Medical Terms and Illnesses
Welcome to today’s Advanced English lesson, where we will expand your vocabulary by exploring the names of common illnesses in English. Understanding these terms is essential not only for effective communication in medical situations but also for reading news articles, literature, and everyday conversations about health. By the end of this lesson, you will be able to accurately identify, pronounce, and use a range of illness names, from minor ailments to more serious conditions, enhancing both your speaking and comprehension skills in real-life contexts.
1. The common Cold
*Sentence:* I caught a cold after being in contact with someone who had the virus at the office.
*Explanation:* A cold is a viral infection that affects the nose and throat, usually caused by rhinoviruses. It is treated with rest, fluids, and over-the-counter medications to relieve symptoms.
2. The Flu (Influenza)
*Sentence:* The flu kept her in bed for a week.
*Explanation:* The flu is caused by influenza viruses and spreads easily. Symptoms include fever, chills, and body aches. Treatment includes rest, hydration, and sometimes antiviral medications.
3. A Stomach ache
*Sentence:* He had a stomach ache after eating too much cake.
*Explanation:* Stomach aches can result from indigestion, infections, or food poisoning. Treatment depends on the cause but often involves with rest and hydration.
4. A Headache
*Sentence:* Stress at work gave him a bad headache.
*Explanation:* Headaches can be caused by stress, dehydration, or illness. Common treatments are rest, fluids, and pain relievers like ibuprofen.
5. A Sore Throat
*Sentence:* She couldn’t sing because of her sore throat.
*Explanation:* Sore throats are usually caused by viral or bacterial infections, or irritation. Treatment includes warm fluids, lozenges, and sometimes antibiotics if bacterial.
Video Section: Correct pronunciation of the words.
https://youtu.be/pLRBLsdei2Q?si=3B-Se-faRvhWwjbQ
6. An Allergy
*Sentence:* His allergy to pollen makes spring difficult.
*Explanation:* Allergies happen when the immune system reacts to substances like pollen or pet dander. Treatment may involve antihistamines and avoiding triggers.
7. Asthma
*Sentence:* Asthma makes it hard for him to breathe during exercise.
*Explanation:* Asthma is a chronic condition where airways narrow, often due to allergies or exercise. Treatment includes inhalers and avoiding triggers.
8. Diabetes
*Sentence:* Diabetes requires him to monitor his blood sugar daily.
*Explanation:* Diabetes is a metabolic disorder where the body cannot regulate blood sugar. Causes include genetics and lifestyle; treatment involves diet, exercise ( Type 2), and sometimes insulin (Type One)
9. Chickenpox
*Sentence:* She had chickenpox as a child.
*Explanation:* Chickenpox is a contagious viral infection causing itchy blisters. It mainly affects children and is treated with rest and soothing lotions.
10. Measles
*Sentence:* Measles outbreaks can be serious in unvaccinated populations.
*Explanation:* Measles is a highly contagious viral disease causing a rash and fever. Vaccination prevents it, and treatment focuses on relieving symptoms.
Video Section:
Questions:
- Explain to your teacher the symptoms of Malaria
- Explain to your teacher the consequences of dengue
- What are the symptoms tetanus?
11. Pneumonia
*Sentence:* Pneumonia left him feeling weak for weeks.
*Explanation:* Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs, caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. Treatment may involve antibiotics, antivirals, or antifungals, along with rest and fluids.
12. Bronchitis
*Sentence:* Bronchitis caused her to cough constantly.
*Explanation:* Bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchial tubes, often caused by viruses or bacteria. Treatment includes rest, fluids, and sometimes antibiotics.
13. Ear Infection
*Sentence:* The child cried all night because of an ear infection.
*Explanation:* Ear infections are common in children and are caused by bacteria or viruses. Treatment may include antibiotics, pain relievers, and warm compresses.
14. Sinusitis
*Sentence:* Sinusitis made it hard for him to breathe through his nose.
*Explanation:* Sinusitis is inflammation of the sinuses, usually due to infections or allergies. Treatment includes decongestants, saline sprays, and sometimes antibiotics.
15. Migraine
*Sentence:* Her migraine forced her to rest in a dark room.
*Explanation:* Migraines are severe headaches often accompanied by nausea and sensitivity to light. Causes include genetics, stress, or certain foods. Treatment includes rest, pain medication, and avoiding triggers.
16. Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
*Sentence:* Hypertension increases the risk of heart disease.
*Explanation:* Hypertension is persistently high blood pressure, often caused by genetics, diet, or stress. Treatment includes lifestyle changes and medication.
17. Arthritis
*Sentence:* Arthritis makes it difficult for him to use his hands.
*Explanation:* Arthritis is an inflammation of the joints, caused by autoimmune conditions or aging. Treatment includes pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, and physical therapy.
18. Appendicitis
*Sentence:* She had emergency surgery for appendicitis.
*Explanation:* Appendicitis is inflammation of the appendix, usually due to infection. It requires prompt surgical removal.
19. Tuberculosis (TB)
*Sentence:* Tuberculosis is still a serious illness in some countries.
*Explanation:* TB is a bacterial infection affecting the lungs, spread through the air. Treatment involves long-term antibiotic therapy.
20. Depression
*Sentence:* Depression can make everyday tasks feel overwhelming.
*Explanation:* Depression is a mental illness caused by genetic, biological, and environmental factors. Treatment includes therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes.