Health conditions and diseases starting with S. Understand symptoms, causes, and treatment options to make informed health choices.
Sedation, when used as an adjunct to anesthesia, plays a critical role in enhancing perioperative comfort, reducing anesthetic requirements, and optimizing recovery. This approach blends pharmacologic strategies to achieve desired levels of consciousness and analgesia while preserving safety. In many surgical and diagnostic procedures, adjunctive sedation minimizes patient distress, facilitates smoother inductions, and supports anesthetic
Sedation refers to the administration of pharmacologic agents to reduce anxiety, discomfort, and awareness during medical or dental procedures. Its use spans a broad spectrum, from minimal sedation where patients remain responsive, to deep sedation and general anesthesia requiring airway support. Sedation enhances procedural success and patient cooperation while prioritizing safety and comfort. Levels of
Secretin stimulation testing is a specialized diagnostic procedure used to evaluate pancreatic exocrine function and confirm the presence of gastrin-secreting tumors, such as those seen in Zollinger-Ellison syndrome (ZES). Secretin, a gastrointestinal hormone, plays a critical role in stimulating pancreatic bicarbonate secretion and modulating gastric acid production through its action on G cells and pancreatic
Secondary syphilis is the second stage of the sexually transmitted infection caused by Treponema pallidum, typically occurring weeks to a few months after the initial chancre of primary syphilis heals. It is marked by systemic dissemination of the spirochete, resulting in a wide range of dermatologic, mucosal, and systemic manifestations. Pathogenesis and Transmission The pathogen
Secondary progressive multiple sclerosis (SPMS) is a distinct phase of multiple sclerosis (MS) characterized by a progressive worsening of neurologic function over time. Initially, patients typically experience a relapsing-remitting course (RRMS), which later transitions into SPMS with or without superimposed relapses. Unlike RRMS, the disease in SPMS gradually advances regardless of inflammation, leading to accumulating
Secondary prevention of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) refers to a strategic, evidence-based approach to reduce the recurrence of cardiovascular events in individuals with a documented history of coronary artery disease, stroke, or peripheral arterial disease. This involves rigorous control of risk factors, pharmacologic interventions, and lifestyle modifications aimed at mitigating future morbidity and mortality. Clinical
Secondary osteoporosis is a metabolic bone disorder characterized by decreased bone mineral density (BMD) and compromised bone microarchitecture due to identifiable medical conditions or medications. Unlike primary osteoporosis, which is age- or menopause-related, secondary osteoporosis arises from systemic diseases, endocrine imbalances, or pharmacologic agents that accelerate bone loss or impair bone formation. Failure to recognize
Secondary glaucoma refers to a group of eye disorders characterized by increased intraocular pressure (IOP) due to an identifiable underlying cause. Unlike primary glaucomas, secondary forms result from trauma, inflammation, vascular disorders, medication use, or systemic diseases that impair aqueous humor outflow or increase its production. This progressive optic neuropathy can lead to irreversible vision
Secondary amenorrhea is defined as the absence of menstrual periods for three or more consecutive cycles—or six months—in women who previously had regular menstruation. Unlike primary amenorrhea, which refers to the failure to begin menstruation by age 15, secondary amenorrhea arises after menarche has already occurred. This condition is not a disease itself but a
Seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that primarily affects sebaceous gland-rich areas, most notably the scalp. It manifests through flaky scales, erythema, itchiness, and greasy patches. The condition is frequently confused with dandruff, which is a milder, non-inflammatory form of seborrheic dermatitis. While not contagious or life-threatening, it often presents