Breathing problems

Breathing problems can come on slowly or quickly, and can be just annoying, or can be very serious.

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MERS coronavirus

Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus is a disease the can cause fever, cough, shortness of breath and pneumonia in most infected people.

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Dust storms

A dust storm can reduce the quality of the air that we breathe, so people – especially those with a respiratory condition – need to take precautions. Learn how to protect your health in a dust storm here.

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Symptoms of serious illness in babies and children

If your child has a serious illness, it’s important to get medical attention quickly. Learn how to recognise the symptoms and what to do.

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Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)

RSV infects a person's airways and lungs. Learn about the causes, treatment and prevention of RSV, and how to stop the virus from spreading.

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How to monitor COVID-19 symptoms

If you’re able to manage your COVID-19 at home, you might be asked to follow a management plan. Learn how to check your breathing rate, oxygen levels and heart rate.

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Asthma

Asthma symptoms can include a cough, wheezing, chest tightness and breathlessness. Learn more about its causes, symptoms and treatment options.

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Kava

Kava is a drug made from the roots of a plant in the pepper family. It has traditionally been cultivated by Pacific Islanders for use as a ceremonial drink.

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Pesticides

Pesticides are used to prevent, destroy, or reduce the spread of pests. It is important that pesticides are only used when necessary, and in accordance with the directions on the label.

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Inhaled substance or foreign object

People can accidentally breathe in a substance or object. Such as a liquid, powder, gas or small toy part. Learn more about symptoms that can arise from inhaling a substance or object.

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Angiogram

An angiogram is a test used to help detect abnormal blood vessels, clots and other problems. Learn more about angiograms including what to expect.

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Tapentadol

Tapentadol is a prescription-only opioid medicine used for pain relief. Find out more about tapentadol, how it works and about possible side effects.

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Snake bites

About 100 Australian snakes are venomous. Although only 12 are likely to inflict a wound that could kill you. Learn about first aid for snake bites.

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Anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis is very serious and can even be fatal. See here for the symptoms to look out for and what to do in an emergency.

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Physical examination by a doctor

A doctor may need to examine your body to help them diagnose an injury, illness or condition. Before the examination, the doctor must obtain your consent and explain what they are doing.

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Apert syndrome

Apert syndrome is a rare condition that causes an abnormally shaped skull and fused fingers and toes. Other body parts and organs are also affected. Surgery and other treatments can, however, help development.

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What is COVID-19?

Get information about COVID-19, including on variants such as Omicron, plus how it’s spread and how to avoid it.

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Trans-oesophageal echocardiogram (TOE)

A trans-oesophageal echocardiogram (TOE) is usually a safe and effective way of finding out more about a problem in your heart chambers and heart valves.

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Endoscopic ultrasound

An endoscopic ultrasound is usually a safe and effective way of finding out more about a problem in the lining of your upper digestive system and in structures beneath the lining.

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Upper GI endoscopy and colonoscopy

An upper GI endoscopy and colonoscopy is usually a safe and effective way of finding out if there is a problem with your digestive system.

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Food allergies

Some people have an allergic reaction to a normally harmless ingredient or type of food. This immune system response can range from mild to severe.

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Laryngoscopy

A laryngoscopy is usually a safe and effective way of finding out if there is a problem with your larynx.

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Elective caesarean section

A caesarean section is a common operation and is usually a safe method of delivery for you and your baby.

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Flexible sigmoidoscopy

A flexible sigmoidoscopy is usually a safe and effective way of finding out if there is a problem with the lower part of your large bowel.

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Throat cancer

Throat cancer can be treated if diagnosed early so you should see a doctor if you’re concerned. Learn about symptoms, diagnosis and treatment here.

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Upper GI endoscopy and dilatation

An upper GI endoscopy and dilatation is a safe and effective way of finding out if there is a problem with the upper part of your digestive system.

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Dengue fever

Dengue fever is an illness that is similar to a serious case of the flu. Read more about prevention, symptoms and treatment of dengue fever.

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Stinging plants

It can be difficult to know if a sting from a plant is dangerous or not. This article explains the best first aid treatment depending on the plant involved.

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Sea creature bites and stings

Not sure if a bite or sting from a sea creature is dangerous? Here’s information about first aid treatments for jellyfish stings, sea snake bites and more.

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Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS)

Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) is a virus that can cause severe pneumonia. It spread from China in 2002-2003. Know what to do in a future outbreak.

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