Mindblown: a blog about philosophy.
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Anti-inflammatories
Drugs that reduce inflammation, as in arthritis, gout and muscular problems. Include analgesics; corticosteroids; and non-steroidal antu-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
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Alexander Technique
A technique, developed by F.M. Alexander, for improving posture, balance and respiratory function, and using muscles more efficiently. A method of improving the way a person stands and moves, by making them much more aware of how muscles behave. A form of body work that promotes postural health, particularly of the spine, head, and neck.…
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Acupressure
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, pressure massage on the pressure points along the acupuncture meridians (the channels through which the body’s motivating energy flows). Used to relieve tension-related ailments. A treatment which is based on the same principle as acupuncture in which, instead of needles, fingers are used on specific points on the body, called pressure…
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Sun protection factor
A number that indicates the relative length of time that a sunscreen product will protect you from sunburn compared with using no sunscreen. A product with an SPF of 15, for example, would allow you to stay in the sun without burning 15 times longer than if you didn’t apply sunscreen. A number indicating the…
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Sigmoidoscopy
A screening procedure to detect colon cancer and other abnormalities of the lower portion of the large intestine and of the rectum. The test is done by viewing the area with a long thin tube that is inserted into the rectum. Visual examination of the sigmoid colon with a sigmoidoscope. Examination of the colon immediately…
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Rhinoviruses
One of the main groups of viruses that causes colds. A virus responsible for one form of the common cold. A large group of viruses; to date around 80 distinct rhinoviruses have been identified. Their practical importance is that some of them are responsible for around one-quarter of the cases of the common cold.
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Prostate-specific antigen test
A test that measures blood levels of the prostate-specific antigen, a protein produced by the prostate gland that may be elevated when cancer is present. The test has come into wide use as a screening device, especially for men over 50. A blood test used to detect and monitor prostate cancer. PSA is a protein…
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Precancerous
A change in color, size, or shape in a skin blemish (such as a mole) or other abnormal growth anywhere on the body that may develop into cancer if left untreated. Referring to a growth which is not malignant now, but which can become cancerous later. To a growth that is not malignant but probably…
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Plaque (arterial)
Deposits of fatty substances, such as cholesterol, in the inner lining of the artery walls. The buildup of these deposits can lead to atherosclerosis.
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Pap smear
A diagnostic test for detecting cervical cancer in which a sample of cervical cells is examined for cellular changes. The death rate from cervical cancer is almost zero among women who have regular Pap smears. A method of detecting abnormal changes in the cells of the cervix that could lead to cervical cancer. The test…
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