health_topic.id,health_topic.ts,health_topic.title,health_topic.content
1,"2018-04-19 01:51:49",Accidents,
2,"2018-04-19 01:53:45","Achilles tendon","You can strain your Achilles, or it can become weak due to a lot of very small tears (which is known as degeneration), or it can tear (which is known as rupture). If you have a problem with your Achilles, it is a good idea to see your doctor or physiotherapist. Achilles tendon symptoms If you have injured your Achilles, it might hurt during or after exercise. You might also feel weakness or stiffness at the back of your heel or have some swelling in the tendon. If you rupture your Achilles, it can feel like a hit to the back of the ankle. You might have trouble walking. If you have pain under the heel, it is usually not an Achilles problem. Achilles tendon diagnosis To diagnose a tendon injury, your doctor or physiotherapist will examine you and ask about your symptoms. An ultrasound or other scan such as an x-ray may be done to help identify the problem, but this is usually not needed. Achilles tendon treatment If you think you may have hurt your Achilles, see a doctor straight away. It is a good idea to stop any activity and carry out RICER – rest, ice, compression, elevation and referral for treatment – for two to three days. Painkillers such as paracetamol can help relieve pain, if necessary. Depending on the nature of your injury, your doctor or physiotherapist may advise you to: keep your weight off your ankle (such as by using crutches) do stretching and strengthening exercises tape your foot and heel use orthotics (firm inserts placed into a shoe). If your Achilles is completely torn, surgery may be needed to repair it. This may reduce the chance that it will rupture again. Some people require a program of rehabilitation that can last for months. For more information, visit the Sports Medicine Australia website. Achilles tendon prevention You can help protect your Achilles tendons by: wearing supportive shoes warming up and stretching before and after exercise gradually building up your level of physical activity resting between workouts doing exercises that strengthen your calf muscles. Sources: Sports Medicine Australia (Achilles Tendon Injuries), The Cochrane Library (Surgical Interventions for Treating Acute Achilles Tendon Ruptures (Review)), Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (Tendon injuries: Practice tips for GPs) Last reviewed: March 2017"
3,"2018-04-19 01:53:46",Acne,"Acne consists of spots and painful bumps on the skin. It's most noticeable on the face, but can also appear on the back, shoulders and buttocks. Severe acne can cause scarring. What causes acne? The causes of acne continue to be investigated by scientists, but even after decades of research there are no definite answers. It appears that a person's genes have the strongest influence on whether they get acne or not. This could be due to the way skin reacts to hormonal changes. The skin contains sebaceous (oil) glands that naturally release sebum, an oily substance that helps protect it. During puberty, changes in levels of the hormone testosterone can cause changes in the sebum produced. This happens in both boys and girls. The sebum can block hair follicles. When dead skin cells mix with the blockage, it can lead to the formation of spots. Bacteria in the skin multiply, which can cause pain and swelling (inflammation) beneath the blockages. If you have acne, it can be made worse by: stress a poor diet being overweight not exercising enough being pregnant having polycystic ovarian syndrome. There are different kinds of spots: blackheads are small, blocked pores whiteheads are small, hard bumps with a white centre pustules are spots with a lot of pus visible nodules are hard, painful lumps under the skin. Inflammatory acne is when the skin is also red and swollen. This needs to be treated early to prevent scarring, and should be discussed with your doctor. Try not to pick or squeeze spots as this can cause inflammation and lead to scarring. Spots will eventually go away on their own, but they might leave redness in the skin for some weeks or months afterwards. If you have acne, wash your skin gently with a mild cleanser and use an oil-free moisturiser. Scrubbing or exfoliating can irritate the skin, making it look and feel sore. Myths about acne Several myths about what causes acne are described below. Food Research shows that eating low GI foods and cutting down on processed foods can help acne. But remember changing what you eat can only do so much. Medical treatments are still the main way to improve severe acne. If you notice your acne is worse after you eat certain foods, cut these out for a while and see what happens. Bad hygiene Some people believe that acne is caused by bad personal hygiene, but this is not true. If you are going to get acne, you will get it no matter how much you clean your skin. Too much cleaning can make the condition worse by removing the protective oils in your skin. Make-up There is also a myth that wearing make-up can cause spots, but there is no evidence that this is the case. The less you touch your skin, the fewer bacteria will be spread to your skin. If you wear make-up, wash your hands before putting your make-up on and always remove it before going to bed. If acne is severe, your doctor can refer you to a dermatologist who may prescribe medication. Not sure what to do next? If you are still concerned about your acne, why not use healthdirect’s online Symptom Checker to get advice on when to seek medical attention. The Symptom Checker guides you to the next appropriate healthcare steps, whether it’s self care, talking to a health professional, going to a hospital or calling triple zero (000). Sources: Magin, P. et al (A systematic review of the evidence for ‘myths and misconceptions’ in acne management: diet, face-washing and sunlight (2005)), NHS Choices (Dealing with acne), Smith E., Grindlay, D., Williams, H., (What’s new in acne? An analysis of systematic reviews published in 2009–2010 (2011)) Last reviewed: September 2017"
4,"2018-04-19 01:53:49",Acromegaly,"What is acromegaly? Acromegaly is a disorder that affects adults and is caused by overproduction of growth hormone. Growth hormone (also called human growth hormone, GH or HGH) controls the normal growth of the body’s tissues, organs and bones, as well as helping control its metabolism. A similar condition, known as gigantism, can occur in children and can make them grow very tall. Adults with too much growth hormone don’t grow exceptionally tall because once they have gone through puberty, their long bones don’t grow any longer. Causes of acromegaly Acromegaly is caused by the pituitary gland in the brain producing too much growth hormone, usually because of a benign tumour in the gland. Pituitary tumours (also known as pituitary adenomas) tend to grow very slowly. Very rarely, acromegaly can be caused by hormone-producing tumours in other parts of the body, such as the lungs, pancreas or adrenal glands. Symptoms of acromegaly The main signs of acromegaly are: changes to facial features, such as a broadening nose, enlarging jaw and more widely spaced teeth enlarged lips or tongue enlarged hands and feet A pituitary tumour can also cause a range of other problems, such as: carpal tunnel syndrome, which causes numbness or burning in the hands or feet high blood sugar levels and diabetes high blood pressure and heart disease arthritis an enlarged thyroid gland headaches or vision problems thick oily skin, with excessive sweating sleep apnoea tiredness or fatigue If you have symptoms of acromegaly, see your doctor for advice. Diagnosis of acromegaly Because the changes happen slowly, it can take a while for you to notice them and to get medical advice. But getting an early diagnosis is important since it can lower your chances of developing problems such as diabetes or heart disease. Tests used to diagnose acromegaly include: blood tests – to measure the level of hormones oral glucose tolerance test – to see how growth hormone levels change when blood sugar level is increased an MRI or CT scan – to see the pituitary gland x-rays of the skull and jaw – to check bone thickness Treatment of acromegaly Treatments can reduce your production of growth hormone to a normal level and help control symptoms. The options for treatment are: surgery – to remove a pituitary tumour radiotherapy – to shrink a pituitary tumour drug therapy – to counter the effects of too much growth hormone These treatments can be used on their own or in any combination. Living with acromegaly Living with acromegaly can be a stressful experience, particularly while you are waiting for a diagnosis, treatment or for your symptoms to improve. However, treatment is often successful. While it might not be possible to reverse all changes to the shape and size of your bones, many people notice their bodies gradually returning to normal over time. More information Try the healthdirect Question builder to help you prepare a list of questions for when you visit your doctor. Check your symptoms with healthdirect's online Symptom Checker for advice on what to do next. Contact the Australian Pituitary Foundation. Sources: Australian Pituitary Foundation (Acromegaly), Hormone Health Network (Acromegaly), Mayo Clinic (Acromegaly – Overview), Lab Tests Online (Growth hormone) Last reviewed: February 2018"
5,"2018-04-19 01:53:53",ADD,"Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is characterised by symptoms including inattention, hyperactivity and impulsive behaviour. These symptoms are associated with learning, behavioural and emotional problems. Types of ADHD There are 3 types of ADHD: Inattentive ADHD means a person is easily distractible or inattentive but isn’t hyperactive or impulsive. Hyperactive-Impulsive ADHD occurs when a person has symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity, but can maintain concentration. Combined ADHD is where a person has a mixture of symptoms including hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity. Treatment for ADHD Everyone gets restless and distracted from time to time. But for people with ADHD it can be extremely hard to stay focused on a task. The good news is that ADHD is treatable. Psychological and behaviour therapies, and medication can all be effective. For children, positive parenting techniques are also recommended. Sources: Royal Children's Hospital (ADHD - an overview), Adults with ADHD (About Adult ADHD factsheet), Australian Psychological Society (ADHD), Women's and Children’s Health Network (ADD and ADHD - what are they?), Better Health Channel (ADHD) Last reviewed: July 2016"
