Complication (medicine)

Complications generally involve a worsening in the severity of the disease or the development of new signs, symptoms, or pathological changes that may become widespread throughout the body and affect other organ systems.

The development of complications depends on a number of factors, including the degree of vulnerability, susceptibility, age, health status, and immune system condition.

Complications are not to be confused with sequelae, which are residual effects that occur after the acute (initial, most severe)[1] phase of an illness or injury.

Complications are similar to adverse effects, but the latter term is typically used in pharmacological contexts or when the negative consequence is expected or common.

[7] A patient with atrial fibrillation may experience symptoms of fatigue, dizziness or lightheadedness, heart palpitations, chest pain, and shortness of breath.

Diabetes mellitus may present a series of complications in an advanced or more severe stage, such as: Pregnancy is the development of an embryo or fetus inside the womb of a female for the rough duration of 9 months or 40 weeks from the last menstrual period until birth.

[42] Common symptoms associated with streptococcal pharyngitis include sore throat, fever, white excretions at the back of the mouth, and cervical adenopathy (swollen lymph nodes underneath the chin and around the neck area).

Image of a urinary catheter, a common cause of healthcare-associated infections.
Commonly referred to as "diabetic foot," wounds and ulcers are a common complication of elevated blood sugar levels in diabetes.
Ectopic pregnancies can lead to various complications during pregnancy including miscarriage and stillbirth.
White exudates at the back of the mouth, a manifestation of strep throat.
Image of a surgical site infection caused by stitching