Total Health: Choices for a Winning Lifestyle - Chapter 5

Vaccine

A mixture of weakened or killed germ cells, given orally (by mouth) or through an injection.

Carrier

A person who is carrying the germ but does not seem to be suffering from the illness. 130

Gamma Globulin

A shot of protein that give protection against the hepatitis disease. 139

Allergen

A substance to which a person's body is particularly sensitive. 131

Infectious Disease (Communicable Disease)

All diseases that are caused by the spread of germs. 126

Hepatitis B

Inflammation of the liver that is caused by a virus that is spread through direct contact with the infected person or through infected needles.

T-cells

Lymphocytes that fight germs by several ways, that are differant than the way the B-cells fight germs. 134

B-cells

Lymphocytes that make antibodies that attack germs cells. 133

Pathogens (Germs)

Microorganisms that cause disesase. 126

Bacteria

One-celled tiny organisms that come in many shaped and grow everywhere 126

Lymphocytes

White blood cells manufactured by the lymph nodes to travel through the lymphatic system to fight off germs. 133

Fungi

An organism that usually causes diseases of the skin. 127

Disease

Any condition that negatively affects the normal functioning of the mind or body. 125

Chronic Disease

Diseaases that develop gradually and may persist for years. 130

Virus

Smaller in size that bacteria and responsible for more infections thatn any other pathogen. 127

Antibodies

Special proteins produced by the lymphocytes in response to a foreign substance in the body. 132

Resistance

The ability to fight the invading germ. 130

Symptoms

The changes in the body that signal that a particular disease is present. 137

Immune System

The group of organs and cells that works with the lymphatic system to fight germs. Also known as the body's natural resistance. 132

Homeostasis

The process by which the body maintains a constant internal environment despite the external changes. 136

Incubation Period

Their period of time from which a person becomes infected with a microorganism to the time when they actually have symptoms allowing them to recognize the disease. 129

Acute Disease

Those diseases that develop suddenly with symptoms that are often severe. 130

Lymphatic Network

Vessels that circulate a special body fluid called lymph. 133