An allergy is a reaction to a substance that would not usually cause a reaction in a person. Common allergies include various foods, bee and wasp stings, dust and medicines. The immune system normally protects the body against harmful substances such as viruses, toxins and bacteria, but allergies occur when the hypersensitive immune system reacts to substances (allergens) that are usually harmless.

A portable device for continuously monitoring the electrical activity of the heart for 24 hours or more.

The branch of medicine relating to diseases that affect men, especially those concerning the genital organs.

A medical technology in which the blood of a donor or patient is passed through an apparatus that separates out one particular constituent and returns the remainder to the circulation

A type of diagnostic procedure that involves taking an ultrasound scan of the legs from the groin to the toes.

The stretching of an artery occurs when the wall of an artery becomes thinner, causing the artery to expand. An ultrasound scan can be used to detect weakened arteries that otherwise do not have visible or external symptoms.

A method of viewing or performing surgery on a joint (shoulder, knee, ankle, elbow, or wrist) by use of an arthroscope, which consists of a tube, lens and a light source designed from fibre optics. This test may be used when there is suspected damage to a ligament, cartilage or joint. An arthroscopy can help monitor the progression of a disease or determine if treatment is working.

Back pain could be the result of a slipped disc, rheumatism, repeated minor stresses, bone deterioration or an injury. Whatever the reason, it can bring both discomfort and misery to sufferers, seriously affecting their quality of life. Many spinal problems can be prevented, some can be self-treated but others do need professional help and advice.

Bone mineral densitometry. A method of measuring the amount of calcium in bones using a computerized X-ray scanner.

A procedure using radiation in the treatment of cancer.

Breast screening by mammography is the most effective way to detect breast cancer in its early stages. Mammography is an X-ray technique used to visualise the breast tissue, enabling detection of any abnormalities or disease.

This involves passing a catheter (a thin flexible tube) into the right or left side of the heart to obtain diagnostic information. Cardiac catheterisation can determine pressure and blood flow in the heart's chambers, collect blood samples and examine the arteries of the heart.

The study of the heart and blood vessels. The cardiovascular system includes arteries, veins, arterioles, venules, and capillaries.

Surgery inside the chest including the heart and rib cage.

Computed axial tomography. A method of examining body organs by scanning them with X-rays and using a computer to construct a series of cross-sectional scans along a single axis.

This appears as an opaque or cloudy area on the lens of the eye. A common form is the result of the ageing process. Other forms may be congenital (present at birth or soon after) or caused by infection or injury. Treatment involves surgically removing the lens, while an artificial lens may also be implanted in the eye. Alternatively, corrective eyeglasses or contact lenses can be used.

An examination used for the early detection of cancer cells in the cervix. It involves taking cells from the cervix, and analysing them under a microscope.

The treatment of disease with chemicals or drugs; and more often refers to the treatment of cancer using various drugs.

Surgery to correct short-sightedness (myopia) or long-sightedness (hyperopia) by using modern laser technology.

Contract Research Organisation

Computed tomography. A method of examining body organs by scanning them with X-rays and using a computer to construct a series of cross-sectional scans along a single axis.

A procedure that enables a urologist to directly view the inside of the urinary bladder in great detail using a cystoscope. This may be carried out under general anaesthetic, or under local anaesthetic on an outpatient basis.

A permanent solution to lost teeth. These implants are permanently fixed cosmetic teeth and, unlike dentures, they are never removed. This is an alternative for people who find traditional dentures uncomfortable. They also allow people to eat and chew more easily, as they provide the same strength and stability of natural teeth.

A range of dental treatments are available. Please enquire for specific details.

A group of serious disturbances in eating behaviour, such as extreme and unhealthy reduction of food intake or severe overeating, as well as feelings of distress or extreme concern about body shape or weight.

Electrocardiogram. A graphic recording of the electrical activity of the heart, used to evaluate cardiac function and to diagnose arrhythmias and other disorders.

