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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Breathing problems

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

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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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Asthma symptoms

When asthma symptoms get significantly worse, this is known as an “asthma attack”. Find out about asthma symptoms.

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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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Emphysema

Emphysema is a progressive lung disease usually caused by cigarette smoking. It causes shortness of breath and coughing.

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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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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

Links to trusted information about pesticides, including insecticides, herbicides and fungicides, and what to do if someone has been poisoned by pesticides.

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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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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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Diphtheria

Diphtheria is a rare infectious bacterial disease that usually affects the nose and throat. Learn more about its vaccination, symptoms and how it spreads.

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Allergic reactions to cow's milk

About 1 in 50 infants has an allergic reaction to cow’s milk. Learn more here about allergy to milk proteins.

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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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Edwards syndrome (Trisomy 18)

Edwards syndrome, also called Trisomy 18, is a genetic disorder in babies that causes severe disability. It is caused by an extra copy of chromosome 18.

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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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Colds and flu symptoms

Symptoms of a cold can include:sore throat, fever (a temperature of 38 °C or higher), sneezing, blocked or runny nose and cough. Learn about cold and flu symptoms.

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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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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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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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Sub-total thyroidectomy (for thyrotoxicosis)

A thyroidectomy removes the gland that regulates your body's metabolism if it becomes overactive, causing weight-loss, sweatiness or eye problems.

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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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Fluid retention

Fluid retention occurs when parts of the body swell due to the build-up of trapped fluid. Find out more about the causes and treatment options available.

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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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Total thyroidectomy (for thyrotoxicosis)

The thyroid is a gland in your neck that produces a hormone called thyroxine, which regulates your body's metabolism. The thyroid can become overactive, causing weight loss, sweatiness and eye problems.

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Parathyroidectomy

Parathyroid glands can become overactive, causing an increase in the level of calcium in your blood. Surgery to remove any affected glands is the only reliable way to prevent long-term problems.

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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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Codeine

Codeine is a medicine that relieves pain and reduces coughing.

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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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Colds and flu treatments

If you have a cold or flu (influenza) there are a number of ways you can treat your symptoms, although most people will usually get better within 7-10 days without any treatment.

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