Ha Health Dictionary

The presence of blood in the urine... haematuria

Offensive odour of the breath... halitosis

An iron-containing porphyrin (see PORPHYRINS) compound that combines with the protein GLOBULIN to make HAEMOGLOBIN, a constituent of erythrocytes (red blood cells).... haem

Spitting of blood... haemoptysis

Bleeding; blood loss.... haemorrhage

Haemorrhoids, or piles, are varicose (swollen) veins in the lining of the ANUS. They are very common, affecting nearly half of the UK population at some time in their lives, with men having them more often and for a longer time.

Varieties Haemorrhoids are classi?ed into ?rst-, second- and third-degree, depending on how far they prolapse through the anal canal. First-degree ones do not protrude; second-degree piles protrude during defaecation; third-degree ones are trapped outside the anal margin, although they can be pushed back. Most haemorrhoids can be described as internal, since they are covered with glandular mucosa, but some large, long-term ones develop a covering of skin. Piles are usually found at the three, seven and eleven o’clock sites when viewed with the patient on his or her back.

Causes The veins in the anus tend to become distended because they have no valves; because they form the lowest part of the PORTAL SYSTEM and are apt to become over?lled when there is the least interference with the circulation through the portal vein; and partly because the muscular arrangements for keeping the rectum closed interfere with the circulation through the haemorrhoidal veins. An absence of ?bre from western diets is probably the most important cause. The result is that people often strain to defaecate hard stools, thus raising intra-abdominal pressure which slows the rate of venous return and engorges the network of veins in the anal mucosa. Pregnancy is an important contributory factor in women developing haemorrhoids. In some people, haemorrhoids are a symptom of disease higher up in the portal system, causing interference with the circulation. They are common in heart disease, liver complaints such as cirrhosis or congestion, and any disease affecting the bowels.

Symptoms Piles cause itching, pain and often bleeding, which may occur whenever the patient defaecates or only sometimes. The piles may prolapse permanently or intermittently. The patient may complain of aching discomfort which, with the pain, may be worsened.

Treatment Prevention is important; a high-?bre diet will help in this, and is also necessary after piles have developed. Patients should not spend a long time straining on the lavatory. Itching can be lessened if the PERINEUM is properly washed, dried and powdered. Prolapsed piles can be replaced with the ?nger. Local anaesthetic and steroid ointments can help to relieve symptoms when they are relatively mild, but do not remedy the underlying disorder. If conservative measures fail, then surgery may be required. Piles may be injected, stretched or excised according to the patient’s particular circumstances.

Where haemorrhoids are secondary to another disorder, such as cancer of the rectum or colon, the underlying condition must be treated – hence the importance of medical advice if piles persist.... haemorrhoids

Vomiting of blood... haematemesis

Haematoma means a collection of blood forming a de?nite swelling. It is found often upon the head of newborn children after a protracted and di?cult labour (cephalhaematoma). It may occur as the result of any injury or operation.... haematoma

The colouring compound which produces the red colour of blood. Haemoglobin is a chromoprotein, made up of a protein called globin and the iron-containing pigment, haemin. When separated from the red blood corpuscles – each of which contains about 600 million haemoglobin molecules – it is crystalline in form.

Haemoglobin exists in two forms: simple haemoglobin, found in venous blood; and oxy-haemoglobin, which is a loose compound with oxygen, found in arterial blood after the blood has come into contact with the air in the lungs. This oxyhaemoglobin is again broken down as the blood passes through the tissues, which take up the oxygen for their own use. This is the main function of haemoglobin: to act as a carrier of oxygen from the lungs to all the tissues of the body. When the haemoglobin leaves the lungs, it is 97 per cent saturated with oxygen; when it comes back to the lungs in the venous blood, it is 70 per cent saturated. The oxygen content of 100 millilitres of blood leaving the lungs is 19·5 millilitres, and that of venous blood returning to the lungs, 14·5 millilitres. Thus, each 100 millilitres of blood delivers 5 millilitres of oxygen to the tissues of the body. Human male blood contains 13–18 grams of haemoglobin per 100 millilitres; in women, there are 12–16 grams per 100 millilitres. A man weighing 70 kilograms (154 pounds) has around 770 grams of haemoglobin circulating in his red blood corpuscles.... haemoglobin

An inherited disorder of blood COAGULATION which results in prolonged bleeding even after minor injury. There is a de?ciency of factor VIII, an essential clotting factor in the coagulation cascade – the complex series of biochemical events that leads from injury of the wall of a blood vessel to the formation of a blood clot that checks bleeding. Haemophilia is a sex-linked recessive disorder (though a small number of cases arise by spontaneous mutation), so that, if females carry the disease, one-half of their sons will be affected and one-half of their daughters will be carriers. The sons of haemophiliacs are unaffected but one-half of their daughters will be carriers.

Haemophilia affects approximately 1:4,000 of the UK population but only 1:20,000 is severely affected. Severity of the disease depends upon the percentage, compared with normal, of factor VIII activity present. Less than 1 per cent and there will be spontaneous bleeding into joints and muscles; 1–5 per cent and there will be occasional spontaneous bleeding and severe bleeding after minor injury; 5–25 per cent and there will only be severe bleeding after major injury. Before treatment was available, severe haemophiliacs suffered from acute pain and deformity from bleeds into joints and muscles. Bleeding also occurred into the gut, kidneys and brain, and few survived past adolescence.

Freeze-dried factor VIII may be kept in domestic refrigerators. Haemophiliacs can use it to abort minor bleeds by reconstituting it and injecting it intravenously. More major bleeding or preparation for surgery involves raising factor VIII levels to 30–100 per cent by giving cryoprecipitate.

With treatment, most haemophiliacs lead normal lives, although obviously dangerous or contact sports should be avoided. Before donors of blood were screened for HEPATITIS B and C or for HIV infection (see AIDS/HIV), some individuals with haemophilia receiving factor VIII were unwittingly infected with those diseases. Today’s screening procedures make such infections very unlikely.

There is a National Haemophilia Register and each registered sufferer carries a card with details about his or her condition. Information may also be obtained from NHS haemophilia centres and the Haemophilia Society.... haemophilia

Sti?ness of the joint between the great toe and the foot, which induces pain on walking. It is usually due to a crush injury or stubbing of the toe. Such stubbing is liable to occur in adolescents with a congenitally long toe. If trouble-some, the condition is treated by an operation to create a false joint.... hallux rigidus

In structure, the hand has a bony basis of eight small carpal bones in the wrist, ?ve metacarpal bones in the ?eshy part of the hand, and three phalanges in each ?nger – two only in the thumb. From the muscles of the forearm, 12 strong tendons run in front of the wrist. Of these, nine go to the ?ngers and thumb and are bound down by a strong band, the ?exor retinaculum, in front of the wrist. They are enclosed in a complicated synovial sheath, and pass through the palm and down the ?ngers. Behind the wrist, 12 tendons likewise cross from forearm to hand.

Forming the ball of the thumb and that of the little ?nger, and ?lling up the gaps between the metacarpal bones, are other muscles, which act to separate and bring together the ?ngers, and to bend them at their ?rst joints (knuckles).... hand

A disadvantage for a given individual, resulting from an impairment or a disability that limits or prevents the fulfilment of a role that is normal (depending on age, sex and social and cultural practice) for that individual. The term handicap thus reflects interaction with, and adaptation to, the individual’s surroundings. See also “disability”; “impairment”.... handicap

Also known as Four Corners virus. A rodent virus from the white-footed deer mouse of the USA. Causes severe respiratory disease of humans.... hantavirus

Hamamelis virginiana. N.O. Hamamelidaceae.

Synonym: Spotted Alder and Snapping Hazel.

Habitat: This shrub, like the Alders and the Hazel, grows in bunches as high as eight or ten feet, and is found on high lands and the stony banks of streams.

Features ? The branches are flexuous and knotty, the bark smooth and grey with brown spots. The leaves are four to five inches long and about two inches broad, obovate; feather-veined, irregularly notched at the edges, smooth above and downy underneath. Yellow flowers appear in autumn, when the leaves are falling. Taste is astringent, and smell slight and agreeable.

Part used ? Bark and leaves.

Action: Astringent and tonic.

A decoction of the bark, which is more astringent than the leaves, checks external and internal hemorrhages, and this astringency, when in combination with the more specific principles of Pilewort, makes one of the most effective pile medicines known. The compound can be obtained in the form of both ointment and suppositories for external application. For varicose veins an extract of the fresh leaves and young twigs of Witch Hazel is applied on a lint bandage kept constantly moist.

Both decoctions of the bark and infusions of the leaves are made in the proportion of 1 ounce to 1 pint boiling water (after simmering for ten minutes in the case of the bark decoction) and taken in wineglassful doses.... witch hazel

A (contraction) deformity of the hand and ?ngers, especially of the ring and little ?ngers. The condition is generally due to paralysis of the ULNAR NERVE. A somewhat similar condition is produced by contraction of the ?brous tissues in the palm of the hand, partly due to rheumatic changes and partly to injury caused by the constant pressure of a tool against the palm of the hand. (See DUPUYTREN’S CONTRACTURE.)... claw-hand

These can be acquired or congenital. The acquired type presents as a red PAPULE which bleeds easily; treatment is normally by cautery. A ‘strawberry NAEVUS’ is a ‘capillarycavernous’ haemangioma appearing at or soon after birth, which may grow to a large size. Treatment is not usually required, as most of them fade – although this may take a few years. Where a haemangioma is dis?guring or interfering with vision or breathing, treatment is necessary: this may be by laser, by using CORTICOSTEROIDS or INTERFERON treatment, or by surgery.... haemangioma

Haemarthrosis is the process of bleeding into, or the presence of blood in, a joint. It may occur as a result of major trauma (for example, fracture of the patella may lead to bleeding into the knee-joint), or, more commonly, following minor trauma. It may even occur spontaneously, in cases of HAEMOPHILIA or other disorders of blood clotting. If repeated several times, haemarthrosis may lead to FIBROSIS of the joint-lining and in?ammation of the cartilage, causing marked sti?ness and deformity.... haemarthrosis

The study of diseases of the blood.... haematology

A disease in which cirrhosis of the liver (see LIVER, DISEASES OF), enlargement of the SPLEEN, pigmentation of the skin, and DIABETES MELLITUS are associated with the abnormal and excessive deposit in the organs of the body of the iron-containing pigment, haemosiderin. It is caused by an increase in the amount of iron absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract.... haemochromatosis

A method of removing waste products or poisons from the circulating blood using the principle of DIALYSIS. The procedure is used on patients with malfunctioning or non-functioning KIDNEYS. It is done using an arti?cial kidney or dialyser which restores blood to its normal state. The process has to be repeated, sometimes for many months, until a donor kidney is available for transplantation to replace the patient’s failing one.... haemodialysis

The presence of blood pigment in the URINE caused by the destruction of blood corpuscles in the blood vessels or in the urinary passages. It turns urine a dark red or brown colour. In some people this condition, known as intermittent haemoglobinuria, occurs from time to time, especially on exposure to cold. It is also produced by various poisonous substances taken in the food. It occurs in malarious districts in the form of one of the most fatal forms of MALARIA: BLACKWATER FEVER. (See also MARCH HAEMOGLOBINURIA.)... haemoglobinuria

The destruction of red blood corpuscles by the action of poisonous substances, usually of a protein nature, circulating in the blood, or by certain chemicals. It occurs, for example, gradually in some forms of ANAEMIA and rapidly in poisoning by snake venom.... haemolysis

A potentially serious disease of the newborn, characterised by haemolytic ANAEMIA (excessive destruction of red blood cells) and JAUNDICE. If severe, it may be obvious before birth because the baby becomes very oedematous (see OEDEMA) and develops heart failure – so-called hydrops fetalis. It may ?rst present on the ?rst day of life as jaundice and anaemia. The disease is due to blood-group incompatibility between the mother and baby, the commoneset being rhesus incompatibility (see BLOOD GROUPS). In this condition a rhesus-negative mother has been previously sensitised to produce rhesus antibodies, either by the delivery of a rhesus-positive baby, a miscarriage or a mismatched blood transfusion. These antibodies cross over into the fetal circulation and attack red blood cells which cause HAEMOLYSIS.

Treatment In severely affected fetuses, a fetal blood transfusion may be required and/or the baby may be delivered early for further treatment. Mild cases may need observation only, or the reduction of jaundice by phototherapy alone (treatment with light, involving the use of sunlight, non-visible ULTRAVIOLET light, visible blue light, or LASER).

Whatever the case, the infant’s serum BILIRUBIN – the bilirubin present in the blood – and its HAEMOGLOBIN concentration are plotted regularly so that treatment can be given before levels likely to cause brain damage occur. Safe bilirubin concentrations depend on the maturity and age of the baby, so reference charts are used.

High bilirubin concentrations may be treated with phototherapy; extra ?uid is given to prevent dehydration and to improve bilirubin excretion by shortening the gut transit time. Severe jaundice and anaemia may require exchange TRANSFUSION by removing the baby’s blood (usually 10 millilitres at a time) and replacing it with rhesus-negative fresh bank blood. Haemolytic disease of the newborn secondary to rhesus incompatibility has become less common since the introduction of anti-D (Rho) immunoglobulin. This antibody should be given to all rhesus-negative women at any risk of a fetomaternal transfusion, to prevent them from mounting an antibody response. Anti-D is given routinely to rhesus-negative mothers after the birth of a rhesus-positive baby, but doctors should also give it after threatened abortions, antepartum haemorrhages, miscarriages, and terminations of pregnancy.

Occasionally haemolytic disease is caused by ABO incompatibility or that of rarer blood groups.... haemolytic disease of the newborn

An increase in the amount of iron stored in the body. Rarely, it may be due to ingestion of too much iron, but a more likely cause is repeated blood transfusions. The extra iron may affect the function of the heart and liver.... haemosiderosis

The process by which bleeding stops. It involves constriction of blood vessels, the formation of a platelet plug, and blood clotting. The term is also used for surgical interventions to stop bleeding – for example, the use of diathermy. (See COAGULATION; HAEMORRHAGE.)... haemostasis

Having the power to arrest bleeding... haemostatic

An e?usion of blood into the PLEURAL CAVITY.... haemothorax

See SKIN; WHITE HAIR.... hair

The anatomical name of the great toe.... hallux

Outward displacement of the great toe – always associated with a bunion (see CORNS AND BUNIONS). It is due to the pressure of footwear on an unduly broad foot. In adolescents, this broad foot is inherited; in adults it is due to splaying of the foot as a result of loss of muscle tone. The bunion is produced by pressure of the footwear on the protruding base of the toe. In mild cases the wearing of comfortable shoes may be all that is needed. In more severe cases the bunion may need to be removed, while in the most severe the operation of ARTHROPLASTY may be needed.... hallux valgus

One of the butyrophenone group of drugs used to treat patients with psychoses (see PSYCHOSIS). Its action is similar to that of the PHENOTHIAZINES. It is also used in depot form, being administered by deep intramuscular injection for maintenance control of SCHIZOPHRENIA and other psychoses. The drug may help to control tics and intractable hiccups.... haloperidol

These are benign tumours, usually in the lung, containing normal components of pulmonary tissue such as smooth muscle and connective tissue.... hamartoma

The deformity in which there is permanent ?exion, or bending, of the middle joint of the toe. The condition may affect all the toes, as in CLAW-FOOT; more commonly it affects one toe, usually the second. It is due to a relatively long toe and the pressure on it of the footwear. A painful bunion usually develops on it (see CORNS AND BUNIONS). In mild cases, relief is obtained by protecting the toe with adhesive pads. If this does not su?ce then an operation is necessary.... hammer-toe

A contagious disease due to infection with coxsackie A16 virus (see COXSACKIE VIRUSES). Most common in children, the incubation period is 3–5 days. It is characterised by an eruption of blisters on the palms and the feet (often the toes), and in the mouth. The disease

has no connection with foot and mouth disease in cattle, deer, pigs and sheep.... hand, foot and mouth disease

Fertility, Chastity, Fishing Magic, Happiness ... hawthorn

See LEARNING DISABILITY.... mental handicap

A haemorrhage into the subarachnoid space in the BRAIN. It is usually the result of rupture of an ANEURYSM on the CIRCLE OF WILLIS. Head injury or intense physical exercise occasionally cause subarachnoid haemorrhage; the diagnosis is con?rmed by CT scan or by identifying blood in the CEREBROSPINAL FLUID at LUMBAR PUNCTURE. Cerebral ANGIOGRAPHY will usually pinpoint the site of bleeding. Treatment is bed rest, life-support measures and procedures to reduce blood pressure; sometimes surgery is carried out but not usually until several weeks after the acute episode. About 30 per cent of patients recover fully, whilst some have residual disabilities such as EPILEPSY, mental deterioration or paralysis. About 50 per cent of those affected die.... subarachnoid haemorrhage

Leprosy. Progressive infection by Mycobacterium leprae. Two forms: (1) tuberculoid; infection of the nerve endings and membranes of the nose, with loss of feeling and pale patches on the body. (2) Lepromatous; with inflamed thickened painful red skin exacerbated by ulceration, fever, neuritis and orchitis. Distorted lips and loss of nasal bone as infection progresses.

