Chest pain

Chest pain is any sort of pain felt in your upper body, from your jaw and shoulders down to your ribs. It can be a symptom of a heart attack. Find out the facts and when to be concerned.

Read more

Angina

Caused by insufficient blood flow to the muscles of the heart, angina usually presents as chest pain. Here's how to recognise the signs of angina.

Read more

Coronary heart disease symptoms

If your coronary arteries become partially blocked, it can cause chest pain (angina). If they become completely blocked, it can cause a heart attack (myocardial infarction). Find out more about the symptoms.

Read more

Pericarditis

Pericarditis is inflammation of the thin sheath around your heart. It can lead to problems ranging from swelling to a serious drop in blood pressure.

Read more

Costochondritis

Costochondritis is an inflammation in the cartilage that joins your ribs to your breastbone. If you have costochondritis, learn how you can reduce the pain.

Read more

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.

Read more

GORD symptoms

The most common symptom of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) is heartburn. Other symptoms include regurgitation. Find out about GORD symptoms.

Read more

Heart attack symptoms

Dial triple zero (000) immediately if you suspect that you or someone you know is having a heart attack. Find out about the symptoms of heart attack.

Read more

Differences between heart disease in women and in men

Heart disease often goes undiagnosed in women, partly because symptoms can develop later. Learn more about why heart disease differs in men and women.

Read more

Pleurisy

Pleurisy occurs when the lining of the lungs become inflamed, most often due to a recent respiratory tract infection. Read about causes and treatments.

Read more

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.

Read more

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.

Read more

Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS)

Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is a blood disorder that increases the risk of developing blood clots or having problems during pregnancy. Learn more here.

Read more

Coronary angiogram

A coronary angiogram is an x-ray procedure used to see whether a person has a certain type of heart disease. See here how the procedure is carried out.

Read more

Inhalants

Inhalants are chemical substances that release fumes or vapours. Some people inhale these fumes to feel high. There is no safe level of inhalant use.

Read more

Leukaemia symptoms

Leukaemia symptoms are often mild at first, but slowly worsen over time. Find more about leukaemia symptoms.

Read more

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.

Read more

Colds

A cold is a viral infection that affects the nose, the throat and upper airways. Find out more about the common cold.

Read more

Blood clots

Most blood clots aren’t harmful, but they can move through the body and affect your heart, lung or brain, which could be life threatening. Learn here how to recognise a blood clot.

Read more

Out of date medicines

When medicines are manufactured, by law they have to be given an expiry date. Learn more about expiration dates and safe storage of medicines.

Read more

healthdirect Symptom Checker

Not feeling well? Use the healthdirect Symptom Checker to better understand your symptoms and get advice on when to seek medical attention.

Read more

Legionnaires' disease

Legionnaires' disease is a severe and sometimes life-threatening form of pneumonia. Read more information about symptoms, diagnosis, treatment and prevention.

Read more

Anxiety symptoms

Anxiety symptoms may be physical or emotional. Find out more about what can trigger an anxiety attack and when you need to seek help from a professional.

Read more

Respiratory system

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

Read more

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.

Read more

Complications of a heart attack

Potential complications arising from a heart attack can vary widely, from mild to life threatening. Find out about complications of a heart attack.

Read more

Heart attack diagnosis

With a heart attack, every minute counts. Know the warning signs of a heart attack and what to do if you or someone around you experience the warning signs.

Read more

Cardiomyopathy

Cardiomyopathy is a heart condition caused by a damaged heart muscle. Discover what's behind cardiomyopathy, and how to manage it.

Read more

GORD (reflux)

Learn more about symptoms and treatments for gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD), which is caused by stomach acid leaking into the oesophagus.

Read more

Heartburn

Heartburn is a feeling of burning pain or discomfort in the chest. Find out about the triggers for heartburn and what you can do to reduce your risk.

Read more