Clinical Definition Brachial neuritis is a type of neuropathy in which inflammation of the brachial plexus develops. The etiology of the inflammation is often unknown. In addition to inflammation, a sudden onset of pain and weakness in the shoulders and hands occurs. Although the condition may occur bilaterally, it is more frequently unilateral. In Our…
Brain Tumor
Clinical Definition A neoplasm in the intracranial region of the central nervous system is referred to as a brain tumor. It can develop due to a mutation in cell DNA that leads to abnormal cell growth and mass formation. Brain tumors can be either benign or malignant and are also considered either primary or secondary.…
Breakthrough Pain
Clinical Definition Breakthrough pain is a flare of pain that occurs in cancer patients even if they are taking pain reliever medication on a regular schedule as part of their cancer treatment. The term originates because it ”breaks through” the pain relief expected from the scheduled pain medicine. Breakthrough pain is very unpredictable, typically comes…
Bronchitis
Clinical Definition Bronchitis is inflammation of the main bronchial tubes leading to the lungs. In some instances, there may also be tracheal involvement. The condition can develop acutely from infectious agents like the parainfluenza virus, or occur chronically from bronchial epithelial injury due to lung irritants like cigarette smoking. In Our Own Words Bronchitis, when…
Bronchodilator
Clinical Definition A bronchodilator is any drug, medicine or substance that causes the bronchial tubes of the respiratory tract to dilate, relaxing the bronchial muscles and increasing oxygenated airflow to the lungs. In Our Own Words Bronchodilators are most commonly referred to as types of medications that help relax and widen (or dilate) the air…
Bruxism
Clinical Definition Bruxism is considered a type of movement disorder, which involves the unintentional act of clenching the jaw or vigorously grinding your teeth, usually during sleep. In Our Own Words Bruxism is the medical term for grinding your teeth during sleep or unconsciously during stressful situations. Grinding involves sliding the teeth back and forth…