Symptoms: numbness, nerves may swell like iron rods. Infected nerves kill all sensation. In endemic areas, pins and needles in hands may call attention to it. A disease of nerves rather than skin. NOTIFIABLE DISEASE.

Many laymen and practitioners will never have seen a case. In the absence of modern medicine some good can be achieved by traditional remedies. Ancient Hindu and Chinese records refer to the use of Gotu Kola (internally and externally). Dr C.D. de Granpre? (1888) refers. (Martindale 27; p.441)

Oil of Chaulmoogra was used up to one hundred years ago before introduction of modern drugs. It fell into dis-use until discovered by a Director of Health in the Philippine Islands during World War I when he used it successfully in combination with camphor. In South America, where the disease is still active, Sarsaparilla has a long traditional reputation. Walnut oil is used as a dressing, in China. An anti- staphylococcal fraction has been isolated from the seeds of Psoralea corylifolia for use in leprosy. (Indian Journal of Pharmacy 26: 141, 1964)

Tea. Gotu Kola. Half a teaspoon to each cup boiling water; infuse 15 minutes. Drink freely. Stronger infusions may be used externally to cleanse ulceration.

Decoction. Combine: Sarsaparilla 1; Gotu Kola 1; Echinacea 2. Half an ounce to 1 pint water gently simmered 20 minutes. Dose: Half a cup 3 times daily.

Formula. Echinacea 2; Sarsaparilla 1; Gotu Kola 2. Dose. Powders 500mg. Liquid Extracts 3-5ml. Tinctures 5-10ml. Thrice daily.

Note: Antibody-positive cases of AIDS are vulnerable to leprosy, both diseases being caused by a similar bacterium.

To be treated by infectious diseases specialist. ... hansen’s disease

Chapped hands occur in cold weather, when reduced sweat and sebaceous activity leads to decreased natural protection of the skin. Prolonged immersion in soapy water, followed by exposure to cold air, results in cracking of the skin.

Prevention consists of minimising exposure to detergents and soapy water, and wearing rubber gloves for all routine household duties.... chapped hands

A behavioural response or practice that is established by the individual frequently repeating the same act. The process is called habituation, and the more a person is exposed to a particular stimulus, the less is he or she aroused by it. People may also become habituated to certain drugs, requiring more and more of a substance to produce the same e?ect – a process known as TOLERANCE.... habit

See HABIT.... habituation

A drug that raises the quantity of HAEMOGLOBIN in the blood. Ferrous sulphate is a common example of iron-containing compounds given to anaemic (see ANAEMIA) patients whose condition is due to iron de?ciency. Traditionally, haematinics have been used to prevent anaemia in pregnant women, but nowadays a maternal diet containing iron-rich foods and regular antenatal checks of haemoglobin concentrations in the blood should make the routine use of haematinics unnecessary.... haematinic

A cavity containing blood. Generally as the result of an injury which ruptures blood vessels, blood is e?used into one of the natural cavities of the body, or among loose cellular tissue, producing a haematocoele.... haematocoele

The condition in which menstrual blood cannot drain from the VAGINA because of an imperforate HYMEN.... haematocolpos

Also known as packed cell volume, this is an expression of the fraction of blood volume occupied by the ERYTHROCYTES. It is determined by centrifuging a sample of blood in a capillary tube and measuring the height of the resulting packed cells as a percentage of the total sample height. Normal values: males 42–53 per cent or 0.42–0.53 mL/dL females 32–48 per cent or 0.36–0.48 mL/dL... haematocrit

An adjective applied to a biological process which produces blood, or to an agent produced in or coming from blood. For example, a haematogenous infection is one resulting from contact with blood that contains a virus or bacterium responsible for the infection.... haematogenous

A disease of children resulting in acute RENAL failure. A febrile illness of the gastrointestinal or respiratory tracts is followed by intravascular COAGULATION of blood which results in HAEMOLYSIS, ANAEMIA, THROMBOCYTOPAENIA and renal failure (resulting from ?brin deposition in renal arterioles and glomerular capillaries).

The death rate is 2–10 per cent and the majority of patients survive without renal failure. The longer the period of OLIGURIA, the greater the risk of chronic renal failure.

Treatment is supportive, with replacement of blood and clotting factors, control of HYPERTENSION, and careful observation of ?uid balance.... haemolytic uraemic syndrome

The presence of blood in the PERICARDIUM, the membranous sac which surrounds the heart. The condition may result from a myocardial infarction (see HEART, DISEASES OF), leaking ANEURYSM, injury, or tumour. Because the pericardial blood compresses the heart, the latter’s pumping action is impeded, reducing the blood pressure and causing cardiac failure. Urgent surgical drainage of the blood may be required.... haemopericardium

The formation of blood cells and PLATELETS – a continuous process throughout life. As ageing cells are removed from the circulation, new ones, generated in the BONE MARROW, replace them.... haemopoiesis

This is the basic cell from which all types of blood cells originate. Its appearance is believed to be similar to that of a LYMPHOCYTE.... haemopoietic stem cell

Gram-negative (see GRAM’S STAIN), rod-like, aerobic, non-sporing and non-motile parasitic bacteria. Mostly found in the respiratory tract, they may be part of the normal ?ora, but may also be responsible for several diseases. The main pathogenic species of haemophilus is H. in?uenzae, which may cause severe exacerbations of chronic BRONCHITIS, as well as MENINGITIS, EPIGLOTTITIS, SINUSITIS, and otitis media (see EAR, DISEASES OF). Other species may cause conjunctivitis (see EYE, DISORDERS OF) or CHANCROID. Haemophilus species are sensitive to a wide range of antibiotics, though generally resistant to penicillin. Infants are routinely immunised with Haemophilus B vaccine to prevent meningitis, septicaemia and epiglottitis

– all potentially fatal disesases.... haemophilus

A group of drugs used to treat bleeding disorders such as HAEMOPHILIA. Factor VIII is one of the clotting factors available for treatment: preparations of it are injected after abnormal bleeding or before surgery. Vitamin K preparations are another haemostatic group used to treat an overdose of ANTICOAGULANTS.

Haemostatic preparations of gelatine and cellulose are used to stem bleeding from the skin and gums, or as a result of tooth extractions.... haemostatics

The time taken for the PLASMA concentration of an administered drug to decline by half as a result of redistribution, METABOLISM and EXCRETION.... half life

A residential home for mentally ill individuals where they can live under supervision after discharge from hospital. They may be ?t to work but cannot manage an independent life.... halfway house

Producing hallucinations... hallucinogenic

Compounds characterised by their ability to produce distortions of perception, emotional changes, depersonalisation, and a variety of effects on memory and learned behaviour. They include CANNABIS, LYSERGIC ACID DIETHYLAMIDE (LSD) and MESCALINE. (See also DEPENDENCE.)... hallucinogens

A coloured circle seen around a bright light in some eye conditions. When accompanied by headache, it is especially likely to be caused by GLAUCOMA.... halo

A volatile liquid anaesthetic, used for many years as a potent inhalant anaesthetic. It provides smooth induction of ANAESTHESIA and is non-irritant and pleasant to inhale. A few patients have an idiosyncracy to halothane, putting them at risk if it is used frequently, so a careful history is essential before it is administered to a patient (see HALOTHANE HEPATITIS).... halothane

An adjective describing organisms, cells or nuclei that have a single set of unpaired CHROMOSOMES. Human beings have haploid gametes (see GAMETE) following MEIOSIS.... haploid

See ANTIGEN.... hapten

See PALATE, MALFORMATIONS OF.... hare-lip

(English) From the hazel tree Hazell, Hazelle, Haesel, Hazle, Hazal, Hayzel, Haezel, Haizel... hazel

Also called EBOLA VIRUS DISEASE. A usually fatal infection caused by a virus related to that of MARBURG DISEASE. Two large outbreaks of it were recorded in 1976 (one in the Sudan and one in Zaïre), with a mortality, respectively, of 50 and 80 per cent, and the disease reappeared in the Sudan in 1979. After an incubation period of 7–14 days, the onset is with headache of increasing severity, and fever. This is followed by diarrhoea, extensive internal bleeding and vomiting. Death usually occurs on the eighth to ninth day. Infection is by person-to-person contact. Serum from patients convalescent from the disease is a useful source of ANTIBODIES to the virus.... viral haemorrhagic fever

A herb that lyses red blood cells by causing them to rupture. Soapwort. ... haemolytic

Bleeding from the vagina after the 28th week of pregnancy. Antepartum haemorrhage is most commonly due to a problem with the placenta, such as placenta praevia or placental abruption. Bleeding can also be caused by cervical erosion or other disorders of the cervix or vagina.

Admission to hospital is necessary for investigation and treatment.

Ultrasound scanning is used to diagnose problems with the placenta.

If the bleeding is severe, the woman is given a blood transfusion, and the baby is delivered immediately by caesarean section.... antepartum haemorrhage

Bleeding within the brain due to a ruptured blood vessel (see intracerebral haemorrhage; stroke).... cerebral haemorrhage

After-effects of excessive alcohol consumption.

Symptoms. Dry mouth, thirst, increased output of urine, fatigue, irritability. Alcohol increases REM (rapid eye movement) during sleep. Brain cell excitability is followed by depression.

Potassium loss may be severe, as also loss of Vitamins B, B6 and C. Bananas are rich in potassium. Alternatives. Tea. 1-2 cups Chamomile tea. Ginger. Gin-and-tonic with juice of lemon, plus teaspoon honey.

Morning-after tea. Meadowsweet (antacid) 1; Centuary (bitter) 1; Black Horehound (antiemetic) 1; Gentian (tonic) quarter; Ginger (stomach settler) quarter. Mix. 2 teaspoons to each cup boiling water; infuse 10 minutes. Drink freely.

Diet. Honey for energy. Slippery Elm gruel. Avoid coffee.

Supplements. B-complex, C, E. Essential fatty acids. Potassium, Magnesium, Selenium, Zinc.

Note: Alcohol is a strong diuretic which drains the body and brain cells of vital fluids. Alcohol also contains congeners, the chemical by-products of fermentation which have a poisonous effect upon the body. The most important treatment is water – long drinks to rehydrate the body and brain. Water also helps the kidneys and liver to wash out the poisons. ... hangover

A form of haemoglobin that is bound to the sugar glucose. In most people, 3–8 per cent of haemoglobin is glycosylated. In people with diabetes mellitus, the level of glycosylated haemoglobin may be raised if treatment has not kept the blood glucose level within the normal range. Glycosylated haemoglobin levels indicate blood glucose levels over the preceding 3 months.... glycosylated haemoglobin

A rare type of brain tumour consisting of blood-vessel cells. Haemangioblastomas develop slowly as cysts, often in the cerebellum, and are mostly noncancerous. Symptoms include headache, vomiting, nystagmus and, if the tumour is in the cerebellum, ataxia. Most can be removed surgically.... haemangioblastoma

A term used to describe the genetic disorders in which there is a fault in the production of the globin chains of haemoglobin.

Examples of haemoglobinopathies include sickle cell anaemia and the thalassaemias.... haemoglobinopathy

The surgical removal of haemorrhoids. The procedure is used to treat large, prolapsing, or bleeding haemorrhoids.... haemorrhoidectomy

A ball of hair in the stomach, found in people who nervously suck or chew their hair (see bezoar).... hairball

Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. Inflammation of the Thyroid gland with increase of fibrous tissue and intrusion of excess white blood cells. Forerunner of myxoedema. It is an auto-immune disorder resulting in thyroid damage. Middle-aged women prone. Painless swelling.

Alternatives. Treatment. Echinacea is the key remedy.

Others indicated: Red Clover flower, Blue Flag root, Horsetail, Poke root, Bladderwrack. May be taken singly, as available.

Tea: Combine Bladderwrack 2; Echinacea 2; Horsetail 1. 1-2 teaspoons to each cup boiling water; infuse 15 minutes. Half-1 cup thrice daily.

Tinctures. Combine: Bladderwrack 2; Echinacea 2; Horsetail 1. Dose: one to two 5ml teaspoons in water thrice daily.

Diet. Iodised salt. Avoid cabbage which contains a factor which depresses the thyroid gland. Supplementation. Vitamin A. B-complex. Kelp. ... hashimoto’s disease

Preference for using the right or left hand. Some 90 per cent of adults use the right hand for writing; two thirds prefer the right hand for most activities requiring coordination and skill. The others are either lefthanded or ambidextrous (able to use both hands equally well).

Handedness is related to the division of the brain into 2 hemispheres, each of which controls movement and sensation on the opposite side of the body.

In most right-handed people the speech centre is in the left brain hemisphere.

Inheritance is probably the most important factor in determining handedness.... handedness

A perception that occurs when there is no external stimulus. Auditory hallucinations (the hearing of voices) are a major symptom of schizophrenia but may also be caused by manic–depressive illness and certain brain disorders. Visual hallucinations are most often found in states of delirium brought on by a physical illness (such as pneumonia) or alcohol withdrawal (delirium tremens). Hallucinogenic drugs are another common cause of visual hallucinations. Hallucinations of smell are associated with temporal lobe epilepsy. Those of touch and taste are rare, however, and occur mainly in people with schizophrenia. People subjected to sensory deprivation or overwhelming physical stress sometimes suffer from temporary hallucinations.... hallucination

Another name for marijuana.... hashish

A haematoma under the skin around the anus.... perianal haematoma

Excessive blood loss after childbirth. It is more common after a long labour or after a multiple birth. The haemorrhage is usually due to excessive bleeding from the site where the placenta was attached to the uterus.... postpartum haemorrhage

Bleeding under the fingernails visible as tiny splinterlike marks.

Usually due to trauma, it can also be a sign of infective endocarditis.... splinter haemorrhage

Linn.

Family: Fabaceae; Papilionaceae.

Habitat: Found in the plains of Punjab.

English: Tonkin bean, Melilot, King's crown, King's clover.

Unani: Naakhunaa, Ikil-ul-Malik. (It is also equated with Melilotus alba Desv. and Trigonela uncata Boiss. in National Formulary of Unani Medicine.)

