What are 'side effects' in a medical context?

In a medical context, 'side effects' refer to unintended physical effects that occur in addition to the desired therapeutic effects of a treatment. These effects can manifest in various ways and may differ from the primary purpose of the medication or treatment. For example, if a medication is administered to alleviate pain (the expected reaction), side effects might include nausea or dizziness, which are not the primary goals of the treatment but occur nonetheless.

This understanding highlights that while certain reactions, such as expected reactions to treatment, are anticipated and planned for, side effects represent an additional layer of complexity in treatment that healthcare professionals must consider. By understanding that side effects are separate from the intended benefits, practitioners can better manage patient care, monitor for adverse effects, and adjust treatments as necessary to ensure patient safety and comfort.