Archives: Glossary

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a condition that affects people’s behaviour. People with ADHD can seem restless, may have trouble concentrating and may act on impulse.

Alveoli are small air containing sacs in the lungs which are surrounded by capillary blood vessels and this is where gases including oxygen and carbon dioxide are exchanged.

(ANS) The part of the nervous system responsible for control of the bodily functions not consciously directed, such as breathing, the heartbeat, and digestive processes. 

BPD is a chronic condition which results from damage to an infants lungs, usually caused by mechanical ventilation and long-term use of oxygen. Over inflation of the alveoli can lead to inflammation causing damage to the tissues of the airway, the alveoli sacs and the surrounding blood vessels.

Symptoms can include laboured breathing, prolonged need for oxygen, more lung infections, and feeding difficulties.

This is a surgical operation for delivering a baby by cutting through the wall of the mother’s abdomen. 

Often known as steroids, are an anti-inflammatory medicine.

Psychiatric disorders featuring problems with self-control of emotions and behaviors. A person with an externalising disorder directs antisocial, aggressive behaviour outward.

A diseased condition or state.

(NEC) Necrotising enterocolitis is a serious bacterial infection in the intestine.

Preterm is defined as babies born alive before 37 weeks of pregnancy are completed.