Action: Nervine tonic (used in nervous and catarrhal affections), antirheumatic, anti-inflammatory, emollient, diuretic, galactogenic.

The callus of the plant contains amino acids; roots contain saponins and sterols. The leaves yield 3-nitro- propionic acid.... astragalus hamosus

Linn.

Family: Sapindaceae.

Habitat: Throughout the plains of India, as a wild climber.

English: Ballon Vine, Winter Cherry, Heartseed.

Ayurvedic: Kaakatiktaa, Kaakaadani, Karnsphotaa, Shatakratulataa.

Unani: Habb-e-Qilqil.

Siddha/Tamil: Mudukottan, Kottavan.

Folk: Kanphotaa, Kanphuti, Lataaphatakari. Used as Jyotishmati in Bengal.

Action: Used in rheumatism, lumbago, skeletal fractures, nervous diseases, amenorrhoea, haemorrhoids, erysipelas. The herb is used in hairoils for treating dandruff, alopecia and for darkening hair.

The plant extract showed significant analgesic and anti-inflammatory activity and sedative effect on CNS. The drug also showed (transient) vasode- pressant activity.

The leaves contain beta-sitosterol and its D-glucoside, an alkaloid, oxalic acid and amino acids. The presence of a saponin and quebrachitol is reported in the plant.

The leaves and stem are used in preparations used against common cold. Alcoholic extract of the plant exhibits antisickling and antiarthritic activity. Seeds have positive anabolic activity and increase body weight by inducing a positive nitrogen balance.

The alkaloid fraction from the seeds showed hypotensive activities and cardiac inhibition in anaesthetized dogs; blocked spasmogenic effects of acetyl- choline, histamine and 5-HT on guinea pig ileum, biphasic effort on frog rec- tus abdominis muscle. The seeds also showed antibacterial activity.

Dosage: Whole plant—50-100 ml decoction. (CCRAS.)... cardiospermum halicacabum

A rare congenital abnormality characterised by the absence of one or more ?ngers and a deep central cleft that divides the hand into two. It is sometimes known as lobster hand. It may be accompanied by other congenital defects, such as CLEFT FOOT, absent permanent teeth, CLEFT PALATE (and/or lip), absence of the nails and defects of the eye.... cleft hand

A tick-borne arboviral infection extending in distribution from Eastern Europe and Asia through to Southern Africa.... congo-crimean haemorrhagic fever

Usually a second infection with a different serotype of the dengue virus (see dengue fever). A primary infection at a young age is common finding. Age of patient with DHF is often less than 5 years, but young adults may be affected. Severe illness with abnormal vascular permeability, hypovolaemia and abnormal clotting mechanisms. Bleeding into skin or internally. Dengue shock syndrome may also be a complication.... dengue haemorrhagic fever

Hook. f.

Family: Dioscoreaceae.

Habitat: The Western Ghats, Sikkim, Assam, Orissa and Bengal.

Ayurvedic: Vaaraahi (var.).

Folk: Naagar-kanda (Bihar).

Action: Tubers contain 85.50% carbohydrates, 8.30% albuminoids.... dioscorea hamiltonii

(Hebrew) From the fountain of the crier... en-hakkore

Habits determining the times and places of feeding and the sources of blood meals for mosquitoes.... feeding habits

(Arabic) One who loves literature Hafizah, Hafiza, Hafyzah, Hafeeza, Hafeezah, Hafeazah, Hafeaza... haafizah

(Hindi) Daughter of the sun Harisah, Haarysah, Harisa, Harysah, Harysa, Haaresah, Haresah, Haresa... haarisah

(Arabic) A heavenly messenger Harithah, Haarithe, Haaritheh, Harithe... haarithah

(Arabic) One who is much loved Habbae, Habbay, Habbaye... habbai

Thw., H. goodyeroides D. Don., H. griffithii HK. are also equated with Riddhi, Vriddhi.

Dosage: Tuber—3-6 g powder. (CCRAS.)... habenaria acuminata

Wight & Arn.

Family: Asclepiadaceae.

Habitat: Deccan Peninsula; common in the forest areas of Western Ghats.

Unani: Desi Ushbaa.

Siddha/Tamil: Mahali kizhangu.

Action: Root—appetizer, blood purifier, bacteriostatic. Used as a substitute for Shveta Saarivaa (Hemidesmus indicus). Sold as Saarivaa in Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. The root powder is given to diabetics.

The root contains quercetin, kaempferol, coumarin and rutin. It has a sweet sarsaparilla-like taste; contains 92% fleshy matter and 8% woody core.

The root can be stored for longer periods and remains unaffected by microorganisms and insects, apparently due to the presence of the volatile principle which possesses bacteriostat- ic and toxic properties.

The root, on steam distillation, gave 4-O-methyl-resorcylaldehyde in a concentration of 0.8%. (The growth of E. coli was arrested by the aldehyde in 0.041% concentration; fish died within 4 min in 0.02% solution.) The sterols consists mainly of stagma and brassica sterols. Alpha-amyrin and lupeol, both free and as esters are also present in the root.

The plant contains lupeol, beta- amyrin 2-hydroxy, 4-methoxy benzaldehyde, and ferulic acid.... decalepis hamiltonii

Royle.

Fagopyrum tataricum Gaertn.

Family: Polygonaceae.

Habitat: Cultivated in the Himalayas, especially in the colder parts of Ladakh, Zaskar and Western Tibet.

English: Tatary Duckwheat.

Ayurvedic: Ukhal.

Folk: Kutu (var.).

Action: See F. esculentum. Duck- wheat is a better source of rutin than the common Buckwheat. It contains 45-80% more rutin than the latter, and maintains its high rutin content for a longer period.

Family: Cruciferae; Brassicaceae.

Habitat: Mediterranean region, eastwards to India and southwards to tropical Africa.

Folk: Farid-booti (Punjab).

Action: Antirheumatic.

Farsetia species contain a volatile oil which gave glucosinolates. Allylglu- cosinolate is the major constituent.... farsetia hamiltonii

Hook. f.

Family: Guttiferae; Clusiaceae.

Habitat: Evergreen forests of Assam and Khasi Hills.

English: Siam Gamboge.

Ayurvedic: Kankushtha; Kaalakushtha, Tamaala.

Unani: Usaar-e-revand.

Action: Gum-resin—drastic hydragogue, cathartic; used for dropsical conditions. Toxic. The gum-resin contains 70-75% resins consisting mainly of alpha- and beta-garcinolic acids with gambogic acids; about 20-25% gum.

Gambogic acid, morellic acid and isomorellic acid are toxic constituents of the gum-resin.... garcinia hanburyi

This forms a small proportion of the total HAEMOGLOBIN in the blood. It di?ers from the major component, HbA, in that it has a glucose group attached. The rate of synthesis of HbA1c is a function of the blood-glucose concentration, and since it accumulates throughout the life span of the red blood cell – normally 120 days – the concentration of HbA1c is related to the mean blood-glucose concentration over the past 3–4 months. It is thus a useful indicator of medium-term diabetic control (see DIABETES MELLITUS) – a good target range would be a concentration of 5–8 per cent. When interpreting the HbA1c level, however, it is important to remember that wide ?uctuations in blood-glucose concentration, together with ANAEMIA or a reduced ERYTHROCYTES life span, may give misleading results.... glycosylated haemoglobin (hba1c)

Hook. f. ex Collett.

Family: Orchidaceae.

Habitat: Outer range of Western Himalayas from Punjab to Kumaon.

Ayurvedic: Riddhi. (Tubers of Eulophia nuda Lindl. and Dioscorea bulbifera are also used as Riddhi.)

Action: Nervine and cardiac tonic.... habenaria edgeworthii

D. Don.

Family: Orchidaceae.

Habitat: The Himalayan region. Found in Ranikhet.

Ayurvedic: Riddhi, Vriddhi. (Substitute: Dioscorea bulbifera.)

Action: Nervine and cardiac tonic.... habenaria intermedia

(Arabic) Feminine form of Habib; one who is dearly loved; sweetheart Habibah, Habeeba, Habyba, Habieba, Habeiba, Habika, Habyka, Habicka, Habycka, Habeabah, Habeaba, Habeebah, Habybah, Habiebah, Habeibah... habiba

(Native American / Japanese) From the river / having good fortune Hachie, Hachee, Hachiko, Hachiyo, Hachy, Hachey, Hachikka... hachi

(Hebrew) From the dark hill Hachila, Hachyla, Hachylah, Hacheela, Hacheelah, Hachiela, Hachielah, Hacheilah, Hacheila, Hacheala, Hachealah... hachilah

Celtis species

Description: Hackberry trees have smooth, gray bark that often has corky warts or ridges. The tree may reach 39 meters in height. Hackberry trees have long-pointed leaves that grow in two rows. This tree bears small, round berries that can be eaten when they are ripe and fall from the tree. The wood of the hackberry is yellowish.

Habitat and Distribution: This plant is widespread in the United States, especially in and near ponds.

Edible Parts: Its berries are edible when they are ripe and fall from the tree.... hackberry

(African) From the salty place Hadah, Hadda, Haddah... hada

(Hebrew) A spectacular ornament; adorned with beauty Hadarah, Hadarit, Haduraq, Hadarra, Hadarrah... hadara

(Hebrew) From the myrtle tree Hadassa, Hadasah, Hadasa... hadassah

(Arabic) Resembling a dove Hadil, Hadyl, Hadeil, Hadiel, Hadeal... hadeel

(English) From the meadow of flowers

Hadennah, Hadena, Hadynna, Hadinna, Hadyna, Hadina... hadenna

(Arabic) A gift from God; a righteous woman

Hadiyah, Hadiyyah, Haadiyah, Haadiya, Hadeeya, Hadeeyah, Hadieya, Hadieyah, Hadeiya, Hadeiyah, Hadeaya, Hadeayah... hadiya

(Hebrew) In a resting state; one who hinders

Hadlae, Hadlay, Hadlaye... hadlai

(English) From the field of heather Hadlea, Hadleigh, Hadly, Hedlea, Hedleigh, Hedley, Hedlie, Hadlee, Hadlie, Hadli, Hedly, Hedlee, Hedleah, Hedli... hadley

(Latin) From the town in northern Italy

Hadrea, Hadriana, Hadriane, Hadrianna, Hadrien, Hadrienne, Hadriah, Hadreah... hadria

(Greek) One who is soulful Hadey, Hadi, Hadie, Hadee, Hadea... hady

(Arabic) Feminine form of Hadi; serving as a religious guide Hadyah, Hadiya, Hadiyah... hadya

A doctor or scientist who specialises in the study and treatment of blood and blood disorders.... haematologist

Linn.

Family: Caesalpiniaceae, Mi- mosaceae

Habitat: Native to tropical America and the West Indies. Grown in Indian gardens.

English: Logwood, Peachwood, Compeachy tree.

Ayurvedic: Pattanga, Patraanga, Bakam (substitute). (Caesalpinia sappan is also equated with Pattanga.)

Unani: Buqqam, Bakam-Hindi.

Action: Astringent. Used for atonic dyspepsia, diarrhoea, summer diarrhoea, dysentery, internal haemorrhages, menorrhagia, leucorrhoea. (It imparts red colour to urine and stool. Incompatible with chalk or lime-water.)

The wood contains about 10% hae- matoxylon, a red-brown phenolic dye, tannins, resin and volatile oil.

Haematoxylin exhibited significant anti-inflammatory activity in the carra- geenan-induced oedema test.

The seed contains crude protein 29.1, pentosan 6.6, and water-soluble gum 3.2%.... haematoxylon campechianum

Unusual sounds heard over the heart and large blood vessels in severe cases of ANAEMIA. They disappear as the condition improves.... haemic murmur

A technique similar to HAEMODIALYSIS. Blood is dialysed using ultra?ltration through a membrane permeable to water and small molecules (molecular weight <12,000). Physiological saline solution is simultaneously reinfused.... haemofiltration

Abnormal HAEMOGLOBIN formation occurs in the haemoglobinopathies, which are hereditary haemolytic anaemias, genetically determined and related to race. The haemoglobin may be abnormal because: (1) there is a defect in the synthesis of normal adult haemoglobin as in THALASSAEMIA, when there may be an absence of one or both of the polypeptide chains characteristic of normal adult haemoglobin; or (2) there is an abnormal form of haemoglobin such as haemoglobin S which results in sickle-cell disease (see ANAEMIA). This abnormality may involve as little as one amino acid of the 300 in the haemoglobin molecule. In sickle-cell haemoglobin, one single amino-acid molecule – that of glutamic acid – is replaced by another – that of valine; this results in such a de?cient end product that the ensuing disease is frequently severe.... haemoglobinopathies

A bleeding pile... haemorrhoid

(Arabic) Resembling a young lioness; a wife of Muhammad Hafza, Hafsah, Hafzah, Haphsa, Haphza... hafsa

(Arabic) One who is protected by God Haftha... hafthah

(Welsh) Possessing the beauty of summer

Hafwenne, Hafwin, Hafwyn, Hafwinne, Hafwynne, Hafwenn, Hafwinn, Hafwynn... hafwen

(Hebrew) Resembling a grasshopper Hagabah, Hagaba, Hagabe... hagab

(Hebrew) One who has been abandoned

Hagae, Hagay, Hagaye, Haggai, Haggae, Hagie, Haggie, Hagi, Haggi, Hagee, Haggee, Hagea, Haggea, Hagy, Haggy, Hagey, Haggey... hagai

(Hebrew) One who is forsaken; taking flight; a stranger Haggar, Hagir, Hajar, Hagyr, Hagarr... hagar

(Irish) A youthful woman Hagan, Haggen, Haggan... hagen

(Hebrew) One who rejoices; the dancer

Haggithe, Haggyth, Haggythe, Hagith, Hagithe, Hagyth, Hagythe... haggith

(Greek) One who is pure; chaste Hagna, Hagni, Hagnie, Hagnee, Hagnea, Hagneah, Hagny, Hagney... hagne

(African) A charming woman Hayba, Haibah, Haybah, Haeba, Haebah... haiba

(Greek) A modest woman; one who is well-behaved

Hadee, Haydee, Haydy, Haidi, Haidie, Haydi, Haydie, Haidy, Haedee, Haedi, Haedie, Haedy, Haedey, Haedea, Haidea, Haydea... haidee

(Indian) A queen of the snow-covered mountains

Haimatie, Haimaty, Haimatey, Haimatee, Haymati, Haymatie, Haymatee, Haimatea, Haymatea... haimati

(Hawaiian) One who searches for the truth

Haimie, Haimy, Haimey, Haimee, Haymi, Haymie, Haymee, Haimea, Haymea... haimi

The Australian colloquial term for Cyanea - also known as Lion’s Mane in many other countries.... hair jellyfish

See DEPILATION.... hair, removal of

(Native American) Resembling the dove; bird of peace

Haiwea, Haiwie, Haiwi, Haiwy, Haiwey... haiwee

(Hungarian) Form of Ann, meaning “a woman graced with God’s favor” Hajne... hajna

(Hungarian) Born with the morning’s first light

Hajnale, Hajnala, Hajnalla, Hajnalka... hajnal

(Turkish) Feminine form of Hakan; ruler of the people; an empress Hakanah, Hakanna, Hakane, Hakann, Hakanne... hakana