Electroencephalogram. A test used to detect abnormalities related to electrical activity of the brain. It is most commonly used to diagnose and monitor seizure disorders.

A non-surgical, minimally invasive procedure involving the selective blocking of an artery to stop blood flow.

A branch of medicine concerned with the glands that produce and secrete different hormones into the blood or lymphatic systems. These glands include the thyroid, parathyroid, hypothalamus, pineal, pituitary, adrenal, islets of Langerhans in the pancreas, and the gonads (testes and ovaries). The effects of these hormones may affect organs or tissues, or the entire body. Disorders may result, including osteoporosis and diabetes, when too little hormone is secreted (hyposecretion) or too much is secreted (hypersecretion).

This has to do with endometrial tissue lying outside the uterus, most commonly in the ovaries and other pelvic structures. Ovarian endometrial may lead to pelvic inflammation, infertility and pelvic adhesions.

A direct examination of organs or cavities by using a flexible instrument called an 'endoscope', which may be placed directly into a natural body opening or through a small incision. An endoscope consists of a tube and optical system. Laparoscopy is an abdominal exploration using a type of endoscope called a laparoscope. Gastroscopy is an examination of the oesophagus, the stomach and the first part of small bowel known as the duodenum, by means of an instrument called a gastroscope. Colonoscopy is an examination of the large bowel by means of an instrument called a colonoscope.

ENT surgeons deal with problems concerning the ears, nose or throat.

A problem whose causes can be wide ranging, from physical through to psychological problems. Clinics are available to discuss the problems being experienced, and to have a physical examination. The treatment options available include physical devices, drug therapy and counselling.

Surgery to correct short-sightedness (myopia) or long-sightedness (hyperopia) by using modern laser technology.

Laser resurfacing services that use the new generation of carbon dioxide lasers. The laser machines are safe, effective and used to treat a variety of conditions ranging from:

• Removal of sun damaged skin
• Removal of fine wrinkles
• Removal of unwanted hair
• Treatment for pigmented lesions and thread veins

The branch of medicine concerned with the stomach, intestines and related structures such as the oesophagus, liver, gallbladder and pancreas.

Gleneagles Hospital

Non-surgical medical treatment.

A generic term used for surgery that is not classified under other types of surgery.

The branch of medicine concerned with the genitals and urinary organs, and the treatment of sexually transmitted diseases.

The branch of medicine concerned with geriatrics, or diseases and conditions of old age.

The branch of medicine concerned with the female reproductive organs.

The branch of medicine concerned with the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the blood and blood-forming tissues.

Removal of unwanted hair on the face, neck, arms, legs, armpits and bikini line, using lasers which produce a bright flash of light that heats the brown pigment in the hair. The hair and its root are damaged under the skin with the surrounding skin remaining largely unaffected.

High dependency unit. An area for patients who require more intensive observation, treatment and nursing care than are usually provided on a general ward. It is a standard of care between the general ward and full intensive care.

A comprehensive medical examination with advice on how you could improve your health. It includes numerous checks and thorough testing. Different types of health screens are available for men and women, depending upon whether you require a general appraisal of your health, or a thorough medical examination.

See:

• Cardiac Catherisation
• Cardiac Diagnostic Services
• Cardiology
• Cardiothoracic
• Electrocardiogram (ECG)

The organs that work together to make bile, i.e. the liver, gall bladder and bile ducts.

Men and women of all ages can suffer from a hernia. The hernia develops from a weakness in the abdominal wall, and appears as a lump when standing, or following coughing or straining. Although the hernia may not be painful, it may require treatment, as it may get bigger over time, and become more problematical. Hernias may be treated by conventional surgery, or by "keyhole" surgery, which means a more rapid return to normal activities.

Surgery to replace all or part of the hip joint with an artificial device (prosthesis) to restore joint movement.

