Glossary
-
p
Pneumonia
Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs. Many different organisms can cause it, like bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Pneumonia can be mild or severe, and can even be deadly.
-
Polyps
A mass sticking out of the mucous lining of an organ such as the nose or intestine. A polyp can cause a blockage
-
Postnasal Drip
The flow of mucus or fluid from the back of the nose down into the throat (pharynx). It is usually due to a viral infection (like a cold) or allergies.
-
Postoperative
1 :Êfollowing surgery or an operation. 2 :Êhaving just had surgery.
-
Prion
A protein particle that has no nucleic acid. Some scientists think that neurological diseases, like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, are caused by prions.
-
Prognosis
The usual course of a disease. Prognosis is how likely the person is to die or have other problems from the disease.
-
Prolapse
The falling down or slipping of a body part from its usual position.
-
Protocol
A formal list of treatments or plan of care.
-
Proxy
When a person, office, or agency has permission to make decisions for another person.
-
Psoriasis
A chronic skin disease that has red patches covered with white or silver scales.