(Native American) Born during a period of expectation... hakidonmuya

(Hebrew) One who has the qualities of a thorn

Hakoz, Hakkoze, Hakoze, Hakkoza, Hakoza... hakkoz

(Arabic) Possessing a lunar halo Halah, Haala, Hila, Hilah... hala

(German) A religious woman; one who is pious... halag

(Hebrew) One who is bald; smooth... halak

(Greek) Resembling a kingfisher; born during a time of peace and calm Halcyon, Halcyona, Halcyonia, Halcyonea... halcyone

(Scandinavian) One who is half Danish

Haldah, Haldane, Haldayn, Haldayne, Haldain, Haldaine, Haldaen, Haldaene, Haldana, Haldania, Haldanea, Halden, Haldin, Haldyn, Haldi, Haldie, Haldee, Haldea, Haldey, Haldy, Haldis... halda

(Norse) One who is half Danish Haldanah, Haldanna, Haldane, Haldayne, Haldaine, Haldaene... haldana

(Teutonic / Greek) A stone spirit / a reliable helper

Haldisa, Haldys, Haldiss, Haldisse, Haldyss, Haldysse, Halldis, Halldiss, Halldisse, Halldys, Halldyss, Halldysse... haldis

(Norse) Feminine form of Haldor; Thor’s rock

Haldorah, Haldoria, Haldorea, Haldorra, Halldora, Halldorra, Halldoria, Halldorea... haldora

(English) From the hall of light; a heroine

Hayle, Haile, Haylan, Haylen, Hael, Haele, Hayl... hale

(Hawaiian) Born with the rising sun

Haleea, Haleya, Halya... haleigha

(Russian) A steadfast woman Haleen, Haleene, Halein, Haleine, Halien, Haliene... halene

(Greek) A little girl from the meadow

Halett, Halet, Haleta, Halette, Halete... haletta

(English) From the field of hay Hailey, Hayle, Hailee, Haylee, Haylie, Haleigh, Hayley, Haeleigh, Haeli, Haili, Haily, Halea, Hayleigh, Hayli, Hailea, Haile, Hailie, Halie, Hali, Halee, Haelee... haley

(German) A peaceful woman Halfryda, Halfrieda, Halfreida, Halfreeda, Halfreada... halfrida

(Hebrew) One who is hollow inside; full of grief... halhul

(Hawaiian) The remembrance of one who was loved... halia

The oil expressed from fresh, or suitably preserved, halibut liver. It is a particularly rich source of vitamin A (30,000 international units per gram), and also contains vitamin D (2,300– 2,500 units per gram). It is available in capsules as a means of providing the two vitamins. (See APPENDIX 5: VITAMINS.)... halibut-liver oil

(Arabic) A mild-mannered woman; one who is gentle

Halimah, Haleema, Haleemah, Haleima, Halyma, Helima, Helimah, Helyma, Heleema, Heleemah, Haleama, Haleamah, Heleama, Heleamah... halima

(Greek) Woman from the sea Halameda, Halymeda, Halimyda, Halymyda, Halamyda, Halimida, Halamida... halimeda

(Greek / Polish) Born of the light / one who is calm

Halinah, Haleena, Haleenah, Halyna, Halynah, Haleina, Haleinah, Haleana, Haleanah, Haliena, Halienah, Halena, Halenah... halina

(American) One who is distinguished Haul... hall

(African) An unexpected gift Hallah... halla

(English) From the valley Hallem, Halam, Halem... hallam

(English) From the manor’s hall Hallen, Halan, Halen... hallan

(Hebrew) One who is much praised... hallei

(Hebrew) One who is praiseworthy Hallella, Halleli, Hallelie, Hallely, Halleley, Hallelee, Hallelea... hallela

(Hebrew) Praise the Lord our God

Halleluja... hallelujah

(Scandinavian / Greek / English) From the hall / woman of the sea / from the field of hay

Halley, Hallie, Halle, Hallee, Hally, Halleigh, Hallea, Halleah... hallie

False perceptions arising without an adequate external stimulus, as opposed to illusions, which are misinterpretations of stimuli arising from an external object. Hallucinations come from ‘within’, although the affected individual may see them as coming from ‘without’. Nevertheless, they may occur at the same time as real perceptions, and may affect any sense (vision, hearing, smell, taste, touch, etc.).

Causes They may be the result of intense emotion or suggestion, sensory deprivation (for example, overwork or lack of sleep), disorders of sense organs, or disorders of the central nervous system. Although hallucinations may occur in perfectly sane people, they are more commonly an indication of a MENTAL ILLNESS. They may be deliberately induced by the use of HALLUCINOGENS.... hallucinations

US Army discovered antimalarial related to mefloquine, used to kill blood parasites, especially in the treatment of severe malaria due to Plasmodium falciparum.... halofantrine

(Native American) Resembling a salmon

Haloka, Halokia, Halokea... haloke

(Native American) Woman of good fortune

Halonna, Halonah, Halonia, Halonea... halona

A very rare form of HEPATITIS following exposure to HALOTHANE during anaesthesia (1:35,000 halothane anaesthetics). Jaundice develops three to four days after exposure and will occasionally develop into a fatal massive hepatic necrosis. It is of unknown aetiology but probably has an immunological basis. It is more common following multiple exposures in a short time (less than 28 days), and in obesity, middle age and females. It is rare in children.... halothane hepatitis

(American) A playful woman Halsy, Halsee, Halsea, Halsi, Halsie, Halcie, Halcy, Halcey, Halcea, Halcee, Halci... halsey

(American) A stylish woman Halsten, Halstin, Halstun, Halstan, Halstyn... halston

(American) A unique young woman Halynn, Halynne, Halin, Halinn, Halinne... halyn

(American) A great leader Halzy, Halzee, Halzea, Halzi, Halzie... halzey

(Arabic) From the city on the river Hamah, Hamma, Hammah... hama

One of the carpal bones of the HAND that articulate between the METATARSAL BONES and the RADIUS and ulnar bones of the forearm.... hamate

(Hebrew) From the mighty fortress

Hamathe, Hamoth, Hamothe, Hamatha, Hamotha... hamath

(Arabic) One who gives thanks Hamidah, Hamyda, Hameeda, Hameida, Hamieda, Hameada, Hamydah, Hameedah, Hameidah, Hamiedah, Hameadah... hamida

(American) A dreamer; one who is wishful

Hamylton, Hamilten, Hamylten, Hamiltyn, Hamyltyn... hamilton

(Hebrew) Of the warm springs... hammon

(Latin) Form of Harmony, meaning “unity; musically in tune” Hamoney, Hamoni, Hamonie, Hamonee, Hamonea... hamony

The name given to the tendons at the back of the knee – two on the inner side and one on the outer side – which bend this joint. They are attached to the tibia below. Strains, or ‘pulls’, and tears of the hamstring are common in people taking part in strenuous sports such as athletics, football, rugby and tennis (see SPORTS MEDICINE).... hamstrings

(Hebrew) Feminine form of Hamul; spared by God Hamulah, Hamulla, Hamullah... hamula

(Hebrew) Of the morning dew Hamutala, Hamutalle, Hamutalla... hamutal

(Japanese / Arabic) Resembling a flower blossom / a blissful woman Hanah, Hanako... hana

(Hebrew) A gift from God Hanameela, Hannameel, Hanamele, Hanamelle, Hanamella, Hananeel, Hananeela, Hanameal, Hanameala, Hananeal, Hananeala... hanameel

(Arabic) One who shows mercy and compassion... hanan

(Hebrew) Feminine form of Hanan; one who is gracious Hanannah, Hanana, Hananah... hananna

(Turkish) A woman with an infectious smile... hande

Looking for articles, not by searching electronic databases, but by systematically going through journals.... handsearching

(Vietnamese) Of the moon... hang

A splitting of the skin (cuticle) at the side of a ?ngernail. In manual workers it is usually caused by trauma, but ISCHAEMIA of the ?ngers (see also RAYNAUD’S DISEASE) may predispose to the condition. Secondary infection and in?ammation may make hang-nail a very tender condition; treatment consists of reducing trauma, and the use of EMOLLIENTS and ANTIBIOTICS if necessary.... hang-nail

Hanging is a form of death due to suspension of the body from the neck – either suddenly, as in judicial hanging (although not in the United Kingdom, as the death penalty is not used in the UK justice system), so as to damage the spinal column and cord, or in such a way as to constrict the AIR PASSAGES and the blood vessels to the brain. Death is, in any case, speedy, resulting in 2–3 minutes if not instantaneously. Apart from judicial hanging, and in the absence of any signs of a struggle, hanging is usually due to SUICIDE. The resuscitation of people found hanging is similar to that for drowning. (See APPENDIX 1: BASIC FIRST AID – Cardiac/respiratory arrest.)... hanging

(Vietnamese) From the apricot tree... hanh

(Arabic) Feminine form of Hanif; a true believer; one who is upright Hanifah, Haneefa, Haneefah, Hanyfa, Hanyfah, Haneifa, Haneifah, Haniefa, Haniefah, Haneafa, Haneafah... hanifa

(Hebrew) A graceful woman Hanikah, Haneeka, Haneekah, Hanyka, Hanykah, Haneika, Haneikah, Hanieka, Haniekah, Haneaka, Haneakah... hanika

(Indian) Of the waves Hanimah, Hanyma, Haneema, Hanymah, Haneemah, Haneima, Haneimah, Haniema, Haniemah, Haneama, Haneamah... hanima

(Indian) Favored with divine grace Hanitah, Hanyta, Haneeta, Hanytah, Haneetah, Haneita, Haneitah, Hanieta, Hanietah, Haneata, Haneatah... hanita

(Arabic) One who is pleased; happy

Haniya, Haniyyah, Haniyya, Hani, Hanie, Hanee, Hany, Haney, Hanea, Haneah... haniyah

(German) Favored with grace and beauty

Hannabelle, Hannabell, Hannabele, Hannabela, Hannabella... hannabel

(Hebrew) Having favor and grace; in the Bible, mother of Samuel Hanalee, Hanalise, Hanna, Hanne, Hannele, Hannelore, Hannie, Hanny, Honna, Hannalee, Hendel, Hannaleigh, Honna, Hannea, Hanneka, Hannika, Hannela, Hannella, Hannalea... hannah

(American) One who is graceful Hannett, Hannet, Hannete, Hannetta, Hanneta... hannette

(Indian) As graceful as a swan Hansika, Hansini, Hansinie, Hansia, Hansea... hansa

See LEPROSY.... hansen’s disease

(Hebrew) Feminine form of John; God is gracious

Hansyne, Hanseen, Hansinah, Hansina, Hansyna, Hannes, Hanseane, Hanseana, Hanseena... hansine

(Aboriginal) As solid as a stone... hanya

(African) Traveling a road or path Hanzilah, Hanzilla, Hanzillah, Hanzyla, Hanzylla, Hanzylah, Hanzyllah... hanzila

Usually known as the blue-ringed octopus, a bite from this cephalopod can cause respiratoryparalysis (but not unconsciousness) within 30 minutes of a painless bite by the beak on the underside of this small octopus. It is normally some 8-11cm across, and a dull brown colour. However, when irritated (eg. by children playing with it) attractive blue rings appear, and a bite may occurs. Rapid (within 10 minutes) onset of progressive muscle weakness, with speech and respiratory difficulty, dysphagia and visual disturbance occur; respiratory failure mayoccur. There have been two Australian deaths. EAR can prevent death from respiratory failure.... hapalochlaena spp.

(Roxb.) Nees.

Family: Acanthaceae.

Habitat: Hills of Deccan Peninsula and parts of western and central India.

Folk: Kaalaa-Kirayaat (Maharashtra).

Action: Febrifuge, bitter tonic.

A closely related species, Haplan- thus tentaculatus Nees, is also known as Kaalaa-Kiryaat. The herb is given in fever.... haplanthus verticillatus

(American) A joyful woman Happey, Happi, Happie, Happee, Happea... happy

(Egyptian) A truthful woman; one who is honest

Haqika, Haquikah, Haquika, Haqyka... haqikah

(Hebrew) From the mountainous land Harah, Harra, Harrah... hara

(African) Resembling a frog... haracha

(Hebrew) One who is filled with fear Harada... haradah

(Norse) Feminine form of Harold; the ruler of an army

Haraldene, Haraldina, Harolda, Haroldene, Haroldina, Haraldia, Harelda, Hareldina, Hareldene, Harelde, Harolde, Haraldyna, Haroldyna, Hareldyna, Haraldyne, Haroldyne, Hareldyne... haralda

(Hebrew) Feminine form of Haran; a great moutaineer; one who is parched Haranah, Haranna, Haranne, Harane, Harann... harana

(Hebrew) Possessing a burning heat

Harhure, Harhurr, Harhura, Harhurra... harhur

(Turkish) A superior woman Harikah, Haryka, Hareeka, Harykah, Hareekah, Hareaka, Hareakah... harika

(German) A warrior maiden Harimanne, Harimana, Harimane... harimanna

(Indian) Born during the spring Harimantie, Harymanti, Harimanty, Harymanty, Harymantie, Harimantea, Harymantea... harimanti

(Indian) A doe-eyed young woman

Harinakshie, Harynakshi, Harinakshy, Harynakshy, Harinakshea, Harynakshea, Harynakshie... harinakshi

(Indian) Resembling a deer Harinie, Harinee, Hariny, Haryni, Harynie, Haryny, Harinea, Harynea, Harynee... harini

(Indian) In mythology, the goddess for the protection of children Haritie, Haryti, Harytie, Haritee, Harytee, Haritea, Harytea... hariti

The term applied to water that contains a large amount of calcium and magnesium salts (lime salts). These form an insoluble curd with soap and thus interfere with the use of the water for washing. Hard water is especially found in districts where the soil is chalky. Temporary hardness, which is due mainly to the presence of bicarbonates of lime, can be remedied by boiling, when the lime is precipitated as carbonate of lime. Permanent hardness is not remedied by boiling, and is due to the presence of a large amount of sulphate of lime. It may be removed by the addition of sodium carbonate (washing soda) or by the Permutit process which involves the use of various combinations of silicate of alumina and soda. In the past, hard water was often blamed for many ills – without any convincing evidence. Epidemiologists suggest that drinking soft water may lead to a greater risk of heart disease.... hard water

Roxb.

Family: Caesalpiniaceae.

Habitat: Dry forests of Deccan Peninsula, Central India and parts of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.

Ayurvedic: Anjana.

Siddha/Tamil: Katudugu, Kodapalai.

Action: Balsam—used for sexually transmitted diseases. The balsam is similar to Copaiba balsam (Copaifera langsdorffii Desf., Leguminosae) of Brasil and is used in leucorrhoea, chronic cystitis, gonorrhoea, combined with cubebs and sandal. The resin (not the oleo-resin) is used as diuretic.

The essential oil of H. binata is not a substitute for Copaiba oil.

The methanolic extract of the heart- wood yields beta-sitosterol, (+)-taxifo- lin, eriodictyol, (+)-catechin, (+)-epi- catechin and (+)-mopanol. The phenolic compounds are said to impart antibacterial and antifungal property to the herb.

