doctors work out how to diagnose, treat and prevent it.

EtOH (ethyl alcohol, i.e. alcohol use)

EtOH is the medical shorthand for ethyl alcohol, the type of alcohol found in beer, wine and spirits.

Eustachian Tube Dysfunction

A blockage or malfunction of the tube connecting the middle ear to the back of the throat, causing a feeling of ear fullness, popping or muffled hearing.

Exacerbation

An exacerbation is a sudden worsening of a disease or its symptoms, often seen as a flare-up in ongoing conditions.

Excess (Health Insurance)

The amount a policyholder agrees to pay towards the cost of hospital treatment before their private health insurer starts contributing, in exchange for a lower premium.

Excessive Thirst

An unusually strong or persistent urge to drink fluids, which can be a normal response to heat or exercise or a sign of an underlying condition such as diabetes.

Excision

The surgical removal of tissue, such as a skin lesion or lump, often followed by stitches to close the wound.

Exercise Physiologist

An allied health professional who designs exercise-based interventions to manage chronic disease, injury or disability.

Expectorant

A medication that helps loosen and clear mucus from the airways, making a productive cough more effective.

Extras Cover

A type of private health insurance that helps pay for everyday health services not covered by Medicare, such as dental, physiotherapy, optical and remedial massage.

Extremity (limb)

An extremity is a limb of the body, an arm or a leg, used for movement, balance and everyday tasks.

Eye

The eye is the organ of vision, converting light into signals that the brain reads as images.

Eye Floaters

Small specks or cobweb-like shapes that drift across the field of vision, usually harmless age-related changes, though a sudden increase warrants urgent review.

Eye Strain

Tired, sore or uncomfortable eyes, often caused by prolonged screen use, reading or uncorrected vision problems.

F

Faecal Incontinence

The unintentional loss of bowel control, which can result from a range of causes and is often manageable with the right treatment and support.

Faecal Occult Blood Test

A test that checks a stool sample for hidden traces of blood, used as the basis of the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program.

Failure to Thrive

A term used when an infant or child is not gaining weight or growing as expected for their age, prompting further medical investigation.

Fainting (Syncope)

A brief, sudden loss of consciousness caused by a temporary reduction in blood flow to the brain, usually followed by a quick and full recovery.

Falls Risk

An assessed likelihood that an older person may fall, based on factors such as balance, medication, vision and home hazards, used to guide prevention strategies.

Familial Hypercholesterolaemia

An inherited condition causing very high cholesterol levels from a young age, significantly increasing the risk of early heart disease if undiagnosed.

Family History

A record of health conditions that have affected a person's close relatives, used by doctors to help assess individual risk of inherited or familial conditions.

Fatigue

A persistent feeling of tiredness or lack of energy that is not fully relieved by rest. It can be a symptom of many underlying conditions, from poor sleep and stress to anaemia or thyroid disease.

FBC (full blood count)

A full blood count (FBC) is a routine blood test that measures red cells, white cells and platelets to check general health.

Febrile Convulsion

A seizure triggered by a rapid rise in body temperature, most common in young children, which usually looks alarming but is generally brief and not harmful.

Femur

The femur is the thigh bone, the longest and strongest bone in the human body, essential for standing and walking.

Fentanyl

Fentanyl is a very strong prescription opioid used to manage severe pain, but it carries a high risk of overdose and addiction.

Ferrous sulfate (iron supplement)

Ferrous sulfate is an iron supplement used to treat or prevent iron deficiency anaemia by supporting red blood cell production.

Fertility

A person or couple's ability to conceive a child, which can be affected by a range of medical, hormonal and lifestyle factors.

Fever

A temporary rise in body temperature above the normal range, usually a sign that the body is fighting an infection. Most fevers settle with rest and fluids, but high or prolonged fevers should be medically assessed.

Fibromyalgia

A chronic condition characterised by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue and tenderness in specific areas of the body, often accompanied by sleep and mood disturbances.

Fibula

The fibula is the thinner of the two lower leg bones, helping stabilise the ankle without bearing much body weight.

Fifth Disease (Slapped Cheek Syndrome)

A mild viral illness common in children, causing a bright red rash on the cheeks, usually resolving without specific treatment.

Fine Motor Skills

The abilities involving small, precise hand and finger movements, such as grasping objects or holding a pencil, tracked as part of a child's development.

Finger Clubbing

A change in the shape of the fingertips and nails, becoming rounded and bulbous, sometimes associated with chronic lung or heart conditions.

First Aid

Immediate, basic care given to someone who is injured or suddenly unwell before professional medical help arrives or can be accessed.

Fit for work

"Fit for work" describes whether someone has the physical and mental capacity to do their job safely.

Flat Feet

A condition in which the arch of the foot is low or absent, which is normal for many people but can occasionally contribute to foot or leg discomfort.

Flatulence

The passing of gas from the digestive system, a normal bodily function that can increase with certain foods or digestive conditions.

Flu

The flu, or influenza, is a contagious respiratory illness that can be prevented largely through an annual vaccine and good hygiene.

Fluconazole

Fluconazole is an antifungal medicine used to treat infections such as thrush by stopping fungi from growing.

Fluoxetine

One of the earliest and most widely known SSRI antidepressants, used to treat depression and certain anxiety and eating disorders.

Fluticasone

A corticosteroid available as a preventer inhaler for asthma or a nasal spray for allergic rhinitis, used to reduce airway or nasal inflammation.

Folate Deficiency

A shortage of folate (vitamin B9), important for cell growth and particularly critical during pregnancy, which can contribute to anaemia and developmental complications.

Folliculitis

Inflammation or infection of hair follicles, causing small red or pus-filled bumps, often triggered by shaving, friction or a warm, moist environment.

Food Allergy

An immune system reaction to a specific food protein, ranging from mild symptoms such as hives to severe, life-threatening anaphylaxis.

Food Intolerance

A difficulty digesting a particular food that causes symptoms such as bloating or discomfort, distinct from a true food allergy as it does not involve the immune system.

Food Poisoning

Illness caused by eating food contaminated with bacteria, viruses, parasites or toxins, typically causing nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea.

Forceps

Forceps are surgical instruments, similar to tweezers, used by healthcare professionals to grip, hold or move tissue during procedures.

Fracture

A broken bone, ranging from a hairline crack to a complete break. Fractures typically require an X-ray for diagnosis and are treated in person rather than via telehealth.

Frailty

A state of increased vulnerability, often seen in older adults, involving reduced strength, endurance and physiological reserve that increases the risk of poor health outcomes.

Frontotemporal Dementia

A form of dementia that tends to affect personality, behaviour and language earlier than memory, often appearing at a younger age than other dementias.

Frostbite

Damage to skin and underlying tissue caused by freezing temperatures, most often affecting fingers, toes, ears and the nose.

Frozen Shoulder

A condition in which the shoulder joint becomes stiff and painful, progressively limiting range of motion, and can take many months to resolve.

Frusemide (furosemide)

Frusemide, also called furosemide, is a diuretic medicine that helps the body remove excess fluid to treat swelling and high blood pressure.

FT3 (free T3 thyroid hormone)

FT3 is the active, unbound form of the thyroid hormone T3, measured in blood tests to assess thyroid function.

FT4 (free T4 thyroid hormone)

FT4 is the active, unbound form of the thyroid hormone T4, tested in blood to check how well the thyroid is working.

Full Blood Count

A common blood test that measures red cells, white cells and platelets, used to help detect conditions such as anaemia, infection and some blood disorders.

Furosemide

Furosemide is a diuretic medicine that increases urination to remove excess fluid and treat swelling and high blood pressure.

G

Gallbladder

The gallbladder is a small organ under the liver that stores bile to help digest fatty foods.

Gallstones

Hardened deposits that form in the gallbladder, which can cause sudden abdominal pain, particularly after fatty meals, if they block a bile duct.

Gallstones (cholelithiasis)

Gallstones are hardened deposits that form in the gallbladder and can cause sudden abdominal pain if they block bile flow.

Ganglion Cyst

A fluid-filled lump that typically develops along a tendon or joint, most often at the wrist, which is usually harmless but can be uncomfortable.

Gastroenteritis

Inflammation of the stomach and intestines, usually caused by a viral or bacterial infection, leading to nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal cramps. Most cases are managed with rest and fluids at home.

Gastrointestinal tract

The gastrointestinal tract is the pathway of organs from mouth to anus that digests food, absorbs nutrients and removes waste.

Gastroscopy

A procedure that uses a flexible camera passed through the mouth to examine the oesophagus, stomach and upper small intestine.

GCS (Glasgow Coma Scale)

The Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) is a scoring tool doctors use to check a person's level of consciousness after a head injury.

Gene

A segment of DNA that contains the instructions for a specific trait or function, inherited from a person's parents.

General Anaesthesia

A medically induced state of controlled unconsciousness used during surgery, ensuring the patient feels no pain and has no memory of the procedure.

General practice

General practice is the branch of medicine where GPs provide broad, ongoing healthcare for patients of all ages.

General practitioner (GP)

A general practitioner, or GP, is a doctor who provides everyday healthcare and is usually the first person patients see for medical concerns.

General Practitioner (GP)

A doctor who provides broad, ongoing primary healthcare for patients of all ages, managing everything from acute illness to chronic disease and preventive care, and referring to specialists when needed.

Generalised Anxiety Disorder

A mental health condition involving persistent, excessive worry about a wide range of everyday things, occurring more days than not for at least six months.

Generic Medication

A medication containing the same active ingredient, dose and effect as a brand-name equivalent, usually available at a lower cost once the original patent expires.

Generic medicine

Generic medicines contain the same active ingredients as brand-name drugs and work the same way, usually at a lower cost.

Genetic Carrier

A person who carries one copy of a gene mutation associated with a recessive condition without necessarily showing symptoms themselves, but who can pass it on to children.

Genetic Counselling

A consultation with a specialist trained to help individuals and families understand and manage the implications of genetic conditions or test results.

Genetic Mutation

A change in a gene's DNA sequence, which can be harmless, cause disease, or, in some cases, be inherited within families.

Genetic Testing

A medical test that examines a person's DNA to identify changes linked to inherited conditions, disease risk or, in some cases, to guide treatment choices.

Genetics

Genetics is the study of how traits and health conditions are passed down through generations via DNA and genes.

Genital Warts

Small skin growths in the genital area caused by certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), which can be treated with topical therapy or removal.

Gentamicin

Gentamicin is a strong antibiotic given by injection in hospital to treat serious infections caused by certain bacteria.

Geographic Tongue

A harmless condition causing map-like, changing patches on the surface of the tongue, with the exact cause unknown.

GERD (gastro-esophageal reflux disease)

GERD is a digestive condition in which stomach acid rises into the food pipe, causing heartburn and other uncomfortable symptoms.

GERD (Gastro-Oesophageal Reflux Disease)

A chronic condition where stomach acid regularly flows back into the oesophagus, causing heartburn, regurgitation and discomfort. It can often be managed with lifestyle changes and medication.

German measles

German measles, also called rubella, is a mild viral illness with a red rash that can seriously harm an unborn baby if a pregnant woman catches it.

Gestational Age

The age of a pregnancy, measured in weeks from the first day of the last menstrual period, used to track fetal development and estimate the due date.

Gestational Diabetes

A form of diabetes that develops during pregnancy, usually resolving after birth, but requiring monitoring to protect the health of both parent and baby.

Gestational Hypertension

High blood pressure that develops after 20 weeks of pregnancy without other signs of pre-eclampsia, requiring monitoring for the remainder of the pregnancy.

GI (gastrointestinal)

GI stands for gastrointestinal, the body system made up of the stomach, intestines and related organs that digests food and absorbs nutrients.

Giardiasis

Giardiasis is a bowel infection caused by a tiny parasite, usually picked up from contaminated water or food.

Gingivitis

An early, reversible stage of gum disease caused by plaque build-up, leading to red, swollen gums that bleed easily when brushing.

Glandular Fever

A viral infection, also known as mononucleosis, causing extreme fatigue, sore throat and swollen glands, most common in teenagers and young adults, with recovery sometimes taking several weeks.

Glaucoma

A group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, often related to elevated pressure inside the eye, which can lead to vision loss if not detected and managed early.

Gliclazide

Gliclazide is a tablet that helps people with type 2 diabetes lower their blood sugar by encouraging the pancreas to release more insulin.

Glipizide

Glipizide is a medicine that helps people with type 2 diabetes manage their blood sugar by prompting the pancreas to release more insulin.

GLP-1 receptor agonist

A GLP-1 receptor agonist is a prescription medicine that copies a natural gut hormone to help control blood sugar, appetite and digestion.

Glucometer (blood glucose meter)

A glucometer, or blood glucose meter, is a small portable device used to measure blood sugar levels, mainly by people managing diabetes.

Glue Ear

A build-up of sticky fluid in the middle ear, common in young children, which can cause temporary hearing difficulty and usually resolves on its own.

Glycaemic Index

A ranking of carbohydrate-containing foods based on how quickly they raise blood glucose levels after eating.

Gonorrhoea

A bacterial sexually transmitted infection that can affect the genitals, throat or rectum, usually treated with antibiotics once diagnosed.

GORD (gastro-oesophageal reflux disease)

GORD is a condition where stomach acid regularly flows back into the oesophagus, causing heartburn and other digestive symptoms.

Gout

A form of inflammatory arthritis caused by a build-up of uric acid crystals in a joint, most commonly the big toe, resulting in sudden, severe pain, swelling and redness.

GP (general practitioner)

A GP, or general practitioner, is a doctor who provides everyday medical care and is usually the first person you see for a health concern.

Graves' disease

Graves' disease is an autoimmune condition that makes the thyroid gland overactive, leading to symptoms such as weight loss and a fast heartbeat.

Grief

The natural emotional response to loss, particularly the death of someone close, which can affect mood, sleep and daily functioning for a variable period of time.

Gross Motor Skills

The abilities involving large muscle groups, such as sitting, crawling, walking and running, tracked as part of a child's development.

Growing Pains

Aching or throbbing in the legs, common in young children, usually occurring in the evening or night and not linked to actual bone growth.

Growth Chart

A tool used to track a child's height, weight and head circumference over time against expected ranges for their age, to help identify any growth concerns early.

GTT (glucose tolerance test)

A glucose tolerance test (GTT) checks how well your body processes sugar and is often used to diagnose diabetes or gestational diabetes.

Guillain-Barré Syndrome

A rare condition in which the immune system attacks the peripheral nerves, causing muscle weakness that can progress rapidly and requires hospital treatment.

Gut Microbiome

The community of trillions of bacteria and other microorganisms living in the digestive tract, which plays an important role in digestion and overall health.

Gynaecologist

A gynaecologist is a doctor who specialises in women's reproductive health, including the uterus, ovaries and related conditions.

Gynecomastia

The enlargement of breast tissue in males, often caused by a hormonal imbalance, which can occur during puberty or later in life.

H

Haematuria

The presence of blood in the urine, which can range from a harmless, temporary finding to a sign of infection, kidney stones or, less commonly, a more serious underlying condition requiring investigation.

Haemochromatosis

A genetic condition causing the body to absorb too much iron from food, which can build up in organs over time and requires monitoring and treatment to prevent damage.

Haemodialysis

A form of dialysis in which blood is filtered outside the body using a machine, typically performed several times a week at a clinic or at home.

Haemophilia

A rare, usually inherited, bleeding disorder in which the blood does not clot properly due to a missing or deficient clotting factor.

Haemorrhoids

Swollen veins in the lower rectum or anus that can cause discomfort, itching and bleeding, often linked to straining, constipation or pregnancy.

Hair (as a body structure)

Hair is a strand-like structure made of protein that grows from follicles in the skin and helps protect the body and regulate temperature.

Halitosis (Bad Breath)

Persistent unpleasant breath odour, most often caused by oral bacteria, gum disease or, less commonly, an underlying medical condition.

Hallucinations

Hallucinations are sensations of seeing, hearing or feeling something that isn't actually there, often linked to mental illness, drugs or certain medical conditions.

Haloperidol

Haloperidol is an antipsychotic medicine used to treat conditions like schizophrenia by helping to rebalance brain chemicals.

Hammer Toe

A deformity in which a toe becomes permanently bent at the middle joint, which can cause discomfort, particularly in enclosed shoes.

Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease

A common, contagious viral illness affecting young children, causing mouth ulcers and a rash on the hands and feet, which usually resolves on its own within about a week.

Hay Fever

An allergic reaction to airborne substances such as pollen, causing sneezing, a runny or blocked nose, and itchy eyes. Also known as allergic rhinitis, it can often be managed with antihistamines and nasal sprays.

Hay fever (allergic rhinitis)

Hay fever, or allergic rhinitis, is an allergic reaction in the nose triggered by things like pollen, dust mites or pet hair.

Hb (hemoglobin)

Haemoglobin (Hb) is a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen around the body and brings carbon dioxide back to the lungs.

HbA1c

A blood test that reflects average blood glucose levels over the past two to three months, used to diagnose and monitor diabetes.

HbA1c (glycated hemoglobin)

HbA1c is a blood test that shows your average blood sugar level over the past two to three months, used to monitor diabetes.

HBV (Hepatitis B virus)

HBV, or hepatitis B virus, is a virus that infects the liver and spreads through contact with infected blood or other body fluids.

HCV (Hepatitis C virus)

HCV, or hepatitis C virus, mainly infects the liver and can cause serious long-term damage if it isn't treated.

HDL (high-density lipoprotein)

HDL, or high-density lipoprotein, is often called "good" cholesterol because it helps clear harmful cholesterol from the arteries.

HDL Cholesterol

Often called "good" cholesterol, a type that helps remove other forms of cholesterol from the bloodstream, with higher levels generally considered protective.

Head Lice

Tiny insects that live on the scalp and feed on blood, common among school-age children, causing itching and spread through close head-to-head contact.

Headache

Pain or discomfort in the head or neck region, with causes ranging from tension and dehydration to migraine or, rarely, more serious underlying conditions. Sudden, severe headaches unlike any before should be assessed urgently.

headspace

A national youth mental health service providing free or low-cost support for young Australians aged 12 to 25 experiencing mental health, physical health, alcohol and other drug, or work and study difficulties.