6,"2018-04-19 01:53:59",Addiction,"Addiction is most commonly associated with gambling, drugs – both illicit and prescription – alcohol and nicotine, but it's possible to be addicted to anything, such as: Work – workaholics are obsessed with their work to the extent that they suffer physical exhaustion. If your relationship, family and social life are suffering and you never take holidays, you may be a work addict. Computers – as computer use has increased, so too has computer addiction. People may spend hours each day and night surfing the internet or playing games while neglecting other aspects of their lives. Solvents – 'volatile substance abuse' involves inhaling substances such as glue, aerosols, paint or lighter fuel, to give you a feeling of intoxication. Solvent abuse can be fatal. Shopping – shopping becomes an addiction when you buy things you don't need or want in order to achieve a buzz. This is quickly followed by feelings of guilt, shame or despair. Whatever a person is addicted to, they can't control how they use it, and they may become dependent on it to get through daily life. Why does addiction begin? There are many reasons why addictions begin. In the case of drugs, alcohol and nicotine, these substances affect the way you feel, both physically and mentally. These feelings can be enjoyable and create a powerful urge to use the substances again. Gambling may result in a similar mental 'high' after a win, followed by a strong urge to try again and re-create that feeling. This can develop into a habit that becomes very hard to stop. Being addicted to something means that not having it causes withdrawal symptoms or a 'come down'. Because this can be unpleasant, it's easier to carry on having or doing what you crave, and so the cycle continues. Often, an addiction gets out of control because you need more and more to satisfy a craving and achieve the 'high'. The strain of managing an addiction can seriously damage a person's work performance and relationships. In the case of substance abuse (for example, drugs and alcohol), an addiction can have serious psychological and physical effects. Some studies suggest that addiction is genetic, but environmental factors, such as being brought up by someone with an addiction, are also thought to increase the risk. An addiction can be a way of blocking out difficult issues. Unemployment and poverty can trigger addiction, along with stress, and emotional or professional pressure. Symptoms of addiction People may or may not know they are addicted. The symptoms that indicate you, or someone you know, has an addiction include: repeating something even though it interferes with your life stealing or selling things to continue the addictive behaviour losing interest in other things being angry, violent, moody, or depressed seeing changes in eating habits, sleeping habits, or weight feeling sick or shaky when trying to quit. Some drugs, such as alcohol and ice, can make people unpredictable and violent. If you are worried about your safety, or the safety of someone else, call the police on triple zero (000). Visit the Alcohol and Drug Foundation website for more information on supporting someone with an addiction. If you are caring for someone with an addiction, it is just as important to continue to look after yourself. Visit Carer Gateway or call 1800 422 737 (Monday-Friday, 8am-6pm) for more information. Where to get help Overcoming addiction is easier if you seek help. Talk to your doctor, or see below for a service that can help. You can search for a doctor in your region here. The Australian Drug Information Network (ADIN) lists support services, including services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. ReachOut.com has information about addiction and mental health for young people. The Family Drug Helpline. Call 1300 660 068. Family Drug Support Australia. Call 1300 368 186. Alcoholics Anonymous. Call 1300 222 222. Lifeline. Call 13 11 14. To speak to someone anonymously about any kind of addiction, you can also look at a range of national and state-based support services at adf.org.au. Sources: ReachOut.com (The facts about drug addiction), ReachOut.com (What is addiction), Lifeline (Substance abuse & addiction), Australian Drug Information Network (Help & support services), Australian Drug Foundation (Help and support) Last reviewed: October 2016"
7,"2018-04-19 01:54:02","Addison's disease","It is also known as chronic adrenal insufficiency, or hypocortisolism. It can make people feel weak and tired, but it can also be effectively treated with replacement steroids. Types of Addison’s disease There are two main types of Addison’s disease. Primary adrenal insufficiency: the adrenal glands do not produce enough cortisol and aldosterone Secondary adrenal insufficiency: the pituitary gland in the brain does not release enough of the hormone that stimulates the adrenal gland to release cortisol. What causes Addison’s disease? Addison’s disease may be caused by anything that damages the adrenal glands, such as: autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks some of the bodies own tissues) Infection of the adrenal glands blood loss, blood thinning drugs cancer in the adrenal glands bleeding in the adrenal glands tuberculosis conditions such as type 1 diabetes genetic defects disease in the pituitary glands If you suddenly stop taking corticosteroids for conditions like asthma or arthritis. It can also be caused by anything that affects the pituitary gland in the brain, such as a tumour. Addison’s disease symptoms The symptoms of Addison’s disease start gradually and can include: a darkening of the skin, with or without sun exposure weight loss low blood pressure and sometimes fainting fatigue and muscle weakness loss of appetite salt cravings low blood sugar abdominal pain muscle or joint pains poor growth in children nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea irritability and depression menstrual periods that become irregular or stop Loss of hair Sexual problems in women. What is an Addisonian crisis? An Addisonian crisis can occur when an accident or illness causes symptoms to worsen. These can include sudden pain in the lower back, legs or abdomen, low blood pressure, severe vomiting and diarrhoea and loss of consciousness. An untreated Addisonian crisis can be fatal. In the case of accident, illness, vomiting or diarrhoea people with Addison’s disease must have their medication adjusted according to their specific needs. Addison’s disease diagnosis Addison’s disease can be diagnosed in a variety of ways, including: blood tests to determine hormone levels a blood sugar test X-ray, MRI or CT scan to look at the structure of the adrenal or pituitary glands medical and family history. Addison’s disease treatment Treatment for Addison’s disease requires life-long steroid replacement therapy. This includes corticosteroid tablets, corticosteroid injections, androgen replacement and sometimes increased sodium (salt) intake. People with Addison’s disease are advised to wear an identification disc or bracelet noting treatment in an emergency. Sources: Australian Addison's Disease Association (What is Addisons?), Kidspot (Addison's disease), Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne (Adrenal crisis and Acute adrenal insufficiency), Mayo Clinic (Addison’s disease causes) Last reviewed: August 2017"
8,"2018-04-19 01:54:06",Adenoidectomy,"Adenoidectomy is the surgical removal of the adenoids, which are small lumps of soft tissue found at the back of the nose in children. It is a short and safe procedure, but your child will have a sore throat for a couple of days. Why is an adenoidectomy performed? The adenoids are part of a child’s immune system and help protect their nose and throat from infection. But the adenoids can also get infected themselves, and if that happens frequently, it can cause problems such as: recurrent ear infections, glue ear or sinusitis interference with breathing and disrupted sleep, leading to snoring or sleep apnoea If these problems are serious and they continue, your doctor might recommend an adenoidectomy for your child. Sometimes, adenoids are also removed when a child is having their tonsils out or grommets inserted for a glue ear since these conditions are all related. An enlarged adenoid can cause breathing and sleep problems. How to prepare for an adenoidectomy You should follow any guidelines your hospital or clinic provides on how to prepare your child for an adenoidectomy. For example, they will be asked not to eat or drink some hours before the operation. Learn more about preparing for surgery here. What happens during an adenoidectomy An adenoidectomy is performed under a general anaesthetic, so your child will have no awareness or pain during the operation. The surgeon will remove the adenoid tissue through the child’s open mouth. This usually takes about 30 minutes. What to expect after an adenoidectomy Your child will recover from the general anaesthetic in an hour or so, although the anaesthetic might make them feel tired and sick and they will have a sore throat. They will be encouraged to drink and eat light foods when they can, and will need to drink before they go home. Children can often go home on the day of the surgery, but they might be asked to stay overnight. Their throat will probably be sore for a day or two, and the pain can be treated with medication, as recommended by your doctor. If the tonsils are also removed, they will have more pain and it will last longer. Your child should rest for a day or two, then they can go back to their normal activities. For a few days - or maybe even weeks - they might still have: a blocked nose a smelly nose a light, blood-stained discharge What could go wrong? Adenoidectomy is a safe procedure, but all surgery has some risks. Contact your doctor if your child has: a high fever (above 38°C) bright red bleeding from the nose or mouth serious pain that isn’t relieved by pain-killers More information The Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network: Adenoidectomy. Sources: Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (Adenoidectomy for otitis media in children), Paediatric Anaesthesia (Postoperative pain during the first week after adenoidectomy and guillotine adenotonsillectomy in children), Sydney Children's Hospitals Network (Adenoidectomy), NHS UK (Adenoids and adenoidectomy), Patient.info (Otitis media with effusion), Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne (Day surgery: Adenoidectomy) Last reviewed: February 2018"
9,"2018-04-19 01:54:11",Adenomyosis,"What is adenomyosis?Adenomyosis occurs when the cells that normally line the uterus grow in the layer of muscle in the wall of the uterus. They should not normally be there.It occurs only in women who are making the female hormone oestrogen. It usually disappears after menopause when oestrogen production drops.It can cause enlargement of the uterus and heavy periods.If you have adenomyosis, you might also have a similar condition called endometriosis.What causes adenomyosis?It is not certain how or why the uterus-lining cells enter the muscle wall. It is thought that they might enter: during surgeryearly in the development of the foetusafter childbirth when the wall of the uterus is weakened by inflammation.It sometimes happens after:the birth of a babysurgery involving the uterus, such as caesarean section or removal of fibroids.Adenomyosis symptomsWomen with adenomyosis might have:heavy periodspainful periodspain during sexbleeding between periodstiredness from the anaemia caused by blood loss.The symptoms might be mild, but they can be severe enough to interfere with work and your enjoyment of life.Adenomyosis diagnosisYour doctor will talk to you and examine you. You might also be asked to have scans. Adenomyosis often takes time to diagnose.Adenomyosis treatmentYou can ease the symptoms by:anti-inflammatory medicineswarm baths and heat packshormone treatment.Hysterectomy is an option for women with severe adenomyosis. Sources: Jean Hailes (Adenomyosis), Mayo Clinic (Adenomyosis) Last reviewed: April 2016"
10,"2018-04-19 01:54:15",ADHD,"Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is characterised by symptoms including inattention, hyperactivity and impulsive behaviour. These symptoms are associated with learning, behavioural and emotional problems. Types of ADHD There are 3 types of ADHD: Inattentive ADHD means a person is easily distractible or inattentive but isn’t hyperactive or impulsive. Hyperactive-Impulsive ADHD occurs when a person has symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity, but can maintain concentration. Combined ADHD is where a person has a mixture of symptoms including hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity. Treatment for ADHD Everyone gets restless and distracted from time to time. But for people with ADHD it can be extremely hard to stay focused on a task. The good news is that ADHD is treatable. Psychological and behaviour therapies, and medication can all be effective. For children, positive parenting techniques are also recommended. Sources: Royal Children's Hospital (ADHD - an overview), Adults with ADHD (About Adult ADHD factsheet), Australian Psychological Society (ADHD), Women's and Children’s Health Network (ADD and ADHD - what are they?), Better Health Channel (ADHD) Last reviewed: July 2016"