A new hip replacement operation that involves an incision into the thigh to insert an implant comprising of a plastic cup and metal stem. The new procedure is conducted by removing the diseased cartilage from the joint and replacing it with a new lining, comprising of a metal head and cup-like implant which prevents the bones from rubbing painfully against one another. In effect, they resurface the bones in the joint rather than replacing them.

The microscopic examination of tissue in order to study the manifestations of disease.

Due to illness or frailty many people require help at home to assist with daily tasks. These include getting up or going to bed, bathing or showering, personal care, cooking, domestic tasks and shopping.

The surgical removal of a woman's womb (uterus). Hysterectomies are performed for a variety of reasons, including cancer of the uterus, endometriosis, excessive bleeding which does not respond to hormone therapy, severe persistent pelvic pain, prolapsed uterus or relaxation of the uterus.

Intensive care unit. Patients would be admitted to this unit for treatment of actual or impending organ failure, or who may require life support and close monitoring following surgery.

See Erectile Dysfunction

This condition can range from an occasional leak of urine caused by laughing, sneezing or coughing, to a complete inability to hold any urine.

See Assisted Conception (Fertility Treatment)

Joint Commission International. A non-for-profit organization focused on improving the safety of patient care through the provision of accreditation and certification services.

See also Arthroscopy

Surgery to replace a damaged or diseased knee joint with an artificial joint (prosthesis). The operation is performed under general anaesthesia.

See Endoscopy

Living donor liver transplant. A liver transplant operation where a live person donates part of his or her healthy liver.

Labour, delivery, recovery, postpartum

See Cosmetic Surgery

A form of treatment of kidney stones using externally-applied, focused, high-intensity shockwaves to break them up.

A collection of protein rich fluid, which is evident as a swelling in the soft tissues below the skin, and may occur following damage to the lymphatic system, due to cancer, radiotherapy, surgery, fibrosis, infection, injury or congenital abnormalities.

The area of medicine concerning the jaw (maxilla), face and the front part of the skull.

Mount Elizabeth Hospital

The changes that occur at the time of the menopause can have profound short and long-term effects on a woman 's health. Symptoms of the menopause that can benefit from treatment include hot flushes, night sweats, tiredness, insomnia, mood changes, poor memory, joint aches and pains, dry skin and hair, decreased libido and vaginal dryness. Long-term problems that can be prevented include osteoporosis, heart disease and strokes. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is used to treat symptoms of the menopause, and there are a growing number of preparations available.

Surgery that requires only a small incision to be made. It is also commonly referred to as "Keyhole Surgery".

Minimally invasive surgery. Surgery done with only a small incision, or no incision at all, such as through a tube with a laparoscope or endoscope.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging. A diagnostic scanning technique that gives detailed images of internal tissue by analyzing its response to being bombarded with high-frequency radio waves within a strong magnetic field.

Methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus. This is a strain of bacterium that is highly resistant to some antibiotics. It can cause infection when it enters the body through a cut, sore, catheter or breathing tube. The infection can be minor and local (e.g., a pimple), or more serious (involving the heart, blood or bone).

A subspecialty of paediatrics that deals with the medical care of newborn infants, especially ill or premature newborns.

The branch of medicine concerned with the structure and function of the renal system, and the treatment of diseases of the kidney and renal system.

The branch of medicine that deals with the brain and nervous system, and their diseases.

The science of the functions of the brain and nervous system within the body.

The treatment of neurological diseases, such as multiple sclerosis and Parkinson's Disease. Neurophysiotherapy is also used to benefit those recovering from a stroke, or neurologically impaired patients including those who may have had a head injury.

Such patients may have restricted use and control over their bodies. This treatment can help facilitate and maximise their physical abilities. It includes a comprehensive neurological assessment, a treatment plan with realistic goal setting and a course of home exercises for the patient.

Surgery to the brain and nervous system.