Health Anxiety

Excessive worry about having or developing a serious illness, despite reassurance or normal test results, which can significantly affect daily life.

Health Care Card

A concession card for eligible low-income Australians that reduces the cost of PBS medicines and can provide access to bulk billing and other health-related discounts.

Health Care Home

A model of general practice care in which a patient with a chronic condition enrols with a single practice that coordinates all aspects of their ongoing care.

Health Fund

A private organisation that provides health insurance, helping cover the cost of hospital treatment and other services not fully covered by Medicare.

Health Literacy

A person's ability to find, understand and use health information to make informed decisions about their own care.

Health Promotion

Activities and programs designed to help people improve and maintain their health, such as public education campaigns and screening initiatives.

healthdirect Helpline

A free 24-hour Australian health advice line (1800 022 222) staffed by registered nurses, who can help assess symptoms and advise whether to see a doctor, go to hospital, or manage a condition at home.

Hearing Aid

A small electronic device worn in or behind the ear that amplifies sound to help people with hearing loss.

Heart

The heart is the muscular organ that pumps blood around the body, delivering oxygen and nutrients while removing waste.

Heart attack (myocardial infarction)

A heart attack happens when blood flow to part of the heart is suddenly blocked, damaging the heart muscle and requiring urgent treatment.

Heart Attack (Myocardial Infarction)

Damage to the heart muscle caused by a sudden blockage in blood supply, typically from a blood clot in a coronary artery. Chest pain, especially with shortness of breath or sweating, needs an immediate emergency response.

Heart Disease

A general term covering various conditions that affect the heart's structure or function, including coronary artery disease, arrhythmias and heart failure.

Heart Failure

A chronic condition in which the heart cannot pump blood as effectively as it should, leading to symptoms such as breathlessness, fatigue and swelling in the legs.

Heat Exhaustion

A milder heat-related illness than heat stroke, causing heavy sweating, weakness and dizziness, which can progress to heat stroke if not treated promptly.

Heat Rash (Miliaria)

A common, itchy rash caused by blocked sweat ducts, most often occurring in hot, humid weather.

Heat Stroke

A dangerous rise in body temperature caused by prolonged heat exposure or exertion, which can cause confusion, collapse and organ damage if not treated as a medical emergency.

Hemorrhage (bleeding)

A haemorrhage is bleeding from the circulatory system, either inside the body or from an external wound, ranging from mild to life-threatening.

Heparin

Heparin is a medicine given by injection to prevent blood clots, commonly used during surgery or for people at risk of clotting.

Hepatitis

Inflammation of the liver, which can be caused by viral infection, alcohol, certain medications or autoimmune conditions, and may present with fatigue, jaundice and abdominal pain.

Hepatitis A

A viral infection of the liver, usually spread through contaminated food or water, that typically resolves on its own and is preventable by vaccination.

Hepatitis B

A viral infection that attacks the liver and can become chronic, spread through blood and other body fluids. It is preventable through vaccination.

Hepatitis C

A viral infection that attacks the liver, spread mainly through blood-to-blood contact, now curable in most people with modern antiviral medication.

Hepatitis D

Hepatitis D is a liver infection that only occurs in people already infected with hepatitis B, and can worsen liver disease.

Hepatitis E

Hepatitis E is a liver infection usually spread through contaminated water, and it can be more serious for pregnant women.

Herd Immunity

A form of indirect protection from infectious disease that occurs when a large enough proportion of a population is immune, reducing the spread of disease to those who are not.

Hernia

A condition where an internal organ or tissue pushes through a weak spot in the surrounding muscle wall, often causing a visible bulge, most commonly in the abdomen or groin.

Herniated Disc

A condition in which the soft cushioning material between spinal vertebrae bulges or ruptures, which can press on nearby nerves and cause pain.

Herpes (herpes simplex virus infections)

Herpes is a common viral infection that causes sores or blisters, usually around the mouth or genitals, spread through direct contact.

Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV)

A common virus that causes cold sores (typically HSV-1) or genital herpes (typically HSV-2). It remains in the body long-term and can be managed with antiviral treatment during outbreaks.

Hiatus Hernia

A condition in which part of the stomach pushes up through the diaphragm into the chest, often contributing to reflux symptoms.

Hiccups

Involuntary, repeated contractions of the diaphragm causing a characteristic sound, usually harmless and short-lived, though occasionally persistent.

Hip Replacement

A surgical procedure that replaces a damaged hip joint with an artificial implant, commonly performed to relieve severe arthritis pain.

HIV

A virus that attacks the immune system, which, if untreated, can progress to AIDS. Modern antiviral treatment allows people living with HIV to lead long, healthy lives.

HIV/AIDS

HIV is a virus that attacks the immune system and, if untreated, can progress to AIDS, though modern treatment lets people live long, healthy lives.

Hives

Raised, itchy welts on the skin that appear suddenly, usually as a reaction to an allergen, medication, infection or stress, and typically resolve within hours to days.

Hoarding Disorder

A condition involving persistent difficulty discarding possessions, regardless of their value, leading to clutter that disrupts living spaces and daily life.

Holter Monitor

A small, portable device worn for a day or more to continuously record the heart's electrical activity, used to detect intermittent rhythm problems.

Home Blood Pressure Monitor

A device that allows a person to measure their own blood pressure at home, useful for tracking trends between clinic visits.

Home Care Package

A government-subsidised, coordinated package of aged care services delivered at home, with funding levels tailored to a person's assessed level of need.

Home Medicines Review

A collaborative service between a GP and a pharmacist to review all of a patient's medications at home, aimed at identifying and resolving medication-related problems, particularly for those on multiple medicines.

Home Visit

A medical consultation conducted at a patient's home rather than at a clinic, often used for urgent after-hours care or for patients unable to travel.

Hormonal IUD

A small, T-shaped device inserted into the uterus that releases a low dose of hormone to provide long-acting, reversible contraception.

Hormone

A chemical messenger produced by glands in the endocrine system that travels through the bloodstream to regulate processes such as metabolism, growth, mood and reproduction.

Hormone Replacement Therapy

A treatment that replaces hormones, most often oestrogen and progesterone, to relieve symptoms of menopause such as hot flushes and mood changes.

Hospital

A hospital is a healthcare facility that provides medical and surgical treatment, from emergency care to planned procedures.

Hospital Cover

A type of private health insurance that helps pay for treatment as a private patient in hospital, offering choice of doctor and shorter waiting times for some procedures.

HPV Vaccine

A vaccine that protects against the strains of human papillomavirus most commonly linked to cervical and other cancers, routinely offered to adolescents.

HR (heart rate)

Heart rate (HR) is the number of times your heart beats each minute and is a useful indicator of heart health and fitness.

HR (hour)

In a medical setting, HR stands for hour, a basic unit of time used to schedule treatments, medicines and appointments.

HRT (hormone replacement therapy)

HRT, or hormone replacement therapy, is a treatment that replaces hormones such as oestrogen to ease symptoms of menopause.

HSV (herpes simplex virus)

HSV, or herpes simplex virus, is a common virus that causes cold sores or genital sores and stays in the body long term.

Huntington's disease

Huntington's disease is an inherited brain disorder that causes involuntary movements and gradual changes in thinking and mood.

Hydrocele

A fluid-filled swelling around the testicle, usually painless, which is common in infants and can also develop in adults.

Hydrocephalus

Hydrocephalus is a build-up of fluid around the brain that raises pressure inside the skull and can affect movement, vision and thinking.

Hydrochlorothiazide

Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic tablet that helps lower blood pressure and reduce fluid build-up by increasing urine output.

Hydrocortisone

Hydrocortisone is a corticosteroid medicine used to reduce inflammation, swelling and itching in a range of conditions.

Hydrotherapy

A form of physical therapy conducted in water, using its buoyancy and resistance to support gentle exercise and rehabilitation.

Hypercalcaemia

A higher-than-normal level of calcium in the blood, which can cause fatigue, nausea and, if significant, more serious complications requiring investigation.

Hyperemesis Gravidarum

A severe form of pregnancy-related nausea and vomiting that can lead to dehydration and weight loss, often requiring medical treatment.

Hyperglycaemia

Higher-than-normal blood glucose levels, most often related to diabetes, which can cause thirst, frequent urination and fatigue if persistent.

Hyperglycaemia

Hyperglycaemia is the medical term for blood sugar levels that are higher than normal, often linked to diabetes or insufficient insulin.

Hyperhidrosis

A condition causing excessive sweating beyond what is needed to regulate body temperature, which can affect the hands, feet, underarms or whole body.

Hyperkalaemia

A higher-than-normal level of potassium in the blood, which can affect heart rhythm and requires prompt medical attention if significant.

Hyperlipidaemia

Hyperlipidaemia means having too much fat, such as cholesterol or triglycerides, in the blood, which raises the risk of heart disease.

Hyperopia (Long-Sightedness)

A vision condition in which close objects appear blurry while distant objects remain clearer, caused by the eye focusing light behind rather than on the retina.

Hyperparathyroidism

A condition in which the parathyroid glands produce excess hormone, raising blood calcium levels and potentially affecting bones and kidneys.

Hypertension

The medical term for persistently high blood pressure, a major risk factor for heart attack, stroke and kidney disease. It often has no symptoms, which is why regular monitoring matters.

Hypertension (high blood pressure)

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is when the force of blood pushing against your artery walls stays too high over time.

Hyperthyroidism

A condition where the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone, speeding up the body's metabolism and causing symptoms such as weight loss, rapid heartbeat and anxiety.

Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid)

Hyperthyroidism happens when the thyroid gland makes too much hormone, speeding up the body's metabolism and causing symptoms like weight loss.

Hypertrophy

Hypertrophy is when an organ or tissue grows larger because its individual cells increase in size, often from extra use or stress.

Hyperventilation

Breathing more rapidly or deeply than the body needs, often triggered by anxiety, which can cause dizziness and tingling in the hands and face.

Hypoglycaemia

Abnormally low blood glucose levels, most often affecting people with diabetes who take insulin or certain other medications, causing shakiness, sweating, confusion and, if severe, loss of consciousness.

Hypoglycaemia

Hypoglycaemia is when blood sugar drops too low for the body to function normally, causing symptoms like shakiness and confusion.

Hyponatraemia

A lower-than-normal level of sodium in the blood, which can cause confusion, headache and, in severe cases, seizures.

Hypoparathyroidism

A rare condition in which the parathyroid glands produce too little hormone, disrupting the body's calcium balance and potentially causing muscle cramps and tingling.

Hypotension (low blood pressure)

Hypotension, or low blood pressure, is when blood pressure drops below normal, which can sometimes cause dizziness or fainting.

Hypothermia

A dangerous drop in body temperature caused by prolonged exposure to cold, which can impair judgement, coordination and, if severe, organ function.

Hypothyroidism

A condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone, slowing the body's metabolism and causing fatigue, weight gain and sensitivity to cold. It is typically diagnosed with a blood test and managed with daily medication.

Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)

Hypothyroidism is when the thyroid gland doesn't make enough hormone, slowing the body's metabolism and causing tiredness and weight gain.

Hypovolaemic Shock

A life-threatening condition caused by a severe loss of blood or fluid, reducing the heart's ability to pump enough blood around the body.

Hysterectomy

Surgical removal of the uterus, performed to treat a range of gynaecological conditions such as fibroids, heavy bleeding or cancer.

I

Ibuprofen

A widely used over-the-counter NSAID that relieves pain, reduces inflammation and lowers fever.

ICU (intensive care unit)

An ICU is a specialised hospital ward that provides round-the-clock, high-level care for patients with life-threatening illnesses or injuries.

IM (intramuscular)

IM, short for intramuscular, describes an injection given directly into a muscle so the medicine is absorbed quickly.

Immune system

The immune system is the body's network of cells and organs that defends against harmful bacteria, viruses, and other invaders.

Immunisation

The process of giving a vaccine to stimulate the immune system to build protection against a specific infectious disease, without causing the illness itself.

Immunisation (vaccination)

Immunisation, or vaccination, trains the immune system to recognise and fight specific germs, helping to prevent future disease.

Immunity

The body's ability to resist a particular infection or illness, either from previous exposure, vaccination, or from birth (innate immunity).

Immunodeficiency

A state in which the immune system's ability to fight infection is reduced, either due to an inherited condition, illness or certain medications.

Immunoglobulin

A protein produced by the immune system, also known as an antibody, that helps identify and neutralise foreign substances such as bacteria and viruses.

Immunologist

An immunologist is a doctor or scientist who studies the immune system and treats conditions where it doesn't work properly.

Immunosuppressant

A medication that reduces the activity of the immune system, used to manage autoimmune conditions or prevent rejection after an organ transplant.

Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy is a treatment that boosts or directs the body's own immune system to fight disease, especially certain cancers.

Impetigo

A highly contagious bacterial skin infection, most common in young children, that causes red sores which can burst and form a yellow-brown crust. It is usually treated with topical or oral antibiotics.

Inactivated Vaccine

A vaccine made using a killed version of the virus or bacteria, generally requiring multiple doses to build immunity.

Incidence

Incidence is the number of new cases of a disease that appear in a population over a set period of time.

Incontinence

The unintentional loss of bladder or bowel control, a common and often treatable condition that can affect people of any age.

Independent Medical Examination

An assessment by a doctor not involved in a person's ongoing treatment, often requested by an insurer or employer to provide an independent opinion on a claim.

Indigestion (Dyspepsia)

Discomfort or a burning feeling in the upper abdomen, often after eating, which can be linked to reflux, an ulcer or simply overeating.

Individual Healthcare Identifier (IHI)

A unique 16-digit number assigned to every person enrolled in Medicare, used to accurately identify patients across the Australian healthcare system, including My Health Record.

Infection

The invasion and multiplication of harmful microorganisms — bacteria, viruses, fungi or parasites — in the body, which can trigger an immune response and cause illness.

Inferior

In medicine, "inferior" simply describes a body part positioned below another, with no meaning of lesser quality or importance.

Infertility

Infertility means a couple has been unable to become pregnant after trying for at least a year without using contraception.

Inflammation

The body's natural response to injury or infection, involving redness, heat, swelling and pain as immune cells work to protect and repair the affected tissue. Chronic inflammation is linked to a range of long-term health conditions.

Influenza

A contagious viral respiratory illness, commonly known as the flu, causing fever, body aches, cough and fatigue. Annual vaccination is the main way to reduce the risk of severe illness.

Influenza (flu)

Influenza, commonly called the flu, is a contagious virus that infects the nose, throat, and lungs and can be prevented by vaccination.

Influenza Vaccine

An annual vaccine that reduces the risk of catching and developing severe complications from the flu, recommended for most people each year.

Informed Consent

A patient's agreement to a treatment or procedure after being given clear information about its purpose, benefits, risks and alternatives.

Infusion

An infusion is the slow, controlled delivery of fluids, nutrients, or medicine directly into a vein over a period of time.

Infusion pump

An infusion pump is a device that delivers fluids or medicine into the body at a precisely controlled rate and volume.

Ingrown Toenail

A condition in which the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness and sometimes infection.

Inhaler

An inhaler is a small device that delivers medicine straight into the lungs to treat conditions like asthma or COPD.

Injection

An injection delivers liquid medicine or a vaccine straight into the body using a needle and syringe.

Injury

An injury is any harm or damage to the body, from a minor scrape to a serious break, needing different levels of care.

Inpatient

A patient who is admitted to hospital and stays at least one night for treatment or observation.

INR (international normalised ratio)

INR, or international normalised ratio, is a blood test result that shows how quickly your blood clots, guiding blood-thinning treatment.

INR (International Normalised Ratio)

A blood test that measures how long blood takes to clot, commonly used to monitor patients taking the anticoagulant warfarin.

Insect Sting Allergy

An allergic reaction to the venom of a stinging insect such as a bee or wasp, which can range from local swelling to severe anaphylaxis.

Insomnia

Persistent difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or getting restful sleep, which can affect mood, concentration and overall health. It can be managed through sleep hygiene changes, addressing underlying causes, and in some cases short-term medication.

Insulin

A hormone produced by the pancreas that allows the body's cells to absorb glucose from the blood for energy. People with Type 1 diabetes, and some with Type 2, require insulin medication to manage blood glucose levels.

Insulin glargine

Insulin glargine is a long-acting insulin injected once daily to help keep blood sugar levels steady in people with diabetes.

Insulin Pen

A pen-shaped device used to inject a precise, adjustable dose of insulin, offering a more convenient alternative to a traditional syringe.

Insulin Pump

A small wearable device that delivers a continuous, adjustable dose of insulin, offering an alternative to multiple daily injections for some people with diabetes.

Insulin resistance

Insulin resistance is when the body's cells respond poorly to insulin, making it harder to keep blood sugar levels under control.

Intermittent Fasting

An eating pattern that alternates between periods of eating and fasting, used by some people for weight management, best discussed with a doctor before starting.

Intertrigo

Inflammation of skin folds caused by moisture and friction, common in warm weather and often complicated by fungal or bacterial infection.

Intestine

The intestine is a long tube-shaped organ that digests food, absorbs nutrients, and processes waste for the body to expel.

Intravenous (IV)

Intravenous, or IV, means delivering fluids or medicine directly into a vein for fast, reliable absorption into the bloodstream.

Intravenous (IV) drip

An IV drip delivers fluid and medicine into the bloodstream through a thin tube in a vein, at a steady, controlled rate.

Ipratropium

Ipratropium is a medicine that relaxes the airways to make breathing easier for people with asthma or COPD.

Irbesartan

A blood pressure medication from the angiotensin receptor blocker class, often used when ACE inhibitors are not well tolerated.

Iron Deficiency

A shortage of iron, the mineral needed to make haemoglobin, which can lead to fatigue and, if severe, iron deficiency anaemia.

Iron deficiency anaemia

Iron deficiency anaemia occurs when the body lacks enough iron to make healthy red blood cells, leading to tiredness and weakness.

Iron Studies

A group of blood tests that assess the body's iron levels and storage, used to investigate anaemia or iron overload.

Iron supplement

An iron supplement is a tablet, capsule, or liquid that boosts iron levels in the body to help make healthy red blood cells.