11,"2018-04-19 01:54:17","Adrenal fatigue","There can be many reasons why people feel tired all the time and therefore it is often not easy to pinpoint a cause. What is adrenal fatigue? The term adrenal fatigue is used by some people to describe a collection of symptoms, such as: fatigue body aches nervousness low blood pressure sleep disturbances digestive issues. Your adrenal glands sit on top of each kidney. Their role is to produce hormones, including adrenaline and noradrenaline – both of which are used to prepare your body for fight or flight. Supporters of the unproven theory of ‘adrenal fatigue’ claim it occurs when the adrenal glands are ‘burnt out’ from producing these hormones in response to stress. Certain conditions, such as the rare Addison’s disease, can prevent your adrenal glands from making enough hormones. The symptoms of Addison’s disease include fatigue, body aches, unexplained weight loss, low blood pressure, lightheadedness, loss of body hair and skin discolouration. Addison’s disease is recognised by doctors and can be detected through blood tests that show insufficient hormone levels. On the other hand, these tests are often normal in adrenal fatigue. Other causes of fatigue There are many causes of fatigue. It could be due to lifestyle factors such as: too much work family life lack of sleep too little or too much physical activity alcohol use or abuse mental health - such as anxiety and depression There are many physical illnesses that cause unexplained fatigue. These include thyroid problems, diabetes, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, cancer, anaemia, kidney or liver disease, infections, heart disease or multiple sclerosis. What are my options? Generally, having a healthy lifestyle may help with relieving fatigue. Some self-help tips to try include: getting enough sleep every day – most adults need 6-8 hours reducing stress through activities you find relaxing cutting down on alcohol getting enough rest if you have been doing too much physical activity, or getting more active if you have been sedentary. If you have unexplained fatigue or exhaustion that persists, see your doctor. Your doctor will probably ask you about your symptoms and run some tests to rule out other health problems. Treating an underlying issue, such as a low thyroid level, can help reverse fatigue. Sources: myVMC (Chronic Fatigue Syndrome), Mayo Clinic (Addison's disease - Is there such a thing as adrenal fatigue?), Mayo Clinic (Fatigue) Last reviewed: November 2016"
12,"2018-04-19 01:54:22","AIDS and HIV infection","HIV is the virus that causes Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS). HIV damages the immune system, and without treatment, can lead to serious infections and cancers over time. The late stage of HIV infection is called AIDS. The difference between having an HIV infection and being given a diagnosis of AIDS is when you develop certain types of infections and cancers caused by organisms that wouldn’t normally affect healthy people. Not all people with HIV have AIDS. People with HIV who take effective treatment are unlikely to develop AIDS and have a near-normal life expectancy. What if I have been exposed to HIV? There are medications which can sometimes prevent HIV from infecting a person who has been exposed. This is known as Post Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP). It is best to start PEP as soon as possible, and within 72 hours (three days) of exposure. You can find out more about PEP by talking to a doctor or calling a HIV PEP hotline in your state or territory: Australian Capital Territory – 1800 022 222 (healthdirect helpline) New South Wales – 1800 737 669 Northern Territory – 1800 022 222 (healthdirect helpline) Queensland – 13 43 25 84 South Australia – 1800 022 226 Tasmania – 1800 675 859 Victoria – 1800 889 887 Western Australia – 1300 767 161 Alternatively you call healthdirect on 1800 022 222 or visit the Get PEP website for details on local PEP services across all states and territories. It is also important to be tested for HIV. Your doctor or sexual health clinic can order a blood test for HIV. They may also use a rapid test in the office that can provide a result within 30 minutes, but this will always need to be confirmed by laboratory tests. There is no home testing available in Australia yet. An early diagnosis can help you get the best treatment, prevent the progression to AIDS and reduce the chance of spreading the infection to others. Whatever type of test you have, it can take up to 24 days (and sometimes longer) following exposure for blood to show positive for infection with HIV. This is known as the ‘window period’. So you may need more than one test over time to know for sure if you do or do not have an HIV infection. It is important to use safe sex and safe injecting practices while waiting for the test results, and maintaining these practices after testing, even if you get a negative result, will reduce your risk of future exposure and infection. Not sure what to do next? If you are still concerned, why not use healthdirect’s online Symptom Checker to get advice on when to seek medical attention. The Symptom Checker guides you to the next appropriate healthcare steps, whether it’s self care, talking to a health professional, going to a hospital or calling triple zero (000). Sources: Family Planning NSW (HIV overview), NSW Health (HIV fact sheet), Ending HIV (HIV testing) Last reviewed: July 2017"
13,"2018-04-19 01:54:27",Albinism,"The genes for albinism are passed down from both parents, who may not be directly affected by it themselves. However, there is no simple test to determine whether a person carries a gene for albinism. Types of albinism There are two main types of albinism: ocular albinism, in which the eyes are affected, but the colour of their hair and skin is fairly normal oculocutaneous albinism, in which the hair, skin and eyes are all affected. There are also some extremely rare conditions where people have albinism and other health problems. Examples are Hermansky Pudlak syndrome, Chediak Higashi syndrome and Griscelli syndrome. Signs and symptoms of albinism Some children with albinism are born with pinkish-white skin and white hair. Their eyes are usually light grey, blue or hazel, although they can look pink in the light. People with albinism usually have poor vision. Glasses can help, but some have poor vision even with glasses. Some people with albinism also have nystagmus, which is involuntary flicking movements of the eye. Albinism diagnosis Usually, albinism is picked up at birth. Genetic testing can help confirm the diagnosis. Living with albinism People with albinism have a higher risk than others of sunburn, skin problems and skin cancer. Given Australia’s climate, good sun protection for the skin is essential, as well as sunglasses to protect the eyes. People with albinism can also suffer from discrimination. Good support for all involved can help deal with it. Where to go for help? The Albinism Fellowship of Australia provides support and education to people with albinism, parents of children with albinism, as well as their families and friends. More information Visit healthdirect's genetic disorders guide to learn more about genes, types of genetic disorders and where to go for help and more information. Sources: Centre for Genetics Education (Albinism), National Organization for Albinism and Hypopigmentation (What is albinism?), Vision Australia (Albinism) Last reviewed: September 2016"
14,"2018-04-19 01:54:32",Alcoholism,"What is alcoholism? If you drink a lot of alcohol, you might become dependent on it to make you feel good. Your drinking behaviour could tip over into alcoholism, a type of substance abuse. The signs of alcoholism You or someone you know might be drinking too much if they: have a strong urge to drink cannot control how much they drink feel physical effects like nausea, sweating, shakiness and anxiety if they stop after a period of heavy drinking need to drink more over time to get the same good feeling drink while alone, or hide alcohol from members of the household struggle with work, education or relationships for no obvious reason lie about how much they drink drink early in the day or are anxious about when they will be able to drink forget what they said or did while they were drinking Effects of alcoholism If you drink too much alcohol, you are at increased risk of illnesses such as heart disease and liver disease, cancer, diabetes and damage to the brain. It can also have a bad effect on those around you as it is a key player in car accidents, family violence and crime. Although it seems to make you feel good, alcohol can increase the risk of depression and anxiety and also can make these worse if they are already present. If you are a family member or friend living with an alcoholic you are likely to feel upset, angry, anxious, guilty, stressed, disappointed and helpless at various times. If you are a carer, carers associations in your state or territory can provide counselling and help to organise respite care. Visit the Carer Gateway website or call 1800 422 737 (Monday-Friday, 8am-6pm) for more information. Treatment for alcoholism The most important starting point for treatment is to talk to your doctor about how to control your alcohol consumption. You can search for a doctor in your region here. Treatment options depend on the strength of alcohol dependence. For low level dependence, your doctor might discuss the problem with you and suggest changes you can make or recommend counselling. Stronger dependence will need different treatments to manage the effects of alcohol withdrawal. The treatments might include: behavioural treatment to improve coping skills medication peer support through groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous or Smart Recovery spending time at a detoxification facility Preventing alcoholism and harm Becoming familiar with the Australian guidelines for low-risk drinking habits can help guard against alcoholism. If you have children, you should talk to them about drugs, alcohol and mental health, including binge drinking. Being a good role model can also help. ReachOut.com has information about addiction and mental health for teenagers. More information The Australian Drug Information Network (ADIN) lists support services, including services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and people living in rural and remote locations. The Alcohol and Drug Foundation’s website has information on how to deal with people with drug and/or alcohol problems. Family Drug Helpline supports people concerned about a loved one’s drug or alcohol use. Call 1300 660 068. The Right Mix has tips, tools and strategies to reduce the impact of drinking on your lifestyle. On Track is for people with risky levels of drinking. Walking a Tightrope is for families dealing with alcohol and violence. Counselling Online provides free 24-hour drug and alcohol counselling. Call 1800 888 236. Alcoholics Anonymous offers help to people with a drinking problem. Call 1300 222 222. beyondblue offers support for people with depression and anxiety. Call 1300 22 4636. Sources: Foundation for a Drug Free World (What is alcoholism or alcohol dependence), Australian Indigenous Healthinfo Net (What do we know about alcohol use among Indigenous people), NHMRC (Australian Guidelines to Reduce Health Risks from Drinking Alcohol), National institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (Alcohol Alert), beyondblue (Alcohol and drug use), NSW Health (Families and friends affected by the drug and alcohol use of someone close), ReachOut.com (Signs you might have a drinking problem), Department of Health (Quick reference guide to the treatment of alcohol problems) Last reviewed: March 2018"
15,"2018-04-19 01:54:38","Allergic reactions to antibiotics","If you are allergic to antibiotics, you get signs and symptoms like a rash, swelling of the face or difficulty breathing. A severe allergic reaction is known as anaphylaxis, and usually occurs within an hour of taking an antibiotic. A severe allergic reaction is a medical emergency requiring immediate medical attention. You may need to call triple zero (000) and perform first aid. The symptoms of anaphylaxis are: Difficult/noisy breathing Swelling of the tongue Swelling/tightness of the throat Difficulty talking/hoarse voice Wheezing or coughing Dizziness or collapse Pale and floppy (young children) Sometimes you can get less dangerous symptoms before an anaphylaxis, such as: Swelling of the face, lips and/or eyes Hives or welts Abdominal pain or vomiting The Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy rrecommends that for a severe allergic reaction adrenaline is the initial treatment. If you are allergic to antibiotics you may be instructed by a doctor how to avoid triggers and if severe may instruct you how to use a self administered adrenalin injection such as epipen. The doctor will record the allergy and type of reaction in your notes and electronic health records and will give you an anaphylaxis action plan. Most allergies are caused by penicillin or antibiotics closely related to penicillin, or by another type of antibiotic called sulfonamides. Feeling nauseous and vomiting after taking antibiotics is usually a side-effect of the medicine, rather than an allergic reaction. Your doctor can usually diagnose allergic reactions to antibiotics by talking to you. He or she may refer you to an allergy specialist, who may ask for skin allergy and blood tests. If you have any other concerns about antibiotics, including possible side effects, contact your doctor. Sources: ASCIA (Sulfonamide antibiotic allergy), ASCIA (Antibiotic allergy) Last reviewed: November 2016"
