A  B  C  D  E  F  G  H  I  J  K  L  M  N  O  P  Q  R  S  T  U  V  W  

debilitating — impairs the vitality and strength of a person.

decongestants — medications that treat cough and stuffy nose by shrinking swollen membranes in the nose and making it easier to breath.

dehydration — excessive loss of body water that the body needs to carry on normal functions at an optimal level. Signs include increasing thirst, dry mouth, weakness or lightheadedness (particularly if worse on standing), and a darkening of the urine or a decrease in urination.

depression — term used to describe an emotional state involving sadness, lack of energy and low self-esteem.

diabetes — a disease in which blood glucose (blood sugar) levels are above normal. Type 2 diabetes, also known as adult-onset or noninsulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM), is the most common form of diabetes.

diabetic — see Diabetes

diaphragm — birth control device made of a thin flexible disk, usually made of rubber, that is designed to cover the cervix to prevent the entry of sperm during sexual intercourse.

diarrhea — passing frequent and loose stools that can be watery. Acute diarrhea goes away in a few weeks. Diarrhea becomes chronic when it lasts longer than 4 weeks.

disability — a physical or mental impairment that interferes with or prevents "normal" achievement in a particular function.

diuretics — a type of medication sometimes called "water pills" because they work in the kidney and flush excess water and sodium from the body.

down syndrome — a genetic disease that is caused by an extra copy of chromosome 21.

ductules — small milk ducts in the breast leading to the mammary or lactiferous ducts.