cox-2 Cyclooxygenase-2, an enzyme that acts to speed up the production of certain chemical messengers, called prostaglandins that play a key role in in promoting inflammation. When cox-2 activity is blocked, inflammation is reduced. Unlike cox-1, cox-2 is active only at the site of inflammation, not in the stomach.
cox-1 Cyclooxygenase-1, an enzyme that acts to speed up the production of certain chemical messengers, called prostaglandins, in a variety of areas of the body such as the stomach, kidneys, and sites of inflammation. In the stomach, prostaglandins promote the production of a protective natural mucus lining. They also interact within certain cells that are…
cowpox A mild skin disease of milk cows, principally confined to the udder and teats, that can be contracted by people from milking an infected cow. Affected people develop vesicles (blebs), which break and form ulcers on the fingers (sometimes called “milkers’ nodules”). These usually heal without scarring.
Cowper’s gland See bulbourethral gland.
cousin marriage See consanguinity.
counselor A person who practices counseling. Depending on state laws, counselors may or may not be required to hold particular licenses. Credentials used by counselors include MFC (marriage and family counselor) and LMFC (licensed marriage and family counselor). Genetic counselors are certified by the American Board of Medicial Genetics and the American Board of Genetic…
counseling, genetic See genetic counseling.
counseling The therapeutic practice of using discussion to help patients understand and better cope with life’s problems or health issues. Areas in which counseling may be used in medicine include nutrition, genetic counseling, and family counseling (particularly to help the family cope with a member’s illness or death). Counselors may also see individuals or married…
Coumadin See warfarin.
Coughing Syncope refers to a temporary loss of consciousness (syncope) caused by intense coughing. It typically occurs in response to a forceful or prolonged cough, which can lead to a sudden drop in blood flow to the brain. Mechanism The exact mechanism behind coughing syncope is not entirely understood, but several factors contribute: Symptoms Associated…
cough suppressant A drug used to control coughing, particularly with a dry, nagging, unproductive cough.
cough A rapid expulsion of air from the lungs, typically in order to clear the lung airways of fluids, mucus, or other material. Also known as tussis.