The bark has a good absorption capacity for mercury from water.... hardwickia binata

(English) From the fields Harlah... harla

(English) An athletic woman Harlen, Harlon, Harlun, Harlyn... harlan

(American) A romantic woman Harlequin, Harlequen, Harlequene, Harlequinne, Harlequinn... harlequine

(English) From the meadow of the hares

Harlea, Harlee, Harleen, Harleigh, Harlene, Harlie, Harli, Harly... harley

(American) An impetuous woman Harlowe, Harlo, Harloe... harlow

(English / Latin) Unity; musically in tune / in mythology, Harmonia was the daughter of Ares and Aphrodite; a beautiful blending

Harmonie, Harmoni, Harmonee, Harmonia, Harmoney, Harmonea... harmony

(English) One who plays or makes harps

Harpur, Harpar, Harpir, Harpyr... harper

(American) A great leader Harel, Harell, Harrel, Harelle, Harrelle... harrell

(German) Feminine form of Henry; ruler of the house

Harriett, Hanriette, Hanrietta, Harriette, Harrietta, Harrette, Harriot, Harriotte, Harriotte, Harriotta, Heirierte, Heirrierte... harriet

(Hebrew / Indian) An enchantress; a hardworking woman / a bringer of happiness Harshada, Harshah, Harshini, Harshinie, Harshyni, Harshynie, Harshita, Harshitah, Harshinea... harsha

(American) A warmhearted woman Hartly, Hartlee, Hartlea, Hartleigh, Hartlie, Hartli... hartley

A solution commonly used as a means of ?uid replacement in dehydrated patients (see also DEHYDRATION). Each litre contains 3·1 grams of sodium lactate, 6 grams of sodium chloride, 0·4 grams of potassium chloride, and 0·7 grams of calcium chloride.... hartmann’s solution

(Japanese) Daughter born in the spring

Haruko, Haruo, Haruki, Harue... haru

(Hebrew) Feminine form of Harum; one who is elevated... haruma

(Hebrew) Born of autumn’s rain Harupha, Haruphyte, Haruphita, Haruphitia... haruphite

(English) A warrior of the army... harva

A condition in which the whole of the THYROID GLAND is di?usely enlarged and ?rm. It is one of the diseases produced by AUTOIMMUNITY. The enlargement is due to di?use in?ltration of lymphocytes and increase of ?brous tissue. This form of GOITRE appears in middle-aged women, does not give rise to symptoms of thyrotoxicosis (see THYROID GLAND, DISEASES OF – Thyrotoxicosis), and tends to produce myxoedema (see THYROID GLAND, DISEASES OF – Hypothyroidism).... hashimoto’s disease

(Arabic) Feminine form of Hasib; one who is noble and respected Hasiba, Hasyba, Hasybah, Haseeba, Haseebah, Haseiba, Haseibah, Hasieba, Hasiebah, Haseaba, Haseabah... hasibah

(African) One who is good and beautiful

Hasinah, Hasyna, Hasynah, Haseena, Haseenah, Hasiena, Hasienah, Haseina, Haseinah, Haseana, Haseanah... hasina

(Indian) A bringer of happiness Hasumati... hasita

(Arabic) A beautiful woman Hasnah, Hasnaa, Husinya, Husniyah, Husna, Husn... hasna

(African) The first daughter Hassanah, Hassana, Hassaana... hassaanah

(Arabic) One who is well-behaved; good Hasunah... hasuna

(Native American) Leaving footprints in the sand... hateya

(Egyptian) In mythology, goddess of love

Hathora, Hathoria, Hathorea, Hathore... hathor

(Hebrew) A traveling woman; an explorer

Hatitah, Hatyta, Hatytah, Hateetah, Hateeta, Hateata, Hateatah... hatita

(Egyptian) A successful ruler; a female pharoah Hatchepsut... hatshepsut

(Japanese) The firstborn daughter... hatsu

(Hawaiian) Of the white snow Haukia, Haukeah, Haukiah, Haukiya, Haukiyah... haukea

(Hawaiian) Of the heavenly dew Haunanie, Haunany, Haunaney, Haunanee, Haunanea... haunani

(Hebrew) Feminine form of Hauran; woman from the caves Hauranna, Hauranah, Haurann, Hauranne, Haurane... haurana

(Native American) A wise old woman

Hausisse, Hausiss, Hausys, Hausyss, Hausysse... hausis

(French) A stylish woman Haute, Hauti, Hautie, Hautey, Hauty, Hautee, Hautea... haut

(Hebrew) A lively woman; giver of life Havah, Haya, Hayat, Havaa... hava

(Spanish) From the capital city of Cuba

Havanah, Havanna, Havannah, Havane, Havann, Havanne... havana

(English) One who provides a safe place

Hayven, Havan, Hayvan, Havon, Hayvon, Havin, Hayvin, Havyn, Hayvyn, Haeven, Haevin, Haevan... haven

The ?ne canals in BONE which carry the blood vessels, lymphatics and nerves necessary for the maintenance and repair of bone.... haversian canals

(Hebrew) From the stretch of sand Havila, Havillah, Havilla, Havily, Havili, Havilli, Havilie, Havillie, Havilea, Havillea... havilah

(American) A lively woman Havyland, Havilande, Havylande, Havilanda, Havylanda... haviland

(Turkish) A giver of the breath of life Havvah, Havvia, Havviah... havva

(African) One who is desired Hawah... hawa

(Arabic) A pleasant woman Hawada... hawadah

(Hawaiian) From the homeland; from the state of Hawaii... hawaii

(Arabic) A tribal name... hawazin

(American) Resembling the bird Hawki, Hawkie, Hawky, Hawkey, Hawkee, Hawkea... hawke

(American) A cunning woman Haukins, Hawkens, Haukens, Hawkuns, Haukuns... hawkins

(American) One who negotiates Hawleigh, Hawli, Hawlie, Hawlea, Hawly, Hawley... hawlee

(Arabic) A lively woman; a giver of life

Hawaa, Hawwah, Hawwaa... hawwa

(Japanese / Hebrew) One who is quick and light / form of Havva, meaning “a giver of the breath of life” Hayah... haya

(Arabic) One who is madly in love Hayaam... hayam

(American) A capable woman Haydi, Haydea, Haydie, Haydie, Haydy, Haydey... haydee

(English) From the hedged valley Haden, Haydan, Haydn, Haydon, Hayes, Haeden, Haedyn, Hadyn... hayden

(Arabic) A slender and delicate woman Hayfah, Haifa, Haifah, Haefa, Haefah... hayfa

(Arabic) From the mountain Hayuda, Hayudah, Hayood, Hayooda... hayud

(Turkish) Born during autumn Hazann, Hazanne, Hazana, Hazanna, Hazane... hazan

(Arabic) Resembling a nightingale Hazare, Hazara, Hazarra, Hazarre, Hazarr... hazar

A factor or exposure that may adversely affect health.... hazard (health)

(Hebrew) From the town of fountains

Hazara, Hazarah, Hazarenanna, Hazarena, Hazaryna... hazarenan

(Hebrew) From the town of fortune

Hazargadda, Hazargada, Hazargadah... hazargaddah

(American) One who is spontaneous Haize, Haise, Hase, Hayze, Hayse, Haeze, Haese, Hazi, Hazie, Hazy, Hazey, Hazee, Hazea... haze

(Hebrew) A shadowed woman Hazelelponie, Hazelelpony, Hazelelponey, Hazelelponee, Hazelelponea... hazelelponi

Corylus species

Description: Hazelnuts grow on bushes 1.8 to 3.6 meters high. One species in Turkey and another in China are large trees. The nut itself grows in a very bristly husk that conspicuously contracts above the nut into a long neck. The different species vary in this respect as to size and shape.

Habitat and Distribution: Hazelnuts are found over wide areas in the United States, especially the eastern half of the country and along the Pacific coast. These nuts are also found in Europe where they are known as filberts. The hazelnut is common in Asia, especially in eastern Asia from the Himalayas to China and Japan. The hazelnut usually grows in the dense thickets along stream banks and open places. They are not plants of the dense forest.

Edible Parts: Hazelnuts ripen in the autumn when you can crack them open and eat the kernel. The dried nut is extremely delicious. The nut’s high oil content makes it a good survival food. In the unripe stage, you can crack them open and eat the fresh kernel.... hazelnut or wild filbert

(African) One who is treasured Hazinah, Hazyna, Hazeena, Hazena, Hazeana, Hazynah, Hazeenah, Hazenah, Hazeanah... hazina

(Hebrew) From the stronghold Hazora, Hazoria, Hazorea, Hazorya, Hazorra, Hazorah... hazor

A systematic taxonomy of the consequences of injury and disease. See “disability”; “handicap”; “impairment”.... international classification of impairments, disabilities and handicaps (icidh)

The type of aquatic environment in which mosquito larvae are typically found.... larval habitat

Employment, Luck, Protection, Money, Travel... lucky hand

A complication of walking and running over long distances. It is due to damage to red blood cells in the blood vessels of the soles of the feet. This results in HAEMOGLOBIN being released into the bloodstream, which is then voided in the URINE – the condition known as HAEMOGLOBINURIA. No treatment is required.... march haemoglobinuria

A disorder characterised by irregular bouts of uterine (see UTERUS) bleeding – without previous OVULATION – due to excessive oestrogenic activity. It is associated with endometrial hyperplasia and cysts of the ovary.... metropathia haemorrhagica

Linn.

Family: Zygophyllaceae.

Habitat: Throughout Northern and Northwestern India, and in drier regions of Deccan.

English: Wild Rue; Foreign Henna, Syrian Rue.

Ayurvedic: Haramal, Isband.

Siddha/Tamil: Simaiyaravandi, Simaiyalavinai.

Action: Plant—emmenagogue, abortifacient. Seeds—narcotic, hypnotic, antispasmodic, anodyne and emetic; used in asthma, hiccough, colic, neuralgia, hysteria, dysmenorrhoea; used as abortifa- cient (properties similar to ergot, savine and rue). (Dried seeds constitute the drug Harmal of Indian medicine.)

The plant gave flavonoids—kaem- pferol, quercetin and acacetin. Aerial parts and seeds contain alkaloids— harmine, harmaline and harmalol (called harman alkaloids). Harman alkaloids from the seeds have been suggested for use in nervous diseases, and as coronary dilators and embolic. Harmol exhibits hypertensive activity. Harmine, vasicinone, deoxyvasici- none and 8-hydroxy glucosylharmine exhibit antitumour activity.

The alkaloids, harmine, harmaline and harmol exhibit antibacterial and antifungal activity.

The aqueous extract of seeds exhibited significant antiviral activity in vitro against herpes virus hominis type 1, slight activity was also observed against influenza viruses A and B. The plant extract exhibits significant analgesic activity.... peganum harmala

C. DC.

Family: Piperaceae.

Habitat: Sikkim, Terai, West Bengal and Khasi hills, up to 900 m.

English: Wild Pepper.

Folk: Jangali Paan.

Action: Carminative and diuretic.

Kadsurin A and isodihydrofuto- quinol B have been isolated from aerial parts.... piper hamiltonii

The habits determining the places and times of day or night that mosquitoes rest.... resting habits

Linn.

Family: Labiatae; Lamiaceae.

Habitat: Cultivated in Indian gardens.

English: Blood-veined Sage.

Unani: Behman Surkh. (Behman Safed is equated with Centaurea behen Linn.)

Action: Both the varieties of Behman are used in Unani medicine as a cardiac and sex tonic, also as a liver tonic in jaundice.... salvia haematodes

Linear bleeding under the ?ngernails. Although they may result from injury, they are a useful physical sign of infective ENDOCARDITIS.... splinter haemorrhages

Tea is a natural beverage that helps us stay healthy. It has plenty of health benefits related to our body - and this includes our hair, as well. Tea can act as a natural treatment for our hair. Find out more about teas for hair! Why choose tea for hair Tea can help you with various hair problems. Even if you do not have problems, you can use it as a natural “conditioner”. Benefits of tea for hair include: promoting hair growth, keeping your scalp clean, making your hair soft and shiny, acting as a mild, natural hair dye. Tea for hair Green tea is useful when it comes to preventing hair loss. Consumption of green tea reduces DHT levels and promotes blood circulation. To get these benefits, you can either drink green tea daily, massage your scalp after having rinsed your hair with green tea, or use hair care products which list green tea among their ingredients. Black tea also reduces hair loss. Besides this, it makes your hair soft and shiny, and it also acts as a mild, natural hair dye. Rinsing your hair with black tea can either darken it or bring out your natural highlights. Teas can help with hair growth, too. Types of tea which promote hair growth include nettle tea, lemongrass tea, rosemary tea and chamomile tea (which also helps you relax and reduces stress). Chamomile tea helps with scalp problems, as well, and so do burdock tea, comfrey root tea, calendula tea and marshmallow tea. Also, if you have problems with damaged hair, rinse it with neem tea. Side effects of tea for hair Side effects of green tea and black tea are related to the caffeine content which can be found in the Camellia Sinensis plant. If you know that coffee is not good for you, you might get some of these symptoms: dizziness, insomnia, loss of appetite and irritability. Rosemary tea should not be given to children under 18. Also, it should not be drunk by people taking blood-thinning drugs or high blood pressure medications. And as for marshmallow tea, it should not be drunk by people who suffer from diabetes or liver diseases. Tea can act as a natural conditioner for your hair. At the same time, when drinking it, you get many more health benefits, as well. Make sure you use these teas for hair!... tea for hair

The peculiarly sudden PULSE that is associated with incompetence of the AORTIC VALVE of the heart.... water-hammer pulse

The greying or whitening of hair which takes place with age is due to a loss of its pigment, MELANIN, and the collection of air bubbles in the shaft of the hair. There is no evidence that hair ever goes white overnight, whether in response to shock, strain or any other cause. Rapid whitening may occur patchily in a matter of days, but it is more often a matter of weeks or months. In the more rapid cases the cause is thought to be a form of ALOPECIA in which the dark hairs which fall out are replaced by white hairs. An alternative cause is VITILIGO. Certain drugs, including mephenesin and CHLOROQUINE, may also cause whitening of the hair.... white hair

To soften. Creams: Calendula, Chickweed, Aloe Vera, Evening Primrose. Castor oil (cold compress). ... breasts, hard

Bathe nipple with Vodka or gin. ... breasts, nipple – to harden

See: BLEEDING. ... eyes  - retinal haemorrhage

Agents used to increase haemoglobin in the blood. May be advised for iron-deficiency anaemia. Burdock, Devil’s Claw, Nettles, Red Clover, Yellow Dock. ... haematinics

A blood condition due to abnormal destruction of red blood cells in the spleen.

Causes: hereditary background with deficiency of cell enzymes or cell membrane weakness; wrongly matched blood transfusion, environmental chemicals, food additives, colourings, drugs, infections. Symptoms. Pale face, sore tongue, headache, dizziness, palpitations, breathlessness, angina, weakness, loss of weight and appetite, jaundice (yellow skin), feverishness, vague aches and pains, enlarged spleen and pain under left ribs.

Treatment. Under hospital supervision.

Echinacea has a long reputation for regeneration of red blood cells: experience shows it beneficial for this type of anaemia. To assist control of symptoms: Gentian, Motherwort, Mugwort, Barberry, Hops, Saw Palmetto.

Bitter herbs stimulate the stomach, liver and pancreas. By increasing the appetite they benefit digestion and are given half an hour before meals by tea or decoction: Hops, Quassia chips, Angostura, Feverfew, Bogbean.

Formula. Tea. Milk Thistle 2; Betony 1; Hops 1. Mix. 1-2 teaspoon to each cup boiling water. Infuse 5-15 minutes. 1 cup, thrice daily.

Decoction. Echinacea 1; Sarsaparilla 1; Peruvian bark half; Saw Palmetto half. Mix. 2 teaspoons to 2 cups water, simmer gently 20 minutes. Half a cup, cold, thrice daily before meals.

For weak heart add one part Hawthorn; neurasthenia (Ginkgo); swelling of ankles (Lily of the Valley); loss of hormonal balance (Ginseng).

Prognosis. Surgical removal of spleen may be necessary.