16,"2018-04-19 01:54:40","Allergic reactions to cow's milk","Allergy to cow's milk is an immune system reaction (true allergy) against proteins in milk. About 1 infant in 50 is allergic to cow’s milk and dairy products. Most of these children will outgrow cow’s milk allergy by the time they are 4 years old. Exposure to even a trace amount of milk protein can be a problem for someone with milk protein allergy. True allergy to cow’s milk is rare in adults. Symptoms of allergy to cow’s milk may include a rash (eczema or hives), swelling, vomiting, diarrhoea or breathing difficulties. Anaphylaxis is the most severe allergic reaction and requires immediate treatment. If you think someone is having an allergic reaction, seek medical advice urgently as symptoms can worsen rapidly. If breathing is affected, call triple zero (000). Diagnosis of cow’s milk allergy is often obvious when symptoms occur within minutes of exposure. Skin prick allergen tests from your doctor may also help. When symptoms are delayed, cow’s milk allergy can be harder to diagnose. Lactose in cow’s milk is a problem for people who lack the enzyme lactose, but this is different to cow’s milk allergy. Choosing Wisely and allergen testing The Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy recommends you should speak to your doctor or specialist about the benefits and safety of allergen immunotherapy or before attempting any allergy testing or treatment. For further information, visit the Choosing Wisely Australia website. Follow the links below to find trusted information about allergic reactions to cow's milk. Sources: Choosing Wisely Australia (Recommendations), Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy (Cow's milk (dairy) allergy), Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy (Anaphylaxis) Last reviewed: October 2016"
17,"2018-04-19 01:54:45","Allergic rhinitis (hay fever)","What is hay fever? Hay fever is the common term for 'allergic rhinitis'. It’s caused by an allergic response to outdoor or indoor allergens such as pollen, dust mites, fungal spores, animal fur or occupational sources. Allergens are most commonly proteins or enzymes that can cause the nose, eyes, throat and sinuses (small air-filled cavities behind your cheekbones and forehead) to become swollen, irritated and inflamed. When you have an allergic reaction, your body overreacts to something that would be harmless for most people. Your immune system (the body’s natural defence system) starts to respond as if it’s under threat, and releases a number of chemicals including histamine. This results in swelling and inflammation. Hay fever symptoms include: sneezing a runny nose itchy eyes. Hay fever usually begins in childhood or during the teenage years, but you can acquire it at any age. It affects nearly to 1 in 5 Australians at some point in their life, and is more likely to occur if there is a family history of allergies – particularly asthma or eczema. In fact, hay fever and asthma share many of their risk and trigger factors including a genetic predisposition to develop allergic reactions. Most people are able to relieve their symptoms with treatment – at least to a certain extent. Speak with your doctor if your symptoms are troublesome as you may require prescription medication. Not sure what to do next?If you are still concerned about your hay fever, check your symptoms with healthdirect’s online Symptom Checker to get advice on when to seek medical attention.The Symptom Checker guides you to the next appropriate healthcare steps, whether it’s self care, talking to a health professional, going to a hospital or calling triple zero (000). Sources: Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (Allergic rhinitis), NHS Choices (Hay fever), Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy (What is allergy?), Australian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy (Pollen allergy) Last reviewed: July 2017"
18,"2018-04-19 01:54:49","Allergies (food)","A food allergy occurs when the immune system responds to an allergen (an ingredient that is usually harmless) in food. This triggers an immune reaction, which can range from mild to severe. The majority of food allergies in children are not severe and usually children will outgrow many allergies with time. Some allergies, particularly nut and seafood allergies are less likely to decrease with age. Symptoms of a mild allergy include: hives (red circular weals on the skin) swelling of the face or around the mouth vomiting abdominal discomfort or pain. Symptoms of severe allergy may include: trouble breathing difficulty talking more than a few words wheeze cough tightness of the throat collapse light-headedness or dizziness diarrhoea. A severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) is a medical emergency. Call triple zero (000) immediately. Lay the person down. If they have an adrenaline injector and you are able to administer it, do so. Some foods are more likely to cause allergies than others. These include: dairy (including milk) peanuts walnuts, almonds, pine nuts, brazil nuts, pecans and other tree nuts soy grains that contain gluten (wheat, barley, rye and oats) fish and shellfish. Allergen testing The Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy recommends that you should speak to your doctor or specialist about the benefits and safety of allergen immunotherapy before commencing any treatment for a food allergy. For further information, visit the Choosing Wisely Australia website. Follow the links below to find trusted information about food allergies. Sources: Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy (Food Allergy), WebMD (Common Food Allergy Triggers) Last reviewed: July 2016"
19,"2018-04-19 01:54:53","Allergies and hypersensitivities","People have immune systems that recognize what is usually part of the body (blood, cells, hair etc.) and what is not (bacteria, viruses, splinters etc.). Sometimes the immune system becomes hypersensitive to chemicals from foods (peanuts, shellfish, nuts, eggs, wheat); animals (dogs, cats); and other materials (grasses, dust, dustmites, medicines). This causes allergic reactions. For most people, the allergic reaction is hay fever (runny nose and itchy eyes) or hives (a bumpy skin rash). In some people this reaction is severe and causes anaphylaxis, which is an emergency needing immediate injection with adrenaline from an epi-pen. The Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy (ASCIA) recommends that for a severe allergic reaction adrenaline is the initial treatment. For further information, visit the Choosing Wisely Australia website. Allergies can be treated with antihistamine medicines, and allergy tests might find the cause of the hypersensitivity. If so, it may be possible to have regular injections to stop the body overreacting. ASCIA also recommends that you should speak to your doctor or specialist about the benefits and safety of allergen immunotherapy or before attempting any allergy testing or treatment. For further information, visit the Choosing Wisely Australia website. Follow the links below to find trusted information about allergies and hypersensitivities. Sources: Choosing Wisely Australia (Recommendations)"
20,"2018-04-19 01:54:57","Altitude sickness","If you normally live near sea level and travel to a high altitude, you might get altitude sickness. This page describes the symptoms of altitude sickness and what to do if you become sick. What is altitude sickness? Altitude sickness, also known as mountain sickness, is caused by the low oxygen levels in the air at altitudes above about 2,500 metres. It occurs when the body has not had time to adjust to less oxygen. Altitude sickness can affect anybody - being young or physically fit does not decrease the risk. Whether or not you get altitude sickness could depend on: your height above sea level the time you took to make the ascent whether or not you have any problems affecting you heart and lungs. Altitude sickness can be fatal if not treated. What are the symptoms of altitude sickness? If you have altitude sickness, you are likely to feel dizzy and weak, you might also have a headache and feel nauseous. It can feel like a hangover. Altitude sickness can affect your lungs, in which case it is sometimes known as high altitude pulmonary edema or HAPE. People with HAPE can feel short of breath and have a cough and a racing heart. In extreme cases, their lips turn blue. Altitude sickness can also cause your brain to swell with fluid, which is sometimes known as high altitude cerebral edema or HACE. People with HACE can feel confused and irritable and behave in an erratic way. Altitude sickness can be worse at night and can last for days, even if you stay at the same altitude. How is altitude sickness treated? If you have altitude sickness, you should stay at the same altitude or go lower until the symptoms disappear. Rest, fluids and pain killers are likely to improve the symptoms. Do not continue to climb higher. It is best not to drink alcohol or take sedatives or sleeping pills because they interfere with the body's adaptation to high altitude. If you have signs of altitude sickness affecting their lungs or their brain, this is a medical emergency. You need help to descend as soon as possible. Breathing oxygen from a tank can help. How is altitude sickness prevented? If you're planning to travel to a high altitude, consider talking to your doctor about drugs that can help with acclimatisation, particularly if you have had altitude sickness before. You can reduce the chance of getting altitude sickness by: avoiding a rapid ascent from sea level - don't go above about 2,500 metres for the first night's sleep once you get above 3,000 metres, ascending by no more than 500 metres per day spending the night below the day's highest altitude avoiding strenuous exercise before your body has had time to adjust to the lower oxygen levels avoiding alcohol at high altitude. If you have a medical problem that affects your lungs, heart or circulation, you are at increased risk of getting altitude sickness. If you are worried that you have altitude sickness call healthdirect on 1800 022 222 to speak to a registered nurse. Sources: Altitude (Altitude sickness), UpToDate (Patient information: High altitude illness (including mountain sickness) (Beyond the Basics) Last reviewed: August 2016"
21,"2018-04-19 01:55:00","Alzheimer's disease","Dementia is a syndrome (a group of symptoms) associated with an ongoing decline in mental abilities. While the exact cause is unknown, the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease may be increased by a range of factors, including: age a family history of the condition previous severe head injuries lifestyle factors and conditions affecting heart and brain health. If you are worried that you may have Alzheimer's disease visit your doctor to get some advice. Your doctor may ask you about any new or worsening problems you may have noticed such as: forgetfulness speech problems such as difficulty finding the right words difficulty in understanding what people are saying personality and mood changes difficulty with performing everyday routine activities. There is no single test that can be used to diagnose Alzheimer's disease. If your doctor suspects you may have Alzheimer’s disease, they may refer you to a specialist to confirm the diagnosis. Although Alzheimer’s disease is not a normal part of ageing, it is more common in older people and may affect about one in four people over the age of 85. Are you a carer or helping someone out?Carers are everyday people who provide unpaid and ongoing care and support to someone they know who has a disability, mental illness, drug or alcohol dependency, chronic condition, terminal illness or who is frail. Support for carersLearn more about practical, financial and emotional support and services that are available for carers. For carers services in your state or territory visit Carers Australia. Sources: Alzheimer’s Queensland (Dementia facts), Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) (Dementia in Australia), NHS Choices, UK (Alzheimer’s disease), Alzheimer’s Australia (What is dementia) Last reviewed: May 2017"