Neo-natal Intensive Care. An intensive care unit specializing in the care of ill or premature newborn infants.

A branch of medicine and medical imaging that uses radioactive isotopes in the diagnosis and treatment of disease.

A condition where a person is overweight and has a body mass index (BMI) of over 35 or 40. There are several ways of treating obesity, including various surgical procedures.

The branch of medicine that deals with pregnancy and childbirth.

The branch of medicine dealing with cancer.

The branch of medicine that deals with the diseases and surgery of the visual pathways, including the eye, brain, and areas surrounding the eye.

Surgery involving the mouth and the structures within.

A branch of dentistry that corrects irregularities of the teeth and jaw. Depending upon the problem, treatment can vary from straightening crooked or protruding teeth to reconstructive work on the jaw itself.

The branch of medicine that deals with prevention or correction of disorders involving the skeleton, joints, muscles and other supporting structures such as ligaments and cartilages.

The science of correcting defects to normal vision due to faults in the eye muscles.

Osteopathy is a complementary medicine that takes into account physical symptoms, but also lifestyle, attitudes and current health of the patient. It focuses on the treatment of joints and muscles through manipulation and stretching. This treatment can help after periods of immobility, muscle or joint strain.

Brittle bone disease, as it is known, usually affects menopausal and post-menopausal women, but men can also suffer from it too. People with eating disorders and other groups such as steroid takers may also be at risk. Osteoporosis is the generic term for an abnormally low total bone mass or bone density. Low bone density leads to an increased risk of fracture. Fortunately, the technology now exists to detect the disease in its early stages.

Operating theatre

Diagnostic procedure to detect ovarian cancer.

The branch of medicine relating to the care of children and treatment of their diseases.

The study of the nature and cause of diseases.

Parkway Cancer Centre

ParkwayHealth Day Surgery and Medical Centre

Parkway Eye Centre

Parkway East Hospital

The branch of dentistry dealing with the treatment of diseases of the gum and tissues around the teeth.

Positron emission tomography. A method of examining body organs by using a computerized radiographic technique to record metabolic activity.

Parkway Group Healthcare Pte Ltd

Parkway Holdings Limited

Parkway Hospitals Singapore Pte Ltd

Physiotherapy uses exercises that help with movement and stimulate the body's own healing processes. It can assist in the treatment of a wide range of complaints, including back and joint problems, sports related injuries, damaged muscles, strokes, incontinence problems, arthritis and even bronchitis.

The practice of producing 2D X-ray images.

Parkway Life REIT

The most common hormonal disturbance to affect women. The main problems that women with PCOS experience are menstrual cycle disturbances (irregular or absent periods), difficulty in controlling body weight and skin problems (acne and unwanted hair growth on the face or body).

ParkwayHealth Patient Assistance Centre

Many men from the age of 50 and above experience bladder discomfort as a result of an enlarged prostate gland. This widespread complaint occurs when the swollen gland obstructs the urinary passage and irritates the bladder, resulting in a desire to urinate more frequently, but an inability to produce a normal flow. There is now a blood test available to screen for prostate cancer.

The surgical removal of part or all of the prostate gland. This can be performed in a number of different ways depending on the size of the prostate, and the cause of the prostate enlargement.

Enlargement of the prostate gland in the male, due to the ageing process rather than inflammation. The condition is benign, but may require surgery if the enlargement progresses.

The branch of medicine that deals with diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the mind.

The branch of medicine concerned with radioactive substances, including X-rays, radioactive isotopes, and ionising radiations. The application of these is used in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of disease.

Surgery to rebuild parts of the body after accidents, illnesses or diseases.

Real estate investment trust

Pertaining to the kidney.

The study and treatment of diseases of the breathing and respiratory organs, eg asthma.

Radio frequency ablation. A procedure in which radiofrequency waves are used to destroy blood vessels and tissue.

The branch of medicine concerned with rheumatic diseases. Rheumatism is a general term used to describe inflammation, soreness and stiffness of painful joints.