Diet. Dandelion coffee, molasses, desiccated or fresh calves’ liver. Green leafy vegetables, dried beans, apricots. Shellfish, milk, eggs, Soya, meats. Supplements. Daily. Vitamin B12 1mg; Vitamin C, 1g; Folic acid 400mcg; Floradix. ... anaemia: haemolytic

A group of powerful astringents clinical experience has shown to be effective in arresting mild to moderate internal bleeding.

Digestive tract: Marigold, Comfrey, Bur-Marigold, Matico, Shepherd’s Purse, Holy Thistle, American Cranesbill, Goldenseal.

Anal/Rectal: Pilewort, Plantain, Matico, Rhatany root, Witch Hazel.

Mouth: Tormentil.

Nose-bleeds: Nettles.

Uterus. Shepherd’s Purse, Ladies Mantle, Greater Periwinkle, Beth root, Avens, Goldenseal. Urinary system. Bistort, Plantain, Marigold, Stone root, Horsetail, Bur-Marigold.

Lungs. Bugleweed, Elecampane, Lungwort.

Colon. Greater Burnet, Matico, Comfrey, Bistort, Wild Yam, Holy Thistle, Avens, Tormentil. Capillary haemorrhage. Buckwheat. ... anti-haemorrhagics

Severe disease of the newly born and infants with jaundice and anaemia. Occurs when a Rhesus negative mother gives birth to a Rhesus positive child. There may be degeneration of nerve cells of the brain through circulating bile. Followed by water-logging of tissues lining lungs, abdomen or heart (hydrops).

Treatment. Purpose of medication is to stimulate flow of bile and support the liver.

Arthur Hyde, MNIMH recommends a selection from the following according to individual case: Balmony, Barberry, Dandelion, Goldenseal, Hops, Ladyslipper, Mistletoe, Passion flower, Stone root. Tinctures. Formula. Marigold 2; Barberry 2; Ginkgo 1. Dose: 2 drops in feed, or in water, thrice daily. Infants 3-5 years: 10 drops.

To be treated by or in liaison with a qualified medical practitioner. ... haemolytic disease of infants

An uncommon cause of kidney failure in children. The association of three processes: reduced platelets, haemolytic anaemia and kidney failure. Foodborne infection is spread by micro-organisms (E. coli, etc) with an affinity for the alimentary canal. The central nervous system is involved.

Onset: diarrhoea with streaks of blood, vomiting, breathlessness, feverishness, dizziness, jaundice and enlargement of the spleen.

Other causes may be mismatched food transfusion, environmental chemicals, nitrite food preservatives and analgesic drugs.

Alternatives. Tea. Combine herbs: Red Clover (to increase platelets) 3; Yarrow (kidneys) 2; Hops (cerebrospinal supportive) 1. 1-2 teaspoons to each cup boiling water; infuse 15 minutes. Half-1 cup freely.

Formula: Combine, Tinctures. Red Clover 2; Fringe Tree 1; Hops half. Dose: one 5ml teaspoon. Babies: 2 drops in feed; infants 3-5 years 10 drops in water and honey thrice daily.

Supplementation. Vitamin B-complex. C.

To be treated by or in liaison with a qualified medical practitioner. ... haemolytic-uraemia syndrome (hus)

Hair is believed to be a “time capsule” of a person’s metabolic activity. Believed to be a useful means of acquiring information regarding the concentration of mineral nutrients and toxins. Alone, it does not provide sufficient evidence for purposes of diagnosis, but helpful in building a picture of the nutritional state of the patient. ... hair analysis

Internally, and externally where lotions, creams etc are available. Burdock root, Comfrey, Elderflowers, Geranium, Marshmallow, Nettles, Parsley, Sage.

Itchy scalp. Catmint leaves and flowers, Chamomile, Comfrey. ... hair – dry

To arrest recent fall-out where baldness has not been established. See: HAIR LOSS for internal treatments.

Topical. Massage scalp with creams or lotions of Jojoba, Aloe Vera, or wash with strong teas made from Burdock, Sage, Elder leaves, Walnut leaves or Nettles. Apple Cider vinegar.

Aromatherapy. 2 drops each: Sage, Nettles, Thyme to two teaspoons Gin, Vodka or strong spirit. Massage into scalp daily.

Supplements. Biotin, a growth factor, seems to slow down hair loss and is a substitute for oestrogen in a penetrating cream applied to the scalp. Inositol 300mg; Zinc 15mg, daily. ... hair falling

Rinse hair with strong decoction of Rosemary, Red Sage or Oak bark: believed to temporarily allay greying of the hair.

Supplements: PABA, Vitamin B-complex, Kelp, Selenium, Zinc. ... hair – greying

To condition. Calendula, Clary, all kinds of mints, Horsetail, Lavender, Lemon Balm, Rosemary, Southernwood. Internal and external. ... hair – oily

Dr SAMUEL (1755-1843). Born: Meissen, Germany. Discovered a science of healing which he called Homoeopathy, based on the immutable law of similia similibus curentur (like cures like). It brings to the treatment of human and animal sickness a universal law, which in the field of medicine ranks with Newton’s Law of Gravity in physics.

Far in advance of his time in preventive medicine, he denounced the hazardous treatments of his day thus arousing the animosity of his contemporaries. His major work, “The Organon” is the homoeopathist’s bible to this day. “Cinchona bark was to Hahnemann what the falling apple was to Newton and the swinging lamp to Galileo.” See: HOMOEOPATHY. ... hahnemann

Hair, like nails and skin, is a protein material built up on amino acids. It is rich in minerals, especially sulphur. A sebaceous gland at the base of the hair follicle secretes sebum, an oily substance, which acts as a lubricant. When vital minerals and vitamins are lacking in the blood the quality of fibre and sebum deteriorates resulting in lustreless hair and change of texture. Healthy hair depends upon good personal hygiene, brushing, and washing with gentle-acting materials instead of harsh detergent shampoos which remove natural oils from the scalp and spoils its condition.

An adequate daily intake of essential fatty acids is assured by the golden oils (Sunflower, Corn, etc) which can be well supported by Evening Primrose oil capsules.

Internal: Bamboo gum. Nettle tea, Alfalfa, Horsetail, Soya.

Topical. Shampoo. Soapwort or Yucca. Chop 2 tablespoons (dry) or 1 tablespoon (fresh) leaves or root. Place in cup of warm water. Stir until a froth is produced. Decant and massage liquor into scalp.

Aloe Vera gel is noted for its moisturising effect and to provide nutrients. It may be used as a shampoo, hair set and conditioner. Jojoba oil has been used for centuries by the Mexican Indians for a healthy scalp; today, it is combined with Evening Primrose and Vitamin E with good effect. Olive oil stimulates strong growth.

One of several herbs may be used as a rinse, including Nettles, Rosemary, Southernwood, Fennel, Chamomile, Yellow Dock and Quassia. Hair should be washed not more than once weekly with warm water and simple vegetable soap; rinse four times with warm rinse, finishing off with cold. Brunettes should add a little vinegar; blondes, lemon juice. Selenium once had a reputation as a hair conditioner; recent research confirms. Selenium shampoos are available.

Supplements: Vitamins B (complex), B6, Choline, C and E. Copper, Zinc, Selenium, Vitamin B12 (50mg thrice daily).

Aromatherapy. 2 drops each: Sage, Nettles, Thyme; to 2 teaspoons Gin or Vodka, and massage into the scalp daily. ... hair care

See: HIRSUTISM.

HAKIMS. A group of herbal therapists, usually Indian or Muslim, who practise the Ayurvedic system of medicine. See: AYURVEDIC.

HALFA SUDANI. Sudanese grass. Hamareb. Traditional reputation in Egypt and the Sudan for breaking- up gravel and stone. Due to high salt content in soil and water, gravel is a common native affliction.

Tea: whole plant: 1oz to 1 pint water simmered 5 minutes. 1 cup freely until all is taken during the day. Continue until positive results ensue. ... hair – surplus

Greco-Arabian and Ayurvedic Medicine. Islamic Research and scholarship. Research into natural medicines on the Indian Continent and Far East; traditional medicines of Pakistan. President: Hakim Mohammed Said, distinguished physician, researcher and publisher.

Publications include: Hamdard Pharmacopoeia of Eastern Medicine; Greco-Arabian Concepts of Cardio-vascular Disease; Avicenna’s Tract of Cardiac Drugs and Essays on Arab Cardiotherapy. Scientific journal: Hamdard Medicus – informative articles by world authorities. Hamdard Foundation, Nazimabad, Karachi-18, Pakistan. ... hamdard national foundation, pakistan

Dry skin: Avocado or Elderblossom cream.

Oily skin: Witch Hazel cream, cleansing milk or skin freshener.

To maintain healthy skin: Cucumber cleansing cream, or milk; Marigold cream.

Formula: Almond oil 2; Apricot kernel oil 1; Beeswax 1. Dissolve in a pan in gentle heat; pour into pots. To soothe chapped hands, wind burn, and for general kitchen use. ... hand cream

Fern. Phyllitis scolopendrium L. Scolopendrium vulgare L. Dried leaves. Keynotes: liver and spleen.

Constituents: flavonoids, tannins, mucilage.

Action: spleen and liver astringent, pectoral, laxative, diuretic. Uses. Disorders of liver and spleen BHP (1983). Gravel.

Combines well with Fringe Tree BHP (1983).

Preparations: Average dose 2-4g. Thrice daily.

Tea. 1 heaped teaspoon to each cup of boiling water; infuse 15 minutes; dose half-1 cup. Liquid extract. Half-1 teaspoon in water.

Tincture BHP (1983) 1:5 in 45 per cent alcohol; dose 2-6ml. ... hart’s tongue

Bleeding within or around the brain that is caused either by injury or by spontaneous rupture of a blood vessel. There are 4 possible types of brain haemorrhage: subdural, extradural, subarachnoid, and intracerebral. Extradural and subdural haemorrhages are usually the result of a blow to the head (see head injury). Subarachnoid and intracerebral haemorrhages usually occur spontaneously due to rupture of aneurysms or small blood vessels in the brain.... brain haemorrhage

Alopecia. Baldness. Shedding of the hair in patches leaving glossy bald areas. It is normal to lose about one hundred hairs a day, but severe stress such as unemployment, divorce or death in a family may considerably increase hair loss. Losses of long-standing are seldom recovered.

Causes: hormone deficiency (Agnus Castus) in females, where it may be associated with failing thyroid or ovarian function. In such cases, other agents include: Helonias, Motherwort, Black Haw bark. Other causes may be pregnancy, the menopause, or simply discontinuing The Pill. Certain skin diseases predispose: ringworm (Thuja), eczema (Yellow Dock), from thyroid disorder (Kelp, Blue Flag root).

Exposure to some cosmetics, excessive sunlight, strong chemicals and treatment of cancer with cytotoxic drugs may interfere with nutrition of the hair follicles. To ensure a healthy scalp a correct mineral balance is essential calling for supplementation of the diet with vitamins, selenium, zinc and silica. Yellow Dock is believed to counter toxicity of chemicals; Pleurisy root opens the pores to promote sweat and action of surface capillaries.

Baldness sometimes happens suddenly; eye-lashes or beard may be affected. Though emotional stress and a run-down condition is a frequent cause, most cases are not permanent, returning to normal with adequate treatment.

Baldness of the eyebrows alerts us to a lowered function of the thyroid gland, being an early outward sign of myxoedema. A pony-tail hair style or the wearing of a crash helmet may cause what is known as traction alopecia. Heavy coffee drinkers invariably lose hair lustre.

Soviet Research favours silica-rich plants internally and as a lotion: Horsetail, Burdock, Nettles, Bamboo gum.

Growth of hair is assisted by improving surface circulation of the scalp which is beneficial for conveying nutrients to the hair roots and facilitating drainage. Herbal vasodilators stimulate hair follicle nutrition and encourage growth: Cayenne, Pleurisy root, Black Cohosh and Prickly Ash, taken internally. A convenient way of taking Cayenne is the use of a pepper-shaker at table.

Topical. Hair rinse. 2-3 times weekly. Infusion: equal parts Yarrow, Sage and Rosemary. 1oz (30g) to 1 pint (500ml) water. Simmer gently five minutes. Allow to cool. Strain before use.

Cider vinegar – minimal success reported.

Day lotion. Liquid Extract Jaborandi half an ounce; Tincture Cantharides half an ounce; Oil Jojoba to 4oz. Shake well before use.

Oily lotion. Equal parts Olive and Eucalyptus oils.

Bay Rhum Lotion. Oil of Bay 50 drops; Olive oil half an ounce; Rum (Jamaica or other) to 4oz. Shake well before use.

Oil Rosemary: rub into hair roots.

Russian Traditional. Castor oil half an ounce; Almond oil 1oz; Oil Geranium 15 drops; Vodka to 6oz. Rub into hair roots.

Aromatherapy. To 1oz Castor oil and 1oz Olive oil add, 10 drops each – Oils Neroli, Lavender and Rosemary.

Gentian plant extract. Japanese scalp massage with extract from roots to thicken thinning hair. Some success reported.

Supplements. B-vitamins, Kelp, Silicea Biochemic salt. Zinc. Low levels of iron and zinc can cause the condition.

Note: Studies show that male occipital baldness confers a risk of heart disease, being associated with a higher total cholesterol and diastolic blood pressure than men with a full head of hair. Frontal baldness has not been found to be associated with increased risk of coronary heart disease and myocardial infarct. “It seems prudent for bald men to be specially vigorous in controlling risk factors for such conditions.” (S.M. Lesko, Journal of the American Medical Association, Feb 24, 1993, 269: 998-1003) ... hair loss

An ulcer, usually on the genitals, that develops during the first stage of syphilis.... chancre, hard

The medical term for cauliflower ear.... haematoma auris

See anaemia, haemolytic.... haemolytic anaemia

A rare disease in which red blood cells are destroyed prematurely and the kidneys are damaged, causing acute kidney failure. Thrombocytopenia can also occur. Haemolytic–uraemic syndrome most commonly affects young children and may be triggered by a serious bacterial or viral infection. Symptoms include weakness, lethargy, and a reduction in the volume of urine. Seizures may occur. Blood and urine tests can determine the degree of kidney damage. Dialysis may be needed until the kidneys have recovered. Most patients recover normal renal function.... haemolytic–uraemic syndrome

Haemorrhagic fever with kidney syndrome (HFRS). Has been known for years by the Chinese and other nations of antiquity. Over 3,000 cases recorded during the Korean War (1951- 1952), the disease taking its name from the River Hantaan, South Korea.

Cause: a virus spread by field mice, rats and other rodents. Incubation period: 2-3 weeks.

Symptoms: fever, headache, backache, severe nervous prostration, low blood pressure, red patches on skin, failure of kidneys, high protein levels in urine. Small red or purple spots indicate bleeding beneath the skin.

Treatment. Traditional. Ayurvedic:– Gotu Kola, Juniper. Dr Mattiolus regards Juniper as a preventative of the pestilence.

To be treated by or in liaison with a qualified medical practitioner. HARPAGOPHYTUM. See: DEVIL’S CLAW. ... hantaan virus

Older generations of herbalists attached great importance to the time of collection. The most auspicious hour may vary from herb to herb and is recorded in the old herbals. The kind of weather, with presence or absence of sunlight, are now known to affect the potency of a plant. Much herb lore of history has been vindicated by today’s scientific research, with the discovery that the quality of active ingredients depends upon such variables as season, location, and the time of day when gathered. Different parts of herbs are gathered at different times.

Herbs should be collected in dry weather after the dew has lifted. Where not possible to cull by hand, a sharp knife or scythe should be used. In general, aerial parts should be gathered before flowering. Rhizomes and roots are gathered in the autumn when the leaves decline for maximum therapeutic action. Wash and clean roots, and ensure they do not touch when drying. Flowers are picked just before breaking into full bloom. Barks and twigs are collected in the spring when the sap is rising.

