Respiratory conditions

Links to articles about respiratory conditions.

Read more

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.

Read more

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.

Read more

Throat diseases

Links to artciles about throat diseases.

Read more

Avian influenza (bird flu)

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

Read more

Lung conditions

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

Read more

Asbestosis

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

Read more

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.

Read more

Allergies

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

Read more

Glandular fever symptoms

Glandular fever (also called the ‘kissing disease’) is an infectious disease which is common in teenagers and young adults. Find out more about the symptoms of glandular fever.

Read more

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.

Read more

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.

Read more

Fever in 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.

Read more

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.

Read more

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.

Read more

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.

Read more

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.

Read more

Allergy testing

Suffering from asthma or hay fever? They may be triggered by allergies. Find out more here about allergy testing.

Read more

Asbestos

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

Read more

Tonsillitis

Tonsillitis is an infection and swelling of the tonsils at the back of the throat. Learn about its symptoms and treatments.

Read more

Antihistamines

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

Read more

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.

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

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

Laryngoscopy

A laryngoscopy is usually a safe and effective way of finding out if there is a problem with your larynx.

Read more

COVID-19 vaccination

The COVID-19 vaccine will be available to all Australians throughout 2021. Learn about how the vaccine was developed, how it works and when you might be eligible.

Read more

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.

Read more

Silicosis

Silicosis is a lung disease caused by inhaling unsafe levels of silica dust, usually over a period of many years. Find out how to minimise the risk.

Read more

Strep throat

Strep throat is an infection of the throat caused by bacteria called Streptococci. Learn more about what it is, and its symptoms, diagnosis and treatment.

Read more

Sore throat (pharyngitis)

A sore throat is normally a symptom of a bacterial or viral infection and is common with a cold or flu. Learn more about the self-care of sore throats.

Read more