The process of removing thread veins from any part of the body. They are caused when small clusters of red veins form just beneath the skin. Although harmless, they can cause distress, as the sufferer often feels self-conscious, particularly if the blemish is on an exposed part of the body, such as the legs.

Sclerotherapy involves either a series of small injections being made into the affected area, or the use of a laser, causing the veins to close up and eventually disappear.

Snoring affects millions of people of all ages and both sexes. Snoring is caused by the collapse of the upper airway normally maintained by muscle tone. Vibration in this segment will cause snoring.

In more serious cases where the airway collapses, breathing is stopped or obstructed, resulting in possible damage to your health as the level of oxygen in the blood is reduced. This is known as "obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome" which leaves an individual feeling tired in the morning and often means that they feel drowsy or fall asleep during the daytime.

Back pain affects about one in three people every year. For one in five, it becomes a chronic, disabling problem. Today, spinal rehabilitation programmes are available, effectively combining physiotherapy and relaxation techniques.

A pulmonary function test measuring lung function, specifically the amount and/or speed of air that can be inhaled and exhaled.

Exercise is good for the body, the heart and lungs both benefit from increased use, joints become more flexible and your muscles are kept supple, resulting in all round fitness. However, participating in sport does mean that extra stress is placed upon the body, which all too often can result in injuries.

By using the body's own healing mechanisms, medical specialists can not only effectively treat an injury, but also help prevent the occurrence of future injuries by strengthening particularly vulnerable parts of the body.

The insertion of an artificial tube into a passage in the body to hold it open.

After a stroke, the patient will require rehabilitation, involving various exercises. This treatment is offered in conjunction with physiotherapy.

Transplant Ethics Committee

Ending a pregnancy before the foetus reaches the stages of viability.

TSE is a technique for detecting the early stages of testicular cancer. This worrying condition, which can develop at any age, most often occurs in males between 15 to 40 years old. Modern, improved methods of treatment mean that the chances of being cured are high, but treatment is most effective when the cancer is detected as early as possible.

The thyroid is a small gland at the front of your neck. Its function is to control the metabolism of the body. By releasing hormones into the blood it influences the heart rate, body temperature, weight and nervous system. Thyroid disorders are common, and can affect anyone at any age.

The type of treatment needed will depend on the condition of your thyroid. An underactive thyroid may simply require hormone supplements. An overactive thyroid gland may need a course of tablets, or an operation may be required.

Surgery to remove the tonsils. Tonsils protect against infections. However, in some people, particularly in children with larger tonsils, these glands can perform less efficiently and cause frequent throat and ear infections or obstruct breathing. In these cases, surgery to remove the tonsils is of benefit.

The branch of medicine that deals with health problems that occur uniquely, are more widespread, or prove more difficult to control in tropical and subtropical regions.

Diagnostic examination that outlines the shape of various tissues and organs in the body using sound waves. This method does not use X-rays and so it is utilised during pregnancy.

Treatment of acne and psoriasis skin conditions with ultraviolet rays. Patients will need to be referred for this treatment by their general practitioners (GPs), or via one of the dermatology consultants at the hospital.

The branch of medicine concerned with the urinary tract and urogenital system.

As many as one in three persons are likely to suffer from varicose veins at some time in their lives. Although varicose veins are not a serious problem, they can cause aching and swelling of the legs, as well as being somewhat embarrassing in appearance. The problem can be treated by injection and surgery.

Surgery involving blood vessels, blood flow and arteries.

A procedure to produce sterility in a man. Men who have undergone this treatment to block the sperm tube continue to ejaculate in a normal manner, but the ejaculate does not contain sperm. Sterilisation by this method should not alter the sex drive or libido. In some cases this procedure can be reversed, and therefore make the man fertile again.

A medical procedure in which bone cement is injected into a fractured vertebra in order to stabilize it.