Spread out fresh material to dry in a thin layer, without delay. Use trays, wire racks, even lengths of string netting. Packed into bundles without circulation of air encourages bruising, fermentation and mould that destroy medicinal properties.

Almost any shed can be adapted as a drying shed, provided there is adequate ventilation. Artificial heat may be required for complete drying. Leaves should not be dried to the point where they powder when rubbed between the palms. Most herbs and roots lose about four-fifths of their weight on drying. When the hand is plunged into a bag of well-dried herbs they should feel warm and crisp to the touch. Roots are dried to the point of brittleness, breaking easily.

Present-day growers achieve high standards of drying. Since passage of the Medicine’s Act, 1968, the quality of herbs on sale has been good. Dried herbs should be stored away from direct sunlight, or they will lose their colour and efficacy. ... harvesting of herbs

A bacterium (see bacteria) responsible for numerous cases of the infectious diseases epiglottitis and meningitis.... haemophilus influenzae

The medical term for blood in the semen (see semen, blood in the).... haemospermia

A group of drugs used to treat bleeding disorders and to control bleeding. Haemostatic preparations that help blood clotting are given to people who have deficiencies of natural clotting factors. For example, factor VIII is used to treat haemophilia. Drugs that prevent the breakdown of fibrin in clots, such as tranexamic acid, can also improve haemostasis.... haemostatic drugs

See hirsutism; hypertrichosis.... hairiness, excessive

Hair is usually removed from the body for cosmetic reasons.

It may also be shaved from around an incision site before surgery.

Temporary methods include shaving, waxing, depilatory creams, and waxing; electrolysis is the only permanent method of removal.... hair removal

 Caused by disease toxins that kill off red blood cells, or autoimmune disease.

Treatment: emphasis is on new red cell production. Dosage would be according to individual tolerance. Alternatives. Tea. Mix equal parts: Agrimony, Clivers, Red Clover flowers. 2 teaspoons to each cup boiling water; infuse 5-15 minutes; one cup every 3 hours.

Decoction. Equal parts: Fringe Tree, Gentian, Milk Thistle. 2 teaspoons to each cup water gently simmered 20 minutes. Half-1 cup every 3 hours, or as much as tolerated.

Tablets/capsules. Red Clover, Ginseng.

Formula. Equal parts: Fringe Tree, Yellow Dock root, Dandelion. Dose – Powders: 500mg (two 00 capsules or one-third teaspoon). Liquid Extracts: one 5ml teaspoon. Tinctures: two 5ml teaspoons. Every 3 hours in water or honey. ... jaundice, haemolytic

A form of anaemia caused by premature destruction of red cells in the bloodstream (haemolysis). Haemolytic anaemias can be classified according to whether the cause of haemolysis is inside or outside the red cells.

When haemolysis is due to a defect inside the red cells, the underlying problem is abnormal rigidity of the cell membrane. This causes the cells to become trapped, at an early stage of their life-span, in the small blood vessels of the spleen, where they are destroyed by macrophages (cells that ingest foreign particles). Abnormal rigidity may result from an inherited defect of the cell membrane (as in hereditary spherocytosis), a defect of the haemoglobin in the cell (as in sickle-cell anaemia), or a defect of one of the cell’s enzymes. An inherited deficiency of the glucose-6phosphate dehydrogenase enzyme (see G6PD deficiency) may result in episodes of haemolytic anaemia since the red cells are prone to damage by infectious illness or certain drugs or foods.

Haemolytic anaemias due to defects outside the red cells fall into 3 main groups. First are disorders in which red cells are destroyed by buffeting (by artificial surfaces such as replacement heart valves, abnormal blood-vessel linings, or a blood clot in a vessel, for example). In the 2nd group, the red cells are destroyed by the immune system. Immune haemolytic anaemias may occur if foreign blood cells enter the bloodstream, as occurs in an incompatible blood transfusion, or they may be due to an autoimmune disorder. In haemolytic disease of the newborn, the baby’s red cells are destroyed by the mother’s antibodies crossing the placenta. Thirdly, the red cells may be destroyed by microorganisms; the most common cause is malaria. People with haemolytic anaemia may have symptoms common to all types of anaemia, such as fatigue and breathlessness, or symptoms specifically due to haemolysis, such as jaundice.

Diagnosis is made by examination of the blood (see blood film). Some inherited anaemias can be controlled by removing the spleen (see splenectomy). Others, such as G6PD deficiency, can be prevented by avoiding the drugs or foods that precipitate haemolysis. Anaemias due to immune processes can often be controlled by immunosuppressant drugs. Transfusions of red cells are sometimes needed for emergency treatment of life-threatening anaemia.... anaemia, haemolytic

Bleeding into the space between the inner surface of the skull and the external surface of the dura mater, the outer layer of the meninges. Extradural haemorrhage usually results from a blow to the side of the head that fractures the skull and ruptures an artery running over the surface of the dura mater. A haematoma (collection of clotted blood) forms and enlarges, causing an increase in pressure inside the skull and resulting in symptoms several hours or even days after the injury. Symptoms may include headache, drowsiness, vomiting, paralysis affecting one side of the body, and seizures. Untreated, extradural haemorrhage may be life-threatening.

CT scanning or MRI confirms the diagnosis.

Surgical treatment consists of craniotomy, draining the blood clot, and clipping the ruptured blood vessel.... extradural haemorrhage

A drug that causes hallucination.

Hallucinogens include certain drugs of abuse, such as LSD, marijuana, mescaline, and psilocybin.

Some prescription drugs, including anticholinergic drugs and levodopa, occasionally cause hallucinations.... hallucinogenic drug

A group of muscles at the back of the thigh. The upper ends of the hamstring muscles are attached by tendons to the pelvis; the lower ends are attached by tendons called hamstrings to the tibia and fibula. The hamstring muscles bend the knee and swing the leg backwards from the thigh. Tearing of the hamstring muscles is common in sports. Repeated strenuous exercise may sprain the muscles (see overuse injury).... hamstring muscles

Pain and numbness in the hand and arm due to prolonged use of vibrating tools. Symptoms often also include blue or white coloration of the fingers and a tingling sensation in affected areas. Hand–arm vibration syndrome tends to develop slowly over years and is the result of repeated damage to blood vessels and nerves. Exposure to cold tends to aggravate the condition. There is no specific treatment, but avoiding vibrating tools is essential to prevent the disease progressing. In some cases, calcium channel blockers may help relieve some symptoms.... hand–arm vibration syndrome

A cosmetic operation in which hairy sections of scalp are removed and transplanted to hairless areas to treat alopecia (baldness). There are several different techniques.

In strip grafting, a strip of skin and hair is taken from a donor site, usually at the back of the scalp or behind the ears. The removed hairs and their follicles are then inserted into numerous incisions made in a bald area, known as the recipient site. The procedure usually takes 60–90 minutes. The patient is given a mild sedative and anaesthetic on the donor and recipient sites. The donor site heals in about 5 days. Transplanted hairs fall out shortly afterwards, but new hairs grow from the follicles 3 weeks to 3 months later.

Other transplant techniques include punch grafting, in which a punch is used to remove small areas of bald scalp, which are replaced with areas of hairy scalp; flap grafting, in which flaps of hairy skin are lifted, rotated, and stitched to replace bald areas; and male pattern baldness reduction, which involves cutting out areas of bald skin and stretching surrounding areas of hair-bearing scalp to replace them.... hair transplant

A strip of skin torn away from the side or base of a fingernail, exposing a raw, painful area.... hangnail

The popular term for atherosclerosis.... hardening of the arteries

An autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system develops antibodies against its own thyroid gland cells. As a result, the thyroid gland cannot produce enough thyroid hormones, a condition known as hypothyroidism. The principal symptoms of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis are tiredness, muscle weakness, and weight gain, and the thyroid gland becomes enlarged.

Diagnosis is confirmed by blood tests.

Treatment is by thyroid hormone replacement therapy, which is life-long.... hashimoto’s thyroiditis

Envir-injury); hazards associated with domestic and social life; tobacco-smoking and alcohol; and global environmental hazards (see pollution; radiation hazards; sunlight, adverse effects of).... health hazards

Bleeding into the brain from a ruptured blood vessel. It is 1 of the 3 principal mechanisms by which a stroke can occur. It mainly affects middle-aged or elderly people and is usually due to atherosclerosis. Untreated hypertension increases the risk of intracerebral haemorrhage.

The ruptured artery is usually in the cerebrum. The escaped blood seeps out, damaging brain tissue. The symptoms are sudden headache, weakness, and confusion, and often loss of consciousness. Speech loss, facial paralysis, or onesided weakness may develop, depending on the area affected. Surgery is usually impossible; treatment is aimed at lifesupport and the reduction of blood pressure. Large haemorrhages are usually fatal. For the survivor of an intracerebral haemorrhage, rehabilitation and outlook are as for any type of stroke.

intracytoplasmic sperm injection... intracerebral haemorrhage

Fine, soft, downy hair that covers a fetus. Lanugo hair first appears in the 4th or 5th month of gestation and usually disappears by the 9th month. It can still be seen in some premature babies. Lanugo hair sometimes reappears in adults who have cancer. It may also occur in those with anorexia nervosa or be a side effect of certain drugs, especially ciclosporin.... lanugo hair

A nontechnical term for a minor repetitive movement or activity. Sometimes a nervous habit consists of involuntary twitches and facial tics, such as in Gilles de la Tourette’s syndrome and some forms of dyskinesia. Voluntary nervous habits, such as nailbiting and thumb-sucking, are common in young children.

All nervous habits increase during periods of tension or anxiety, and may be severe in some forms of depression, anxiety disorder, or drug withdrawal.... nervous habit

Bleeding into the retina from 1 or more blood vessels, due to diabetes mellitus, hypertension, or retinal vein occlusion. When the macula

(site of central vision) is involved, vision is severely impaired.

Peripheral haemorrhages may be detected only when the eye is examined with an ophthalmoscope.... retinal haemorrhage

Pain and stiffness affecting one shoulder and the hand on the same side; the hand may also become hot, sweaty, and swollen. Arm muscles may waste through lack of use (see Sudeck’s atrophy). The cause of shoulder–hand syndrome is unknown, but it may occur as a complication of myocardial infarction, stroke, herpes zoster, or shoulder injury. Recovery usually occurs in about 2 years. This period may be shortened by physiotherapy and corticosteroid drugs. In rare cases, a cervical sympathectomy is performed.... shoulder–hand syndrome

Hazards from radiation may arise from external sources of radiation or from radioactive materials taken into the body. The effects depend on the dose, the duration of exposure, and the organs exposed.

With some forms of radiation, damage occurs when the radiation dose exceeds a certain limit, usually 1 sievert (Sv) (see radiation unit). This damage may include radiation dermatitis, cataracts, organ failure (which may occur many years later), or radiation sickness.

For other types of radiation damage, the risk that damage will occur increases with increasing doses of radiation. Cancer caused by radiation-induced mutation is the major example of this type of damage. Radioactive leaks from nuclear reactors can cause a rise in mutation rates, which may lead to an increase in cancers, such as leukaemias; to birth defects; and to hereditary diseases. Cancer usually develops years after exposure. Radiation damage can be controlled by limiting exposure. People exposed to radiation at work have their exposure closely monitored to ensure that it does not exceed safe limits. People of reproductive age or younger should have their reproductive organs shielded when having X-rays or radiotherapy.There is no evidence of radiation hazards with visual display units (VDUs).... radiation hazards

Bleeding under the conjunctiva that is usually harmless and disappears in a few days without treatment.... subconjunctival haemorrhage

Bleeding into the space between the outer and middle layers of the meninges, usually following head injury. The trapped blood slowly forms a large clot within the skull that presses on brain tissue. The symptoms, which tend to fluctuate, may include headache, confusion, drowsiness, and one-sided weakness or paralysis. The interval between the injury and the start of symptoms varies from days to months. Diagnosis is by CT scanning or MRI. In many cases, surgical treatment is needed. This involves drilling burr holes in the skull (see craniotomy), so that the blood can be drained out and damaged blood vessels repaired. If treatment is carried out at an early enough stage, the person usually makes a full recovery. A subdural haemorrhage that is small and produces few symptoms may not require any treatment. The affected

person is usually monitored with regular scans, and the clot may clear up on its own. (See also extradural haemorrhage.)... subdural haemorrhage

Bleeding into the vitreous humour. A common cause is diabetic retinopathy. Vitreous haemorrhage often affects vision; a major haemorrhage causes poor vision until the blood is reabsorbed, which may not be for several months, if at all.... vitreous haemorrhage

*hallucinations in the context of *alcoholism. They are usually shortlived *auditory hallucinations (‘hearing voices’). Although abstinence is the best remedy, they can persist beyond the active use of alcohol and are often difficult to treat (a recent review showed a dearth of data regarding all possible treatment options).... alcoholic hallucinosis

a disease caused by bunyaviruses that has occurred in the former USSR, the Middle East, and Africa. It causes bleeding into the intestines, kidneys, genitals, and mouth with up to 50% mortality. The virus is spread by various types of tick from wild animals and birds to domestic animals (especially goats and cattle) and thus to humans.... crimean congo haemorrhagic fever

any attempt at self-injury or self-poisoning, as often occurs in the context of acute stress, personality disorder, depression, and alcoholism. It may or may not involve suicidal intent. Treatment begins with a psychosocial assessment, on the basis of which the patient may be offered various forms of *psychotherapy and occasionally *antipsychotic medication, *lithium, or *SSRIs. If the attempt is serious, immediate treatment may be necessary in a medical ward or (more rarely), if suicidal intent persists, in a psychiatric ward. Patients who do not have a mental disorder should be assessed using the criteria set out in the Mental Capacity Act 2005 and, if found to have *capacity, are entitled to consent to or refuse treatment like any other capacitous adult. See also suicide.... deliberate self-harm

a piece of dental equipment (high-speed or low-speed) for holding a dental *bur or *file. It is made of corrosion-resistant materials to allow sterilization. See drill.... dental handpiece

the combination of features, often found in the hands of long-standing diabetic subjects, consisting of *Dupuytren’s contractures, knuckle pads, *carpal tunnel syndrome, *cheiroarthropathy, and sclerosing *tenosynovitis.... diabetic hand syndrome

sudden bleeding from the choroid, usually during a surgical procedure or trauma. This may force the ocular tissue out of the wound and is potentially one of the most devastating intraoperative complications of ocular surgery.... expulsive haemorrhage

see primum non nocere. See also nonmaleficence.... first do no harm

splits or tears in *Descemet’s membrane occurring during infancy, commonly as a result of congenital glaucoma. [O. Haab (1850–1931), German ophthalmologist]... haab’s striae

(Hallpike test) a test for *benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), performed with the patient first sitting upright on an examination couch and then lying supine with the head and neck extended beyond the edge of the couch. The patient’s head is rotated to the left (or right) and supported by the examiner while the patient assumes the supine position and keeps his or her eyes focused on the examiner’s eyes. The test is then repeated with the other ear facing down. In patients with BPPV, after a short delay rotatory *nystagmus is seen, in association with severe vertigo and nausea, which gradually abates. The effect diminishes with repeated manoeuvres. In conditions affecting the cerebellum or brainstem, the nystagmus occurs immediately, in any direction, and does not diminish, and patients do not feel especially nauseated. [M. R. Dix and C. S. Hallpike (20th century), British otologists]... dix–hallpike test

