Parts of the Body and Their Mysteries
Conversations in the Office
Medicine Curiosities
False Medical Cognates
Curious Treatments
100

Which organ in the human body is the heaviest and also has the ability to regenerate itself?

The liver

100

If a patient says, 'I have a splitting headache,' how would you describe their symptom?

They are experiencing a very intense and severe headache

100

What is the human body's largest organ?

The skin is the largest organ in the human body

100

What does 'constipation' mean, and why do Portuguese speakers often misunderstand it?

Constipation means difficulty in bowel movements, often confused with 'congestion' in Portuguese.

100

Can animals help in medical treatments?

Yes, dogs, horses, and dolphins are used in emotional and rehabilitation therapies.

200

What is the smallest bone in the human body, and where is it located?

The stapes (stirrup), located in the ear.

200

How would you reassure a patient in English who is nervous about getting a vaccine?

'This will only take a second, and it will protect you from serious illnesses.'

200

How many bones are in the human adult body?

There are 206 bones in the adult human body

200

What does the word 'physician' mean?

It means "médico" In portuguese.

200

Was hypnosis ever used as anesthesia?

Yes, before chemical anesthetics, and it’s now used for pain and anxiety.

300

What is the purpose of the epiglottis, and why is it critical during eating?

The epiglottis prevents food from entering the windpipe, ensuring safe swallowing.

300

How would you ask a patient if they are allergic to any medication?

'Do you have any known allergies to medication?'

300

What is the longest bone in the human body?

The femur (thigh bone) is the longest bone in the human body.

300

What is the meaning of 'assist,' and why is it a false friend for Portuguese speakers?

Assist means "to help", not "to watch".

300

Are animal venoms used in treatments?

Yes, venoms from snakes and bees are studied to treat hypertension, arthritis, and cancer.

400

How does the human skin protect against UV radiation?

By producing melanin, a pigment that absorbs harmful UV rays.

400

A patient says they feel 'light-headed.' What could this indicate?

It may indicate dizziness or the sensation of about to faint.

400

Which part of the human body has the most muscles?

The human face contains the most muscles, with around 43 muscles used to express various emotions.

400

What does 'comprehensive' mean in a medical report?

It means detailed or thorough, not 'compreensível' (understandable)

400

Can sunlight be used as therapy?

Yes, sunlight was used to treat tuberculosis, and UV light treats skin diseases today.

500

What's the largest organ inside the human body, and what is its main function?

The liver, responsible for detoxification, protein synthesis, and digestion.

500

How would you explain the importance of follow-up visits to a patient in English?

'Follow-ups help monitor your progress and ensure the treatment is working effectively.'

500

What is the average size of the human heart?

The average adult human heart is about the size of a fist  

500

What does 'sensitive' mean in English, and how does it differ from its Portuguese counterpart?

Sensitive means being easily affected, not 'sensible,' which means rational.

500

What's unique about the placebo effect in medical treatments?

It shows how belief in a treatment can lead to real physiological improvement.