Glossary

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Nn

Naproxen

A drug used to relieve pain, tenderness, swelling, and stiffness caused by osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, juvenile arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis.

Naturopathic medicine

An approach based on the belief that the body can be stimulated to heal itself.

Nepafenac

A drug used to treat eye pain, redness, and swelling in patients recovering from cataract surgery. Nepafenac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID).

Neurotransmitter

Chemical (such as dopamine, acetylcholine, or norepinephrine) which transmits or relays information or signals from one nerve cell (neuron) to other nerve cells or muscle cells.

Nodes

A lymph node is a rounded mass of lymphatic tissue surrounded by a capsule of connective tissue. Located in the lymphatic system, these nodes filter lymph (lymphatic fluid), and they store white blood cells. Lymph is a clear fluid that carries cells that help fight infections and other diseases. The lymphatic system is made up of the tissues and organs that produce, store, and carry white blood cells that fight infections and other diseases. Lymphatic vessels extend to all tissues of the body.

Nodule

A small mass of rounded or irregular shape.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID)

A class of medications that can be used to treat inflammation, reduce joint swelling and relieve pain, tenderness, and stiffness. NSAIDs do not control the disease, only its symptoms. Therefore, they are only taken on an as-needed basis. There are many NSAIDs available, including non-prescription.