multiple sclerosis

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Glossary

Glossary - A

• abnormal gait - gait abnormalities are unusual and uncontrollable problems with walking
• abscess - localized collection of pus surrounded by inflamed tissue
• achalasia - obstruction of the esophagus that develops due to failure of the esophagogastric sphincter to relax, causing the upper esophagus to fill with retained food.
• acute brain syndrome - sudden state of severe confusion and rapid changes in brain function
• adenoma - a benign tumor of a glandular structure or of glandular origin
• agitation - an unpleasant state of extreme arousal, increased tension, and irritability; extreme emotional disturbance
• alcohol intolerance - allergy-like symptoms following ingestion of alcohol such as flushing and reddening of the face
• anaphylactoid - resembling anaphylaxis or anaphylactic shock
• angina pectoris - severe spasmodic pain in the chest associated with an insufficient supply of blood to the heart, usually involving the left shoulder area
• anuria - the failure of the kidneys to excrete urine; absence of urine
• apathy - inappropriate lack of interest, concern, or emotion; indifference
• aphasia - loss of the ability to articulate ideas or comprehend spoken or written language, resulting from damage to the brain caused by injury or disease
• aphthous stomatitis - inflammation of the mucous membrane of the mouth; associated with thrush
• apnea - temporary absence or cessation of breathing
• arrhythmia - an alteration in rhythm of the heartbeat
• arthritis - inflammation of a joint, or joints, of the skeletal system; usually accompanied by pain
• arthrosis - degenerative disease of a joint of the skeletal system
• ascites - accumulation of serous fluid in peritoneal (abdominal) cavity
• asthenia - abnormal loss or lack of bodily strength; weakness; debility
• asthma - chronic respiratory disease, usually allergic in origin; characterized by sudden recurring attacks of labored breathing, chest constriction, wheezing and coughing
• ataxia - loss of the ability to coordinate muscle movements
• atelectasis - collapse of part of the lung caused by blockage to the airway (bronchioles) or by sustained shallow breathing
• atrial fibrillation - rapid irregular twitchings of the muscular wall of the heart