Use the A-Z list to browse more than 6,000 health-related topics in our library. Clicking on a term opens the definition and, in most cases, links to more information.
"FH" is more commonly referred to as "Familial Hypercholesterolemia" in the medical community. Familial Hypercholesterolemia
The most widespread inherited cholesterol disorder. The cholesterol levels of people with this disorder may reach as high as 550 milligrams per deciliter - almost four times the level considered desirable for the average person. More Information on Familial Hypercholesterolemia: Cholesterol
"FHF" is more commonly referred to as "Fulminant Hepatic Failure" in the medical community. Fulminant Hepatic Failure
Also Known As: "Fulminant Liver Failure"
Sudden liver failure in a previously healthy person most often caused by acute hepatitis, acetaminophen overdose or liver damage from prescription drugs. More Information on Fulminant Hepatic Failure: Liver, Pancreas & Biliary
A part of plant foods (e.g., whole grains, fruits, vegetables, beans, nuts, seeds) that the body cannot digest. Soluble fiber attracts water and therefore slows the rate of nutrient absorption. Insoluble fiber does not dissolve in water. More Information on Fiber: Carbs & Sugars
A part of plant foods (e.g., whole grains, fruits, vegetables, beans, nuts, seeds) that the body cannot digest. It therefore provides no calories. An important component of our diet, fiber may reduce the risk of some conditions such as heart disease. More Information on Fiber & Children: Pediatric Diet & Fitness
A part of plant foods (e.g., whole grains, fruits, vegetables, beans, nuts, seeds) that the body cannot digest. Fiber promotes intestinal health and regular bowel movements as well as blood sugar and appetite control. More Information on Fiber & Digestive Health: Digestive Health Basics
Drugs used in the treatment of high blood lipids. Fibrates reduce triglyceride production and increase the rate that triglycerides are removed from the blood. They can lower triglycerides and increase HDL, but are less effective at lowering LDL. More Information on Fibrates: Cholesterol
"Fibrillation" is more commonly referred to as "Ventricular Fibrillation" in the medical community. Ventricular Fibrillation
Also Known As: "V-Fib, VF"
A life-threatening condition in which the heart no longer beats but 'quivers' very rapidly - 350 times per minute or more. A person must receive defibrillation within minutes to avoid sudden cardiac death. More Information on Ventricular Fibrillation: Arrhythmia
An elastic, whitish, insoluble substance that marks the final product of the blood-clotting process. It forms a web-like mesh that traps platelets and red blood cells and holds a clot together. More Information on Fibrin: Blood Clot
A substance in the body that changes in response to injury. Fibrinogen becomes fibrin, the main substance that creates a blood clot. Fibrinogen is also known as Factor I of the coagulation (clotting) process.
A substance in the body that changes in response to injury. Fibrinogen becomes fibrin, the main substance that creates a blood clot. Fibrinogen is also known as Factor I of the coagulation (clotting) process.
"Fibroadenoma" is more commonly referred to as "Adenoma" in the medical community. Adenoma
Also Known As: "Adenomatous Polyps"
A benign (noncancerous) tumor that begins growing in the glands or glandular tissue. Individual growths may be called adenomatous polyps. If it also involved fibrous tissue, it may be called fibroadenoma. More Information on Adenoma: Cancer Basics
Noncancerous breast conditions, such as tenderness (mastalgia), lactating adenomas, lactational mastitis, nipple discharge, nonproliferative lesions (cysts, apocrine change, calcifications, fibroadenomas and hyperplasia), subareolar abscess and more. More Information on Fibrocystic Breasts: Breast Health
"Fibroelastic Endocarditis" is more commonly referred to as "Endomyocardial Fibrosis" in the medical community. Endomyocardial Fibrosis
Also Known As: "EMF, Endocardial Fibroelastosis, Davies Disease, Loeffler Disease, Loeffler Fibroplastic Parietal Endocarditis"
A rare heart disorder of unknown origin that affects infants and children. It involves a thickening of the endocardium (a thin membrane that lines the inside of the heart) and may lead to congestive heart failure. More Information on Endomyocardial Fibrosis: Pediatric Cancer
"Fibroid Embolization" is more commonly referred to as "Uterine Fibroid Embolization" in the medical community. Uterine Fibroid Embolization
Also Known As: "UFE"
A non-surgical, minimally invasive treatment for uterine fibroids that cuts off the blood supply, which slows the fibroids' growth and eventually causes them to shrink. More Information on Uterine Fibroid Embolization: Uterine & Ovarian Health
"Fibroids" is more commonly referred to as "Uterine Fibroids" in the medical community. Uterine Fibroids
A common condition in which tumors grow within the wall of the uterus. Less than 0.1 percent of cases develop into cancer. More Information on Uterine Fibroids: Uterine & Ovarian Health
Scars in the mouth cause by repetitive trauma, such as tooth grinding, poor-fitting dentures or biting the tongue, cheeks and lips. They appear as relatively small, elevated areas of tissue. More Information on Fibromas: Mouth & Tongue Disorders
Also Known As: "Muscular Rheumatism, Fibrositis, Fibromyalgia Syndrome, Psychogenic Rheumatism, Fibromyositis, Chronic Rheumatism, Tension Myalgia"
A chronic disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and tenderness in localized areas of the neck, spine, shoulders and hips called "tender points." More Information on Fibromialgia: Fibromyalgia & Pain Disorders
Also Known As: "Fibromialgia, Muscular Rheumatism, Fibrositis, Fibromyalgia Syndrome, Psychogenic Rheumatism, Fibromyositis, Chronic Rheumatism, Tension Myalgia"
A chronic disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and tenderness in localized areas of the neck, spine, shoulders and hips called "tender points." More Information on Fibromyalgia: Fibromyalgia & Pain Disorders
A patient-oriented network to help patients understand fibromyalgia. It offers educational resources, self-help strategies and information on current research.
Also Known As: "Muscular Rheumatism, Psychogenic Rheumatism, Fibromyositis, Chronic Rheumatism, Tension Myalgia, Fibromialgia, Fibrositis"
A chronic disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and tenderness in localized areas of the neck, spine, shoulders and hips called "tender points." More Information on Fibromyalgia Syndrome: Fibromyalgia & Pain Disorders
Also Known As: "Muscular Rheumatism, Psychogenic Rheumatism, Chronic Rheumatism, Tension Myalgia, Fibromialgia, Fibrositis, Fibromyalgia Syndrome"
A chronic disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and tenderness in localized areas of the neck, spine, shoulders and hips called "tender points." More Information on Fibromyositis: Fibromyalgia & Pain Disorders
Abnormal formation of scar-like tissue that may occur anywhere in the body. When occurring within an organ (e.g., liver), it eventually leads to organ damage.
Also Known As: "Muscular Rheumatism, Fibromyalgia Syndrome, Psychogenic Rheumatism, Fibromyositis, Chronic Rheumatism, Tension Myalgia, Fibromialgia"
A chronic disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and tenderness in localized areas of the neck, spine, shoulders and hips called "tender points." More Information on Fibrositis: Fibromyalgia & Pain Disorders
"Fibrous Joint" is more commonly referred to as "Joint" in the medical community. Joint
Also Known As: "Amphiarthrosis Joint, Cartilaginous Joint, Synovial Joint, Diarthrosis Joint, Synarthrosis Joint"
The location where two bones connect that may be made of fibrous tissue (fibrous), cartilage (cartilaginous) or space (synovial). Joints may permit no motion (synarthrosis), little motion (amphiarthrosis) or a variety of movements (diarthrosis).