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

IBS is a common condition of the large intestine causing abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits, without lasting bowel damage.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

A common chronic disorder affecting the large intestine, causing symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and altered bowel habits. Management typically involves dietary changes, stress management and, at times, medication.

Isotretinoin

Isotretinoin is a strong medicine for severe acne that works by reducing oil production in the skin.

IUD (intrauterine device)

An IUD is a small T-shaped device fitted into the uterus by a doctor to provide long-term, highly effective contraception.

IV (intravenous)

IV, short for intravenous, means giving fluids or medicine straight into a vein so the body can absorb them quickly.

IVF (in vitro fertilisation)

IVF is a fertility treatment where an egg and sperm are combined in a laboratory to help create an embryo for pregnancy.

IVF (In Vitro Fertilisation)

A fertility treatment in which an egg is fertilised with sperm outside the body before being transferred to the uterus, used when other approaches to conception have not succeeded.

J

Japanese encephalitis

Japanese encephalitis is a mosquito-borne viral infection that can cause serious brain swelling in rare, severe cases.

Jaundice

A yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes caused by a build-up of bilirubin in the blood, often linked to liver, gallbladder or blood disorders and requiring medical assessment.

Jellyfish Sting

A sting from a jellyfish that can range from mild irritation to a severe reaction depending on the species, with some Australian waters requiring specific first aid such as vinegar.

Joint

A joint is where two bones meet in the body, allowing movement, flexibility, or in some cases, protective rigidity.

Joint Pain

Discomfort, soreness or aching in one or more joints, which can result from injury, overuse, arthritis or inflammation, and ranges from mild and temporary to chronic and disabling.

Joint Stiffness

A reduced range of motion or difficulty moving a joint, often worse after periods of rest, commonly associated with arthritis.

Jugular catheter

A jugular catheter is a tube inserted into the neck's jugular vein to give direct access to the bloodstream for treatment.

JVP (jugular venous pressure)

A doctor's check of the pressure in your neck veins, used to get clues about how well the right side of your heart is working.

K

K+ (potassium)

Potassium is a mineral and electrolyte the body needs for healthy nerves, muscles, heart rhythm and blood pressure.

K10 (Kessler Psychological Distress Scale)

A brief, widely used questionnaire that screens for the level of psychological distress a person has experienced in the past four weeks.

Kawasaki Disease

A rare condition in young children causing inflammation of blood vessels throughout the body, requiring prompt treatment to reduce the risk of heart complications.

Keloid Scar

A raised, thickened scar that grows beyond the original wound boundary, caused by an overactive healing response.

Keratosis Pilaris

A common, harmless skin condition causing small, rough bumps, often on the upper arms and thighs, caused by a build-up of keratin around hair follicles.

Ketamine

Ketamine is a fast-acting anaesthetic drug also being studied for treating depression and post-traumatic stress disorder under medical supervision.

Ketosis

A metabolic state in which the body breaks down fat for energy, producing ketones, which can occur during fasting, a low-carbohydrate diet or as a diabetes complication.

Kidney

The kidneys are two fist-sized organs that filter waste and fluid from the blood, help control blood pressure and support bone and blood health.

Kidney Cancer

Cancer that develops in the cells of the kidney, sometimes found incidentally during imaging for another reason.

Kidney Cyst

A fluid-filled sac that can form on the kidney, usually harmless and found incidentally, though larger or numerous cysts may need monitoring.

Kidney failure (renal failure)

Kidney failure happens when the kidneys can no longer filter waste and fluid from the blood properly, coming on suddenly or gradually.

Kidney Function Test

A blood or urine test used to assess how well the kidneys are filtering waste from the body.

Kidney Infection

A type of urinary tract infection that has spread to one or both kidneys, causing fever, back or side pain, and nausea in addition to typical UTI symptoms. It generally requires prompt antibiotic treatment.

Kidney Stone

A hard deposit of minerals and salts that forms inside the kidney and can cause severe pain as it passes through the urinary tract, often accompanied by blood in the urine.

Kidney stones

Kidney stones are hard mineral deposits that form in the kidneys and can cause severe pain, especially when passing through the urinary tract.

Kidney Transplant

A surgical procedure that replaces a failed kidney with a healthy donor kidney, offering an alternative to long-term dialysis for eligible patients.

KIV (keep in view/consider)

KIV is a note doctors use to flag a minor health issue that needs watching over time rather than immediate treatment.

Knee Replacement

A surgical procedure that replaces a damaged knee joint with an artificial implant, usually performed to treat severe osteoarthritis.

Kyphosis

An excessive forward curvature of the upper spine, sometimes called a hunched back, which can be postural or caused by an underlying condition.

L

Labyrinthitis

Inflammation of the inner ear, usually caused by a viral infection, resulting in vertigo, imbalance and sometimes hearing changes.

Laceration

A deep cut or tear in the skin, which may require cleaning, closure with stitches or glue, and a tetanus check depending on its size, depth and cause.

Lactose Intolerance

A reduced ability to digest lactose, the sugar found in dairy products, causing bloating, gas and diarrhoea after consuming dairy.

Lansoprazole

Lansoprazole is a medicine that lowers stomach acid to treat acid reflux, heartburn and stomach or gut ulcers.

Laparoscopy

A minimally invasive surgical technique using small incisions and a camera, allowing surgeons to diagnose and treat conditions with less recovery time than open surgery.

Large intestine (colon)

The large intestine, or colon, absorbs water from digested food, turns waste into stool, and houses bacteria that support digestion.

Laryngitis

Inflammation of the voice box (larynx), usually caused by a viral infection or overuse of the voice, resulting in hoarseness or temporary loss of voice.

Larynx (voice box)

The larynx, or voice box, is a structure in the neck that produces sound, helps you breathe, and stops food entering your airway.

Lateral

Lateral is a medical direction word meaning towards the side of the body, away from the centre line.

Latex Allergy

An allergic reaction to proteins found in natural rubber latex, commonly encountered in gloves and some medical equipment, ranging from skin irritation to a severe reaction.

Laxative

A medication used to relieve constipation by making bowel movements easier or more frequent.

LDL Cholesterol

Often called "bad" cholesterol, a type of cholesterol that can build up in artery walls and increase the risk of heart disease when levels are too high.

Legionnaires' Disease

A serious form of pneumonia caused by bacteria found in water systems, requiring prompt antibiotic treatment.

Leprosy (Hansen's disease)

Leprosy, also called Hansen's disease, is a treatable bacterial infection affecting the skin, nerves and eyes, spread only through prolonged close contact.

Lesion

A general medical term for any area of abnormal tissue, such as a wound, sore, growth or rash, identified on or within the body.

Lethargy

A state of sluggishness, low energy and reduced responsiveness, which can be a symptom of illness, poor sleep, mental health conditions or an underlying medical problem.

Leukaemia

A cancer of the blood-forming tissues, including bone marrow, that affects the body's ability to produce healthy blood cells.

Leukaemia (blood cancer)

Leukaemia is a cancer of the blood and bone marrow that causes the body to make too many abnormal white blood cells.

Leukoplakia

Thickened white patches that can develop on the inside of the mouth, sometimes linked to irritation such as smoking, which should be reviewed by a doctor or dentist.

Levodopa

Levodopa is a medicine that raises brain dopamine levels to ease Parkinson's disease symptoms such as tremor and stiffness.

Levothyroxine (thyroxine)

Levothyroxine, also called thyroxine, replaces missing thyroid hormone to treat an underactive thyroid gland, or hypothyroidism.

Levothyroxine (Thyroxine)

A synthetic thyroid hormone medication used to treat an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism).

Lewy Body Dementia

A type of dementia associated with abnormal protein deposits in the brain, often causing fluctuating alertness, visual hallucinations and movement symptoms.

LFTs (liver function tests)

Liver function tests, or LFTs, are blood tests that check how well the liver is working and help diagnose liver disease.

Lichen Planus

An inflammatory condition that can affect the skin, mouth and other areas, causing itchy, flat-topped purplish bumps.

Lidocaine (lignocaine)

Lidocaine, also known as lignocaine, is a local anaesthetic that numbs pain and is also used to treat some heart rhythm problems.

Lifeline

A 24-hour Australian crisis support service (13 11 14) providing confidential telephone and online support for people experiencing a personal crisis or thoughts of suicide.

Lifetime Health Cover Loading

An extra amount added to private hospital insurance premiums for people who take out cover later in life, generally after the age of 31, designed to encourage earlier uptake.

Ligament

A ligament is a tough, flexible band of tissue that connects bones and helps stabilise joints during movement.

Light duties

Light duties are temporary, less demanding work tasks given to someone recovering from illness or injury to support their return to work.

Linezolid

Linezolid is an antibiotic reserved for serious bacterial infections that have not responded to other treatments.

Lipid Profile

A blood test that measures cholesterol and triglyceride levels, used to assess a person's risk of cardiovascular disease.

Lipoma

A common, benign lump of fatty tissue that grows slowly under the skin and is usually painless.

Liraglutide

Liraglutide is an injectable medicine that mimics a natural hormone to manage blood sugar or, at a different dose, chronic weight.

Lisinopril

Lisinopril is a medicine that relaxes blood vessels to lower high blood pressure and support heart function.

Listeria

A type of bacteria found in some contaminated foods that can cause serious illness, particularly dangerous for pregnant women, older adults and those with weakened immunity.

Live Vaccine

A vaccine made using a weakened form of the live virus or bacteria, which generally produces strong, long-lasting immunity.

Liver

The liver is a large organ that filters toxins from the blood, produces bile for digestion, and stores nutrients.

Liver Cancer

Cancer that begins in the cells of the liver, with chronic hepatitis infection and cirrhosis among the key risk factors.

Liver failure

Liver failure is when the liver can no longer perform its essential functions, which can happen suddenly or develop gradually.

Liver Function Test

A blood test that measures enzymes and other substances to assess how well the liver is working.

LLQ (left lower quadrant [abdomen])

The LLQ is the lower left section of the abdomen, containing parts of the bowel and, in women, some reproductive organs.

LMP (last menstrual period)

LMP is the first day of a woman's most recent period, used to estimate pregnancy due dates and track menstrual health.

LOC (level of consciousness; loss of consciousness)

LOC refers either to how alert someone is or to a temporary loss of awareness, both important signs of a person's health.

Local Anaesthesia

Medication used to numb a specific, small area of the body during a minor procedure, while the patient remains fully conscious.

Locum

A doctor or other health professional who temporarily fills in for another practitioner, commonly used to maintain coverage during leave or staff shortages.

Long COVID

A range of symptoms, such as fatigue, brain fog and breathlessness, that persist for weeks or months after the initial COVID-19 infection has resolved.

Loratadine

A non-drowsy antihistamine used to relieve symptoms of hay fever and other allergic conditions.

Lordosis

An exaggerated inward curve of the lower spine, which in mild forms is normal but can cause discomfort when more pronounced.

Losartan

Losartan is a medicine that relaxes blood vessels to lower high blood pressure and protect the heart and kidneys.

Loss of Consciousness

A state in which a person is unresponsive to their surroundings, which always warrants medical assessment to determine the underlying cause.

Low back pain

Low back pain is common discomfort in the lower spine that usually eases with simple self-care but sometimes needs medical treatment.

Low Testosterone

A condition in which the body produces less testosterone than typical, which can cause fatigue, reduced libido and mood changes, and is diagnosed with a blood test.

Lumbar Puncture

A procedure in which a needle is used to collect a sample of cerebrospinal fluid from the lower back, used to help diagnose conditions affecting the brain and spinal cord.

Lung

The lungs are paired organs that bring oxygen into the blood and remove carbon dioxide, essential for breathing and overall health.

Lung Cancer

Cancer that begins in the lungs, most strongly linked to smoking, though it can also affect people who have never smoked.

Lupus

A chronic autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks healthy tissue throughout the body, potentially affecting the skin, joints, kidneys and other organs.

LUQ (left upper quadrant [abdomen])

The LUQ is the upper left section of the abdomen, home to organs including the stomach, spleen and part of the pancreas.

Lyme disease

Lyme disease is a bacterial infection spread by tick bites, causing a rash and, if untreated, more serious complications.

Lymph node

Lymph nodes are small immune structures that filter harmful substances from lymph fluid and help the body fight infection.

Lymphoedema

Swelling caused by a build-up of lymph fluid, most often in an arm or leg, which can develop after surgery, radiotherapy or an underlying condition affecting the lymphatic system.

Lymphoma

A cancer of the lymphatic system, part of the body's immune system, which can cause swollen lymph nodes, fatigue and weight loss.

M

Macronutrient

A nutrient the body needs in large amounts for energy and growth, namely carbohydrates, protein and fat.

Macular Degeneration

A condition affecting the central part of the retina, causing progressive loss of central vision, most common in people over 50.

Magnesium

A mineral involved in hundreds of bodily processes, including muscle and nerve function, blood sugar control and bone health.

Malaria

A serious, mosquito-borne parasitic infection common in some overseas destinations, preventable with appropriate precautions and preventive medication for travellers.

Male Infertility

A reduced ability to conceive a child due to factors affecting sperm production, function or delivery, which can often be investigated and treated.

Malignant

Malignant describes cancerous cells or tumours that can invade nearby tissue and spread to other parts of the body.

Malnutrition

A state resulting from a diet that does not provide the right balance of nutrients, which can involve either insufficient or excessive intake.

Mammogram

An X-ray image of the breast used to screen for or investigate breast cancer, recommended regularly for women from a certain age as part of national screening programs.

Mastectomy

Surgical removal of all or part of a breast, most commonly performed as a treatment for breast cancer.

Mastitis

Inflammation of breast tissue, most common during breastfeeding, which can cause pain, redness, swelling and, at times, infection requiring antibiotics.

Maternal and Child Health Nurse

A specialist nurse who supports families with children from birth to school age, monitoring development and providing parenting advice.

MCH (mean corpuscular haemoglobin)

MCH measures the average amount of haemoglobin in a single red blood cell, helping doctors assess oxygen-carrying capacity.

MCHC (mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration)

MCHC measures how concentrated haemoglobin is within red blood cells, helping doctors assess blood health and oxygen transport.

MCV (mean corpuscular volume)

MCV measures the average size of red blood cells and helps doctors diagnose different types of anaemia and other conditions.

Measles

A highly contagious viral infection causing fever, cough and a characteristic rash, which can lead to serious complications and is preventable through vaccination.

Medial

Medial is a medical direction word meaning closer to the body's midline, or centre line.

Medical centre

A medical centre is a healthcare facility where a team of professionals provides general and sometimes specialised health services.

Medical certificate

A medical certificate is an official document from a healthcare professional confirming a person's health condition or fitness for activities.

Medical Certificate

A document issued by a doctor confirming that a patient has been assessed and is unfit for work, school or other duties for a specified period due to illness or injury.

Medical history

A medical history is a record of your past and current health, including illnesses, medicines, allergies, and family conditions, used to guide your care.

Medicare

Australia's public health insurance scheme, which subsidises the cost of many medical services, including some telehealth consultations, depending on eligibility and the type of service provided.

Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS)

The official listing of medical services that attract a Medicare rebate in Australia, each identified by an item number that determines how much a patient can claim back.

Medicare Card

The card that identifies a person as eligible for Medicare benefits, required to claim rebates and access bulk billed services in Australia.

Medicare Levy

A levy most Australian taxpayers pay, calculated as a percentage of taxable income, that helps fund the public Medicare system.

Medicare Levy Surcharge

An additional charge applied to higher-income earners who do not hold private hospital cover, intended to encourage take-up of private health insurance.

Medicare Rebate

The amount reimbursed by Medicare for an eligible medical service, which may cover the full fee (bulk billing) or only part of it depending on the provider's charge.

Medicare Safety Net

A scheme that provides higher Medicare rebates for out-of-hospital services once a patient or family's out-of-pocket costs pass a yearly threshold.

Medication

Medication is any substance, such as a tablet, liquid, or injection, used to diagnose, treat, or prevent illness under medical guidance.

Melanoma

The most serious form of skin cancer, developing in the pigment-producing cells of the skin. Early detection through regular skin checks significantly improves treatment outcomes.

Melasma

A common skin condition causing brown or greyish patches, usually on the face, often triggered by sun exposure and hormonal changes such as pregnancy.

Ménière's Disease

An inner ear disorder that causes episodes of vertigo, hearing loss, ringing in the ears and a feeling of ear fullness.

Meningitis

Inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord, usually caused by a viral or bacterial infection. Bacterial meningitis is a medical emergency requiring urgent treatment.

Meningococcal disease

Meningococcal disease is a serious bacterial infection that can rapidly cause meningitis or blood poisoning and needs urgent treatment.

Meningococcal Vaccine

A vaccine that protects against meningococcal bacteria, which can cause severe, rapidly progressing meningitis and bloodstream infection.

Meniscus Tear

A tear in the cartilage that cushions the knee joint, often caused by twisting the knee during sport, resulting in pain and swelling.

Menopause

The natural biological process marking the end of a woman's menstrual cycles, typically diagnosed after 12 months without a period, often accompanied by symptoms such as hot flushes, mood changes and sleep disturbance.

Menopause (climacteric)

Menopause, also called the climacteric, is the natural end of a woman's menstrual cycles, usually occurring in her late 40s or early 50s.

Menorrhagia

Abnormally heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding, which can lead to anaemia if untreated and often has an identifiable, treatable cause.

Menstrual Cycle

The recurring monthly hormonal cycle in people with a uterus, involving ovulation and, if pregnancy does not occur, menstruation. Cycle length and symptoms can vary widely between individuals.

Mental Health Care Plan

A plan prepared by a GP for a patient experiencing a mental health condition, which can provide access to a Medicare rebate for a set number of sessions with a psychologist or other mental health professional.

Mental illness

Mental illness covers a range of conditions, such as depression and anxiety, that affect a person's mood, thoughts, or behaviour.

Metabolic Syndrome

A cluster of conditions — including high blood pressure, high blood sugar, excess body fat around the waist and abnormal cholesterol — that together increase the risk of heart disease, stroke and diabetes.

Metastasis

The spread of cancer cells from the original tumour to other parts of the body, forming new tumours elsewhere.

Metformin

A commonly prescribed first-line medication for Type 2 diabetes that helps lower blood glucose by improving the body's response to insulin.

