Seizures

Symptoms of seizures depend on the type of seizure. Find out about the causes and triggers of seizures and what to do when someone has a seizure.

Read more

Absence seizures

These are a type of epileptic seizure that cause someone to stare, and lose awareness for a few seconds. They’re also called ‘petit mal’ seizures.

Read more

What to do when someone has a seizure

Epilepsy affects about 250,000 Australians, so it's likely you know someone with epilepsy or you'll see someone having a seizure. Here's what you do when a person has a seizure.

Read more

Epilepsy

Epilepsy is a long-term condition that affects 1 in 50 Australians. Learn more about the causes, how it is diagnosed and the types of seizures.

Read more

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.

Read more

Fever in children

Fevers are quite common in young children and they are usually mild. Find out how to deal with fever and high temperatures in children here.

Read more

Encephalitis

Encephalitis is a serious brain condition usually caused by a virus. If you or your child may be affected, seek medical attention immediately.

Read more

Poisoning

Poisoning is common and most cases happen at home. Learn about the symptoms, prevention and what to do in an emergency.

Read more

Roseola infantum

Roseola infantum is a contagious viral infection. Symptoms include high fever and a rash. Read more about roseola and if you need urgent medical help.

Read more

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT)

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is a treatment for some severe mental health conditions. Find out about ECT, when it’s used and side effects here.

Read more

Encephalopathy

An encephalopathy refers to any disturbance of the brain's functioning that leads to problems like confusion and memory loss. Read more here.

Read more

Collapsing

Collapsing has a range of causes, often occuring because someone has fainted. You collapse when your brain isn't getting enough oxygen.

Read more

Flu vaccine FAQs

Find out when to get your flu shot and learn about its side effects, effectiveness and safety. Is flu vaccination impacted by COVID-19?

Read more

Tuberous sclerosis

Tuberous sclerosis is a rare genetic disease that may affect many parts of your body, behaviour and thinking. There’s no cure, but it can be treated.

Read more

Meningitis

Meningitis can be a life-threatening illness requiring urgent medical treatment. Learn more about meningitis, including the common symptoms.

Read more

Head injuries

Head injuries can be serious, even if they’re not visible. Read about the signs and symptoms here.

Read more

Gliomas in children

Glioma is a type of cancer that grows in the brain or spinal cord. Learn more about the types, symptoms and treatment, and where to get support.

Read more

GHB

GHB is a party drug. It has been linked to date rape and sexual assault. Find out more about the physical effects and consequences of using GHB.

Read more

Rhabdomyolysis

Rhabdomyolysis happens when muscle tissue is destroyed and their contents released into the bloodstream. Find out more about its symptoms and treatments.

Read more

Hydrocephalus

Hydrocephalus is caused by a build-up of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain. This fluid is essential, but too much can damage your brain.

Read more

Angelman syndrome

A rare syndrome causing physical and intellectual disability. It can’t be cured, but some therapies can improve the quality of life of those affected.

Read more

Brain tumours

A brain tumour is a growth of abnormal cells in the brain. Some are malignant, when it’s known as brain cancer, and others are benign (non-cancerous).

Read more

Porphyria

Porphyria is caused by problems with red blood cells and has a wide range of symptoms. Discover how it's managed and treated.

Read more

Long QT syndrome

Long QT syndrome (LQTS) is a disorder of the heart's electrical system that can cause fast, chaotic heartbeats, called arrhythmias.

Read more

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.

Read more

Pineal gland

The pineal gland is a very small gland in your brain and it is part of the body's endocrine system.

Read more

What care do I need?

There are many types of healthcare services and information available in Australia. Learn here how to find the right service at the right time.

Read more

Swallowed substances

Common household and garden products are often swallowed by accident. While many are low toxicity, some are potentially harmful.

Read more

Spina bifida

Spina bifida is a birth defect that affects a baby’s spine from early pregnancy. Ensuring enough folate in the diet is the best way to reduce the risk of spina bifida.

Read more

Cocaine

Cocaine, or 'coke' as it is commonly known, is a highly addictive drug associated with health issues and other problems. Learn more about its physical effects and the risks associated to cocaine use.

Read more