Bronchitis

Bronchitis is inflammation of the airways in your lungs, which causes a cough. Learn about the symptoms and treatment of acute bronchitis.

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Chest infection

Chest infections are common in people of all ages. Find out more about what causes chest infections, their symptoms and treatments.

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Lung conditions

Learn all about lung conditions and diseases, such as asthma, bronchitis, emphysema, whooping cough and more.

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Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a term used for some long-term lung conditions, including emphysema and chronic bronchitis.

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Infectious diseases

There are many different kinds of infectious diseases. Find out about conditions such as shingles, chlamydia, measles, conjunctivitis, tonsillitis, bronchitis and more here.

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Antioxidants

Antioxidants can neutralise free radicals in your body. Find out about foods high in antioxidants and when you should consider taking supplements.

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What is the difference between bacterial and viral infections?

Bacterial and viral infections must be treated differently. Misusing antibiotics to treat viral infections leads to the problem of antibiotic resistance.

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Dust storms

A dust storm reduces the quality of the air that we breathe, which can cause health problems. Learn how to protect yourself in a dust storm.

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Why am I spotting between periods? Plus 9 other female health questions answered

healthdirect’s Chief Medical Officer answers how to handle the symptoms of endometriosis and bleeding between your periods, plus other questions.

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HTLV-1 infection

Human T-cell leukaemia virus type 1 (HTLV-1) can infect your blood. Learn more about HTLV-1, how you can catch it and the diseases it causes.

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Runny nose

Runny nose, also called rhinorrhoea, can be caused by things like allergies, colds and flu. Learn how to treat and prevent a runny nose.

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Haemoptysis (coughing up blood)

Haemoptysis (hemoptysis) is when you cough up blood from your lungs or airways. Read about the causes and when to seek emergency help for haemoptysis.

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Doxycycline

Doxycycline is an antibiotic medicine. Read what doxycycline is used for, how it works, its risks and other treatment options available.

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Respiratory system

Your respiratory system brings oxygen into your body and helps to remove carbon dioxide. Learn more about how it functions and how to keep it healthy.

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Asbestosis

Asbestosis is a lung disease is caused by asbestos dust, with symptoms such as shortness of breath usually appearing 10 to 20 years after exposure.

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Silicosis

Silicosis is a lung disease caused by inhaling silica dust. Find out how to reduce your risk and what can be done to manage silicosis.

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Shortness of breath

Shortness of breath is when you feel like you can’t get enough air into your lungs. Find out what to do if you have difficulty breathing.

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Passive smoking and vaping

Passive smoke and vapour can damage your health if you breathe it in, especially for babies, children and pregnant women. Learn about the risks.

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Victoria rural and remote health services

If you live in Victoria's rural and remote regions, you'll need to plan ahead to access health services. Learn where to find help.

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Coughs and colds in children

Most coughs and colds in children are caused by viruses. Find out how to treat your child and prevent them from developing and spreading a cold.

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Cough

Most coughs are caused by viruses which inflame the throat, airways or lungs. Here are some tips to relieve a chesty, dry or persistent cough.

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Cocaine

Cocaine, or 'coke', is an addictive drug that can cause unwanted effects. Learn more about cocaine’s effects and the risks associated with its use.

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Cannabis (marijuana)

Marijuana (cannabis) is one of the most commonly used illicit drugs in Australia. You can find out more about marijuana and how it impacts users here.

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Bushfires and your health

Bushfires and smoke pose health risks, especially to those with conditions such as asthma. Prepare, get emergency medicines and stay informed.

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