Methadone

Methadone is a prescription medicine used to ease withdrawal symptoms and cravings in people recovering from opioid addiction.

Methotrexate

Methotrexate is a medicine that slows fast-growing cells, used to treat certain cancers and autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis.

Metoprolol

A beta blocker commonly prescribed to manage high blood pressure, angina and certain heart rhythm conditions.

Metronidazole

An antibiotic used to treat certain bacterial and parasitic infections, including bacterial vaginosis and some dental infections.

MI (myocardial infarction)

MI, or myocardial infarction, is the medical term for a heart attack, caused by a sudden blockage of blood flow to the heart.

Micronutrient

A nutrient the body needs only in small amounts, such as vitamins and minerals, but which is still essential for normal function.

Midazolam

Midazolam is a sedative medicine used to help patients relax and stay calm before medical or surgical procedures.

Midwife

A midwife is a qualified health professional who supports women through pregnancy, labour, birth, and the period afterwards.

Migraine

A neurological condition causing recurrent, often severe headaches, typically on one side of the head, sometimes accompanied by nausea, and sensitivity to light and sound. Some people experience a warning "aura" beforehand.

Miscarriage

The loss of a pregnancy before 20 weeks, which is relatively common and can occur for a range of reasons, most of which are not related to anything the pregnant person did.

Miscarriage (pregnancy loss)

Miscarriage is the loss of a pregnancy before 20 weeks, a common experience with varied physical and emotional effects.

MMR Vaccine

A combined vaccine that protects against measles, mumps and rubella, given as part of the routine National Immunisation Program schedule.

Mobility Aid

Any device, such as a wheelchair, walking frame or scooter, that helps a person move around more independently.

Mole Mapping

A skin cancer screening technique that photographs and tracks moles over time to detect changes that could indicate melanoma.

Molluscum Contagiosum

A common viral skin infection causing small, firm, painless bumps, most often affecting children, which usually resolves on its own over several months.

Monkeypox

Monkeypox (mpox) is a viral illness causing fever and a distinctive rash, spread through close contact with an infected person or animal.

Mononucleosis (glandular fever)

Glandular fever, or mononucleosis, is a viral illness spread mainly through saliva, causing fatigue, sore throat, and swollen glands.

Morbidity

Morbidity is a public health term describing how common illness or disease is within a person or a population.

Morning Sickness

Nausea and vomiting common in early pregnancy, which despite the name can occur at any time of day and usually eases after the first trimester.

Morphine

Morphine is a strong opioid painkiller used for severe pain, prescribed and monitored carefully because of its risk of dependence.

Mortality

Mortality is the term for the rate of death in a population, used to track health trends and guide public health policy.

Motion Sickness

A feeling of nausea and discomfort caused by a mismatch between what the eyes see and what the inner ear senses during travel.

Motor Neurone Disease

A progressive condition that damages the nerve cells controlling voluntary muscle movement, gradually affecting the ability to move, speak, swallow and breathe.

Motor neurone disease (MND)

Motor neurone disease (MND) is a rare condition that damages the nerve cells controlling movement, leading to progressive muscle weakness.

Mounjaro (tirzepatide)

Mounjaro is the brand name for tirzepatide, a weekly injection approved in Australia for type 2 diabetes and weight management.

MRI (magnetic resonance imaging)

MRI is an imaging scan that uses magnets and radio waves, not radiation, to create detailed pictures of organs and tissues.

MRI Scan

An imaging test that uses magnetic fields and radio waves rather than radiation to produce detailed images of soft tissue, the brain, joints and organs.

MRI scanner

An MRI scanner is the machine that uses magnets and radio waves to produce detailed images of organs and tissue inside the body.

MRSA

A type of bacteria resistant to many common antibiotics, which can cause skin and other infections that are more difficult to treat.

Multidisciplinary Team

A group of health professionals from different specialties who work together to plan and coordinate a patient's care.

Multiple myeloma

Multiple myeloma is a blood cancer that starts in plasma cells in the bone marrow, weakening bones and the immune system.

Multiple Sclerosis

A chronic autoimmune condition in which the immune system attacks the protective covering of nerve fibres, disrupting communication between the brain and body and causing a wide range of symptoms.

Mumps

A viral infection that causes painful swelling of the salivary glands, particularly around the jaw, and is preventable through vaccination.

Muscle

Muscles are body tissues that contract and relax to produce movement, with skeletal, cardiac, and smooth types each serving different roles.

Muscle Relaxant

A medication used to relieve muscle spasm and associated pain, often prescribed short-term for acute musculoskeletal injuries.

Muscle Strain

An injury in which a muscle or its tendon is overstretched or torn, causing pain, swelling and reduced movement, commonly from overuse or sudden exertion.

Muscle Weakness

A reduction in the strength of one or more muscles, which can have causes ranging from simple overuse to underlying neurological or muscular conditions.

Muscular system

The muscular system is the body's network of over 600 muscles that enable movement, support posture, and generate body heat.

Musculoskeletal

Relating to the muscles, bones, joints, tendons and ligaments — the system responsible for the body's movement and structural support. Musculoskeletal conditions are among the most common reasons people see a doctor.

My Aged Care

The Australian Government's central entry point for accessing aged care services, including assessments, home support and residential care placement.

My Health Record

A secure, national digital health record system that allows a patient's medical information — such as prescriptions, test results and consultation summaries — to be shared between healthcare providers with the patient's consent.

Myasthenia Gravis

A chronic autoimmune condition that causes muscle weakness and fatigue, particularly affecting the eyes, face and limbs.

Myocardial infarction (MI)

Myocardial infarction, or heart attack, happens when a blocked coronary artery cuts off blood flow, damaging part of the heart muscle.

Myopia (Short-Sightedness)

A vision condition in which distant objects appear blurry while close objects remain clear, caused by the eye focusing light in front of rather than on the retina.

N

NAD (no abnormality detected)

NAD stands for 'no abnormality detected,' meaning a test or examination found no unusual or concerning results.

Naloxone

A medication that rapidly reverses the effects of an opioid overdose, available without prescription at Australian pharmacies as part of a take-home program.

Naltrexone/bupropion

Naltrexone/bupropion is a combination prescription medicine used to support weight management by reducing appetite and food cravings.

Nappy Rash

Skin irritation in the nappy area caused by prolonged contact with moisture, urine or faeces, usually managed with frequent nappy changes and barrier cream.

Naprosyn

Naprosyn is a brand of naproxen, an anti-inflammatory medicine used to relieve pain and inflammation from arthritis, sprains, and cramps.

Naproxen

An NSAID used to relieve pain and inflammation, with a longer duration of action than ibuprofen.

Narcolepsy

A chronic neurological condition that disrupts the brain's ability to regulate sleep-wake cycles, causing excessive daytime sleepiness and sudden sleep episodes.

Nasal Polyps

Soft, painless growths that develop on the lining of the nasal passages, which can cause congestion and reduced sense of smell if large enough.

Nasogastric Tube

A thin tube passed through the nose into the stomach, used to deliver nutrition or medication, or to drain stomach contents.

National Bowel Cancer Screening Program

A free, at-home screening test mailed to eligible Australians every two years to check for hidden blood in the stool, an early warning sign of bowel cancer.

National Immunisation Program

The Australian Government schedule of free vaccinations provided at various life stages to protect against diseases such as measles, whooping cough and influenza.

Nausea

An uneasy sensation in the stomach often preceding vomiting, which can be caused by illness, medication, motion, pregnancy or many other factors.

NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme)

A national scheme that funds reasonable and necessary supports for eligible Australians with permanent and significant disability, helping them access services to live more independently.

Near-Drowning

A survived episode of impaired breathing due to submersion in water, which requires medical assessment even if the person appears to recover quickly, due to delayed lung complications.

Nebuliser

A device that converts liquid medication into a fine mist, allowing it to be inhaled directly into the lungs, commonly used for asthma or COPD flare-ups.

Nebuliser

A nebuliser is a device that turns liquid medicine into a fine mist, helping people with breathing conditions inhale it directly into their lungs.

Neck pain

Neck pain is discomfort in the neck, commonly caused by poor posture, muscle strain, or injury, and usually eased with rest or treatment.

Necrosis

Necrosis is the death of body tissue, usually caused by a loss of blood supply, oxygen, or nutrients to that area.

Needle

A needle is a thin, hollow medical instrument used to inject medicines or fluids into the body, or draw blood or fluid out.

Nephritis

Inflammation of the kidneys, which can affect their ability to filter waste and fluid from the blood and may require specialist investigation.

Nephrologist

A nephrologist is a doctor who specialises in diagnosing and treating conditions that affect the kidneys, such as chronic kidney disease.

Nephrotic Syndrome

A kidney disorder causing the body to pass too much protein in the urine, leading to swelling and other complications.

Nerve

A nerve is a bundle of fibres that carries messages between the brain, spinal cord, and the rest of the body.

Nervous System

The body's network of nerves and the brain and spinal cord, responsible for sending and receiving signals that control movement, sensation and countless bodily functions.

Neurologist

A neurologist is a doctor who diagnoses and treats conditions of the brain, spinal cord, and nerves, such as migraines or epilepsy.

Neuropathic Pain

Pain caused by damage or dysfunction of the nervous system itself, often described as burning, shooting or tingling, and treated differently to other pain types.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy is nerve damage that can cause tingling, numbness, or weakness, often linked to diabetes, infection, or injury.

Newborn Bloodspot Screening

A routine test offered to all newborns in Australia, using a small blood sample to screen for a range of rare but serious genetic and metabolic conditions.

Newborn Hearing Screen

A quick, painless test offered to newborns to check for hearing loss, allowing early intervention if needed.

NGT (nasogastric tube)

An NGT, or nasogastric tube, is a thin tube passed through the nose into the stomach for feeding, medicine, or drainage.

Nicotine Dependence

A pattern of compulsive tobacco or nicotine use, driven by the addictive properties of nicotine, which can be treated with counselling, nicotine replacement therapy and medication.

Nicotine Replacement Therapy

Products such as patches, gum or lozenges that deliver controlled doses of nicotine to help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms when quitting smoking.

Night Blindness

Difficulty seeing in low light or darkness, which can be linked to vitamin A deficiency or certain underlying eye conditions.

Night Sweats

Episodes of heavy sweating during sleep, sufficient to soak clothing or bedding, which can have causes ranging from menopause to infection or, less commonly, other underlying conditions.

Night Terrors

Episodes of intense fear, screaming or thrashing during sleep, most common in young children, distinct from nightmares as the person remains asleep throughout.

Nitrofurantoin

An antibiotic commonly prescribed specifically for urinary tract infections.

NKA (no known allergies)

NKA stands for 'no known allergies,' meaning a patient hasn't reported any known allergies to medicines, food, or other substances.

NKDA (no known drug allergies)

NKDA stands for 'no known drug allergies,' showing that a patient has no recorded allergic reactions to any medicines.

Noise-Induced Hearing Loss

Permanent hearing damage caused by exposure to loud noise over time, largely preventable with appropriate hearing protection.

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is a cancer of the white blood cells that make up the immune system, varying widely in type and severity.

Norepinephrine (noradrenaline)

Norepinephrine, or noradrenaline, is a natural chemical that acts as both a hormone and a brain messenger involved in the stress response.

Norovirus

A highly contagious virus that causes sudden vomiting and diarrhoea, often spreading quickly in households, schools and care settings.

Norovirus infection

Norovirus infection is a highly contagious tummy bug that causes vomiting and diarrhoea, spreading quickly through contaminated food, water or surfaces.

Nose

The nose is the facial organ used for breathing and smelling, and it warms, moistens and filters the air before it reaches the lungs.

Nosebleed (Epistaxis)

Bleeding from the blood vessels inside the nose, most often caused by dryness, irritation or minor trauma, and usually settled with simple first aid measures.

Notifiable Disease

A disease that healthcare providers and laboratories are legally required to report to health authorities, allowing public health monitoring and response.

NPO (nil per os, nothing by mouth)

NPO, short for the Latin nil per os, is a medical instruction meaning a patient must not eat or drink anything for a set period, usually before a procedure.

NSAID (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug)

A class of medication, including ibuprofen and naproxen, used to relieve pain, reduce inflammation and lower fever.

NSR (normal sinus rhythm)

NSR stands for normal sinus rhythm, the term for a healthy heart's regular, well-coordinated electrical beating pattern.

Numbness

A loss or reduction of normal sensation in part of the body, which can result from nerve compression, poor circulation or, less commonly, a more serious neurological cause.

Nurofen (ibuprofen)

Nurofen is a brand name for ibuprofen, an anti-inflammatory medicine used to relieve pain, reduce swelling and lower fever.

Nurse

A nurse is a trained healthcare professional who cares for patients, monitors their health and supports doctors across hospitals, clinics and community settings.

Nurse Practitioner

An advanced practice registered nurse with additional qualifications, authorised to diagnose conditions, order tests and prescribe certain medications.

Nutrition

The process of obtaining and using food for growth, energy and health. Good nutrition plays a central role in preventing and managing many chronic conditions.

O

O2 sat (oxygen saturation)

O2 sat, or oxygen saturation, is the percentage of oxygen your blood is carrying compared with its maximum capacity.

Obesity

A medical condition involving excess body fat that increases the risk of health problems such as heart disease, diabetes and joint issues, generally defined using BMI alongside other clinical measures.

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

A mental health condition involving unwanted, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviours or mental acts (compulsions) performed to ease the distress those thoughts cause.

Obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD)

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition involving unwanted, repeated thoughts and behaviours a person feels driven to repeat to ease anxiety.

Obstetrician

An obstetrician is a doctor who specialises in caring for women during pregnancy, labour and the period after childbirth.

Occupational Therapist

An allied health professional who helps people regain or maintain the skills needed for daily activities, work and independent living after illness, injury or disability.

OCP (oral contraceptive pill)

The oral contraceptive pill (OCP) is a daily tablet that prevents pregnancy mainly by stopping the ovaries from releasing eggs.

OD (once daily)

OD is a medical abbreviation meaning "once daily", showing that a medicine should be taken one time within each 24-hour period.

Oedema

Swelling caused by excess fluid trapped in the body's tissues, often noticeable in the legs, ankles and feet, which can be linked to a range of causes from prolonged standing to heart or kidney conditions.

Off-label prescribing

Off-label prescribing is when a doctor prescribes an approved medicine for a use, dose, age group or condition not listed on its official approval.

Off-Label Use

The prescribing of an approved medication for a condition, age group or dose that has not been officially registered for that specific use, based on clinical judgement and evidence.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

A type of healthy fat, found in oily fish and some plant sources, associated with heart and brain health benefits.

Omeprazole

A commonly used proton pump inhibitor that reduces stomach acid, prescribed for reflux, heartburn and stomach ulcers.

Oncologist

A doctor who specialises in diagnosing and treating cancer, often working as part of a broader treatment team.

Ondansetron

A commonly used antiemetic medication that prevents and relieves nausea and vomiting.

Online consultation

An online consultation is a medical appointment held remotely over video, phone or text, letting patients speak with a doctor without visiting in person.

Online Doctor

A doctor who provides medical consultations remotely via phone or video call rather than in a traditional clinic, able to assess symptoms, issue prescriptions, referrals and medical certificates for many conditions.

Onychomycosis (Nail Fungus)

A fungal infection of the nail that causes thickening, discolouration and, at times, crumbling of the nail, often requiring prolonged antifungal treatment.

OPD (outpatient department)

The outpatient department (OPD) is the hospital section where patients are seen, diagnosed and treated without being admitted overnight.

Ophthalmologist

An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor who specialises in diagnosing and treating eye diseases and vision problems, including performing eye surgery.

Ophthalmoscope

An ophthalmoscope is a handheld light-and-lens instrument doctors use to look inside the eye and examine the retina.

Opioid

A class of strong pain-relieving medication that acts on opioid receptors in the brain, used mainly for severe pain and carrying a risk of dependence with prolonged use.

Optometrist

A primary eye care professional who examines eyes for vision problems and certain eye diseases and prescribes corrective lenses.

Oral contraceptive pill (OCP)

The oral contraceptive pill (OCP), commonly called "the pill", is a hormone-based tablet taken daily by mouth to prevent pregnancy.

Orchitis

Inflammation of one or both testicles, usually caused by a bacterial or viral infection, resulting in pain and swelling.

Orlistat

Orlistat is a weight-loss medicine that reduces how much fat from food the body absorbs, rather than working through appetite hormones.

Orthodontics

A field of dentistry focused on correcting the position of teeth and jaws, most commonly using braces or clear aligners.

Orthopaedic surgeon

An orthopaedic surgeon is a doctor who treats problems with bones, joints, muscles, ligaments and tendons, using both surgery and non-surgical care.

Orthotics

Custom or off-the-shelf shoe inserts designed to support and correct foot alignment and movement.

Oseltamivir

Oseltamivir is an antiviral medicine used to treat and prevent influenza by stopping the flu virus from multiplying in the body.

Osteoarthritis

The most common form of arthritis, caused by the gradual wearing down of the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of bones within a joint, leading to pain and stiffness, particularly with age.

Osteopenia

A reduction in bone density that is lower than normal but not low enough to be classified as osteoporosis, often considered an early warning sign.

Osteoporosis

A condition in which bones become weak and brittle due to loss of bone density, increasing the risk of fractures, particularly in older adults.

Ostomy

A surgically created opening that allows waste to leave the body through the abdominal wall, often into an external pouch, used when part of the bowel or bladder cannot function normally.

OTC (over-the-counter)

OTC medicines are those you can buy at a pharmacy or shop without a doctor's prescription, for treating common everyday health problems.

Otitis Externa (Swimmer's Ear)

An infection or inflammation of the outer ear canal, often caused by moisture trapped in the ear, resulting in pain, itching and discharge.

Otitis media (ear infection)

Otitis media is an infection or inflammation of the middle ear, most common in children, causing ear pain and sometimes fever.

Otitis Media (Ear Infection)

An infection of the middle ear, common in children, causing ear pain, fever and sometimes temporary hearing difficulty. Many cases resolve on their own, though some require antibiotics.

Otoscope

An otoscope is a handheld instrument with a light and lens that doctors use to look inside the ear canal and at the eardrum.

