Blood and blood vessels

The heart and the vessels that carry blood around the body together make up the cardiovascular system. Learn more about how it functions.

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Circulatory system

Your body's circulatory system comprises the blood, heart and blood vessels. It moves oxygen and nutrients around the body, and removes carbon dioxide. Find out more, including about the problems that can occur.

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Heart

The heart pumps blood around the body to supply tissues with nutrition and oxygen. Find out about how it works and a number of health problems related to the heart.

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Heart and cardiovascular conditions

Learn more about the conditions that affect your heart and cardiovascular system, such as high blood pressure, angina and heart disease.

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Anatomy

The human body has many different systems and organs that all serve different function. Learn more about the brain, heart, digestive system and other parts of the body.

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Atrial fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation (when part of the heart ‘quivers’ rather than beating normally) could lead to a stroke. Know the symptoms and decrease your risk.

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Cardiac enzymes

Cardiac enzyme tests can check whether the heart muscle is damaged, and indicate if a person has had a heart attack.

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White blood cells

White blood cells are a vital part of your immune system, detecting and dealing with infections. Find out more more about health problems involving white blood cells.

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Heart palpitations

If you become suddenly aware of your heartbeat, especially if it’s faster or harder, you could be having palpitations. Learn how to spot the signs.

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Thrombosis

Thrombosis, such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), is where a blood clot forms in a vein or artery. Learn about the risk factors and how to prevent it.

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Electrocardiogram (ECG)

To find out how well your heart is working, your doctor may ask you to have an electrocardiogram (ECG). Learn more about it and why you may need an ECG.

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What is a haematologist?

A haematologist is a specialist doctor who treats conditions that affect the blood – such as leukaemia and haemophilia – and the organs that make the blood.

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Staying healthy when you have a heart condition

It's important to stay healthy if you have a heart condition and you can look after your heart by having a healthy lifestyle.

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Pacemaker

Has your doctor recommended you to have a pacemaker? Find out what it is, who needs it and things to consider before and after the surgery.

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Aortic dissection

Aortic dissection is a rare but serious condition where there is a tear in the innermost wall of the aorta — the largest artery in the body.

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Endocarditis

This rare but potentially fatal condition is caused by infection of the inner lining of the heart. A quick diagnosis of endocarditis is vital.

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Red blood cells

Red blood cells carry oxygen around your body and transport carbon dioxide to the lungs. Learn about related health problems and how a healthy diet can help produce red blood cells.

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Cholesterol and lipid tests

A cholesterol (or lipid profile) test looks at the various levels of cholesterol and other fats in your blood.

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Triglycerides

Triglycerides are a type of fat in your blood and are usually measured along with cholesterol. Find out more about the impact of high triglyceride levels.

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Cholesterol

Cholesterol is a fat-like substance made by your body and also found in food. It is needed for good health, but too much can increase your risk of heart disease.

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Statins

Statins are medicines used to lower cholesterol. They are recommended for people who are at risk of cardiovascular disease. Find out more about how statins work and read our trusted partner pages.

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Heart transplants

A heart transplant is an operation to replace a damaged heart with a healthy donor heart. Learn about waiting lists and life after a transplant.

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Is butter really better?

Butter is back in fashion because it's 'all natural', but since it's high in fat, is it healthier than margarine? And what about cholesterol-lowering spreads?

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5 heart health myths, busted

Heart disease is the leading underlying cause of death in Australia. Knowing how to look after your heart is essential, but there's a lot of misinformation out there.

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Dietary fats

The body needs some fats and oils as part of a balanced diet. But some fats (unsaturated fats) are healthier than others (saturated and trans fats).

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Health benefits of sex and love

Some scientific studies suggest that love and sex can bring benefits such as lower blood pressure. Find out how cupid's arrow can boost your health.

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How to lower cholesterol

High cholesterol levels increase your risk of heart disease and stroke - here's how you can help lower the level of cholesterol in your blood.

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Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy can help treat you if you have a problem with pain or movement. Learn more about what they do and how they can help.

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Heart attack

Acting fast when you notice the warning signs of a heart attack could save your life — or someone else's. Here's how to recognise the symptoms.

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