Also Known As: "Slapped Cheek, Parvovirus B19, Erythema Infectiosum"
Viral disease that usually affects children. Also known as fifth disease, it produces a distinctive red rash on the face that spreads to the trunk, arms, and legs. It is relatively common and mildly contagious. More Information on Fifth Disease: Skin Related Infections
"Fight or Flight Hormone" is more commonly referred to as "Adrenaline" in the medical community. Adrenaline
A hormone and neurotransmitter produced by the adrenal glands and released into the circulatory system in response to physical or mental stress. It elevates heart and respiration rates. More Information on Adrenaline: Heart Basics
Also Known As: "Brugia Timori Infection, Lymphatic Filariasis, Wuchereria Bancrofti Infection, Loa Loa Infection, Lymphatic Filaria, Brugia Malayi Infection, Elephantiasis"
A parasitic disease caused by microscopic, thread-like worms. Adult worms only live in the human lymph system and block lymphatic vessels. Infections do not occur in the United States, but can be contracted during travel. More Information on Filariasis: Parasitic Disease
Infection with a virus belonging to the Filoviridae family. It can cause severe hemorrhagic fever in humans and nonhuman primates. Two members of this virus family have been identified: Marburg virus and Ebola virus. More Information on Filoviral Hemorrhagic Fever: Tropical Disease
Infection with a virus belonging to the Filoviridae family. It can cause severe hemorrhagic fever in humans and nonhuman primates. Two members of this virus family have been identified: Marburg virus and Ebola virus. More Information on Filovirus Infection: Tropical Disease
"Fine Needle Aspiration" is more commonly referred to as "Biopsy" in the medical community. Biopsy
Also Known As: "Surgical Biopsy, Endoscopic Biopsy, Aspiration Biopsy, Punch Biopsy, Needle Biopsy, Fine Needle Biopsy, Core Biopsy"
Removal of tissue from a body area suspected of being cancerous. It can be performed in a variety of ways, including skin scraping, endoscopy, using a needle to remove a small amount of tissue or through surgery. More Information on Biopsy: Cancer Basics
"Fine Needle Biopsy" is more commonly referred to as "Biopsy" in the medical community. Biopsy
Also Known As: "Surgical Biopsy, Endoscopic Biopsy, Aspiration Biopsy, Punch Biopsy, Needle Biopsy, Core Biopsy, Fine Needle Aspiration"
Removal of tissue from a body area suspected of being cancerous. It can be performed in a variety of ways, including skin scraping, endoscopy, using a needle to remove a small amount of tissue or through surgery. More Information on Biopsy: Cancer Basics
"Finger Prick" is more commonly referred to as "Blood Tests" in the medical community. Blood Tests
Also Known As: "Venipuncture, Arterial Puncture"
A test that determines the amount of any given substance in the blood and identifies abnormally high or low levels that may affect normal body functions. Blood is usually collected by venipuncture, in which a needle penetrates a vein. More Information on Blood Tests: Blood Tests
Emergency care provided before a medical professional can treat the patient. It is often performed for patients who have been injured or wounded or who are experiencing sudden, severe symptoms of a medical condition. More Information on First Aid: First Aid & Safety
A kit containing various emergencies supplies for use in first aid. Most include bandages, sterile dressings, disposable gloves and other basic equipment. Families with children may want to include supplies in smaller sizes than normal. More Information on First Aid Kit & Children: Pediatric First Aid & Safety
A kit containing various emergencies supplies such as bandages, sterile dressings, disposable gloves and other basic equipment. More Information on First Aid Kits: Pediatric First Aid & Safety
"First And Second Branchial Arch Syndrome" is more commonly referred to as "Oculoauriculovertebral Dysplasia" in the medical community. Oculoauriculovertebral Dysplasia
Also Known As: "OAV, Goldenhar-Gorlin Syndrome, Lateral Facial Dysplasia, Necrotic Facial Dysplasia, Franceschetti-Goldenhar Syndrome, Intrauterine Facial Necrosis, First Arch Syndrome"
A multiple congenital anomaly/mental retardation (MCA/MR) syndrome that could cause mild to severe physical and developmental problems. Some cases are complicated by one or more birth defects of the heart. More Information on Oculoauriculovertebral Dysplasia: Pediatric Heart
"First Arch Syndrome" is more commonly referred to as "Oculoauriculovertebral Dysplasia" in the medical community. Oculoauriculovertebral Dysplasia
Also Known As: "OAV, Goldenhar-Gorlin Syndrome, Lateral Facial Dysplasia, First And Second Branchial Arch Syndrome, Necrotic Facial Dysplasia, Franceschetti-Goldenhar Syndrome, Intrauterine Facial Necrosis"
A multiple congenital anomaly/mental retardation (MCA/MR) syndrome that could cause mild to severe physical and developmental problems. Some cases are complicated by one or more birth defects of the heart. More Information on Oculoauriculovertebral Dysplasia: Pediatric Heart