22,"2018-04-19 01:55:04",Amnesia,"What is amnesia?Amnesia is loss of memory. People with amnesia can struggle to form new memories or remember recent events or experiences. People who have amnesia might also be confused and have trouble learning anything new.But most people with amnesia still remember who they are, and can often remember events from their childhood.Amnesia is not a medical condition on its own, but a description of an experience. It is often a symptom of another condition. It is usually temporary, but can be permanent in some situations.What causes amnesia?Amnesia can be caused by damage to the parts of the brain that are important for memory. This can be due to:concussion or head injurya strokebrain inflammation due to an infection.Amnesia can also be caused by issues that affect the whole brain, such as:psychological conditions, such as anxiety or depressiondementiaalcohol or drug usesome medications, such as sedativesafter losing the supply of oxygen to the brain, such as with a heart attack or heart surgery.When to see a doctorIf you or someone you know are struggling to remember things like close family members’ names, it’s important to see your doctor.And if you have any memory loss at all after a head injury or a suspected concussion, you should see your doctor.Amnesia diagnosisYour doctor will talk to you and examine you. They might also:perform memory teststake a blood test to check for infection or vitamin deficienciestake images of your brain to look for damage.Ways to live with amnesiaIf you have a treatable cause of amnesia, then treatment might allow you to regain your memory.But if you have ongoing amnesia, then apart from treating whatever is causing it, you will need to developing strategies to improve your memory. This can mean:writing down important information using a diary, a notepad, or a smartphonetelling family and friends about important information you need to rememberseeing an occupational therapist or a psychologist who can help you develop strategies for remembering information. Sources: myDr (Amnesia), Mayo Clinic (Amnesia), NHS Choices (Memory loss (amnesia)), myVMC (Memory loss), Brain Foundation (Memory loss), Epilepsy Action Australia (Memory) Last reviewed: June 2016"
23,"2018-04-19 01:55:08",Amyloidosis,"Amyloidosis occurs when the body produces an abnormal protein called amyloid. This protein can collect in different organs in the body such as the kidneys or the heart, and stop them working as well as they should. What causes amyloidosis? It is not known why the amyloid proteins form in some people. Sometimes it is inherited. Sometimes people get amyloidosis already have another chronic condition, such as multiple myeloma, a chronic inflammatory, or a chronic infectious disease such as Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease. If amyloidosis is triggered by another condition, it is often called secondary amyloidosis. Sometimes it comes on for no obvious reason. Amyloidosis symptoms The symptoms of amyloidosis will depend on where the amyloid protein builds up in your body. Amyloidosis symptoms might be difficult to tell apart from symptoms of other medical conditions. They can include: tiredness weight loss swelling of the feet and ankles shortness of breath. Amyloidosis diagnosis Because the symptoms of amyloidosis aren’t specific to the condition, it can take some time to be diagnosed. Your doctor will talk to you and examine you, and will probably order blood tests and X-rays. You might need to have a biopsy, where your doctor sends a piece of affected body tissue for examination under a microscope. There are special dyes in the laboratory that will show up the amyloid protein. If amyloidosis is confirmed, your doctor may want to do additional testing to see how it has impacted your body. These tests might include looking at the heart or the kidneys. Amyloidosis treatment Treatment for amyloidosis will depend on the type of amyloid protein being produced by your body and where it builds up. For some types of amyloidosis, medication can help, along with a stem cell (bone marrow) transplant.Some people recover well with treatment, while others have ongoing problems with amyloidosis even after they have had treatment. Your doctor will be able to discuss treatment with you in more detail. Sources: Cancer Directory (Understanding Amyloidosis), myVMC (Amyloidosis), Leukaemia Foundation (AL amyloidosis) Last reviewed: August 2016"
24,"2018-04-19 01:55:09","Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis","What causes MND? The cause is not known. For a few people who develop MND, it seems to run in the family. You can’t catch it from somebody. MND symptoms MND usually starts slowly, sometimes starting on one side of the body and then spreading. Usually, the first things people notice are: weakness in the hands and grip slurred speech weakness in the legs, and a tendency to trip weakness of the shoulder, making lifting difficult cramps and muscles twitching Later on, people with MND: have little or no movement have trouble talking, breathing and swallowing A few people with MND develop a type of dementia. If you have MND, your sense of sight, touch, smell, hearing and taste won’t be affected. MND diagnosis MND can be hard to diagnose when the symptoms first appear because at first, it seems like a lot of other conditions. Your doctor may refer you to a neurologist who will examine you and do various tests. These may include: blood tests muscle biopsies studies to measure how well your nerves and muscles work MND treatment There is no cure. Because of this, doctors and others will help you by easing your symptoms and keeping you as mobile as possible for as long as possible. Most people with MND die within two to three years of developing the condition, however some people can live a long time. Sources: MND Australia (What is MND), MND care (MND Aware), Garvan Institute of Medical Research (Motor Neurone Disease), NHS Choices (Motor Neurone disease, introduction), Cochrane (Managing symptoms in motor neurone disease), MND New South Wales (What causes MND) Last reviewed: December 2017"
25,"2018-04-19 01:55:13",Anaemia,"Symptoms of anaemia If you have anaemia, you will feel tired and short of breath, even when doing things you could usually do easily. You may also have a fast or irregular heartbeat, look pale, have cold feet or hands, feel dizzy or have problems thinking. It’s important to see your doctor if you have any of these symptoms. Causes of anaemia You can become anaemic if you: don’t make enough healthy red blood cells in your bone marrow – this can be due to an inherited disease, a lack of iron or vitamins in the diet, or bone marrow disease lose red blood cells through bleeding, whether that be heavy periods, a fast bleed or one so slow you didn’t even notice it have a disease that destroys red blood cells. Diagnosis of anaemia If you have anaemia, your doctor will talk to you and examine you to work out how severe the anaemia is, and what the cause could be. You might be asked to have more tests, depending on what your doctor has learnt from talking to you and examining you. Treatment of anaemia The treatment depends on the cause. But there are usually two parts: treating the anaemia itself treating the cause of the anaemia. Prevention of anaemia You can reduce your chances of getting anaemia by: having a healthy diet seeing your doctor if you are feeling unusually tired. Sources: Mayo Clinic (Anemia - Definition), Mayo Clinic (Anemia symptoms), Mayo Clinic (Anemia - Causes), Mayo Clinic (Anemia - Overview), Australian Red Cross (Anaemia), University of Maryland Medical Center (Anemia), Lab Tests Online (Anaemia) Last reviewed: October 2016"
26,"2018-04-19 01:55:16","Anal injury","For example, pain and irritation can result from excessive diarrhoea or constipation, causing trauma to the skin of the anal region from overexposure to digestive juices, excessive toilet paper use or passing of hardened stool (poo). These injuries may lead to pain and tenderness, and sometimes bright red blood spotting on toilet paper or in the toilet bowl. Sometimes the muscles in and around the anal region go into spasm, and this can lead to a tightening of the sphincter that makes passing stool painful. It can also cause a tear, which can bleed. Anal injuries can also be caused by sexual activity involving insertion of objects, fingers or a penis through the anus and into the rectum. Friction, sharp edges, or rough behaviour can tear the sensitive skin and lining of the rectum, causing pain, inflammation and bleeding. Any injury that causes large amounts of blood loss, persistent pain and inflammation, or the lodging of a foreign object inside the rectum must be seen by a doctor. Check your symptoms with healthdirect’s Symptom Checker to get advice on when to seek medical attention. If an object, such as a sex toy, is still in place, it needs to be removed urgently by a doctor. Go to the nearest emergency department (ED). You must not try to remove the foreign body by yourself, or allow anybody else present to try – removal may cause more damage if it is done by someone who is not medically trained. Likewise, it is vital that the object is not left inside the rectum for any period of time because it can damage the lining of the rectum and other internal organs or lead to serious, potentially life threatening problems. If the anal area is extremely painful and swollen, a cold compress or covered ice pack, such as a bag of frozen peas wrapped in a clean towel, may be used to relieve the pain and swelling. Do not keep the ice pack on the area for more than 30 minutes. Protect the area while seeking medical attention so that you don’t cause any further damage to the surrounding areas. If you are in pain, get advice on pain relief medicines you can take. If any pain or bleeding from the anal area is associated with sex, stop sex and abstain until reviewed by a doctor. Any anal sex in the presence of broken or damaged skin can increase the risk of transmission of HIV or sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It can also lead to further damage of the area. You should call triple zero (000) and ask for an ambulance if you: start to bleed heavily are unable to move feel faint or as if you might pass out. Suspicion of deliberate injury If there is any suspicion that the injury was not the result of an accident and that it was deliberately inflicted, you should seek help from a healthcare professional as soon as possible. This could be a nurse or doctor at an emergency department or a doctor’s surgery, or a health visitor or school nurse. You can also search for local services and agencies that can offer confidential advice in the National Health Services Directory. Not sure what to do next? If you are still concerned about your anus, why not use healthdirect’s online Symptom Checker to get advice on when to seek medical attention. The Symptom Checker guides you to the next appropriate healthcare steps, whether it’s self care, talking to a health professional, going to a hospital or calling triple zero (000). Sources: WebMD (Rectal pain treatment), Medscape (Rectal foreign body removal) Last reviewed: July 2017"
