Pleural effusion

A pleural effusion is an abnormal build-up of fluid in the space around the lungs. It can be caused by many things, from pneumonia to kidney failure.

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Farmer health is about growing awareness

Farmers’ health challenges include accessing services, respiratory disease and avoiding injury from farm machinery. Learn more this National Farm Safety Week.

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Throat diseases

Links to artciles about throat diseases.

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Avian influenza (bird flu)

Information about avian influenza (bird flu) from leading Australian health organisations, including links to content on avian influenza in humans.

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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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10 tips to fight the flu – infographic

Flu vaccine and good hygiene are some of the most important ways to help prevent colds and flu. Here's a handy list of tips to fight the flu.

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A guide to hay fever

Hay fever, or allergic rhinitis, can be triggered by dust, grass and pollen. Learn about antihistamine medicines and other ways to manage symptoms, plus find out when an allergy test might be a good idea.

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Asbestosis

This lung disease is caused by asbestos dust, with symptoms (shortness of breath, coughing) usually appearing 10 to 20 years after exposure.

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Allergies

Trusted information about allergy types, as well as allergy testing, anaphylaxis, antihistamines and common related conditions such as asthma and hay fever.

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Cold or flu? (infographic)

Can't tell if you've got the cold or the flu? This infographic helps you compare cold and flu symptoms, debunk the most common myths.

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Fever in babies and children - infographic

When should a child with a fever see a doctor? How do I treat a fever at home? Answer these questions and more with this infographic about fever in children.

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Flu trend report for health professionals

Staff at Healthdirect Australia collect influenza (flu) data based on calls to the healthdirect helpline. This page provides a detailed flu data report for health professionals.

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Sinusitis

Sinusitis is when the hollow spaces in the bones of your face become inflamed. Sinusitis is a common symptom for colds and the flu and it can be difficult to tell the difference between them.

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How to stop snoring

There are many causes of snoring, some of which are serious. If you or your household have concerns, you should see a doctor, and try some of these simple measures to stop it.

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Night sweats

Night sweats may be a sign of a medical condition or may be caused by a medication. Find out more about night sweats, common causes and treatments.

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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.

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Legionnaires' disease

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

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Antihistamines

Antihistamine medications help ease allergy symptoms. Read more about how they're used to treat conditions like hay fever and asthma.

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About coronaviruses

Coronaviruses can cause several illnesses, from the common cold to serious respiratory infections and pneumonia. Learn more about coronaviruses.

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Bronchoscopy

During a bronchoscopy, a doctor views your airways and lungs. By inserting a tube attached to a camera, they aim to diagnose or treat a condition.

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Asbestos

Asbestos is a building material that was commonly used in Australia. It has been found responsible for causing a number of serious illnesses.

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Managing COVID-19 at home

Find out how you can mange mild to moderate COVID-19 at home and what to do if your symptoms get worse.

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Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency

Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (AATD) is a common, inherited genetic condition that can cause chronic lung and liver disease. Treatment can slow down the progress of the disease. Learn more here.

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Pneumothorax

Pneumothorax (known as collapsed lung) is a reasonably common condition that occurs when air leaks into the space between the lung and chest wall.

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Perfume stinks: how fragrances can affect your health

Fragrances and fragranced products cause health problems, such as asthma and headaches, in 1 in 3 people. Find out what you can do if you experience symptoms.

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Bronchiectasis

Bronchiectasis damages the airways in the lungs, causing them to permanently widen. Early diagnosis and treatment are vital to prevent further damage.

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Can you boost your immune system against the COVID-19 coronavirus?

It's OK to feel anxious about the COVID-19 coronavirus. Here's what you can do to protect yourself from viruses — and what won't help, such as vitamin supplements.

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Laryngitis

Laryngitis is an inflammation of the voice box (larynx) which causes you to sound hoarse or to lose your voice. You can find out more on our trusted partner pages.

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Inhaled substance or object

People can accidentally breathe in a substance or object. Such as a liquid, powder, gas or small toy part. Learn more about symptoms that can arise from inhaling a substance or object.

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How colds and flu impact blood donations — and how you can help

Up to 1,400 people per day are cancelling their blood donation appointments, following an early start to the cold and flu season. Here's how your donation can help.

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