Category Medical Conditions

This section covers medical emergencies and health conditions that may require first aid awareness, such as asthma, seizures, stroke, shock, allergic reactions, and diabetic events. Terms focus on what the condition is and how it is described in emergency or first aid settings.

Medical Conditions

Anaphylactic Shock

Anaphylactic shock refers to the severe circulatory effects of anaphylaxis. For the main first aid explanation, see our anaphylaxis page.

First Aid Glossary Editorial Team
March 25, 2026

Medical Conditions

Blood Pressure Emergency

A blood pressure emergency is a serious situation where your blood pressure becomes dangerously high or low, risking damage to vital organs and requiring immediate attention to keep your body functioning safely. Understanding the signs and quick actions can make all the difference in protecting your health.

First Aid Glossary Editorial Team
March 23, 2026

Medical Conditions

Tachycardia

Tachycardia means a heart rate faster than normal, usually over 100 beats per minute at rest. Learn the warning signs, what first aid to give, and when to call for urgent help.

First Aid Glossary Editorial Team
March 22, 2026

Medical Conditions

Heart Failure

Heart failure means the heart is not pumping blood effectively enough. Learn the warning signs of worsening heart failure and the first aid steps to take in an emergency.

First Aid Glossary Editorial Team
March 19, 2026

Medical Conditions

Circulatory Collapse

Circulatory collapse refers to dangerously weak blood flow. For the main first aid explanation, see our shock page.

First Aid Glossary Editorial Team
March 15, 2026

Medical Conditions

Life-Threatening Conditions

Life-threatening conditions demand quick action—knowing how to recognise signs like choking, severe bleeding, or a heart attack can make all the difference in saving a life. By staying calm and calling emergency services immediately, you can provide crucial first aid that helps keep someone safe until professional help arrives.

First Aid Glossary Editorial Team
March 8, 2026

Body Systems, Medical Conditions

Aspiration

Aspiration happens when food or liquid accidentally enters the lungs instead of the stomach, which can cause coughing, choking, or even serious lung infections. Understanding aspiration and how to respond quickly is key to keeping yourself and others safe.

First Aid Glossary Editorial Team
February 13, 2026

Medical Conditions

Respiratory Failure

Respiratory failure means the lungs are no longer moving enough oxygen in or carbon dioxide out. Learn what it means in first aid and why urgent help is needed.

First Aid Glossary Editorial Team
February 9, 2026

Medical Conditions

Respiratory Distress

Respiratory distress means a person is struggling to breathe or not getting enough air. Learn the warning signs, what to do first, and when to call 000.

First Aid Glossary Editorial Team
February 9, 2026

Medical Conditions

Respiratory Arrest

Respiratory arrest means breathing has stopped. Learn what it means in first aid, what to do immediately, and when CPR is needed.

First Aid Glossary Editorial Team
February 9, 2026