27,"2018-04-19 01:55:23",Anaphylaxis,"If you think someone is having an allergic reaction, seek medical advice urgently as symptoms can worsen rapidly. If breathing is affected, call triple zero (000). Symptoms of anaphylaxis may include: swelling of the mouth, throat or tongue difficulty swallowing difficulty breathing, shortness of breath or wheezing difficulty talking a rash that may appear anywhere on the body itching – usually around your eyes, ears, lips, throat or roof of the mouth flushing (feeling hot and red) stomach cramps, feeling or being sick feeling weak collapsing or falling unconscious. The Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy recommends that for a severe allergic reaction adrenaline is the initial treatment. For further information, visit the Choosing Wisely Australia website. If the person has a ‘personal action plan’ to manage a known severe allergy, they may need assistance to follow their plan. This may include administering adrenaline to the person via an autoinjector (such as an Epipen®) if one is available. For more information on anaphylaxis, including setting up a personal action plan, go to www.allergy.org.au. People with diagnosed allergies should avoid all trigger agents and confirmed allergens and have a readily accessible anaphylaxis action plan and medical alert device. It’s wise to ensure your friends and family know how to follow your anaphylaxis action plan too in case you need help. Follow the links below to find trusted information about anaphylaxis. Sources: Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy (Anaphylaxis) Last reviewed: November 2016"
28,"2018-04-19 01:55:25",Anemia,"Symptoms of anaemia If you have anaemia, you will feel tired and short of breath, even when doing things you could usually do easily. You may also have a fast or irregular heartbeat, look pale, have cold feet or hands, feel dizzy or have problems thinking. It’s important to see your doctor if you have any of these symptoms. Causes of anaemia You can become anaemic if you: don’t make enough healthy red blood cells in your bone marrow – this can be due to an inherited disease, a lack of iron or vitamins in the diet, or bone marrow disease lose red blood cells through bleeding, whether that be heavy periods, a fast bleed or one so slow you didn’t even notice it have a disease that destroys red blood cells. Diagnosis of anaemia If you have anaemia, your doctor will talk to you and examine you to work out how severe the anaemia is, and what the cause could be. You might be asked to have more tests, depending on what your doctor has learnt from talking to you and examining you. Treatment of anaemia The treatment depends on the cause. But there are usually two parts: treating the anaemia itself treating the cause of the anaemia. Prevention of anaemia You can reduce your chances of getting anaemia by: having a healthy diet seeing your doctor if you are feeling unusually tired. Sources: Mayo Clinic (Anemia - Definition), Mayo Clinic (Anemia symptoms), Mayo Clinic (Anemia - Causes), Mayo Clinic (Anemia - Overview), Australian Red Cross (Anaemia), University of Maryland Medical Center (Anemia), Lab Tests Online (Anaemia) Last reviewed: October 2016"
29,"2018-04-19 01:55:26",Aneurysms,"What is an aneurysm? An aneurysm is a bulge in an artery or vein usually caused by a weakening of the vessel wall. The danger of aneurysms is that they can rupture (burst) because the vessel wall is weakened. Aneurysms can occur anywhere. But there are two main types that can result in serious outcomes - aortic aneurysms and brain aneurysms (or cerebral aneurysms). Aortic aneurysms occur in the aorta, which is the main artery that carries blood from the heart to the rest of the body. Brain aneurysms affect blood vessels in the brain. Aneurysms can be harmless. As long as they don’t rupture, they probably won’t cause any problems. But if they do rupture, it can be very dangerous, causing bleeding and even death. Aneurysms can occur at any age but are more common in adults. Sources: Cochrane Summaries (Screening for abdominal aortic aneurysm), Brain Foundation (Aneurysm), myDr (Aneurysm), RACGP (Aortic Aneurysms: Screening, surveillance and referral), Australian and New Zealand Society for Vascular Surgery (Aortic Aneurysm) Last reviewed: November 2016"
30,"2018-04-19 01:55:29","Angelman syndrome","What is Angelman syndrome? Angelman syndrome is a genetic condition. Most people with Angelman syndrome have a gene called UBE3A that is absent or faulty. When this gene is faulty or missing, nerve cells in the brain are unable to work properly, causing a range of physical and intellectual problems. It can be inherited from your parents, but usually happens by chance, around the time of conception. Signs or symptoms of Angelman syndrome Parents often notice their child isn't developing properly at the age of 6 to 12 months. But it can take a while to pin down the source of the problems. People with Angelman syndrome often: laugh and smile for no apparent reason speak very little, or not at all have severe intellectual disability and delayed development have problems with balance and movement, such as difficulty sitting up without support, walking with stiff legs and making jerky arm movements are restless and excitable need less sleep than most people, especially as children. Some people with Angelman syndrome have: seizures a small head, which is flat at the back certain facial features, such as widely spaced teeth and eyes that look in different directions. Diagnosing Angelman syndrome A paediatrician would examine the child and his or her behaviour. A blood sample would also be taken for genetic testing. If testing is able to show the genetic cause of the syndrome, parents can find out if it is likely to happen again with any future children they may have. Living with Angelman syndrome People with Angelman syndrome have a near-normal life expectancy, but need life-long care to help them achieve the best possible quality of life. Ideally, this care is provided by a team of health professionals. Some treatments and therapies that may help include: medications, such as anti-epilepsy drugs physical supports, such as back or leg braces therapy to improve posture, balance and movement therapy to develop communication skills therapy to help behavioural problems such as hyperactivity. Where to go for help Support for people with Angelman syndrome and their families is available from: Angelman Syndrome Association Australia Foundation for Angelman Syndrome Therapeutics. More information Visit healthdirect's genetic disorders guide to learn more about genes, types of genetic disorders and where to go for help and more information. Sources: Angelman Syndrome Association Australia (What is Angelman syndrome?), Foundation for Angelman Syndrome Therapeutics (Angelman syndrome), Raising Children Network (Angelman syndrome) Last reviewed: September 2016"
31,"2018-04-19 01:55:33",Angina,"Symptoms of angina Angina can cause: pain or discomfort in the chest, often described as squeezing, pressure or tightness pain in the arms, shoulder, neck or back, even if you don’t have pain in the chest shortness of breath fatigue sweating dizziness nausea If you have any of these symptoms, see your doctor. If your pain lasts longer than 10 minutes, call triple zero (000) and ask for an ambulance. What causes angina? Angina is caused by insufficient blood flow to the muscles of the heart. Even though the heart is full of blood, this blood is about to be pumped through the body. The muscles of the heart need their own supply of blood. That blood is carried through the coronary arteries, which sit on the outside of the heart. If you have coronary artery disease (also known as coronary heart disease), then these arteries have become narrowed by fatty deposits known as plaques. Narrowed arteries can’t carry as much blood as they should. The lack of blood causes angina. Diagnosis of angina To help diagnose angina, your doctor will talk to you about your symptoms and examine you. You will probably be asked to have some of the following tests: an electrocardiogram (ECG) a stress test, which measures blood pressure and heart activity during exercise an echocardiogram, which uses sound waves to create an image of your heart a CT scan an angiogram What to do if you get angina If you have any symptoms of angina, immediately stop, sit down and rest. If your symptoms are still there once you’ve stopped, take your usual angina medication, if you have some. If the symptoms are still there in 5 minutes, repeat the dose. Tell someone how you’re feeling, whether that’s by phone or simply the nearest person. If the symptoms are getting worse, or are still there in 5 more minutes, call triple zero (000) and ask for an ambulance. Longer term treatment of angina Treatment aims to reduce symptoms and reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke. Mild angina will respond well to: a healthier diet increasing physical activity (safely, under the supervision of your doctor) reducing stress quitting smoking, if you smoke Your doctor might prescribe nitrates to relax your blood vessels, so more blood flows to your heart. You might also need other heart medications like beta-blockers or aspirin. If you have severe angina, you might need surgery such as angioplasty or coronary artery bypass surgery. Your doctor might advise you to join a cardiac rehabilitation program, to help you manage your angina and reduce the risk of further heart problems. More information For more information on angina and other heart conditions, visit the Heart Foundation. You can also check your symptoms using our symptom checker. Sources: Heart Foundation (Angina), Mayo Clinic (Angina Symptoms and causes), Mayo Clinic (Angina: Diagnosis and treatment), Heart Foundation (Medical tests), Western Australian Department of Health (Angina) Last reviewed: January 2018"
32,"2018-04-19 01:55:35","Animal bites","Usually bites are minor, but infections can occur if the skin is broken and bacteria from the saliva (spit) of the animal that has bitten you is passed into your bloodstream. Bites often result in the following types of injury. puncture lacerations abrasions or scrapes bruising and swelling. Bites can be very painful and uncomfortable. You should also pay close attention for signs of an infection developing. Signs of an infection include: swelling redness increasing tenderness around the bite the wound gets more painful discharge from the wound swollen lymph nodes (especially in the neck, armpits or groin) shivers or developing a high temperature (over 38°C ). Learn more about bacterial infections, such as tetanus, and how to treat minor wounds or cuts from bites in the ‘Treatment and self-care’ section below. Check your symptoms with healthdirect’s Symptom Checker to get advice on when to seek medical attention. Dog bites Most dog bites are caused either by a family pet or a dog that belongs to someone you know, such as a neighbour. Dogs can bite anybody, but children under 5 are most at risk. A dog can bite if it: is provoked, stressed or frightened is looking after puppies and gets disturbed is unwell or in pain is disturbed while eating or asleep becomes too excited during play is young. Bites from dogs typically cause a puncture wound in the skin, as well as lacerations (jagged cuts) and abrasions (scrapes or grazes).Young children are more likely to be bitten on the head, neck and face – around the lips, cheek or nose. Dog bites can lead to infection and scarring. Cat bites Cat bites usually cause only minor injuries but they tend to increase the risk of an infection developing. However, because cats have smaller and sharper teeth they can cause very deep puncture wounds, which can sometimes go right down to the bone. Cat bites generally occur on the upper limbs (arms and hands) but children may also be bitten on the face and neck. Learn more about bacterial infections, such as tetanus, or how to treat minor wounds or cuts from bites in the ‘Treatment and self-care’ section below. Bat bites Australian bat lyssavirus (ABLV) belongs to a group of viruses known as lyssaviruses. ABLV is transmitted from bats to humans, but is very rare. Only 3 cases of ABLV have been recorded since the virus was first identified in 1996. All 3 were in Queensland and were fatal. The early symptoms are flu-like, including headache, fever and fatigue. The best way to prevent yourself from being exposed to ABLV is to avoid handling any bat in Australia. Only people who have been vaccinated against ABLV and who have been trained in the care of bats should ever handle bats or flying foxes. Anyone who comes across an injured bat should contact the local WIRES wildlife rescue network on 1300 094 737. If you are bitten or scratched by a bat in Australia you should: immediately wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water for at least 5 minutes apply an antiseptic