HEENT
HEENT
HEENT (pronounced /hiːnt/) is an acronym that stands for Head, Eyes, Ears, Nose, and Throat. It is a common term used in the medical field, particularly in physical examinations and medical histories.
Etymology
The term HEENT originated from the initial letters of the five areas of the body that it represents: Head, Eyes, Ears, Nose, and Throat.
Head
The Head (pronounced /hɛd/) is the uppermost part of the human body that contains the brain, mouth, and several sensory organs such as the eyes, ears, nose, and mouth. It is a vital part of the body as it houses the brain which controls all the functions of the body.
Eyes
The Eyes (pronounced /aɪz/) are the organs of vision. They detect light and convert it into electro-chemical impulses in neurons. The simplest photoreceptor cells in conscious vision connect light to movement.
Ears
The Ears (pronounced /ɪər/) are the organs of hearing and balance. They convert sound waves in the air into electrical impulses which are sent to the brain where they are interpreted as sounds.
Nose
The Nose (pronounced /noʊz/) is the organ of smell and is part of the peripheral nervous system. It also functions as the main passageway for air exchange, as it provides a path for air to move in and out of the lungs.
Throat
The Throat (pronounced /θroʊt/) is the anterior part of the neck, in front of the vertebral column. It comprises the pharynx and larynx. It carries out several key functions including swallowing, breathing, and vocalization.
Related Terms
- Physical examination - A process by which a medical professional investigates the body of a patient for signs of disease.
- Medical history - Information gained by a physician by asking specific questions, either of the patient or of other people who know the person and can give suitable information.
- Sensory organs - Organs that receive stimuli (eyes for light, ears for sound, nose for smell, skin for touch and temperature, and tongue for taste).
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on HEENT
- Wikipedia's article - HEENT
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