A minor type of burn that affects the epidermis, the outer layer of the skin. It causes pain, redness and swelling at the site of the burn. More Information on First Degree Burn: Skin & Hair Basics
"First Degree Heart Block" is more commonly referred to as "Heart Block" in the medical community. Heart Block
Also Known As: "Third Degree Heart Block, Atrioventricular Block, Complete Heart Block, Movitz AV Block, Second Degree Heart Block, AV Block, Complete AV Block"
The delayed or complete lack of electrical communication between the heart's upper chambers and lower chambers. This causes abnormally slow heart rhythms. It may be classified by the extent that electrical activity is disrupted. More Information on Heart Block: Arrhythmia
Girls generally have their first gynecological exam at the age of 18 or when they first start having sex. It is also recommended if there are any unusual symptoms, such as abnormal vaginal discharge. This exam typically includes a pap smear. More Information on First Gynecological Exam: Puberty & Sexual Maturity
"First Pass Scan" is more commonly referred to as "MUGA Scan" in the medical community. MUGA Scan
Also Known As: "Radionuclide Ventriculography, Gated Blood Pool Scan, Nuclear Ventriculography, Multi Gated Acquisition Scan, Cardiac Blood Pooling Imaging"
A type of radionuclide imaging that is called "multi-gated" because the gamma camera takes multiple (sometimes over 60) different pictures, timed according to an EKG. It reveals blood flow and the function of the ventricles. More Information on MUGA Scan: Heart Imaging & Rhythm Tests
If you or a loved one has been scheduled for a first visit to a cardiologist, you may have a number of questions. This article was written to address some of the main concerns that people often have. More Information on First Visit to a Cardiologist: Heart Basics
"FISH" is more commonly referred to as "Fluorescent In Situ Hybridization" in the medical community. Fluorescent In Situ Hybridization
A new, advanced cytogenetic test that detects or confirms gene or chromosome abnormalities. It provides detailed information about genetic features associated with certain cancers, such as leukemia. More Information on Fluorescent In Situ Hybridization: Cancer Lab Tests
Also Known As: "Dipylidium Infection, Dwarf & Rat Tapeworm Infection, Diphyllobothriasis, Diphyllobothrium Latum Infection, Diphyllobothrium Infection"
Tapeworm infection that can result from eating raw or undercooked fish. Fish tapeworms can grow to 33 feet (10 meters) in length. They are the largest tapeworms that can infect humans. More Information on Fish (Broad) Tapeworm Infection: Gastroenteritis & Food Illness
"Fish Allergies" is more commonly referred to as "Seafood Allergies" in the medical community. Seafood Allergies
Also Known As: "Shellfish Allergies"
An adverse reaction to eating seafood (fish and/or shellfish). It is the third most common form of food allergy. Symptoms range from mild (e.g., stomach upset, hives, itching, nasal congestion) to severe (e.g., difficulty breathing). More Information on Seafood Allergies: Food Allergy & Intolerance
"Fish Oil" is more commonly referred to as "Omega 3 Fatty Acid" in the medical community. Omega 3 Fatty Acid
Also Known As: "Eicosapentaenoic Acid, Omega 3, Docosahexaenoic Acid"
A type of fatty acid characterized by the specific locations of their double bonds on the carbon chain. These polyunsaturated fats are found in many cold-water fish and some shellfish. Some types are believed to protect against heart disease. More Information on Omega 3 Fatty Acid: Fats & Oils
Also Known As: "Tetrodotoxin Poisoning, Scombroid Poisoning, Ciguatera Poisoning"
Food poisoning caused by eating fish products tainted by chemicals (not bacteria). This may be due to environmental issues, fish storage issues or because the fish ate something poisonous prior to being caught. Cooking does not remove toxins. More Information on Fish Poisoning: Gastroenteritis & Food Illness
Also Known As: "Dipylidium Infection, Dwarf & Rat Tapeworm Infection, Diphyllobothriasis, Diphyllobothrium Latum Infection, Fish (Broad) Tapeworm Infection, Diphyllobothrium Infection"
Tapeworm infection that can result from eating raw or undercooked fish. Fish tapeworms can grow to 33 feet (10 meters) in length. They are the largest tapeworms that can infect humans. More Information on Fish Tapeworm Infection: Gastroenteritis & Food Illness
"Fisher Syndrome" is more commonly referred to as "Miller Fisher Syndrome" in the medical community. Miller Fisher Syndrome
An acquired nerve disease that is a variant of Guillain-Barré syndrome. Like that condition, it often follows a viral illness. Symptoms include abnormal muscle coordination, paralysis of eye muscles and absence of tendon reflexes. More Information on Miller Fisher Syndrome: Neuropathy
An abnormal opening or passage between two organs or cavities or between an organ or cavity and the outside of the. In dental health, it is an opening to the surface of the gum that forms in soft tissue.
