szimptóma

A szimptóma, commonly referred to as a symptom, is an indication of a disease or other medical condition. It is a subjective experience reported by the patient, meaning it is something they feel or observe about their own body or mind. Symptoms can vary greatly in nature, intensity, and duration. Examples include pain, fatigue, nausea, dizziness, and emotional distress.

Symptoms are distinct from signs, which are objective evidence of a disease that can be observed or measured by a healthcare professional. For instance, a fever is a sign, while feeling hot is a symptom. However, the terms are often used interchangeably in common language. Understanding and accurately describing symptoms are crucial for medical diagnosis. Doctors rely on a patient's reported symptoms to begin forming a differential diagnosis, a list of possible conditions that could be causing the symptoms.

The presence, absence, and characteristics of symptoms can provide valuable clues about the underlying cause. Some symptoms are common to many conditions, while others are more specific. A thorough medical history, which includes detailed questions about symptoms, is a fundamental part of any medical evaluation. Treatment often aims to alleviate or eliminate symptoms, thereby improving the patient's quality of life, even if the underlying cause cannot be fully cured.