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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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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Emphysema

Emphysema is a progressive lung disease usually caused by cigarette smoking. It causes shortness of breath and coughing. Read more about emphysema symptoms, causes and treatments.

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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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Objects in the nose

An object in nose can go unnoticed until symptoms begin to develop. Such as pain, redness or swelling. If you think think your child may have an object in the nose you should take them to a doctor.

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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty (often called a ‘nose job’) is surgery to repair or reshape the nose. But what questions must you ask before having one? Learn more here.

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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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Inserting a gastric balloon

Inserting a gastric balloon may help you achieve long-term weight loss if a simple approach involving eating less, improving your diet and doing more exercise does not work.

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