"Fistula In Ano" is more commonly referred to as "Anorectal Fistula" in the medical community. Anorectal Fistula
Also Known As: "Anal Fistula, Rectal Fistula"
A duct or passage that develops between the anus or rectum and the skin, often the result of an abscess spreading to the skin. More Information on Anorectal Fistula: Anal & Rectal Disorders
Regardless of age, and often despite the presence of existing health problems, a steady exercise regimen can prevent, minimize or reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, high blood pressure (hypertension) and other chronic conditions. More Information on Fitness: Heart Diet & Fitness
"Fitness Balls" is more commonly referred to as "Exercise Balls" in the medical community. Exercise Balls
Large, puncture-resistant balls used as workout tools. They help to improve strength, flexibility, balance, and agility. Individuals attempt to maintain balance while performing various exercises on the ball. More Information on Exercise Balls: Exercise & Weight
Stretchable bands of rubber latex or similar materials that are used to provide resistance during strength training. They are available in flat band-like or tube shapes and are versatile and highly portable. More Information on Fitness Bands: Exercise & Weight
"Fitness Choices" is more commonly referred to as "Exercise Choices" in the medical community. Exercise Choices
Also Known As: "Types of Exercise"
Not all exercises are right for everyone. There are a variety of options available to find the right workout for a particular person. Examples of different types of exercises include walking, martial arts, aerobics and strength training. More Information on Exercise Choices: Exercise & Weight
Facilities that provide a workout environment with plenty of equipment and a knowledgeable staff. They often offer classes (e.g., aerobics, yoga) as well as providing equipment for both cardio and strength-training exercises. More Information on Fitness Clubs: Exercise & Weight
A variety of fitness equipment is available. Some of these tools work specific areas, while others work multiple muscle groups. Examples include treadmills, stationary bicycles, stair steppers and strength-training equipment. More Information on Fitness Equipment: Exercise & Weight
"Fixed Appliance" is more commonly referred to as "Appliance" in the medical community. Appliance
Also Known As: "Orthodontic Appliance, Prosthesis, Dental Prosthesis, Removable Appliance, Dental Appliance, Orthodontic Prosthesis"
A device worn in the mouth to replace or repair the teeth or jaw. It may be fixed or removable. Types include inlays, onlays, crowns, bridges and dentures. More Information on Appliance: Dental Braces & Alignment
"Fixed Bridges" is more commonly referred to as "Bridges" in the medical community. Bridges
Also Known As: "Removable Partial Dentures, Removable Bridges, Partial Dentures, Fixed Partial Dentures"
Dental structures that replace missing teeth with connected artificial teeth. Different types can be removable, fixed securely to the surrounding teeth or implanted directly to the jaw. More Information on Bridges: Bridges, Dentures & Implants
"Fixed Partial Dentures" is more commonly referred to as "Bridges" in the medical community. Bridges
Also Known As: "Removable Partial Dentures, Removable Bridges, Partial Dentures, Fixed Bridges"
Dental structures that replace missing teeth with connected artificial teeth. Different types can be removable, fixed securely to the surrounding teeth or implanted directly to the jaw. More Information on Bridges: Bridges, Dentures & Implants
A deformity where the lumbar spine loses lordosis (forward curvature of the spine), causing the spine to straighten and the torso and head to pitch forward relative to the hips and pelvis. More Information on Fixed Sagittal Imbalance: Back, Neck & Shoulder Pain
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