Out-of-Pocket Cost

The portion of a medical bill a patient pays themselves after any Medicare rebate or private health insurance benefit has been applied.

Outbreak

A sudden increase in cases of a disease in a specific place or group of people, beyond what would normally be expected.

Outpatient

A patient who receives care, such as a consultation or test, without being admitted to hospital.

Ovarian Cancer

A cancer that begins in the ovaries, which can be harder to detect early as symptoms are often vague, such as bloating and abdominal discomfort.

Ovarian Cyst

A fluid-filled sac that can form on or in an ovary, usually harmless and resolving on its own, though larger cysts may need monitoring or treatment.

Ovary

An ovary is one of two small organs in the female reproductive system that release eggs and produce hormones such as oestrogen and progesterone.

Over-the-counter (OTC)

Over-the-counter (OTC) medicines are non-prescription products sold at pharmacies and shops for treating mild, everyday health complaints.

Overactive Bladder

A condition causing a sudden, frequent and hard-to-control urge to urinate, which can often be managed with lifestyle changes, pelvic floor exercises or medication.

Overdose

Taking a larger amount of a substance or medication than is safe, which can cause serious harm. A suspected overdose is a medical emergency — call 000 immediately.

Overtraining Syndrome

A condition resulting from excessive exercise without adequate recovery, causing persistent fatigue, reduced performance and increased injury risk.

Ovulation

The release of a mature egg from the ovary, typically occurring roughly midway through the menstrual cycle, marking the most fertile window.

Oxycodone

A strong prescription opioid used for significant pain, subject to additional prescribing controls due to its potential for dependence.

Oxygen mask

An oxygen mask is a device fitted over the nose and mouth to deliver extra oxygen to someone having trouble breathing.

Oxygen Saturation

A measure of how much oxygen the blood is carrying, usually expressed as a percentage and measured non-invasively with a pulse oximeter.

Ozempic (semaglutide)

Ozempic is a brand of the medicine semaglutide, a weekly injection approved in Australia to treat type 2 diabetes rather than weight loss specifically.

P

Pacemaker

A small device implanted under the skin that sends electrical signals to help control an abnormal heart rhythm.

Paediatrician

A paediatrician is a doctor who specialises in the health and development of babies, children and teenagers.

Pain Scale

A tool, often numbered zero to ten, used by patients and clinicians to communicate and track the severity of pain.

Painkillers

Painkillers, or analgesics, are medicines used to ease pain, ranging from mild over-the-counter options to stronger prescription drugs.

Palliative Care

Specialised medical and supportive care focused on comfort and quality of life for people with a serious or terminal illness, rather than curative treatment.

Pallor

Unusually pale skin, which can be a normal variation or a sign of an underlying condition such as anaemia or poor circulation.

Palpitations

A noticeable sensation of the heart pounding, fluttering or beating irregularly, which can be caused by anxiety, caffeine, or an underlying heart rhythm problem.

Panadol (paracetamol)

Panadol is a well-known brand of paracetamol, a common medicine used in Australia to relieve mild pain and bring down fever.

Pancreas

The pancreas is an organ behind the stomach that helps digest food and controls blood sugar levels through the hormones it makes.

Pancreatic Cancer

Cancer that develops in the pancreas, often diagnosed at a later stage as early symptoms can be vague or absent.

Pancreatitis

Inflammation of the pancreas, which can cause severe abdominal pain and, in acute cases, requires hospital treatment. Common causes include gallstones and excess alcohol intake.

Pandemic

An epidemic that has spread across multiple countries or continents, affecting a large number of people.

Panic Attack

A sudden episode of intense fear accompanied by physical symptoms such as a racing heart, chest tightness and shortness of breath, which typically peaks within minutes.

Panic disorder

Panic disorder is an anxiety condition marked by repeated, sudden panic attacks involving intense fear and physical symptoms like a racing heart.

Pap Smear

The older name for a cervical sample test that checked for abnormal cell changes; in Australia it has largely been replaced by the more sensitive Cervical Screening Test.

Paracetamol

A widely used over-the-counter medication for relieving mild to moderate pain and reducing fever, generally considered gentle on the stomach compared to NSAIDs.

Paracetamol (acetaminophen)

Paracetamol, also called acetaminophen, is a widely used over-the-counter medicine for easing mild pain and reducing fever.

Paralysis

Paralysis is the loss of the ability to move part of the body, usually caused by damage to the nerves or brain.

Paramedic

A paramedic is a trained emergency responder who provides urgent medical care outside hospitals, often the first person to reach someone in a crisis.

Parasomnia

A general term for unusual behaviours that occur during sleep, such as sleepwalking, night terrors or talking in one's sleep.

Parathyroid gland

The parathyroid glands are four tiny glands behind the thyroid in the neck that control calcium levels in the blood and bones.

Parkinson's Disease

A progressive neurological condition that affects movement, causing tremor, stiffness and slowness, due to the loss of nerve cells that produce dopamine in the brain.

Paronychia

An infection of the skin around a fingernail or toenail, causing redness, swelling and tenderness, usually from bacteria or fungus entering through a small break in the skin.

Pathogen

A pathogen is a germ, such as a bacterium, virus, fungus or parasite, that can cause illness in the body.

Pathology

The branch of medicine concerned with laboratory testing of body samples, such as blood or urine, to help diagnose and monitor disease. A doctor can issue a pathology request for tests to be completed at a collection centre.

Patient Portal

A secure online platform that allows patients to access parts of their health information, such as test results or appointment history.

PBS Safety Net

A threshold that, once a patient or family reaches it in PBS medication costs within a calendar year, entitles them to cheaper or free PBS medicines for the rest of that year.

PCR Test

A highly sensitive laboratory test that detects genetic material from a virus or bacteria, commonly used to diagnose infections such as COVID-19.

Peak Flow Meter

A small handheld device used to measure how fast a person can breathe out, helping monitor asthma control at home.

Peer Support Worker

A person with lived experience of mental illness or recovery who provides support and connection to others facing similar challenges.

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

An infection of the female reproductive organs, often resulting from an untreated sexually transmitted infection, which can cause pelvic pain and, if untreated, fertility problems.

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is an infection of the female reproductive organs, often resulting from an untreated sexually transmitted infection.

Pelvis

The pelvis is the bowl-shaped set of bones at the base of the spine that supports the body, protects organs and enables movement.

Penicillin

Penicillin is a group of antibiotics derived from mould that treats bacterial infections by damaging bacterial cell walls.

Penicillin Allergy

An allergic reaction to penicillin-based antibiotics, ranging from a mild rash to a severe reaction, important to document accurately as it affects future prescribing choices.

Penis

The penis is the male organ used to pass urine out of the body and to release semen during sex.

Pensioner Concession Card

A card issued to eligible pensioners providing cheaper prescription medicines, bulk billing incentives and additional concessions on services such as hearing and dental care.

Peptic Ulcer

An open sore on the lining of the stomach or upper small intestine, often caused by bacterial infection or long-term use of anti-inflammatory medication.

Perforated Eardrum

A tear or hole in the thin membrane separating the outer and middle ear, which can cause pain, hearing loss and discharge, often healing on its own.

Perianal Abscess

A collection of pus that forms near the anus due to infection, causing pain and swelling, usually requiring drainage.

Pericarditis

Inflammation of the thin sac surrounding the heart, often causing sharp chest pain, most commonly triggered by a viral infection.

Perimenopause

The transitional period leading up to menopause, during which hormone levels fluctuate and periods often become irregular, sometimes lasting several years.

Perinatal Anxiety

Anxiety experienced during pregnancy or in the first year after birth, involving excessive worry that can affect daily functioning and wellbeing.

Perindopril

An ACE inhibitor commonly prescribed to lower blood pressure and support heart function.

Periodontal Disease

A more advanced form of gum disease than gingivitis, involving damage to the tissue and bone supporting the teeth, which can eventually lead to tooth loss if untreated.

Perioral Dermatitis

A facial rash causing small red bumps around the mouth, sometimes linked to steroid cream use, that generally improves once the trigger is stopped.

Peripheral Artery Disease

A condition in which narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to the limbs, most often the legs, causing pain with walking and, if severe, tissue damage.

Peripheral Neuropathy

Damage to the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord, often causing numbness, tingling or pain in the hands and feet, commonly linked to diabetes.

Peritoneal Dialysis

A form of dialysis performed using the lining of the abdomen to filter the blood, which can typically be done at home, including overnight.

PERRLA (pupils equal, round, reactive to light and accommodation)

PERRLA is a quick eye check doctors use to see if both pupils are equal, round, and respond normally to light and focus.

Pertussis

Pertussis, known as whooping cough, is a highly contagious lung infection that causes severe, prolonged coughing fits.

Pet Allergy

An allergic reaction to proteins found in an animal's skin flakes, saliva or urine, commonly causing sneezing, congestion or skin symptoms on exposure.

PET Scan

An imaging test that uses a small amount of radioactive tracer to show how tissues and organs are functioning, often used in cancer diagnosis and monitoring.

Peyronie's Disease

A condition in which scar tissue forms inside the penis, causing curved, painful erections, which can often be improved with treatment.

Phantom Limb Pain

Pain that feels as though it is coming from a limb that has been amputated, a well-recognised phenomenon linked to changes in the nervous system.

Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS)

An Australian Government program that subsidises the cost of a wide range of prescription medications, so patients pay a set co-payment rather than the full price of the drug.

Pharmacist

A healthcare professional trained in the safe dispensing, use and management of medications, who can also provide advice on minor ailments and medication interactions.

Pharmacology

Pharmacology is the scientific study of how drugs affect the body, used to develop and improve medical treatments.

Pharmacy

A pharmacy is a place staffed by trained pharmacists who supply medicines and give advice on how to use them safely.

Phentermine

Phentermine is a prescription medicine that reduces appetite to support short-term weight loss in people who are obese.

Phimosis

A condition in which the foreskin cannot be fully retracted from the head of the penis, which is normal in young boys but may need treatment if persistent or symptomatic.

Phlebotomy (blood drawing)

Phlebotomy is the medical procedure of drawing blood from a patient, usually for testing, monitoring health, or donation.

Phobia

A phobia is an intense, irrational fear of a specific object, situation, or activity that can disrupt everyday life.

Phone Consultation

A medical appointment conducted over a phone call, a widely used and accessible form of telehealth.

Photophobia

Unusual sensitivity to light, often associated with migraine, eye inflammation or certain infections.

Photosensitivity

An abnormal skin reaction to sunlight, which can be triggered by certain medications or underlying skin conditions.

Physiotherapist

An allied health professional who assesses and treats movement and musculoskeletal problems using techniques such as exercise, manual therapy and education.

PID (pelvic inflammatory disease)

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is an infection of the female reproductive organs, often caused by an untreated sexually transmitted infection.

Pilonidal Sinus

A small pit or tunnel that can form in the skin near the top of the buttocks, which may become infected and require drainage or surgery.

Piperacillin-tazobactam

Piperacillin-tazobactam is a combination antibiotic given by injection in hospitals to treat serious bacterial infections.

Pituitary gland

The pituitary gland is a small gland at the base of the brain that controls hormones affecting growth, metabolism, and reproduction.

Pityriasis Rosea

A temporary skin rash that typically begins with a single larger patch followed by smaller patches, thought to be linked to a viral trigger, usually clearing within weeks to months.

Placebo

An inactive substance with no therapeutic effect, used in clinical research as a comparison to determine whether a treatment genuinely works.

Placenta

The placenta is the organ that develops in pregnancy to supply the baby with oxygen and nutrients and remove its waste.

Placenta Praevia

A condition in which the placenta partly or fully covers the cervix, which can cause bleeding and typically requires a caesarean delivery.

Plantar Fasciitis

Inflammation of the thick band of tissue running along the bottom of the foot, causing stabbing heel pain, often worst with the first steps in the morning.

Plastic surgeon

A plastic surgeon is a doctor trained to perform surgery that reconstructs or reshapes the body, for medical or cosmetic reasons.

Pleural Effusion

An abnormal build-up of fluid between the layers of tissue lining the lungs and chest cavity, which can cause breathlessness if significant.

Pleurisy

Inflammation of the lining surrounding the lungs, causing sharp chest pain that typically worsens with breathing or coughing.

Pneumococcal Vaccine

A vaccine that protects against pneumococcal bacteria, a common cause of pneumonia and meningitis, particularly recommended for young children and older adults.

Pneumonia

An infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs, which may fill with fluid, causing cough, fever and difficulty breathing. It can range from mild to serious, particularly in older adults or those with weakened immunity.

Pneumothorax

A collapsed lung, occurring when air leaks into the space between the lung and chest wall, causing sudden chest pain and breathlessness.

PO (by mouth, orally)

PO is a prescription abbreviation meaning a medicine should be taken by mouth, or swallowed, rather than given another way.

Podiatrist

An allied health professional specialising in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the feet and lower limbs.

Poisons Information Centre

A 24-hour Australian phone service (13 11 26) providing urgent advice on suspected poisoning, accidental medication overdose or exposure to hazardous substances.

Poliomyelitis (polio)

Polio is a highly contagious viral disease that can attack the nervous system and cause paralysis, though it is largely prevented by vaccination.

Polycystic Kidney Disease

An inherited condition causing numerous fluid-filled cysts to develop in the kidneys, which can gradually affect kidney function over time.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal condition affecting the ovaries, causing irregular periods and other symptoms.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

A common hormonal condition affecting people with ovaries, causing irregular periods, excess androgen hormone levels and, in some cases, cysts on the ovaries. It can affect fertility and is managed with lifestyle measures and medication.

Polycythaemia

A condition involving an abnormally high number of red blood cells, which can thicken the blood and increase the risk of clotting.

Polymyalgia Rheumatica

An inflammatory condition causing muscle pain and stiffness, particularly in the shoulders and hips, most common in older adults.

Polypharmacy

The use of multiple medications by a single patient, often necessary for managing several conditions, but requiring regular review to avoid interactions and side effects.

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

PTSD is a mental health condition that can follow a traumatic event, causing flashbacks, anxiety, and lasting emotional distress.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

A mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event, causing intrusive memories, heightened anxiety and avoidance of reminders of the trauma.

Posterior

Posterior is a medical term meaning located at or towards the back of the body.

Postnatal Depression

A form of depression that can affect parents in the weeks or months after having a baby, involving persistent low mood, exhaustion and difficulty bonding, distinct from the milder and shorter-lived "baby blues".

Postpartum Haemorrhage

Significant blood loss following childbirth, considered a medical emergency requiring prompt treatment.

Postpartum Period

The weeks following childbirth during which the body recovers from pregnancy and delivery, and a time when physical and emotional health, including mental health, is closely monitored.

Postpartum Psychosis

A rare but serious mental health emergency that can occur after childbirth, involving a sudden loss of contact with reality and requiring urgent treatment.

Potassium

A mineral important for normal heart rhythm, muscle function and fluid balance, found in foods such as bananas, potatoes and leafy greens.

Potassium supplement

A potassium supplement is a tablet, powder, or liquid that boosts the body's potassium levels to support muscle, nerve, and heart function.

PR (per rectum)

PR, or "per rectum," refers to giving medicine or performing an examination through the rectum.

Practice Nurse

A registered nurse working within a general practice who supports patient care through tasks such as immunisations, wound care and chronic disease management.

Pre-eclampsia

A pregnancy complication involving high blood pressure and signs of organ damage, usually after 20 weeks, which requires close monitoring and sometimes early delivery.

Pre-Existing Condition

A medical condition or ailment that showed signs or symptoms before a person took out or upgraded their private health insurance, which may be subject to a waiting period.

Prediabetes

A state in which blood glucose levels are higher than normal but not yet high enough to be classified as diabetes, often reversible with lifestyle change.

Prednisolone

Prednisolone is a corticosteroid medicine that reduces inflammation and calms an overactive immune system.

Prednisone/Prednisolone

An oral corticosteroid medication used to reduce inflammation in a wide range of conditions, from asthma flare-ups to autoimmune disease.

Pregnancy (normal pregnancy)

Pregnancy is the roughly 40-week process during which a fertilised egg develops into a baby inside the womb.

Premature Ejaculation

A common sexual concern involving ejaculation sooner than desired during sexual activity, which can often be improved with behavioural techniques, therapy or medication.

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)

A more severe form of premenstrual syndrome involving significant mood disturbance, such as depression or irritability, that noticeably disrupts daily life.

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)

A range of physical and emotional symptoms occurring in the days before a period, including mood changes, bloating and breast tenderness.

Presbycusis

Gradual, age-related hearing loss that typically affects both ears and higher-pitched sounds first.

Presbyopia

The gradual, age-related loss of the eye's ability to focus on close objects, typically becoming noticeable from the mid-40s onward.

Prescriber Number

A unique number issued by Medicare to a doctor, allowing them to prescribe medications and order diagnostic tests. It appears on every valid prescription and can be used to verify the prescribing doctor.

Prescription

A doctor's authorisation for a patient to be supplied with a specific medication, including the dose and instructions for use, now most commonly issued electronically as an eScript.

Prescription Shopping

The practice of obtaining prescriptions for the same medication, particularly controlled substances, from multiple doctors, which is monitored in Australia to reduce medication misuse.

Pressure Ulcer (Bedsore)

An area of damaged skin and tissue caused by prolonged pressure, most common in people with limited mobility, particularly over bony areas of the body.

Prevalence

Prevalence is a measure of how common a disease or health condition is within a population at a given time.

Prevention

Prevention refers to actions taken to stop illness or injury from occurring, worsening, or causing further complications.

Private Health Insurance

Optional insurance cover that can pay for private hospital treatment and services not covered by Medicare, such as dental, optical and physiotherapy, depending on the policy.

Private Patient

A patient who chooses to be treated privately, either in a public or private hospital, generally with a choice of doctor and often using private health insurance.

PRN (as needed)

PRN means a medicine should be taken only when needed, rather than at fixed times, based on the patient's symptoms.

Probiotic

A live microorganism, often found in fermented foods or supplements, believed to support a healthy balance of gut bacteria.

Prognosis

A prognosis is a doctor's informed prediction about how a disease or condition is likely to progress and its expected outcome.

