Health Insurance Glossary U

Underwriting

The act of reviewing and evaluating prospective insured persons for risk assessment and appropriate premium.

Urgent Care

Health care provided in situations of medical duress that have not reached the level of emergency. Claim costs for urgent care services are typically much less than for services delivered in emergency rooms.

Ulcerative colitis

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that inflames the inner lining of your large intestine (colon) and rectum. This inflammation triggers symptoms like recurring diarrhea, often containing blood. While the condition can cause periods of remission and flare-ups, there are various treatments available to manage these symptoms and maintain long-term well-being.

Ultrasound

Unlike x-rays, ultrasounds use sound waves to create real-time images of your internal structures. This safe and painless procedure provides valuable information about your organs, tissues, blood vessels, and joints. Doctors rely on ultrasounds for diagnosis of various health problems. Additionally, ultrasounds play a crucial role in monitoring pregnancies and guiding certain medical procedures.

Umbilical hernia repair

Umbilical hernia repair is a surgical procedure to fix a weakness or hole in the abdominal wall, typically located near the belly button. This weakness allows internal organs or tissues to protrude through the opening, creating a noticeable bulge. The surgery repairs the weak spot to prevent further bulging and potential complications.

Underactive thyroid

Hypothyroidism is a condition where your thyroid gland malfunctions and doesn't produce sufficient thyroid hormone. This hormone plays a vital role in regulating your metabolism. Symptoms like fatigue, unexplained weight gain, and depression can arise due to hypothyroidism. Fortunately, replacing the missing hormone with medication is a successful treatment approach that helps manage symptoms and restore overall health.

Upper back pain

Do you experience aches or discomfort anywhere between your neck and waist, including the area between your shoulder blades? This could be upper back pain, a frequent issue with various potential causes. Poor posture, muscle strains from overuse, and even certain health conditions like arthritis can contribute to upper back pain. Although less research has been conducted on it compared to lower back pain, it's still a common problem.

Urinary incontinence in adults

Don't suffer in silence! Unintentionally passing urine (urinary incontinence) is a common issue, especially as we age. While it can be embarrassing and disrupt your daily life, there's good news: treatment is available and can often be very effective. Urinary incontinence can sometimes be a sign of another health condition, so it's important to see your doctor if you experience any leakage. They can help you understand the cause and find the best course of action for you.