The belly button (also known as the navel or umbilicus) is the small, central scar on the abdomen that marks the spot where the umbilical cord was attached during fetal development. The umbilical cord provided nutrients and oxygen from the mother to the developing fetus. After birth, the cord is cut, and the remaining tissue…
belly See abdomen.
Bell’s palsy Paralysis of the nerve that supplies the facial muscles on one side of the face (the seventh cranial nerve, or facial nerve). Bell’s palsy often starts suddenly. The cause may be a viral infection. Treatment includes protecting the eye on the affected side from dryness during sleep. Massage of affected muscles can reduce…
belching A normal process of releasing through the mouth air that accumulates in the stomach, thereby relieving distention. Upper abdominal discomfort associated with excessive swallowed air may extend into the lower chest, producing symptoms that suggest heart or lung disease.
Behcet’s syndrome A chronic disease featuring inflammation of small blood vessels and characterized by a triad of features: ulcers in the mouth, ulcers of the genitalia, and inflammation of the eye (uveitis). The mouth ulcers typically present as recurring crops of aphthous ulcers. Arthritis is also commonplace. The cause of Behcet’s syndrome is not known….
behaviorism The science of studying and modifying animal or human behavior, often through behavior modification techniques.
behavioral medicine An interdisciplinary field of research and practice that focuses on how people’s thoughts and behavior affect their health. Behavioral medicine is concerned, for example, with undesirable behaviors such as drug abuse, and utilizes behavior therapy techniques such as biofeedback, relaxation training, and hypnosis.
behavioral disorder A condition characterized by undesirable behavior that is within the patient’s control (for example, substance abuse and antisocial behavior).
behavior modification The use of rewards and/or punishments to encourage desirable behavior.
beef tapeworm The most common of the large tapeworms that parasitize people. Beef tapeworm can be contracted from infected beef that is raw or rare. Also known as Taenia saginata.
bee sting, Africanized A sting from an Africanized (“killer”) bee, a species of large honey bees found in South and Central America, as well as in some parts of the US. This species of bees has an unusual and dangerous natural defense mechanism when disturbed. A loud noise or vibration, such as a barking dog…
bee sting An area of skin affected by piercing from the stinger of a bee. A bee sting can trigger an allergic reaction, including life-threatening anaphylactic shock. Avoidance and prompt treatment are essential for those who are allergic to bee stings. Self-injectible adrenaline can be carried by persons known to be allergic when in risk…