(glycosylated haemoglobin) any derivative of haemoglobin in which a glucose molecule is attached to the haemoglobin molecule. The most abundant form of glycated haemoglobin is haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), levels of which are significantly increased in diabetes. The percentage of the HbA molecules that become glycated is dependent on the general level of glucose in the plasma over the lifetime of the molecule (generally three months); this percentage is therefore used as the standard measure of the degree of control of *hyperglycaemia in a person with diabetes over this period. HbA1c values are now expressed in mmol per mol haemoglobin (mmol/mol) rather than as a percentage. The use of HbA1c as a screening tool for diabetes mellitus has become recognized.... glycated haemoglobin

n. an individual’s general physical appearance, especially when this is associated with a constitutional tendency to a particular disease.... habitus

n. the clumping of red blood cells (see agglutination). It is caused by an antibody–antigen reaction or some viruses and other substances.... haemagglutination

(HA, H) a glycoprotein projecting from the surface layer of the lipid bilayer envelope of *influenza virions. This protein is involved in virus binding and may influence virulence. It is a key target for antibody attack and therefore is important in vaccination.... haemagglutinin

n. a genus of hard *ticks. Certain species transmit tick *typhus in the Old World; H. spinigera transmits the virus causing *Kyasanur Forest disease in India.... haemaphysalis

(haematidrosis) n. see haematohidrosis.... haemathidrosis

n. a chemical derivative of *haemoglobin formed by removal of the protein part of the molecule and oxidation of the iron atom from the ferrous to the ferric form.... haematin

n. the passage of fresh red blood through the rectum. Haematochesia occurs in patients with haemorrhoids, colorectal carcinoma, colitis, diverticulitis, angiodysplasia, and volvulus. Haematochesia also occurs as a result of severe haemorrhage in the upper gastrointestinal tract.... haematochesia

n. a cyst that contains blood.... haematocyst

(haemathidrosis, haematidrosis) n. the secretion of sweat containing blood.... haematohidrosis

n. 1. accumulation of menstrual blood in the uterus. 2. any abnormally copious bleeding in the uterus.... haematometra

n. bleeding into the tissue of the spinal cord. This may result in acutely developing symptoms that mimic *syringomyelia.... haematomyelia

n. see haemopoiesis.... haematopoiesis

n. a type of *porphyrin produced during the metabolism of haemoglobin.... haematoporphyrin

(haemosalpinx) n. the accumulation of menstrual blood in the *Fallopian tubes.... haematosalpinx

n. the occurrence of blood in the semen, which may be due to one of several benign or malignant urological conditions.... haematospermia

n. a colourless crystalline compound extracted from logwood (Haematoxylon campechianum) and used in various histological stains. When oxidized haematoxylin is converted to haematein, which imparts a blue colour to certain parts of cells, especially cell nuclei. Heidenhain’s iron haematoxylin is used to stain sections that are to be photographed, since it gives great clarity at high magnification.... haematoxylin

n. a chemical derivative of haemoglobin formed by removal of the protein part of the molecule, oxidation of the iron atom, and combination with an acid to form a salt (compare haematin). Chlorohaemin forms characteristic crystals, the identification of which provides the basis of a chemical test for blood stains.... haemin

combining form. see haem-.... haemo

n. see Bartonella.... haemobartonella

n. haemorrhage into the bile ducts, usually presenting as an acute upper gastrointestinal bleed (with bloody vomit or *melaena) or with a dropping blood count. The most common causes are liver injury, liver biopsy, hepatobiliary surgery, or use of instruments (such as *ERCP). Other causes include gallstones, inflammatory conditions, vascular abnormalities, tumours, and conditions that predispose to bleeding (such as using anticoagulant medication).... haemobilia

n. an increase in the proportion of red blood cells relative to the plasma, brought about by a decrease in the volume of plasma or an increase in the concentration of red blood cells in the circulating blood (see polycythaemia). Haemoconcentration may occur in any condition in which there is a severe loss of water from the body. Compare haemodilution.... haemoconcentration

n. a special glass chamber of known volume into which diluted blood is introduced. The numbers of the various blood cells present are then counted visually, through a microscope. Haemocytometers have been largely replaced by electronic cell counters.... haemocytometer

n. a form of renal replacement therapy that removes toxins by a combination of diffusion (as in conventional *haemodialysis) and convection (as in *haemofiltration), and is more efficient than either in the process.... haemodiafiltration

n. a decrease in the proportion of red blood cells relative to the plasma, brought about by an increase in the total volume of plasma. This may occur in a variety of conditions, including pregnancy and enlargement of the spleen (see hypersplenism). Compare haemoconcentration.... haemodilution

n. the use of a transmembrane hydrostatic pressure to induce filtration of plasma water across the membrane of a haemofilter. Solutes dissolved in the plasma water accompany their solvent to a greater or lesser extent dependent on molecular weight and the characteristics of the filter membrane (pore size).... haemofiltration

n. an instrument for determining the concentration of *haemoglobin in a sample of blood, which is a measure of its ability to carry oxygen.... haemoglobinometer

n. the results of a routine blood test, including an estimate of the blood haemoglobin level, the *packed cell volume, and the numbers of red and white blood cells (see blood count). Any abnormalities seen in microscopic examination of the blood are also noted.... haemogram

n. a substance capable of bringing about destruction of red blood cells (*haemolysis). It may be an antibody or a bacterial toxin.... haemolysin

n. the passage of blood through a sorbent column with the aim of removing toxic substances. The commonest sorbent in use is charcoal, microencapsulated with cellulose nitrate. Haemoperfusion might be considered for the treatment of poisoning with carbamazepine, theophylline, barbiturates, and Amanita mushrooms.... haemoperfusion

n. the presence of blood in the peritoneal cavity, between the lining of the abdomen or pelvis and the membrane covering the organs within.... haemoperitoneum

n. bleeding into the *vitreous humour of the eye: vitreous haemorrhage.... haemophthalmia

n. the presence of both blood and air in the pleural cavity, usually as a result of injury. Both must be drained out to allow the lung to expand normally. See also haemothorax.... haemopneumothorax

adj. associated with or resulting from blood loss (see haemorrhage). For example, haemorrhagic anaemia is due to blood loss (see anaemia).... haemorrhagic

a temporary disturbance in blood clotting caused by *vitamin K deficiency and affecting infants on the second to fourth day of life. It varies in severity from mild gastrointestinal bleeding to profuse bleeding into many organs, including the brain. It is more common in breast-fed and preterm infants. The condition can be prevented by giving all babies vitamin K, either by injection or orally, shortly after birth. Medical name: melaena neonatorum.... haemorrhagic disease of the newborn

n. see haematosalpinx.... haemosalpinx

n. an iron-storage compound found mainly in the cells of the *macrophage– *monocyte system in the marrow, in the *Kupffer cells of the liver, and in the spleen. It contains around 30% iron by weight.... haemosiderin

n. an iron-containing pigment present in the organisms that cause malaria (*Plasmodium species).... haemozoin

a sheath of epidermal cells and connective tissue that surrounds the root of a *hair.... hair follicle

a projection of the dermis that is surrounded by the base of the hair bulb. It contains the capillaries that supply blood to the growing *hair.... hair papilla

an abnormal white blood cell that has the appearance of an immature lymphocyte with fine hairlike cytoplasmic projections around the perimeter of the cell. It is found in a rare form of leukaemia (hairy-cell leukaemia) most commonly occurring in young men.... hairy cell

see Dix–Hallpike test.... hallpike test

n. a drug that produces hallucinations, e.g. *cannabis and *lysergic acid diethylamide. Hallucinogens were formerly used to treat certain types of mental illness. —hallucinogenic adj.... hallucinogen

displacement of the big toe away from the others (i.e. towards the middle).... hallux varus

pl. n. coloured rings seen around lights by people with acute (angle-closure) glaucoma and sometimes by people with cataract.... haloes

adj. requiring solutions of high salt concentration for healthy growth. Certain bacteria are halophilic. —halophile n.... halophilic

(unciform bone) a hook-shaped bone of the wrist (see carpus). It articulates with the capitate and triquetral bones at the sides, with the lunate bone behind, and with the fourth and fifth metacarpal bones in front.... hamate bone

a crunching sound synchronous with the heartbeat heard with a stethoscope in 45–50% of patients with *pneumomediastinum. [L. V. Hamman (1877–1946), US physician]... hamman’s sign

n. (in anatomy) see malleus.... hammer

n. any of the tendons at the back of the knee. They attach the hamstring muscles (the biceps femoris, semitendinosus, and semimembranosus) to their insertions in the tibia and fibula.... hamstring

n. (pl. hamuli) any hooklike process, such as occurs on the hamate, lacrimal, and sphenoid bones and on the cochlea.... hamulus

see palmoplantar erythrodysaesthesia.... hand–foot syndrome

see Langerhans cell histiocytosis. [A. Hand (1868–1949), US paediatrician; A. Schüller (1874–1958), Austrian neurologist; H. A. Christian (1876–1951), US physician]... hand–schüller–christian disease

see Mycobacterium. [G. H. A. Hansen (1841–1912), Norwegian physician]... hansen’s bacillus

n. a complete set of *HLA antigens inherited from either parent.... haplotype

see Angelman syndrome.... happy puppet syndrome

(hapto-) combining form denoting touch.... hapt

n. a protein present in blood plasma that binds with free haemoglobin to form a complex that is rapidly removed from the circulation by the liver. Depletion of plasma haptoglobin is a feature of anaemias in which red blood cells are destroyed inside the circulation with the release of haemoglobin into the plasma and its loss in the urine.... haptoglobin

n. a severe and itchy inflammation of the skin occurring in people continuously subjected to the bites of the *sandfly Phlebotomus papatasii. The incidence of this allergic skin reaction, prevalent in the Middle East, may be checked by controlling the numbers of sandflies.... harara

n. see cleft lip.... harelip

an unusual phenomenon in newborn babies characterized by transient red colour changes to half of the body, well demarcated at the midline. It is seen usually 2–5 days after birth and can last from 30 seconds to 20 minutes before fading away. It may recur when the infant is placed on his or her side as the intensity of the erythema appears to be gravity-dependent.... harlequin colour change

n. physical, mental, or moral damage or the threat of this. Avoiding it is one of the ethical *four principles known as *nonmaleficence. Although health service staff have a clear duty to benefit patients and avoid harming them, in practice almost all medical actions run the risk of harming the patient and in some no good effect can be achieved without a clearly harmful process (such as mastectomy or chemotherapy for breast cancer). Therefore all medical professionals should learn how to make a *risk–benefit analysis at each point of care. The risk of harm should be explained to patients and their agreement obtained at each appropriate point. Professional blame or litigation may result if this is not done and harm results. See also primum non nocere; professionalism.... harm

a depression on both sides of the chest wall of a child between the pectoral muscles and the lower margin of the ribcage. It is caused by exaggerated suction of the diaphragm when breathing in and develops in conditions in which the airways are partially obstructed (e.g. poorly treated asthma) or when the lungs are abnormally congested due to some congenital abnormality of the heart. [E. Harrison (1789–1838), British physician]... harrison’s sulcus

a method of reconstruction after surgical removal of the distal colon and proximal rectum, in which the rectal stump is closed off and the divided end of the colon is brought out as a *colostomy. The technique allows for a second operation to join up the bowel ends and obviates the need for a stoma. It is often used temporarily where primary anastomosis is unsafe (e.g. in cases of perforated *diverticular disease) or permanently as a palliative procedure (e.g. for unresectable colonic cancer). [H. Hartmann (1860–1952), French surgeon]... hartmann’s operation

a saclike dilatation of the gall-bladder wall near its outlet; it is a common site for finding *gallstones. [R. Hartmann (1831–93), German anatomist]... hartmann’s pouch

a *physiological solution used for infusion into the circulation. In addition to essential ions, it also contains glucose. [A. F. Hartmann (1898–1964), US paediatrician]... hartmann’s solution

a rare hereditary defect in the absorption of the amino acid tryptophan, leading to learning disability, thickening and roughening of the skin on exposure to light, and lack of muscular coordination. The condition is similar to *pellagra. Treatment with nicotinamide is usually effective. [Hartnup, the family in whom it was first reported]... hartnup disease

see Trombicula.... harvest mite

a technique used in laparoscopic surgery in which the skin, muscle, fascia, and peritoneum are incised under direct vision to allow the insertion of a blunt *trocar, through which the laparoscope is introduced. [H. M. Hasson (21st century), US gynaecologist]... hasson technique

n. one of the pouches on the external surface of the *colon.... haustrum

one of the small canals (diameter about 50 ?m) that ramify throughout compact *bone. See also Haversian system. [C. Havers (1650–1702), English anatomist]... haversian canal

one of the cylindrical units of which compact *bone is made. A Haversian canal forms a central tube, around which are alternate layers of bone matrix (lamellae) and lacunae containing bone cells. The lacunae are linked by minute channels (canaliculi).... haversian system

(in occupational health) see COSHH.

HbA1c see glycated haemoglobin.... hazardous substance

(IVH) see periventricular haemorrhage.... intraventricular haemorrhage

a genetic disorder characterized by severe learning disabilities, seizures, poor vision, colourless fragile hair, and chubby red cheeks. It is inherited as an X-linked (see sex-linked) recessive characteristic. There is no treatment and affected infants usually die before the age of three. [J. H. Menkes (1928–2008), US neurologist]... menkes kinky-hair disease

(PNH) a type of acquired haemolytic *anaemia that results from an abnormality of the red blood cell membrane. It is due to a defect in the formation of glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI), whose role is to anchor proteins to the lipid framework of the membrane. This leads to increased *complement-mediated destruction of red blood cells, which results in the release of haemoglobin in the circulation and then in the urine, giving the latter a reddish colour. Some patients may develop blood clots.... paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria

(PVH) a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in infants who are born prematurely in which bleeding occurs from fragile blood vessels around the *ventricles in the brain. Bleeding extending into the lateral ventricles is termed intraventricular haemorrhage (IVH) and in severe cases can extend into the brain tissue (cerebral parenchyma). Surviving infants may have long-term neurological deficits, such as cerebral palsy, developmental delay, or seizures.... periventricular haemorrhage

(Rokitansky–Küster–Hauser syndrome, Müllerian agenesis) congenital absence of the uterus and upper part of the vagina due to failure of development of the *Müllerian duct. It may be associated with skeletal, renal, and auditory abnormalities, but usually presents with amenorrhoea in a patient with otherwise normal secondary sexual characteristics. There is a multidisciplinary approach to treatment, with psychological support, counselling, discussion of creation of a ‘neovagina’ with gradual use of vaginal dilators, and/or surgical vaginal reconstruction. Surrogacy is the only option for childbearing, although oocyte donation from the mother to a surrogate can be discussed. [K. W. Mayer (1795–1868), German gynaecologist; K. von Rokitansky (1804–78), Austrian pathologist; H. Küster and G. A. Hauser (20th century), German gynaecologists]... mayer–rokitansky–küster–hauser syndrome

see Mayer–Rokitansky–Küster–Hauser syndrome.... rokitansky–küster–hauser syndrome

(S–H classification) a classification of fractures involving the growth plate of bones (see physis), which is useful for their prognosis and treatment. There are five S–H categories of fracture. [R. Salter and R. I. Harris (20th century), Canadian orthopaedic surgeons]... salter–harris classification

bleeding under the *aponeurosis of the scalp resulting from trauma to blood vessels crossing the space from the skull to the overlying scalp. It results from delivery by forceps or vacuum extraction. It is very uncommon but can be fatal. See also cephalhaematoma; chignon.... subaponeurotic haemorrhage