Mindblown: a blog about philosophy.
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Dental anaesthesia
To alleviate pain during dental procedures, a patient may experience the induction of a state of insensitivity. This is commonly achieved by applying topical anesthetics, such as a lidocaine (lignocaine) cream or spray, to the surface of the gums before administering a local anesthetic via injection. In the case of minor procedures, the administration of…
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Haemolytic anaemia
A form of anaemia (a reduced level of the oxygen-carrying pigment haemoglobin in the blood) caused by premature destruction of red blood cells in the bloodstream (see haemolysis). The bone marrow has the capacity to increase its red cell production approximately sixfold over normal rates. Haemolytic anaemia will result only if the shortening of the…
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Deficiency anaemia
Certain forms of anemia occur due to a deficiency in one or more substances crucial for the normal synthesis and maintenance of hemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying pigment in the blood. Deficiency anemia can arise from various causes, such as inadequate absorption or insufficient dietary intake of specific nutrients. Examples of deficiency anemias include iron-deficiency anemia and…
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Amsler chart
Ophthalmologists employ an ophthalmic diagnostic instrument known as an Amsler chart to identify alterations in the retina, particularly those indicative of macular degeneration. Typically, this chart is composed of a grid comprising black lines against a white backdrop. In individuals experiencing retinal changes, the lines on the chart may appear distorted.
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Amphetamine drug
Stimulant drugs belong to a class of medications primarily employed for the treatment of narcolepsy, a rare condition characterized by excessive sleepiness. Amphetamine drugs exert their effects by enhancing the release of neurotransmitters, which are chemical substances released by nerve endings. Notably, they stimulate the secretion of noradrenaline (also known as norepinephrine), resulting in heightened…
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Amoebicides
Amoebicides, a class of drugs utilized in the treatment of amoebiasis, include diloxanide and metronidazole among others. These drugs function by effectively eradicating amoebae present in the intestine as well as other tissues within the body.
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Aminoglycoside drugs
Within the realm of antibiotic therapeutics, a notable class of drugs known as aminoglycosides takes center stage. These potent antibiotics, administered through injections, possess remarkable efficacy in combating infections of a severe nature. However, it is essential to exercise caution, for their administration carries the risk of potential harm to the delicate inner ear or…
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Amfebutamone
A medication employed in conjunction with self-help measures to assist in smoking cessation is accompanied by potential side effects such as dry mouth and gastrointestinal disturbances.
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Ambulatory ECG
Ambulatory electrocardiography (ECG) involves the utilization of a wearable device known as a Holter monitor to record the electrical activity of the heart. This device consists of electrodes attached to the chest. Typically worn for a minimum of 24 hours, the Holter monitor is capable of detecting intermittent arrhythmias, which are abnormal heart rates and…
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Alpha-blocker drugs
This class of medications is employed in the treatment of hypertension, which refers to high blood pressure, as well as urinary symptoms that arise from an enlarged prostate gland. Alpha-blocker medications function by disrupting the nerve signals that regulate the constriction of blood vessels. As a result, these medications induce vasodilation, causing the blood vessels…
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