A structure that allows fluid to flow in one direction only, preventing backflow.
valve
variable
Liable to vary or change.
varicella
Another name for chickenpox.
varicoele
Enlargement of the veins in the scrotum.
varicose
Abnormally swollen.
varicose vein
A vein that is swollen, distended and twisted, usually due to weakness of its valves.
vas deferens
The tube that conveys sperm out of the testicle in a male.
vascular
Relating to blood vessels.
vascular dementia
A form of dementia caused by impaired blood supply to the brain.
vascular malformation
Abnormalities in the blood vessels.
vasculitic disorder
Disorders characterised by inflammation of the blood vessels.
vasculitis
Inflammation of blood vessels
vasectomy
The operation of male sterilisation.
vasodilation
A temporary widening or expansion of blood vessels to allow increased blood flow
vasomotor rhinitis
A runny nose (rhinitis) due to congestion that is not caused by infection or allergy. It may be a response to irritation of the nasal lining, such as by pollution, or to drugs or strong emotions.
vein
A blood vessel that carries blood towards the heart.
vellous hair
Short, fine, barely noticeable hair.
venogram
A diagnostic procedure that allows veins to be seen undrr X-ray after they have been injected with a special substance that is opaque to X-rays. It is used to detect abnormalities or disease of the veins.
venography
A diagnostic procedure that enables veins to be seen by x-ray and is used to detect abnormality or disease of the veins.
venous
Relating to the veins.
venous congestion
Dilation of veins and capillaries due to impaired venous drainage.
venous insufficiency
A condition where the flow of blood through the veins is impaired.
ventilation/perfusion scan
A scan of the lungs that uses small quantities of radioactive material to study airflow (ventilation) and blood flow (perfusion) in the lungs
ventricle
Either of the two lower chambers of the heart, or any of the four cavities within the brain.