Health A to Z

Deafblindness

Also called Dual sensory loss, Multi-sensory impairment

Combined sight and hearing loss. Not one plus the other, because each normally compensates for the other.

Deafness and hearing loss

Also called Hearing impairment, Hard of hearing

One in five UK adults. Left untreated it costs conversation, work and, over time, memory.

Dehydration

Under-recognised, easy to prevent, and a contributing factor in a great many care-related deaths.

Delirium

Also called Acute confusional state

Sudden confusion caused by physical illness. A medical emergency that is constantly mistaken for dementia.

Dementia

Also called Major neurocognitive disorder

Not one disease and not part of normal ageing. Which type it is changes the treatment, the risks and what the family should expect.

Dental abscess

Also called Tooth abscess, Dental infection

Infection at the root of a tooth. Antibiotics are not the treatment; drainage and dental work are, and spreading facial swelling is an emergency.

Dental decay and gum disease

Also called Tooth decay, Periodontal disease, Gingivitis, Toothache

Almost entirely preventable, and the leading reason children in England are admitted to hospital.

Depression

Also called Clinical depression, Major depressive disorder

Not sadness. A condition that removes motivation, pleasure and energy, and then argues that it was always like this.

Detached retina

Also called Retinal detachment

Sudden floaters, flashes or a curtain across the vision. Same-day eye assessment saves sight; waiting until Monday loses it.

Developmental dysplasia of the hip

Also called DDH, Clicky hip, Hip dysplasia

A hip that has not formed properly in a baby. Caught early it is treated in a harness; caught late it needs surgery.