solution or alcohol gel after washing see your doctor – you may need a tetanus injection or other treatment. Treatment and self-care Tetanus Tetanus is a serious bacterial infection that releases toxins into the blood stream and can be fatal. If you have been bitten by an animal and the skin is broken, your healthcare professional may recommend that you have a tetanus booster injection. Treating minor wounds or cuts from bites You can easily treat a minor wound or cut. However, a larger or more serious wound or cut will need medical attention. A wound or cut is considered to be deep if tendons or other internal parts can be seen. A gaping wound is one where the edges of the cut cannot be pulled back together. If the wound is still bleeding: cover it with a clean cloth, apply pressure with the palm of your hand, then keep the pressure on the wound for 15 minutes apply pressure directly over the affected area with a pad made from a clean, rolled up piece of material such as a handkerchief or towel; the material should be dampened with clean water if possible since this will reduce the amount of blood soaked up use a bandage to wrap around the pad or dressing; do not wrap the bandage too tightly since it may affect the circulation if the bleeding is very heavy, it may seep through the bandage; you should use a second dressing to cover the first one if the bleeding continues through both bandages and pads, remove the second bandage only and apply a new one do not look at the wound to see if it has stopped bleeding in case removing the pressure causes it to start bleeding again. If the wound is not bleeding: rinse under running water for 2 minutes (it might be easier for you to rinse the injury with a shower head, if possible); pat dry with a clean cloth, then cover the wound with a dry, sterile, non-sticky dressing to help prevent infection check the area daily for signs of infection such as increasing pain, redness, swelling or yellow discharge if you have not had a full course of tetanus immunisation, or if your boosters are not up to date, contact your doctor. if you are in pain, get advice from a pharmacist or doctor on medicines you can take. Not sure what to do next? If you are still concerned about an animal bite, why not use healthdirect’s online Symptom Checker to get advice on when to seek medical attention. The Symptom Checker guides you to the next appropriate healthcare steps, whether it’s self-care, talking to a health professional, going to a hospital or calling triple zero (000). Sources: Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne (Dog bites), Australian Family Physician (Management of mammalian bites), Women's and Children's Health Network (Cuts, grazes and bruises), NSW Health (Rabies and Australian Bat Lyssavirus Infection), Australian Doctor (A systematic approach to the assessment of bite wounds), Queensland Government (Australian Bat Lyssavirus) Last reviewed: August 2017"
33,"2018-04-19 01:55:38","Ankylosing spondylitis","Ankylosing spondylitis can affect other large joints, and may also cause problems in your eyes, skin, bowel and heart. Although there is no known cure for ankylosing spondylitis, treatment can relieve pain and other symptoms. Causes of ankylosing spondylitis The causes of ankylosing spondylitis are not yet understood. However, doctors believe genetics may play a role, because ankylosing spondylitis tends to run in families. Also, most people with ankylosing spondylitis share the same gene (called HLA B27). Ankylosing spondylitis symptoms The symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis tend to come and go. The more common symptoms include: back pain or buttock pain, that may be worse in bed at night stiffness in the morning, or after long periods of rest other joint pain pain in tendons and ligaments, such as in the chest wall, soles of the feet, or heels problems with your heart, lungs, bowel, skin or eyes. Many of these symptoms can be a sign of other conditions, so it’s best to seek medical advice to make a diagnosis. Ankylosing spondylitis diagnosis Your doctor will talk to you and examine you. You may also be asked to have an X-ray and blood tests and may be referred to a joint specialist (rheumatologist). Ankylosing spondylitis treatments The aim of treatment is to reduce pain and stiffness, and prevent or delay spinal deformity or other complications. If you have ankylosing spondylitis, your doctor may suggest that you try physiotherapy, including different types of exercise to strengthen your back, encourage movement in the spine and reduce pain. You may also be prescribed anti-inflammatories or other types of medications to relieve inflammation, pain and stiffness. Surgery may be recommended to replace or remove joints or thickened bone. However, most people with ankylosing spondylitis don’t need surgery. Sources: Cochrane Summaries (Physiotherapy for ankylosing spondylitis), Johns Hopkins Medicine (What is ankylosing spondylitis?), The Mayo Clinic (Ankylosing spondylitis), Arthritis Australia (Ankylosing spondylitis), RACGP (Ankylosing spondylitis: an update) Last reviewed: February 2017"
34,"2018-04-19 01:55:39",Anthrax,"Follow the links below to find trusted information about anthrax. Last reviewed: July 2016"
35,"2018-04-19 01:55:49","Antibiotics allergy","If you are allergic to antibiotics, you get signs and symptoms like a rash, swelling of the face or difficulty breathing. A severe allergic reaction is known as anaphylaxis, and usually occurs within an hour of taking an antibiotic. A severe allergic reaction is a medical emergency requiring immediate medical attention. You may need to call triple zero (000) and perform first aid. The symptoms of anaphylaxis are: Difficult/noisy breathing Swelling of the tongue Swelling/tightness of the throat Difficulty talking/hoarse voice Wheezing or coughing Dizziness or collapse Pale and floppy (young children) Sometimes you can get less dangerous symptoms before an anaphylaxis, such as: Swelling of the face, lips and/or eyes Hives or welts Abdominal pain or vomiting The Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy rrecommends that for a severe allergic reaction adrenaline is the initial treatment. If you are allergic to antibiotics you may be instructed by a doctor how to avoid triggers and if severe may instruct you how to use a self administered adrenalin injection such as epipen. The doctor will record the allergy and type of reaction in your notes and electronic health records and will give you an anaphylaxis action plan. Most allergies are caused by penicillin or antibiotics closely related to penicillin, or by another type of antibiotic called sulfonamides. Feeling nauseous and vomiting after taking antibiotics is usually a side-effect of the medicine, rather than an allergic reaction. Your doctor can usually diagnose allergic reactions to antibiotics by talking to you. He or she may refer you to an allergy specialist, who may ask for skin allergy and blood tests. If you have any other concerns about antibiotics, including possible side effects, contact your doctor. Sources: ASCIA (Sulfonamide antibiotic allergy), ASCIA (Antibiotic allergy) Last reviewed: November 2016"
36,"2018-04-19 01:55:51","Aortic stenosis","What is aortic stenosis? The heart is divided into four chambers – two atria and two ventricles. The two atria receive blood from the lungs and body, and the two ventricles pump blood out to the lungs and body. There are heart valves in between the atria and ventricles, and between the ventricles and the arteries leading out of the heart. The valves allow blood through and then they shut, preventing blood from flowing back the other way. The aortic valve sits between the left ventricle and the aorta, which is the artery that carries blood from the heart to the rest of the body. The word stenosis means constriction or narrowing. In aortic stenosis, the aortic valve is narrowed. This means it gets harder for your heart to push blood out into the aorta. As a result of all this strain on your heart, you might be at risk of angina, irregular heart rhythms or heart failure. Causes of aortic stenosis Around 4 in 1000 people are born with an aortic valve that is shaped differently, with only two cusps (flaps) instead of three. These people can get aortic stenosis earlier in life. But the most common cause of aortic stenosis is that the aortic valve can get hardened or scarred as people get older. A less common cause of aortic stenosis is rheumatic heart disease. Symptoms of aortic stenosis Some people with aortic stenosis don’t have any symptoms, especially if the valve is only a little narrower. Others have: palpitations (heart racing or skipping a beat) fainting during exercise feeling tired or worn out chest pain feeling short of breath. If you’re having symptoms like this, it's a good idea to see your doctor. Diagnosis of aortic stenosis Your doctor will ask you questions and examine you. They might or might not hear a heart murmur when they listen to your heart. Depending on what they find, you might be asked to have tests such as an ECG (electrocardiogram), a chest X-ray and an echocardiogram, which is an ultrasound of the heart. A chest X-ray can sometimes show a scarred aortic valve. An ECG gives valuable information about your heart, including if your left ventricle is enlarged from the effort of pumping blood through a narrowed valve. An echocardiogram shows how efficiently your heart is pumping and whether any of the valves are narrowed. Treatment of aortic stenosis If you are affected by aortic stenosis, your doctor might advise you not to overexert yourself. If you have no symptoms from your aortic stenosis, your doctor may just want you to have regular check-ups. Some people with aortic stenosis need an operation to remove the aortic valve and replace it with an artificial one. Another operation is sometimes done where your own valve is opened up with a tiny balloon. But this doesn't work as well as replacing the valve. Children with aortic stenosis can sometimes get their aortic valve repaired. However, if the valve is very abnormal it is better to replace it with a new one. Using a balloon to stretch the valve can help for a while, but over time the valve can become narrow again, meaning another operation might need to be done. More information You can read more about how your heart works. You can use Healthdirect’s symptom checker to see whether you should see a doctor. Or you can call Healthdirect on 1800 022 222 to speak to a registered nurse. Sources: The Heart Foundation (Your heart), My Virtual Medical Centre (Aortic Stenosis), American Heart Association (Aortic Valve Stenosis), Rheumatic Heart Disease Australia (The Australian guideline for prevention, diagnosis and management of acute rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease), Queensland Health (Sutureless aortic valve replacement in patients with severe aortic valve stenosis), Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne (Aortic Stenosis) Last reviewed: August 2016"
