Dictionary

hiatal hernia See hernia, hiatal.

HIB Haemophilus influenzae type B.

HIB immunization See Haemophilus influenzae type B immunization.

hibernation reaction See seasonal affective disorder.

hiccough See hiccup.

hiccup An extraordinary type of breathing movement that involves a sudden intake of air (inspiration) due to a sudden involuntary contraction of the diaphragm, accompanied by closure of the glottis in the larynx. Closure of the glottis then halts the incoming air. The column of air strikes the closed glottis to produce the characteristic sound…

hidradenitis suppurativa An illness characterized by multiple abscesses of the skin that form in and around oil and sweat glands and hair follicles, most commonly under the armpits and in the groin area. Hydradenitis suppurativa is treated by antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medications often along with surgical resection of the involved skin.

high blood pressure A repeatedly elevated blood pressure exceeding 140 over 90 mmHg. Chronic high blood pressure can stealthily cause blood vessel changes in the back of the eye (retina), abnormal thickening of the heart muscle, kidney failure, and brain damage. No specific cause for high blood pressure is found in 95 percent of patients….

high colonics See irrigation of the colon.

hip bursitis See bursitis, hip.

hip pointer A bruise of the upper edge of the ilium, one of the hip bones. This injury is typically caused by a direct blow or fall and is most common in those playing contact sports. Also known as iliac crest contusion.

hernia, Velpeau A protrusion of tissue in front of the femoral blood vessels in the groin. Treatment is via surgery.