Dictionary

coryza A head cold that includes a runny nose.

cosmetic surgeon See plastic surgeon.

costal margin The lower edge of the chest (thorax), formed by the bottom edge of the rib cage.

costochondritis Inflammation and swelling of the cartilage of the chest wall, usually involving the cartilage that surrounds the breastbone (sternum) but sometimes including the adjacent tip of a rib. Costochondritis causes local pain and tenderness of the chest around the sternum. Treatment options include anti-inflammatory medications and, in severe cases, corticosteroid injections. Also known as…

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.

cough suppressant A drug used to control coughing, particularly with a dry, nagging, unproductive cough.

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…

Coumadin See warfarin.

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…

counseling, genetic See genetic counseling.

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…

cousin marriage See consanguinity.