Promethazine

An older-generation antihistamine with sedating effects, sometimes used for allergies, nausea or short-term sleep difficulty.

Prone (face down position)

Prone describes the position of lying face down, with the front of the body against the surface below.

Propofol

Propofol is an anaesthetic medicine given into a vein to quickly and safely put patients to sleep for medical procedures or surgery.

Propranolol

Propranolol is a beta-blocker medicine used to treat heart conditions, prevent migraines, and ease physical symptoms of anxiety.

Prostate

A small gland in the male reproductive system that can be affected by conditions including benign enlargement, inflammation (prostatitis) and prostate cancer, particularly with increasing age.

Prostate Cancer

The most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australian men, often slow-growing, with screening and treatment decisions typically discussed individually with a GP or urologist.

Prosthetic Limb

An artificial device that replaces a missing arm or leg, designed to restore function and appearance.

Proton Pump Inhibitor (PPI)

A class of medication that reduces stomach acid production, commonly used to treat reflux, heartburn and stomach ulcers.

Proximal

Proximal describes a body part that is closer to the centre of the body or a reference point than another part.

Pruritus (Itching)

A sensation that triggers the urge to scratch, which can be caused by skin conditions, allergies, dry skin or, less commonly, an internal medical condition.

Pseudoephedrine

Pseudoephedrine is a decongestant medicine that relieves a blocked nose by shrinking swollen blood vessels in the nasal passages.

Psoriasis

A chronic autoimmune skin condition that causes the rapid build-up of skin cells, resulting in thick, scaly, sometimes itchy patches. It is a long-term condition typically managed with topical or systemic treatment.

Psoriatic Arthritis

A form of inflammatory arthritis that can develop in people with psoriasis, causing joint pain, stiffness and swelling in addition to skin symptoms.

Psychiatrist

A medical doctor who has specialised in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions, able to prescribe medication in addition to providing therapy.

Psychoeducation

Information and education provided to a person about their mental health condition and treatment options, helping them understand and manage their symptoms.

Psychologist

A health professional trained in the assessment and treatment of mental health and behavioural conditions, often using talking therapies such as cognitive behavioural therapy.

Psychosis

A mental state involving a loss of contact with reality, which can include hallucinations or delusions, and requires prompt clinical assessment and treatment.

Pterygium

A growth of pink, fleshy tissue on the white of the eye, often linked to prolonged sun and wind exposure, which can occasionally affect vision.

PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder)

PTSD is a mental health condition triggered by a traumatic experience, marked by flashbacks, avoidance, and heightened anxiety.

Pubic Lice

Small insects that can be spread through close bodily contact, most often affecting pubic hair and causing itching, treated with an over-the-counter lotion.

Public Hospital

A hospital funded by government that provides free treatment to Medicare-eligible patients as public patients, alongside emergency and inpatient care.

Public Patient

A patient treated in a public hospital under Medicare, generally at no cost, but without the ability to choose their own doctor.

Pulmonary (relating to lungs)

Pulmonary means relating to the lungs and their essential role in breathing.

Pulmonary Embolism

A blockage in one of the pulmonary arteries in the lungs, usually caused by a blood clot that has travelled from elsewhere in the body. It is a medical emergency causing sudden breathlessness and chest pain.

Pulse

A pulse is the rhythmic beat felt at points like the wrist or neck, reflecting the heart pumping blood through the arteries.

Pulse Oximeter

A small clip-on device, usually worn on a fingertip, that measures blood oxygen saturation and pulse rate.

Puncture Wound

A deep, narrow wound caused by a sharp, pointed object, which can carry a higher infection risk than a similarly sized cut due to bacteria being pushed deep into the tissue.

Q

Q Fever

A bacterial infection transmitted to humans mainly through contact with infected livestock, causing flu-like symptoms. It is more common in rural and farming communities, and a vaccine is available for high-risk workers.

QID (four times daily)

QID is a medical abbreviation meaning a medicine should be taken four times each day.

Quality of life

Quality of life describes a person's overall wellbeing, covering physical health, happiness, and social connection.

Quarantine

The practice of separating and restricting the movement of people who may have been exposed to a contagious disease, to prevent its spread, distinct from isolation which applies to those already confirmed unwell.

Quetiapine

Quetiapine is an antipsychotic medicine used to treat schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and, sometimes, depression.

R

Rabies

Rabies is a serious viral infection of the brain and spinal cord, spread mainly through bites or scratches from infected animals.

Radiologist

A radiologist is a doctor who specialises in reading medical scans, such as X-rays and MRIs, to diagnose and guide treatment.

Radiology

Radiology is the branch of medicine that uses imaging technology such as X-rays and scans to diagnose and sometimes treat disease.

Radiotherapy

A cancer treatment that uses targeted high-energy radiation to destroy cancer cells or shrink tumours.

Ramipril

Ramipril is a daily tablet that lowers high blood pressure and helps protect the heart and kidneys from damage.

Rapid Antigen Test

A fast diagnostic test that detects specific proteins from a virus, providing results within minutes, commonly used for COVID-19 and influenza.

Rash

A change in the skin's colour, texture or appearance, often involving redness, bumps or itching, with causes ranging from irritation and allergy to infection.

Raynaud's Phenomenon

A condition in which small blood vessels in the fingers and toes overreact to cold or stress, causing them to turn white, then blue, then red.

Raynaud's syndrome

Raynaud's syndrome reduces blood flow to the fingers and toes, making them turn white or blue in cold or stressful conditions.

RBC (red blood cell/count)

RBC refers to red blood cells or the red blood cell count, a blood test result linked to oxygen delivery around the body.

Real Time Prescription Monitoring

A national system that allows prescribers and pharmacists to see a patient's recent history of high-risk medications, helping identify and prevent misuse or dangerous drug interactions.

Recovery Position

A first aid position used for an unconscious but breathing person, which helps keep their airway clear and prevents choking.

Rectal Bleeding

Blood passed from the rectum, with causes ranging from minor issues like haemorrhoids to conditions that need further investigation, so it should always be assessed by a doctor.

Rectal Prolapse

A condition in which part of the rectum slips out through the anus, often linked to chronic straining, and may require surgical repair.

Rectum

The rectum is the lower part of the large intestine that stores faeces before they leave the body.

Referral

A formal letter from a GP directing a patient to see a specialist or other health service, often required to access a Medicare rebate for specialist care.

Referral letter

A referral letter is written by a doctor to send a patient to a specialist or another health service for further care.

Referred Pain

Pain felt in a part of the body different from where the actual problem is occurring, such as shoulder pain from a gallbladder issue.

Refill

A refill lets a patient collect more of a prescribed medicine from the pharmacy without seeing the doctor for a new script every time.

Reflux

The backward flow of stomach contents into the oesophagus, causing symptoms such as heartburn and regurgitation. Occasional reflux is common, while frequent reflux may indicate GERD.

Reflux in Infants

The frequent, effortless bringing up of milk in babies, which is usually harmless and improves with age, distinct from GERD in adults.

Rehabilitation

A structured program of therapy aimed at helping a person recover function, strength or independence after illness, injury or surgery.

Remdesivir

Remdesivir is an antiviral medicine given in hospital, most often for severe COVID-19, to slow the virus and ease illness severity.

Remission

A period during which signs and symptoms of a disease, most often cancer, are reduced or no longer detectable.

Remote monitoring

Remote monitoring lets healthcare providers track a patient's health data from a distance using connected devices, without an in-person visit.

Remote Patient Monitoring

The use of digital devices to track a patient's health data outside a traditional clinical setting, allowing clinicians to monitor conditions remotely.

Renal Colic

Severe, wave-like pain caused by a kidney stone moving through the urinary tract, typically felt in the back or side and radiating towards the groin.

Repeat Prescription

A further supply of a medication a patient has previously been prescribed, issued after a doctor reviews the patient's ongoing suitability for the treatment.

Repetitive Strain Injury

A range of conditions caused by repeated movement or overuse, most often affecting the hands, wrists and arms, common in certain occupations.

Reproductive system

The reproductive system is the group of organs in males and females responsible for reproduction and hormone regulation.

Residential Aged Care

Long-term accommodation and personal or nursing care provided in an aged care facility for older people who can no longer live safely at home.

Respiratory Infection

An infection affecting any part of the airway or lungs, ranging from a mild common cold to more serious conditions such as bronchitis or pneumonia.

Respiratory system

The respiratory system is the group of organs, including the lungs, that let the body breathe in oxygen and breathe out carbon dioxide.

Respite Care

Short-term care provided to give a regular carer a break, which can take place at home, in the community or in a residential facility.

Resting Heart Rate

The number of times the heart beats per minute while at rest, a general indicator of cardiovascular fitness.

Restless Legs Syndrome

A condition causing an uncomfortable urge to move the legs, particularly in the evening or at night, which can disrupt sleep.

Resuscitation

Resuscitation is emergency first aid, such as CPR, used to restart breathing or a stopped heart and keep a person alive.

Retinal Detachment

A serious eye condition in which the retina pulls away from its normal position, causing sudden vision changes and requiring emergency treatment.

Return to work

Return to work is the supported process of going back to a job after time off due to illness or injury.

Return to Work Plan

A structured plan developed after a workplace injury or illness to support a safe, gradual return to normal duties.

RFT (renal function test)

RFT (renal function test) is a set of blood and urine tests that check how well the kidneys are working.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

An autoimmune condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the joints, causing pain, swelling and, over time, joint damage if untreated.

Rheumatologist

A rheumatologist is a doctor who specialises in diagnosing and treating conditions affecting the joints, muscles and bones.

Rhinovirus

The most common cause of the common cold, a virus that infects the upper respiratory tract.

Rib

Ribs are the curved bones that form the rib cage, protecting the heart and lungs and assisting with breathing.

RICE Method

A first aid approach for soft tissue injuries — Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation — used to reduce pain and swelling in the first 48 hours.

Ringworm

A common fungal skin infection causing a red, ring-shaped, itchy rash, despite the name having nothing to do with worms.

Risperidone

Risperidone is a medicine used to treat mental health conditions such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder by affecting brain chemicals.

Rivaroxaban

A newer-generation anticoagulant medication that, unlike warfarin, generally does not require regular blood test monitoring.

Rosacea

A chronic skin condition causing facial redness, visible blood vessels and sometimes small, pus-filled bumps, often triggered by heat, alcohol, spicy food or sun exposure.

Roseola

A common viral illness in young children causing a high fever followed by a rash, generally mild and resolving on its own.

Ross River Virus

A mosquito-borne virus common in Australia that can cause joint pain, rash and fatigue, sometimes lasting for weeks or months.

Rosuvastatin

A statin medication used to lower cholesterol, often prescribed as an alternative to atorvastatin.

Rotator Cuff Injury

Damage to the group of muscles and tendons stabilising the shoulder joint, which can range from mild inflammation to a full tear, causing pain and weakness.

RR (respiratory rate)

Respiratory rate (RR) is the number of breaths a person takes in one minute, an important measure of overall health.

RSV Vaccine

A vaccine that protects against respiratory syncytial virus, a common cause of serious respiratory infection in infants and older adults.

Rubella

A generally mild viral infection, also known as German measles, that can cause serious birth defects if contracted during pregnancy. Vaccination provides effective protection.

Rubella (German measles)

Rubella, also called German measles, is a contagious viral illness that's usually mild but can seriously harm an unborn baby.

RUQ (right upper quadrant)

RUQ (right upper quadrant) is the upper-right section of the abdomen, home to organs such as the liver and gallbladder.

Rx (prescription or therapy)

Rx is the abbreviation used for a prescription, a doctor's written instruction for a specific medicine or treatment.

S

Salbutamol

A fast-acting bronchodilator inhaler, commonly known as a reliever puffer, used to quickly ease asthma and COPD symptoms.

Salbutamol (Ventolin)

Salbutamol, sold as Ventolin, is an inhaled medicine that relaxes airway muscles to relieve asthma symptoms quickly.

Salmonella

A type of bacteria commonly spread through contaminated food that causes gastroenteritis, with symptoms including diarrhoea, fever and stomach cramps.

Salmonellosis (Salmonella infection)

Salmonellosis is a bacterial infection caught from contaminated food or water, causing diarrhoea, fever and stomach cramps.

Sarcoidosis

A condition in which small clusters of inflammatory cells develop in organs, most often the lungs and lymph nodes, with causes not fully understood.

Sarcoma

A rare type of cancer that develops in bone or soft tissue, such as muscle, fat or blood vessels.

Sarcopenia

The gradual loss of muscle mass and strength that occurs with ageing, which can be slowed through regular strength exercise and adequate protein intake.

SATs (oxygen saturations)

SATs (oxygen saturations) measure the percentage of oxygen carried in the blood, an important indicator of respiratory health.

Saturated Fat

A type of dietary fat, found mainly in animal products, that can raise cholesterol levels when eaten in excess.

Saxenda (liraglutide)

Saxenda is a once-daily injectable weight-loss medicine containing liraglutide, prescribed alongside diet and exercise changes.

SC (subcutaneous)

Subcutaneous (SC) means given just under the skin, a method commonly used for injections like insulin that need slow absorption.

Scabies

A contagious skin condition caused by tiny mites burrowing into the skin, leading to intense itching and a pimple-like rash. It spreads through close skin contact and is treated with a prescription cream or lotion.

Scalpel

A scalpel is a very sharp small blade used mainly by surgeons to make precise, controlled cuts during operations.

Scapula (shoulder blade)

The scapula, or shoulder blade, is a flat triangular bone in the upper back that supports shoulder movement.

Scarlet Fever

A bacterial infection causing a distinctive red rash, sore throat and fever, most common in children, treated with antibiotics.

Schedule 8 Medication

A category of prescription medications, including strong opioids and certain stimulants and sedatives, subject to additional legal controls due to a higher risk of misuse or dependence. These generally cannot be prescribed without an established in-person doctor-patient relationship.

Schizophrenia

A chronic mental health condition affecting how a person thinks, feels and behaves, which can include symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions and disorganised thinking.

Sciatica

Pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve, from the lower back through the hip and down the leg, usually caused by a compressed nerve in the spine.

Scoliosis

An abnormal sideways curvature of the spine, which can range from mild to severe and is often first identified during adolescent growth.

Script (prescription slip)

A script, or prescription slip, is a doctor's written or digital order that lets a patient buy specific medicine from a pharmacy.

Seasonal Affective Disorder

A type of depression linked to changes in season, most often occurring during periods of reduced daylight.

Sebaceous Cyst

A small, slow-growing lump beneath the skin formed when a hair follicle or oil gland becomes blocked, generally harmless unless infected.

Seborrhoeic Dermatitis

A common skin condition causing red, flaky, itchy patches, typically on the scalp, face and chest, related to oil-producing glands in the skin.

Second Opinion

An additional assessment sought from another doctor about a diagnosis or treatment plan, which patients are entitled to request at any time.

Sedation

The use of medication to relax a patient and reduce awareness during a procedure, ranging from light sedation to deeper levels depending on clinical need.

Sedative

A medication that calms the body and reduces activity in the nervous system, used to manage anxiety or aid sleep.

Sedatives

Sedatives are medicines that calm the nervous system, used to ease anxiety, help with sleep, or relax muscles.

Seizure

A seizure is a sudden burst of abnormal electrical activity in the brain that can affect movement, awareness or behaviour.

Selective Mutism

An anxiety disorder, usually seen in children, in which a person is unable to speak in certain social situations despite speaking normally elsewhere.

Semaglutide

Semaglutide is a medicine used to manage type 2 diabetes and, in some cases, support weight loss by lowering appetite and blood sugar.

Semen Analysis

A laboratory test that assesses sperm count, movement and shape, used as part of investigating male fertility.

Sensory Processing Disorder

A condition in which the brain has difficulty receiving and responding to information from the senses, which can affect behaviour and daily functioning.

Sepsis

A life-threatening reaction that occurs when the body's response to an infection injures its own tissues and organs. Sepsis is a medical emergency requiring immediate hospital treatment.

Sepsis (septicaemia)

Sepsis is a life-threatening reaction to infection where the body's immune response ends up damaging its own tissues and organs.

Septic Shock

A severe, life-threatening complication of sepsis in which blood pressure drops dangerously low, requiring emergency hospital treatment.

Sertraline

A commonly prescribed SSRI antidepressant, also used to treat several anxiety-related conditions.

Shared Decision-Making

A collaborative process in which a patient and their doctor work together to choose the best care option based on clinical evidence and the patient's preferences.

Shin Splints

Pain along the shin bone caused by inflammation of the muscles, tendons and bone tissue, typically from repetitive activities such as running.

Shingles

A painful rash caused by reactivation of the chickenpox virus (varicella-zoster) that remains dormant in the nervous system after childhood infection. It is more common in older adults and can be reduced in likelihood by vaccination.

Shingles Vaccine

A vaccine that reduces the risk of developing shingles and its complications, recommended for older adults who have previously had chickenpox.

Shock (circulatory shock)

Circulatory shock happens when the body can't maintain enough blood flow, starving vital organs of oxygen and nutrients.

Shock (medical)

Medical shock occurs when the body can't deliver enough blood to its organs, which can stem from blood loss, heart failure or severe infection.

Shortness of Breath

A sensation of not being able to get enough air, which can be caused by conditions affecting the lungs, heart or other systems, and warrants prompt assessment if sudden or severe.

SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth)

A condition in which excessive bacteria grow in the small intestine, causing bloating, discomfort and altered bowel habits.

Sick leave

Sick leave is paid time off work that lets employees recover from illness or injury without losing income.

Sickle Cell Disease

An inherited condition affecting red blood cells, causing them to become rigid and sickle-shaped, which can block blood flow and cause pain episodes.

Side Effect

An unintended effect of a medication, separate from its main therapeutic purpose, which can range from mild and temporary to more significant.

Side effects

Side effects are unwanted reactions the body can have to a medicine or medical procedure, ranging from mild to serious.

SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome)

The sudden, unexplained death of an otherwise healthy infant, usually during sleep, with risk reduced by following safe sleeping guidelines.

Sinusitis

Inflammation or infection of the sinuses, the air-filled spaces around the nose, causing facial pain, nasal congestion and thick discharge. Most cases are viral and resolve without antibiotics.

