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Glossary

Showing 871-880 out of 1184 Terms

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  • Orgasm

    (OR-ga-zum)

    The final part of the sex act, which involves contraction of sexual organs and a sudden release of endorphins, leading to a feeling of pleasure. In males, orgasm usually occurs with release of semen.

  • Orthopedic surgeon

    (OR-thuh-PEE-dik SER-jun)

    A surgeon who has special training in diagnosing and treating injuries and diseases of the musculoskeletal system. This includes the bones, joints, tendons, ligaments, and muscles.

  • Osteomyelitis

    Inflammation of the bone caused by an infection, which may spread to the bone marrow and tissues near the bone. Osteomyelitis can cause severe pain in the infected bone. If it is not treated, it can kill bone tissue.

  • Osteoporosis

    (OS-tee-oh-puh-ROH-sis)

    A condition in which there is a decrease in the amount and thickness of bone tissue. This causes the bones to become weak and break more easily. Osteoporosis may be caused by older age, hormone changes, taking certain medicines, and not eating enough foods with calcium and vitamin D. It may also be caused by certain types of cancer and cancer treatment.

  • Osteosarcoma

    OS-tee-oh-sar-KOH-muh

    A cancer of the bone that usually affects the large bones of the arm or leg. It occurs most commonly in young people and affects more males than females. Also called osteogenic sarcoma.

  • Otic

    Relating to the ear.

  • Otitis

    Ear infection.

  • Ovaries

    (OH-vuh-rees)

    A pair of female glands in which the eggs form and the female hormones estrogen and progesterone are made. These hormones play an important role in female traits, such as breast development, body shape, and body hair. They are also involved in the menstrual cycle, fertility, and pregnancy. There is one ovary on each side of the uterus.

  • Over-the-counter

    (OH-ver-the-KOWN-ter)

    Refers to a medicine that can be bought without a prescription (doctor's order). Examples include analgesics (pain relievers), such as aspirin and acetaminophen. Also called nonprescription and OTC.

  • Ovulation

    (ov-yoo-LAY-shun)

    The release of an egg from an ovary during the menstrual cycle.