what's inside: medical encyclopedia

The Medical Encyclopedia - with more than 3,000 medical terms - from acne to X-ray, are defined in straightforward, easy-to-understand language with helpful illustrations. Learn how to manage your diabetes, how to treat poison ivy and what to expect during a biopsy.

Diseases & Conditions

Diseases & Conditions

Diseases and Medical Conditions provides down-to-earth, comprehensive definitions of thousands of ailments and illnesses . Each listing identifies causes, incidence and risk factors, notes symptoms, outlines tests and discusses treatments and support groups where applicable. See more »

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Injuries

Injuries

The Injuries Dictionary has concise, straightforward explanations of injuries, along with injury symptoms, injury prevention and injury treatments. Look up common injuries, such as broken bones, cuts, burns and choking, and learn how to perform first aid procedures including CPR, splints and the Heimlich maneuver. See more »

Medical Tests

Medical Tests

The Medical Tests reference guide provides reliable, up-to-date information on all kinds of medical tests. Whether you need a blood test or a pregnancy test, learn about the equipment used, how to prepare for the test, what to expect at the doctor's office and whether any pain or discomfort will be involved. See more »

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Nutrition

Nutrition

The Nutrition Dictionary provides reliable information on all aspects of eating right and staying healthy, including concise definitions of vitamins, minerals and dietary supplements. Get nutrition facts and learn about dietary restrictions for medical conditions such as pregnancy, diabetes and kidney disease. See more »

Poisons

Poisons

The Poisons Dictionary defines the poisonous or toxic ingredients in these substances and identifies symptoms associated with them. Learn what to do in case of poisoning, when to attempt home treatment, what to tell Poison Control and what to expect at the emergency room. See more »

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Special Topics

Special Topics

The Special Topics Medical Dictionary provides comprehensive, reliable definitions for specific medical topics, including stress management and changes associated with aging. Learn what medical terms mean, see images and get related information on various aspects of health and wellness. See more »

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Surgeries

Surgeries

The Surgeries Dictionary provides easy-to-understand explanations of various surgical procedures, so you can be prepared. See more »

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Symptoms

Symptoms

Symptoms are usually a result of your immune system's natural defenses against irritants and disease, but some symptoms can be a sign of a serious medical condition. Check the Symptom Dictionary to learn what your symptoms mean and how to manage them. See more »

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featured articles

FPO

Rotator Cuff Repair

Rotator Cuff Repair, like most surgery, is easier if you know what to expect. Learn about Rotator Cuff Repair and how to prepare for this procedure.

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Headache

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Blood Pressure Test information at HowStuffWorks. Learn about the purpose of Blood Pressure Test, what to expect and how to prepare for this test.