Healthcare can feel like learning a new language, with medical professionals using countless abbreviations and acronyms. From CBC to EKG, these shortened forms can leave patients feeling confused and disconnected from their own care.
This comprehensive guide breaks down the most common medical abbreviations you'll encounter in doctors' offices, hospitals, and on your medical reports. Understanding these terms will help you feel more confident in healthcare conversations.
Search Medical Abbreviations
Found 38 abbreviations
Measures different blood cells including red cells, white cells, and platelets
Blood test checking kidney function, liver function, blood sugar, and electrolytes
Blood test checking kidney function, blood sugar, and electrolyte balance
Test to check thyroid function and hormone levels
Test showing average blood sugar over the past 2-3 months
Blood test used to screen for prostate problems in men
Blood test that can detect inflammation in the body
Blood test that measures inflammation levels
X-ray scan that creates detailed cross-sectional images
Scan using magnetic fields to create detailed images of soft tissues
Imaging using sound waves, commonly used during pregnancy
Scan that shows how organs and tissues are functioning
Scan to measure bone density and diagnose osteoporosis
Test that records the electrical activity of your heart
Ultrasound of the heart to check structure and function
Procedure to examine heart blood vessels using a thin tube
Test to see how your heart works during physical activity
Medical specialty dealing with head and neck disorders
Medical specialty for women's reproductive health
Medical specialty dealing with bones, joints, and muscles
Medical specialty dealing with skin, hair, and nail conditions
Medical specialty dealing with mental health conditions
The identification of a disease or condition
Medical care given to a patient for an illness or injury
Written order for medication from a doctor
Physical or mental features indicating a condition
Medical background and past health information
Doctor's hands-on assessment of your body
Subsequent visit or contact after initial treatment
Take medication only when necessary or symptoms occur
Take medication two times per day
Take medication three times per day
Take medication four times per day
Pressure of blood against artery walls
Number of heartbeats per minute
Number of breaths per minute
Percentage of oxygen in your blood
Measure of body fat based on height and weight
Quick Reference Guide
Most Common Lab Tests
- CBC: Complete Blood Count
- CMP: Comprehensive Metabolic Panel
- TSH: Thyroid Stimulating Hormone
- HbA1c: Diabetes blood test
Essential Imaging
- CT: Computed Tomography
- MRI: Magnetic Resonance Imaging
- US: Ultrasound
- PET: Positron Emission Tomography
Heart Tests
- EKG/ECG: Electrocardiogram
- Echo: Echocardiogram
- Stress Test: Exercise heart test
- Cath: Cardiac catheterization
Prescription Terms
- BID: Twice daily
- TID: Three times daily
- QID: Four times daily
- PRN: As needed
Tips for Understanding Medical Abbreviations
- 1Don't hesitate to ask: Healthcare providers should always explain abbreviations when you don't understand them.
- 2Keep a reference: Save this guide or bookmark it for quick access during medical appointments.
- 3Context matters: The same abbreviation might mean different things in different medical contexts.
- 4Take notes: Write down new abbreviations you encounter and ask for explanations.
- 5Use technology: Many patient portals and apps can help translate medical terminology.
When in Doubt, Always Ask
Remember, there's no such thing as a "stupid question" when it comes to your health. Healthcare providers use these abbreviations because they're efficient, but they should always be willing to explain them in terms you can understand. Your health literacy is crucial for making informed decisions about your care.