TERMINOLOGY

DEFINITION

Renal

Pertaining to the kidney

Resveratol

A compound produced by vitis vinifera and labrusca grapes notably the purple grape that makes red wine. It has proven effective in extending life up to 30% and is the key in the prevention of many types of cancers and heart disease. It reduces serum lipids thus may have favorable cardiovascular implications.

Sexually Transmitted Illness (STI/STD)

Viral, bacterial or fungal and yeast infections transmitted from one person to their partner during sexual intercourse

Shingles

See herpes zoster

Sinusitis

Inflammation of one or more of the paranasal sinuses due to allergy or infection. May be acute or chronic and symptoms include congestion, headache, malaise and pain on bones around eyes upon application of pressure.

Smallpox

An acute viral disease. Symptoms include headaches, vomiting and fever. A rash then erupts beginning with the head and face. In the final stages, pockmarks or scars are left which disfigure the skin.

Sterility

The state of being unable to ejaculate (in males) or have offspring.

Stress

A disruption of the body’s internal balance through physical stressors (alcohol, drugs, smoking, pain) and psychological stressors ( exams, divorce, death, relocation)

Thermogenesis

Generation of heat. Useful in weight loss or in cold climates.

Tonic

A substance or agent which when taken produces or restores normal tone to tissue.

Tranquilizers

A substance that calms an anxious person. Used for relieving anxiety, tension and agitation.

Tuberculosis

A chronic communicable disease caused by the bacteria tubercle bacillus. May attack anywhere in the body including the bones but is mainly found in the lungs. Symptoms include cough, anorexia, weight loss fatigue, night sweats and splitting of blood due to bleeding within the respiratory system.

If unchecked, lung tissue is destroyed and leads to formation of cavities, which greatly hinder lung function, and often leads to death.

Tumour

A new abnormal growth of tissue in which cell multiplication is progressive and uncontrolled.

Ulcers

An open sore on the skin or mucous membrane e.g. Mouth, anywhere on the gastrointestinal system etc.

Uterine hemorrhage

Excessive bleeding of the uterus due to injury, malfunction of hormones, infection or illness.

Visual disturbances

Situation where the eyes fail to interpret viewed objects accurately i.e.- blurred vision, black spots, bright lights, long sight, etc.

Yeast infections (moniliasis) and warts

Infection of the skin or mucous membrane by a yeast-like fungus that is usually localized in the mouth or the vagina