Hereditary
A condition is hereditary if it results from the individual’s genetic make-up, being inherited from one or both parents.
Hindbrain hernia
An alternative term for a Chiari malformation. It is better than the eponymous term because it is in many ways more descriptive of the anatomical
Hydrocephalus
Meaning “water on (or in) the brain”, this word refers to an anatomical state in which there is an abnormally large volume of cerebrospinal fluid
Hydromyelia
Meaning “water within the spinal cord”, this word is synonymous with syringomyelia, although some authorities do make a distinction between the two terms. Some say
Hyperhidrosis
This is abnormally excessive sweating, occurring when it is not needed for physiological reasons, such as with the body warming-up with exercise. It is a
Hypoplasia / Hypoplastic
These words mean that a part of the body is physically underdeveloped. This is not the same as when an organ or body-part shrinks or
Glossary
The Charity appreciates that hospital specialists will almost inevitably use some medical jargon at times, even when they are trying to explain medical matters in lay terminology. The table below lists many of the medical terms that are likely to be used, from time-to-time, by doctors, when they are talking to patients, or in composing medical correspondence. It is hoped that our explanation of the meaning of these terms throws at least some light on matters.