Sitagliptin

Sitagliptin is a tablet used to help control blood sugar levels in adults living with type 2 diabetes.

Sjogren's syndrome

Sjogren's syndrome is a long-term autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks glands that produce tears and saliva.

Skeletal system

The skeletal system is the network of bones that gives the body structure, protects organs, and enables movement.

Skeleton

The skeleton is the body's internal framework of bones, giving structure, protecting organs, and producing blood cells.

Skin

The skin is the body's largest organ, forming a protective barrier that shields us from germs, helps control temperature, and lets us feel touch and pain.

Skin cancer

Skin cancer is abnormal cell growth in the skin, usually caused by sun exposure, and is one of the most common cancers diagnosed in Australia.

Skin Cancer Check

A thorough examination of the skin by a doctor to look for signs of skin cancer, recommended regularly for people with higher risk factors such as fair skin or significant sun exposure.

Skin lesion

A skin lesion is any area of skin that looks or feels different from the skin around it, such as a mole, rash or blister.

Skin Prick Test

A common allergy test in which small amounts of allergen are pricked into the skin to check for a localised allergic reaction.

Skin Tag

A small, soft, harmless growth of skin that often develops in areas of friction, such as the neck or underarms.

Skull

The skull is the bony framework of the head that protects the brain and supports the eyes, ears, nose and jaw.

Sleep apnoea

Sleep apnoea is a sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep, often causing poor sleep and tiredness.

Sleep Apnoea

A disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep, often causing loud snoring, disrupted rest and daytime fatigue. It is typically diagnosed with a sleep study and can increase cardiovascular risk if left untreated.

Sleep Deprivation

A state of not getting enough sleep, which can impair concentration, mood and physical health if it continues over time.

Sleep Hygiene

A set of habits and practices, such as a consistent bedtime and a dark, quiet room, that support regular, good-quality sleep.

Sleep Study (Polysomnography)

An overnight test that monitors breathing, oxygen levels, brain activity and movement during sleep, used to diagnose conditions such as sleep apnoea.

Sleepwalking

A sleep disorder in which a person gets up and walks around, or performs other complex behaviours, while still asleep and unaware.

Small intestine

The small intestine is a long coiled tube between the stomach and large intestine where most digestion and nutrient absorption happens.

Smallpox

Smallpox was a serious and highly contagious viral disease that caused fever and a blistering rash, now completely eradicated worldwide through vaccination.

Snake Bite

A bite from a snake that may inject venom, considered a medical emergency in Australia given the presence of venomous species — apply a pressure immobilisation bandage and call 000.

Snoring

Noisy breathing during sleep caused by vibration of relaxed tissues in the airway, which can be a minor nuisance or, when severe, a sign of sleep apnoea.

SOB (shortness of breath)

SOB, or shortness of breath, is the feeling of not getting enough air or struggling to breathe, which can range from mild to severe.

Social Anxiety Disorder

A mental health condition involving intense fear of being judged, embarrassed or scrutinised in social situations, which can lead to avoidance of everyday interactions.

Solar Lentigo (Age Spot)

A flat, brown patch of skin caused by cumulative sun exposure over time, generally harmless but worth having checked if it changes.

Sore Throat

Pain, scratchiness or irritation in the throat, most often caused by a viral infection, though sometimes bacterial (such as strep throat) and requiring antibiotics.

Spacer Device

A chamber attached to an asthma puffer that makes it easier to inhale the full dose of medication effectively, especially useful for children.

Specialist

A doctor with advanced training in a specific area of medicine, such as cardiology, dermatology or psychiatry, generally seen after a referral from a GP.

Specific Phobia

An intense, persistent fear of a particular object or situation, such as heights or needles, that is out of proportion to any actual danger.

Speculum

A speculum is a medical instrument used to gently open a body cavity, most commonly the vagina, so a doctor can see inside clearly.

Speech Delay

A child's speech development lagging behind typical milestones for their age, which can benefit from early assessment by a speech pathologist.

Speech Pathologist

An allied health professional who assesses and treats difficulties with speech, language, voice, fluency and swallowing.

Speech therapist

A speech therapist is a health professional who helps people of all ages improve their speech, language, voice and swallowing abilities.

Spider Bite

A bite from a spider, most of which cause only mild, local symptoms, though certain Australian species can cause more significant reactions requiring medical assessment.

Spina Bifida

A birth defect in which the spine and spinal cord do not form completely, which can cause a range of physical effects depending on severity.

Spinal cord

The spinal cord is a bundle of nerves running from the brain down the back, carrying messages that control movement, sensation and vital body functions.

Spine (vertebral column)

The spine, or vertebral column, is the chain of small bones running down the back that supports the body and protects the spinal cord.

Spirometry

A breathing test that measures how much and how quickly air can be exhaled, commonly used to diagnose and monitor asthma and COPD.

Spironolactone

A medication that can act as a diuretic for heart failure or fluid retention, and is also used off-label for hormonal acne in women.

Spleen

The spleen is an organ in the upper abdomen that filters the blood, fights infection, and stores blood cells for clotting.

Splint

A splint is a device used to support and immobilise an injured limb, joint or bone while it heals.

Splinter

A small foreign object, such as a fragment of wood or glass, lodged in the skin, usually removable at home but occasionally requiring medical attention if deep or infected.

SpO₂ (peripheral oxygen saturation)

SpO₂ is a measurement of how much oxygen is carried in the blood, usually checked with a small clip-on device called a pulse oximeter.

Spondylosis

Age-related wear and tear affecting the spinal discs and joints, which can contribute to back or neck pain and stiffness.

Sprain

An injury to a ligament, the tissue connecting bones at a joint, caused by overstretching or tearing, commonly affecting the ankle, knee or wrist.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma

The second most common type of skin cancer, which can grow more quickly than basal cell carcinoma and, in some cases, spread to other parts of the body if untreated.

SSRI (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor)

A commonly prescribed class of antidepressant medication that increases serotonin activity in the brain, used to treat depression and several anxiety disorders.

Staphylococcus

A common type of bacteria that lives harmlessly on the skin of most people but can cause infection, including skin infections, if it enters the body.

Stat (immediately)

"Stat" is a medical term meaning something must be done right away, without any delay.

Statin

A class of medication that lowers cholesterol by blocking an enzyme the liver uses to produce it, commonly prescribed to reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke.

Statins

Statins are medicines that lower cholesterol in the blood, helping to reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Stent

A small mesh tube inserted into a narrowed artery to hold it open and maintain healthy blood flow.

Sternum

The sternum, or breastbone, is the flat bone in the centre of the chest that connects to the ribs and protects the heart and lungs.

Stethoscope

A stethoscope is a device doctors use to listen to sounds inside the body, such as the heart, lungs and gut, to help with diagnosis.

STI (sexually transmitted infection)

An STI, or sexually transmitted infection, is an infection passed on mainly through sexual contact, which can often be prevented and treated.

STI (Sexually Transmitted Infection)

An infection passed between people through sexual contact, including chlamydia, gonorrhoea and herpes among others. Many STIs are treatable and testing can often be arranged discreetly through a GP or sexual health clinic.

Stimulants

Stimulants are substances that increase alertness and energy by boosting brain activity, used both as medicines and recreationally.

Stomach

The stomach is a muscular, J-shaped organ that uses acid and enzymes to break down food before it moves to the small intestine.

Store-and-Forward Consultation

A form of telehealth in which information such as photos or test results is sent to a clinician for review and response, without a live, real-time conversation.

Strabismus

A condition in which the eyes do not align properly, with one turning in a different direction than the other, sometimes requiring corrective treatment.

Strep throat (streptococcal pharyngitis)

Strep throat is a bacterial throat infection causing pain and swelling, diagnosed with a simple test and treated with antibiotics.

Streptococcus

A type of bacteria responsible for infections including strep throat, scarlet fever and some skin infections.

Stress

The body's physical and emotional response to demanding or challenging situations. While short bursts of stress are normal, chronic stress can affect both mental and physical health over time.

Stress Fracture

A small crack in a bone caused by repetitive force or overuse, commonly affecting the feet and lower legs in runners and athletes.

Stroke

A sudden interruption to blood supply in the brain, caused by a blockage or bleed, which can damage brain tissue and cause lasting disability. Recognising signs such as facial drooping, arm weakness and slurred speech and calling 000 immediately is critical.

Stroke (cerebrovascular accident)

A stroke is a medical emergency caused by interrupted blood flow to the brain, which can quickly damage brain tissue if not treated fast.

Stye

A small, painful, red lump near the edge of the eyelid caused by an infected oil gland or hair follicle, usually resolving with warm compresses.

Substance Use Disorder

A pattern of alcohol or drug use that causes significant impairment or distress, ranging in severity and requiring individualised treatment and support.

Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)

SIDS is the sudden, unexplained death of an apparently healthy baby during sleep, usually before their first birthday.

Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss

A rapid, often unexplained loss of hearing in one ear, considered a medical emergency as prompt treatment can improve the chance of recovery.

Suicidal Ideation

Thoughts about ending one's life, ranging from fleeting to detailed, which should always be taken seriously. If you or someone you know is at immediate risk, call 000 or Lifeline on 13 11 14.

Suitable Duties

Modified work tasks offered to an injured or unwell employee during recovery, matched to their current capacity as advised by their doctor.

Sulfonylurea

Sulfonylurea is a type of medicine used to lower blood sugar in type 2 diabetes by helping the pancreas make more insulin.

Sunburn

Skin damage caused by overexposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun, causing redness, pain and, in severe cases, blistering, and a known risk factor for skin cancer.

Sundowning

A pattern of increased confusion, agitation or restlessness in the late afternoon and evening, sometimes experienced by people with dementia.

Superior

In medical language, "superior" describes something located above or higher than another body part.

Supine (face up position)

Supine means lying flat on your back with your face and body facing upwards, a common position for exams and procedures.

Support Coordinator

An NDIS-funded role that helps a participant understand and implement their plan, connecting them with appropriate services and providers.

Support Worker

A trained worker who provides day-to-day practical assistance to a person with disability or an older person, helping with tasks that support independence.

Surgeon

A surgeon is a medical doctor trained to perform operations to treat injuries, diseases and other health conditions.

Surgical mask

A surgical mask is a disposable mask worn over the nose and mouth to help stop the spread of germs, mainly used in healthcare settings.

Surgical Site Infection

An infection that develops in the area of the body where surgery took place, which can range from minor to serious and generally requires prompt treatment.

Survival rate

Survival rate is the percentage of people still alive a set time, often one or five years, after being diagnosed with a disease.

Suture

A stitch used to close a wound or surgical incision, which may dissolve on its own or need to be removed after healing.

Swab Test

A test in which a sample is collected from a specific area of the body, such as the throat or a wound, to check for infection.

Swollen Lymph Nodes

Enlarged lymph nodes, often felt in the neck, armpit or groin, most commonly a sign the immune system is responding to a nearby infection.

Sx (symptoms)

"Sx" is medical shorthand for symptoms, the physical or emotional changes that can signal an underlying health issue.

Symptom

A symptom is any noticeable change in the body or mind that suggests something may be wrong with your health.

Syncope

The medical term for fainting — a brief loss of consciousness caused by a temporary drop in blood flow to the brain.

Syndrome

A syndrome is a group of symptoms and signs that commonly occur together and point to a particular condition.

Syphilis

A bacterial sexually transmitted infection that progresses through stages if untreated, but is curable with antibiotics when caught early.

Syringe

A syringe is a medical device with a plunger and needle used to inject fluids into the body or draw them out.

Systemic

Systemic means affecting the whole body or an entire body system, rather than just one specific area.

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)

Lupus (SLE) is a long-term autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks healthy tissue, causing inflammation across the body.

T

T3 (triiodothyronine)

T3, or triiodothyronine, is a thyroid hormone that helps control the body's metabolism and how it uses energy.

T4 (thyroxine)

T4, or thyroxine, is the main hormone made by the thyroid gland, helping regulate the body's metabolism and energy use.

Tablet

A tablet is a solid, swallowable form of medicine that delivers a precise, measured dose of active ingredient.

Tachycardia

Tachycardia is a resting heart rate faster than normal, generally above 100 beats per minute in adults.

Tamoxifen

Tamoxifen is a cancer medicine that blocks oestrogen receptors on breast cancer cells to slow or stop tumour growth.

Target Heart Rate

A recommended heart rate range to aim for during exercise to achieve effective cardiovascular training, based on age and fitness level.

Team Care Arrangement

A coordinated care plan a GP develops for a patient with a chronic condition who needs ongoing treatment from at least two other health or care providers.

Teething

The process of an infant's first teeth emerging through the gums, which can cause irritability, drooling and mild discomfort.

Telehealth

The delivery of healthcare services remotely using phone or video technology, allowing patients to consult a doctor without attending a clinic in person.

Telehealth Consultation

A medical appointment conducted over phone or video call rather than face-to-face, suitable for a wide range of conditions including prescriptions, medical certificates, referrals and general health concerns.

Telehealth Item Number

A specific Medicare Benefits Schedule item number used to bill and claim a rebate for a consultation delivered by phone or video rather than in person.

Telemedicine

Telemedicine lets patients see healthcare providers remotely by video, phone, or text instead of visiting a clinic in person.

Telmisartan

Telmisartan is a blood pressure medicine that relaxes blood vessels to help lower the risk of heart attack and stroke.

Temazepam

A short-acting benzodiazepine sometimes prescribed for short-term treatment of severe insomnia.

Tendon

A tendon is a strong, flexible band of tissue that attaches muscle to bone and helps the body move.

Tendon Rupture

A complete tear of a tendon, the tissue connecting muscle to bone, which often causes sudden pain and loss of function and may require surgical repair.

Tendonitis

Inflammation of a tendon, the cord that connects muscle to bone, usually caused by repetitive movement or overuse, resulting in pain and tenderness near a joint.

Tennis Elbow

Pain and tenderness on the outside of the elbow caused by overuse of the forearm muscles and tendons, common in activities involving repetitive gripping or wrist movement.

Tension Headache

The most common type of headache, usually described as a dull, band-like pressure around the head, often linked to stress or muscle tension.

Terbinafine

Terbinafine is an antifungal medicine used to treat fungal infections of the skin and nails, such as ringworm.

Terminal Illness

An illness that cannot be cured and is expected to lead to death, often within a defined and limited timeframe.

Testicular Cancer

A cancer that most commonly affects younger men, often first noticed as a painless lump or swelling in the testicle, with high cure rates when caught early.

Testicular Torsion

A medical emergency in which the spermatic cord twists, cutting off blood supply to the testicle, causing sudden, severe pain that requires immediate treatment to save the testicle.

Testis (testicle)

The testis, or testicle, is a male reproductive organ that makes sperm and hormones such as testosterone.

Tetanus

A serious bacterial infection affecting the nervous system, usually entering through a wound, causing severe muscle stiffness. Vaccination provides effective, long-lasting protection.

TFTs (thyroid function tests)

TFTs are blood tests that check how well the thyroid gland is working by measuring its hormone levels.

Thalassaemia

An inherited blood disorder that reduces the body's ability to produce healthy haemoglobin, resulting in varying degrees of anaemia.

Thalassaemia

Thalassaemia is an inherited blood disorder that reduces healthy haemoglobin production, which can lead to anaemia.

Therapy

Therapy is treatment that helps heal or manage physical, emotional, or mental health problems and supports overall wellbeing.

Thermometer

A thermometer is a device used to measure temperature, commonly used in healthcare to check a person's body temperature.

Threadworms

Small, common intestinal parasites, particularly in children, causing itching around the anus, usually treated with an over-the-counter medication for the whole household.

Thrombocytopenia

A condition involving an abnormally low platelet count, which can increase the risk of bruising and bleeding.

Thrombophlebitis

Inflammation of a vein caused by a blood clot, often in a vein close to the skin's surface, causing pain, redness and swelling.

Thrombosis

Thrombosis is a blood clot forming inside a blood vessel, which can block blood flow and cause serious complications.

Thrush

A common fungal infection caused by an overgrowth of Candida yeast, which can affect the mouth, skin or genital area, causing itching, discomfort and discharge. It is usually treated with antifungal medication.

Thrush (candidiasis)

Thrush is a yeast infection caused by overgrowth of Candida fungus, commonly affecting the mouth or genital area.

Thyroid

A butterfly-shaped gland in the neck that produces hormones regulating metabolism, energy and growth. Overactive (hyperthyroidism) or underactive (hypothyroidism) thyroid function can affect weight, mood and energy levels.

Thyroid Cancer

Cancer that develops in the thyroid gland, often first noticed as a lump in the neck, with most types having a good prognosis when treated.

Thyroid disease

Thyroid disease covers conditions affecting the thyroid gland, including an underactive or overactive thyroid, which change how the body uses energy.

Thyroid Function Test

A blood test that measures thyroid hormone levels, used to diagnose an overactive or underactive thyroid.

Thyroid gland

The thyroid gland is a small gland in the neck that produces hormones controlling metabolism and energy use.

TIA (transient ischaemic attack)

A TIA, or mini-stroke, is a brief interruption of blood flow to the brain causing temporary stroke-like symptoms.

TID (three times a day)

TID is a medical abbreviation meaning three times a day, used on prescriptions to show how often to take a medicine.

Tinea

A general term for fungal skin infections, including athlete's foot and ringworm, causing an itchy, red, sometimes scaly rash.

Tinnitus

The perception of ringing, buzzing or other noise in the ears without an external sound source, which can be temporary or persistent.

Tirzepatide

Tirzepatide is a weekly injectable medicine for type 2 diabetes and weight management that acts on two gut hormone receptors.

TMJ Disorder

A condition affecting the jaw joint and surrounding muscles, causing pain, clicking or difficulty opening the mouth fully.

Toilet Training

The process of teaching a young child to use the toilet independently, with readiness varying widely between individual children.

Tolerance

Tolerance is when the body responds less to a drug over time, meaning a higher dose is needed for the same effect.

Tongue

The tongue is a muscular organ in the mouth that enables taste, speech, chewing, and swallowing.

Tonsil Stones

Small, calcified lumps that form in the crevices of the tonsils, sometimes causing bad breath or a feeling of something stuck in the throat.

Tonsillectomy

Surgical removal of the tonsils, generally recommended for recurrent severe tonsillitis or significant airway obstruction.

Tonsillitis

Inflammation of the tonsils, usually due to viral or bacterial infection, causing a sore throat, difficulty swallowing and sometimes fever. Most cases are viral and settle with supportive care.

Tooth / Teeth

Teeth are hard structures in the mouth used for chewing, and they also support speech and facial appearance.

Tooth decay (dental caries)

Tooth decay is damage to tooth enamel caused by acids from bacteria in plaque feeding on sugar, leading to cavities.

Tooth Decay (Dental Caries)

Damage to a tooth's surface caused by acids produced when bacteria break down sugars in the mouth, which can progress to a cavity if untreated.

TPR (temperature, pulse, respiration)

TPR stands for temperature, pulse, and respiration, three basic vital signs used to quickly assess someone's health.

Trachea

The trachea, or windpipe, is the airway tube connecting the throat to the lungs, allowing air to pass during breathing.

Tramadol

A prescription opioid pain medication used for moderate to moderately severe pain.

Trans Fat

An artificially created fat once common in processed foods, strongly linked to heart disease risk, and now heavily restricted in Australian food manufacturing.

Transient Ischaemic Attack (TIA)

A temporary episode of stroke-like symptoms caused by a brief interruption to blood flow in the brain, sometimes called a "mini-stroke". It requires urgent medical assessment as it can signal a higher risk of a full stroke.

Transplant

A transplant is surgery that moves an organ or tissue from a donor to a recipient to replace a damaged part.

Trastuzumab

Trastuzumab is a cancer medicine that targets and blocks the HER2 protein to slow the growth of certain cancer cells.

Trauma

Trauma is serious physical injury or psychological harm from an accident or distressing event, needing prompt care to recover.

Travel Medicine

A field of medicine focused on preparing travellers for health risks abroad, including vaccinations, malaria prevention and advice on managing existing conditions while travelling.

Travel Vaccination

Vaccines recommended or required before travelling to certain countries, tailored to the destination's specific disease risks.

Trazodone

Trazodone is a medicine mainly used to treat depression by helping balance brain chemicals that affect mood.

Treatment

Treatment refers to the methods, such as medicine, surgery, or therapy, used to manage, cure, or ease a health condition.

Tremor

An involuntary, rhythmic shaking movement, most often affecting the hands, which can be a normal variant or a sign of an underlying neurological condition.

Triage

The process used in emergency departments to assess and prioritise patients based on the urgency of their condition, ensuring the sickest patients are seen first.

Trichomoniasis

A common sexually transmitted infection caused by a parasite, which can cause discharge and irritation but is easily treated with antibiotics.

Trigeminal Neuralgia

A chronic pain condition affecting the trigeminal nerve in the face, causing sudden, severe, electric shock-like facial pain.

Trigger Finger

A condition in which a finger becomes stuck in a bent position before straightening with a snap, caused by inflammation of the tendon sheath.

Triglycerides

A type of fat found in the blood, measured as part of a lipid profile, with high levels linked to an increased risk of heart disease.

Trimester

One of three roughly three-month periods that divide a pregnancy, each associated with distinct stages of fetal development.

Trimethoprim

An antibiotic commonly used as a first-line treatment for uncomplicated urinary tract infections.

Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole

Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole is a combination antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections such as urinary tract infections.

Trismus (Lockjaw)

A condition causing restricted opening of the jaw, which can result from muscle spasm, infection or, rarely, tetanus.

TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone)

TSH is a hormone from the pituitary gland that tells the thyroid how much hormone to produce.

Tuberculosis

A bacterial infection that most commonly affects the lungs, causing a persistent cough, weight loss and night sweats, treated with a prolonged course of antibiotics.

Tuberculosis (TB)

Tuberculosis (TB) is a contagious bacterial infection that mainly affects the lungs and spreads through the air.

Tumour Grade

A measure of how abnormal cancer cells look under a microscope, used alongside staging to help predict how a cancer is likely to behave.

Tumour Marker

A substance, often measured in blood, that can be elevated in the presence of certain cancers and used to help monitor treatment response.

Type 1 Diabetes

An autoimmune condition in which the body's immune system destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, requiring lifelong insulin treatment.

Type 2 Diabetes

The most common form of diabetes, in which the body becomes resistant to insulin or does not produce enough, often linked to lifestyle and genetic factors and managed with diet, medication and sometimes insulin.

Typhoid fever

Typhoid fever is a bacterial infection spread through contaminated food or water, causing fever and stomach symptoms.

Typhoid Fever

A bacterial infection spread through contaminated food and water, most common in areas with poor sanitation, preventable through vaccination for travellers.

Typhus

Typhus is an infectious disease spread by fleas, mites, or lice, causing fever and rash, treatable with antibiotics.

U

U&E (urea and electrolytes)

U&E are blood tests that check kidney function and electrolyte levels such as sodium and potassium.

Ulcer

An open sore that forms on the skin or on the lining of an internal organ, such as the stomach. Peptic ulcers, in the stomach or upper intestine, are often linked to bacterial infection or long-term use of certain pain medications.

Ulcerative Colitis

A chronic inflammatory bowel disease affecting the lining of the large intestine and rectum, causing recurring diarrhoea, abdominal pain and rectal bleeding.

Ultrasound

An imaging test that uses sound waves to create pictures of internal organs, blood flow or, in pregnancy, a developing baby, without using radiation.

Unfit for work

"Unfit for work" means a health condition prevents someone from doing their job, as assessed by a healthcare professional.

Unintentional Weight Loss

Losing a noticeable amount of weight without trying, which can be a sign of an underlying medical condition and generally warrants medical review.

Ureter

A ureter is a muscular tube that carries urine from a kidney to the bladder.

Urethra

The urethra is the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body, differing in length between sexes.

Urethritis

Inflammation of the urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the body, often caused by infection and causing pain or discharge.

URI (upper respiratory infection)

A URI is a common viral infection of the nose, throat, and sinuses, often causing cold-like symptoms.

Urinalysis

A laboratory test that examines the physical, chemical and microscopic properties of urine, used to help detect infections, kidney problems and other health conditions.

Urinary system

The urinary system is the group of organs, including the kidneys and bladder, that make, store, and remove urine.

Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

An infection affecting any part of the urinary system, most commonly the bladder, causing symptoms such as burning on urination and frequent urges to go. It is typically diagnosed clinically and treated with antibiotics.

Urologist

A urologist is a doctor who specialises in the urinary system in men and women, and the male reproductive organs.

Urticaria

The medical term for hives — raised, itchy welts on the skin that can appear suddenly in response to an allergen, infection or, sometimes, no identifiable cause.

Urticaria (hives)

Urticaria, also called hives, is an itchy skin reaction that causes raised red welts, usually triggered by an allergy or an unknown cause.

Uterine Fibroids

Non-cancerous growths that develop in or around the uterus, which can cause heavy periods, pelvic pain or no symptoms at all depending on size and location.

Uterine Prolapse

A condition in which weakened pelvic floor muscles allow the uterus to slip down into or out of the vagina, often improved with pelvic floor therapy or other treatment.

Uterus

The uterus, or womb, is the organ in the female pelvis where a baby grows during pregnancy and which sheds its lining each month as a period.

UTI (urinary tract infection)

A UTI is an infection, usually caused by bacteria, affecting any part of the urinary system, most often the bladder or urethra.

Uveitis

Inflammation of the middle layer of the eye, which can cause pain, redness and blurred vision and requires prompt treatment to protect vision.

V

Vaccination

The administration of a vaccine to help the immune system develop protection against a specific infectious disease before natural exposure occurs.

Vaginal Dryness

A lack of natural vaginal moisture, commonly linked to hormonal changes such as menopause or breastfeeding, and often improved with lubricants or targeted treatment.

Vaginismus

The involuntary tightening of vaginal muscles that makes penetration painful or impossible, which can often be improved with pelvic floor therapy and other treatment.

Valacyclovir

Valacyclovir is an antiviral medicine used to treat cold sores, shingles and genital herpes by slowing the virus down.

Vancomycin

Vancomycin is a strong antibiotic given in hospital for serious bacterial infections that haven't responded to other antibiotics.

Varicella

Varicella is the medical name for chickenpox, a contagious, itchy viral illness that mainly affects children and can be prevented by vaccination.

Varicocele

An enlargement of the veins within the scrotum, similar to varicose veins, which can occasionally affect fertility and cause a dull ache.

Varicose Veins

Enlarged, twisted veins, most often in the legs, caused by weakened vein walls or valves that allow blood to pool. They can cause aching, heaviness or, in some cases, skin changes.

Vascular Dementia

A form of dementia caused by reduced blood flow to the brain, often following a stroke or a series of smaller, unnoticed vascular events.

Vasculitis

A group of conditions causing inflammation of blood vessels, which can affect blood flow to organs and tissues throughout the body.

Vasectomy

A minor surgical procedure that provides permanent contraception for men by cutting or sealing the tubes that carry sperm.

Vein

A vein is a blood vessel that carries blood back towards the heart, using one-way valves to keep the flow moving in the right direction.

Vena cava

The vena cava is the pair of large veins that carry oxygen-poor blood from the body back into the heart.

Venipuncture (drawing blood)

Venipuncture is the medical procedure of inserting a needle into a vein to collect a blood sample for testing.

Ventilation

Ventilation is the movement of fresh air into a space and stale air out of it, which supports healthy breathing and air quality.

Ventilator

A ventilator is a machine that helps a person breathe by moving oxygen into the lungs and removing carbon dioxide when they can't breathe adequately alone.

Ventolin (salbutamol)

Ventolin, or salbutamol, is a fast-acting inhaler medicine that relaxes the airways to ease breathing during asthma or COPD flare-ups.

Vertigo

A specific type of dizziness involving a false sensation of spinning or movement, often linked to inner ear problems, which can significantly affect balance.

VF (ventricular fibrillation)

Ventricular fibrillation, or VF, is a dangerous heart rhythm where the heart's main pumping chambers twitch chaotically instead of beating normally.

Video Consultation

A medical appointment conducted over a live video call, allowing visual assessment in addition to verbal discussion.

Viral meningitis

Viral meningitis is swelling of the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord, caused by a virus, and is usually milder than the bacterial form.

Virtual care

Virtual care means seeing a healthcare provider remotely, such as by phone, video call or secure message, instead of in person.

Virus

A microscopic infectious agent that can only replicate inside living cells, responsible for illnesses ranging from the common cold to influenza and COVID-19. Antibiotics are not effective against viral infections.

Visceral fat

Visceral fat is fat stored deep in the abdomen around internal organs, and having too much is linked to several long-term health risks.

Vision loss (blindness)

Vision loss, or blindness, is a significant reduction or complete loss of sight, caused by conditions such as eye disease, injury or ageing.

Vital signs

Vital signs are basic measurements, such as temperature, heart rate, blood pressure and breathing rate, that show how the body is functioning.

Vitamin A

A fat-soluble vitamin important for vision, immune function and skin health, found in foods such as liver, dairy and orange vegetables.

Vitamin B12 Deficiency

A shortage of vitamin B12, important for nerve function and red blood cell production, which can cause fatigue, numbness and, if prolonged, nerve damage.

Vitamin C

A water-soluble vitamin important for immune function, wound healing and iron absorption, found in citrus fruits and many vegetables.

Vitamin D Deficiency

A shortage of vitamin D, often linked to limited sun exposure, which can weaken bones and is generally corrected with supplementation.

Vitamin Deficiency

A shortage of an essential vitamin in the body, which can result from poor diet, absorption problems or increased needs, and may cause a range of symptoms depending on the vitamin involved.

Vitamin E

A fat-soluble vitamin that acts as an antioxidant, helping protect cells from damage, found in nuts, seeds and vegetable oils.

Vitamin K

A fat-soluble vitamin essential for normal blood clotting, found in leafy green vegetables.

Vitiligo

A condition in which patches of skin lose their pigment due to the loss of melanin-producing cells, resulting in irregular white patches.

Vocal Cord Nodules

Small, benign growths on the vocal cords caused by repeated voice strain, resulting in hoarseness, often improved with voice therapy.

Vocal cords

Vocal cords are two bands of muscle in the throat that vibrate as air passes through them to produce the sound of your voice.

Vomiting

The forceful expulsion of stomach contents, commonly caused by infection, food poisoning or motion sickness, usually resolving without specific treatment.

Von Willebrand Disease

The most common inherited bleeding disorder, caused by a deficiency in a protein needed for normal blood clotting.

VS (vital signs)

VS is the medical shorthand for vital signs, the basic measurements of temperature, heart rate, blood pressure and breathing rate.

VT (ventricular tachycardia)

Ventricular tachycardia, or VT, is an abnormally fast heart rhythm starting in the heart's lower chambers that can reduce blood flow around the body.

Vulva

The vulva is the external part of the female genitals, made up of several structures that protect internal organs and play a role in sexual sensation.

W

Waist circumference

Waist circumference is a tape-measure reading of the abdomen used as a rough guide to abdominal fat and related health risks.

Waiting List

A list of patients awaiting a non-urgent medical service, such as elective surgery, prioritised according to clinical need.

Waiting Period

A set length of time after taking out or upgrading private health insurance before a member can claim benefits for a particular service or condition.

Walking Aid

A device such as a cane, walking stick or frame used to support balance and mobility.

Warfarin

A long-established anticoagulant medication that requires regular blood tests (INR) to ensure the dose keeps the blood appropriately thinned.

Wart

A small, rough skin growth caused by infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV), which can appear on the hands, feet or other areas and often resolves on its own or with topical treatment.

WBC (white blood cell/count)

WBC stands for white blood cell, part of the immune system that fights infection, and a WBC count measures how many are in your blood.

Wearable Health Device

A device such as a smartwatch or fitness tracker that monitors health metrics like heart rate, sleep and activity levels.

Wegovy (semaglutide)

Wegovy is a brand of the prescription medicine semaglutide, approved in Australia to help with long-term weight management in eligible people.

Weight gain

Weight gain is an increase in body weight, which can come from more muscle, more body fat, extra fluid, or a combination of these.

Weight loss

Weight loss is a reduction in body weight, most often from losing body fat, through changes to diet, exercise or lifestyle.

Weight loss medicine (anti-obesity medication)

Weight loss medicines are prescription treatments that can support weight management by affecting appetite, fullness or other body processes.

Weight loss plateau

A weight loss plateau is a stretch of time when weight stops dropping and stays steady after previously decreasing.

Weight Management

A structured approach to reaching and maintaining a healthy body weight through diet, physical activity, behavioural changes and, where clinically appropriate, medical support.

Wheelchair

A wheelchair is a chair fitted with wheels that helps people who have difficulty walking to move around independently or with assistance.

Wheeze

A high-pitched whistling sound made while breathing, caused by narrowed airways, commonly associated with asthma, bronchitis or other respiratory conditions.

Whiplash

A neck injury caused by a rapid back-and-forth movement of the head, most commonly from a car accident, resulting in pain, stiffness and reduced range of motion.

Whooping cough (pertussis)

Whooping cough, or pertussis, is a highly contagious lung infection causing severe coughing fits, and it's preventable through vaccination.

Whooping Cough (Pertussis)

A highly contagious bacterial respiratory infection causing severe coughing fits, sometimes followed by a distinctive "whooping" sound when breathing in. Vaccination is the most effective form of prevention.

Windpipe

The windpipe, or trachea, is the airway tube connecting the throat to the lungs, kept open by rings of cartilage and lined to trap dust and germs.

Wisdom Teeth

The last set of molars to emerge, usually in the late teens or twenties, which can become impacted or cause crowding, sometimes requiring removal.

Withdrawal

Withdrawal is the range of symptoms that can occur when someone stops or cuts down a substance their body has become dependent on.

WNL (within normal limits)

WNL is medical shorthand meaning a test result or exam finding falls within the expected healthy range, with nothing concerning noted.

WorkCover

WorkCover is an Australian insurance scheme that helps cover medical costs and lost income for workers injured or made ill by their job.

Workers Compensation

A state-based insurance scheme that covers medical costs and lost income for employees injured or made ill as a result of their work.

Wound Dressing

A covering applied to a wound to protect it, absorb fluid and support healing.

X

X-ray

An imaging test that uses a small amount of radiation to produce pictures of the inside of the body, commonly used to check for fractures, infections and other structural issues.

X-ray machine

An X-ray machine is medical equipment that uses a small amount of radiation to produce images of bones and organs inside the body.

Xerosis (Dry Skin)

Unusually dry, sometimes flaky skin, which can be worsened by cold weather, frequent hot showers or certain skin conditions.

Xerostomia (Dry Mouth)

A condition involving reduced saliva production, leading to a persistently dry mouth, which can be caused by certain medications, dehydration or underlying medical conditions.

Xiphoid process (tip of sternum)

The xiphoid process is the small, bony tip at the bottom of the breastbone that supports the rib cage and anchors nearby muscles.

Y

Yeast Infection

An infection caused by an overgrowth of Candida yeast, most commonly affecting the vagina, skin folds or mouth, and typically treated with antifungal medication.

Yellow fever

Yellow fever is a viral disease spread by mosquito bites, mainly found in parts of Africa and South America, and is largely preventable by vaccination.

Z

Zinc Deficiency

A shortage of the essential mineral zinc, which plays a role in immune function and wound healing, potentially causing symptoms such as slow wound healing, hair loss and a reduced sense of taste or smell.

Zolpidem

Zolpidem is a prescription medicine used short-term to help people with insomnia fall asleep and stay asleep.

Zoster (Shingles)

Another name for shingles, a painful rash caused by reactivation of the chickenpox virus. It most often affects one side of the body and can sometimes lead to lasting nerve pain if not treated early.

Helpful questions and answers

Where can I get help with Health & Telehealth Glossary?

Explore the information and links on this page. For non-emergency medical advice, book a consultation with an AHPRA-registered Australian doctor. For service or booking enquiries, contact care@consultnow.com.au.

Does an online consultation guarantee treatment?

No. Doctors make individual clinical decisions. They may recommend advice, an in-person examination, tests or referral instead of a prescription. For a medical emergency, call 000.

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