37,"2018-04-19 01:55:57","Apnoea (sleep)","The breathing of a person with sleep apnoea can stop for anywhere between a few and 90 seconds, and they wake briefly. These episodes, which can happen many times a night, are known as apnoeas. The sufferer is often unaware of it happening, but will wake feeling tired. Sleep apnoea ranges from mild to severe. In severe cases, sleep can be interrupted hundreds of times each night. Sleep apnoea can affect anyone, but is more common in people who are middle-aged or over, who snore, who are above a healthy weight and who have it in the family. People with naturally narrow throats or nasal passages, and children with enlarged tonsils or adenoids, can also have sleep apnoea. Sleep apnoea symptoms The symptoms of sleep apnoea include: pauses in breathing while sleeping, which may be noticed by other people snoring tossing and turning waking up gasping or choking tiredness and feeling unrefreshed after sleep Sleep apnoea complications Sleep apnoea is bad for your health. Apart from making you tired, there is good evidence that people with untreated moderate to severe sleep apnoea have other health problems. They are more likely to have high blood pressure and other cardiovascular disease than someone without it. They also have a higher risk of: diabetes stroke poor memory and lack of concentration headaches moodiness, depression and personality change lack of interest in sex, and impotence in men It may also lead to motor vehicle and workplace accidents. Sleep apnoea treatment Treating sleep apnoea will help you sleep more easily, and may reduce the risks. For people with mild sleep apnoea, sleeping on your side (devices like special pillows and rubber wedges can help), losing weight (if you are overweight) and decreasing the amount of alcohol drunk during the evening may be all that is needed. Other options may help, including: avoiding sleeping tablets, which can make sleep apnoea worse quitting smoking if you smoke trying nasal decongestant sprays, if nasal congestion bothers you For people with moderate to severe sleep apnoa, more active treatment may be required, including: an oral appliance fitted by your dentist, such as special mouthguards or splints to wear while you are sleeping - this usually works well for mild sleep apnoea a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) pump, which feeds pressurised air into a face mask to hold your throat open while you sleep - this is often used for moderate to severe sleep apnoea surgery, if you have severe sleep apnoea If you think you may have sleep apnoea, see your doctor. You may be referred to a sleep disorders specialist and asked to participate in an overnight sleep study. This may be done at home or under supervision in a sleep laboratory. Please consult your doctor or a sleep clinic for further information. Sources: Sleep Health Foundation (Obstructive Sleep Apnoea), myVMC (Obstructive Sleep Apnoea), Lung Foundation (Obstructive Sleep Apnoea) Last reviewed: December 2017"
38,"2018-04-19 01:56:01",Appendicitis,"The exact cause of appendicitis is not known, but it may be caused by food or faeces (poo) getting lodged in the appendix. The appendix becomes blocked, then inflamed, then infected. Appendicitis can occur at any age, but is most common in children and young adults. The common symptoms of appendicitis are lower right abdominal (tummy) pain, fever, nausea and vomiting. Some people also have diarrhoea. The main treatment for appendicitis is an operation to remove the inflamed appendix. This is known as an appendectomy or appendicectomy. The appendix is not essential for health, and the body functions normally without one. There are no medically proven ways to prevent appendicitis. There is no known diet to prevent appendicitis. Sources: Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne (Appendicitis Factsheet) Last reviewed: November 2016"
39,"2018-04-19 01:56:04",Arrhythmia,"What are heart arrhythmias? Arrhythmia is a heart condition where your heart beats abnormally. It is caused by a problem with the electrical signals that coordinate heartbeats. The heart can beat too fast, too slow, or irregularly. Some people with heart arrhythmias have coronary heart disease underlying the problem. Some don't. Learn more about the heart. Some types of heart arrhythmias Premature (extra) beats are the most common arrhythmia. Everybody gets these extra beats occasionally but most people don’t notice them. Some heart diseases can cause premature beats, but most of the time they are harmless. An increase in premature beats can happen because of stress, exertion from exercise, caffeine or nicotine. Supraventricular arrhythmias are fast and often irregular heartbeats. The most common form is atrial fibrillation, where the top two chambers of the heart quiver instead of beating normally so the heart doesn't pump blood as effectively. Ventricular arrhythmias are irregular heartbeats that start in the lower part of the heart. These are more serious and require medical attention. Bradyarrhythmias (also known as bradycardia) are where the heartbeat is too slow. In some cases, this may make a person feel dizzy and lose consciousness. Heart arrhythmia symptoms Many people with heart arrhythmias have no symptoms at all. But you might become aware of your heat beat, which is known as having palpitations. You might feel: like your heart is skipping a beat like your heart is beating too hard or fast, which is known as having palpitations a racing heartbeat a slow heartbeat an irregular heartbeat a fluttering in your chest chest pain feeling lightheaded or dizzy sweating fainting If you think you might have an arrhythmia, see your doctor. You should call triple zero (000) for an ambulance if you feel your heart is beating in an unusual way and you: feel dizzy or light-headed faint feel short of breath have pain in your chest Heart arrhythmia diagnosis If your doctor suspects you have a heart arrhythmia they may recommend the following tests: An electrocardiogram (ECG) that measures and records the electrical activity of your heart. This can be done with a portable ECG known as a Holter monitor. A stress test that measures the capacity of the heart during exercise. A tilt table test if you have symptoms of fainting which measures changes in your heart rate with a change in position from lying down to standing up. Electrophysiology studies that look at the electrical conduction of your heart. Treatment for arrhythmias Treatment for arrhythmias varies widely depending on which arrhythmia you have, your age and your other medical conditions. Your doctor will take these into consideration when recommending treatment. Many arrhythmias are harmless and no treatment is required. If treatment is recommended, options can include: medication (for example beta-blocker medicines are sometimes used to control heart rate) implantable devices (such as a pacemaker which can assist with a slow heart rate), or an implantable cardiac defibrillators (ICD) for people at risk of more dangerous arrhythmias) surgical ablation (which is sometimes used to treat atrial fibrillation and other arrhythmias) The goals of treatment sometimes include: to control the heart rate and keep the heart from beating too fast or too slow to prevent blood clots forming and thereby help prevent a stroke to re-establish the normal rhythm of the heart (if possible) to treat any underlying medical problem that may be contributing to the arrhythmia People with arrhythmias often also have other types of heart problems. It's important to look after your heart to minimise your risk. For more information on a heart healthy lifestyle, visit the Heart Foundation website. Sources: The Heart Foundation Australia (Arrhythmias), Mayo Clinic (Heart arrhythmia), National Heart Lung and Blood Institute (Types of Arrhythmia), Heart (72 Ectopic beats – Frequent, troublesome and not to be dismissed) Last reviewed: February 2018"
40,"2018-04-19 01:56:07",Arteriosclerosis,"Follow the links below to find trusted information about arteriosclerosis. Last reviewed: July 2016"
41,"2018-04-19 01:56:09",Arthritis,"An overview of arthritis Arthritis is not one disease alone, but an umbrella term for more than 100 conditions that affect the joints of the body. Joints are points where two or more bones meet, such as in the wrist, knuckles, hips, knees and ankles. The three most common types of arthritis found in Australians are: osteoarthritis rheumatoid arthritis gout. Other types of arthritis include: juvenile arthritis ankylosing spondylitis systemic lupus erythematosus (lupus) scleroderma. Symptoms of arthritis The symptoms of arthritis vary from person to person. But if you have arthritis, you will almost certainly have symptoms relating to your joints, such as: pain swelling redness and heat stiffness or reduced movement. Some people also get other problems outside their joints. Other common symptoms include: tiredness weight loss skin problems feeling unwell. Diagnosing arthritis If you have any symptoms of arthritis, it is important you see your doctor to get a diagnosis and start treatment. Without treatment, the condition may get worse and cause long-term damage. Some types of arthritis can be difficult to diagnose, so it may take a few visits and tests to get a definite diagnosis. Your doctor may also need to refer you to a rheumatologist, who specialises in conditions that affect the joints. Treating arthritis For many types of arthritis, there are treatments available that can help control symptoms and prevent damage to the joints. The most appropriate treatment will depend on which type of arthritis you have, which joints are affected, and the symptoms you have. Treatment might include: medications, such as pain-killers, anti-inflammatory drugs or disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (used for inflammatory forms of arthritis such as rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis and juvenile idiopathic arthritis) pain management techniques, such as meditation. In severe cases, surgery may be needed to replace or repair damaged joints. Living with arthritis There are many things you can do to help manage arthritis so you can meet the demands of daily life. Among the most important things are to: maintain a healthy weight eat a well-balanced diet exercise regularly learn ways to manage your pain seek support when you need it. Additional information about arthritis For more information on arthritis, how to manage it, and to learn about the support available, you can contact Arthritis Australia on 1800 011 041. Sources: Arthritis Australia (10 Steps for living well with arthritis), The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (Clinical guideline for the diagnosis and management of early rheumatoid arthritis), Arthritis Australia (What is arthritis), Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (Recommendations for the non-surgical management of hip and knee osteoarthritis), Lab Tests Online (Osteoarthritis), Arthritis Australia (Arthritis information sheets: areas of the body) Last reviewed: February 2017"
42,"2018-04-19 01:56:15","Arthritis and children (Juvenile arthritis)","What is juvenile arthritis? Arthritis is a medical condition that affects the joints, causing symptoms such as pain, swelling, and stiffness. When arthritis develops in someone under 16, it is called juvenile arthritis. Arthritis in children can be mild or severe and may last for months or years. It can be similar to or different from arthritis in adults. Types of juvenile arthritis There are several different types of juvenile arthritis. The main types are: oligoarticular/pauciarticular – the most common type, usually begins at 2–4 years of age, and affects up to 4 joints polyarticular – develops in children 1–12 years of age, and affects 5 or more joints. Less common types of juvenile arthritis include: systemic – involves other symptoms such as fever and rash enthesitis-related – affects the points where bones meet tendons and ligaments psoriatic – affects the skin as well as joints. Doctors who specialise in diagnosing and treating juvenile arthritis are called paediatric rheumatologists. Symptoms of juvenile arthritis The symptoms of juvenile arthritis can vary and can occur at different times for different children. Common symptoms include: swelling, pain and stiffness in one or more joints (especially after rest) for at least 6 weeks the skin over the joints being warm to the touch, or red. Less common symptoms are: fever rash loss of appetite. Some forms of juvenile arthritis can affect areas of the body, such as the skin, internal organs, eyes and bones. If you think your child may have arthritis, it’s important to take them to a doctor. Clinical guidelines in Australia recommend that children with arthritis are diagnosed as early as possible so they can get necessary treatment to try to prevent any long-term joint damage or disability. Treating juvenile arthritis Children with juvenile arthritis are usually treated by a multidisciplinary team of health professionals. This may include doctors (the child’s family doctor, rheumatologist or any other relevant specialists), nurses, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, podiatrists and social workers. Treatment can include: pain killers (for example, paracetamol) and anti-inflammatories (for example, ibuprofen) to help control pain and swelling other medications, such as steroids or disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) exercises to help with joint mobility, muscle strength, and pain splints to help with the support or use of a joint. More information You can get more information from speaking to your doctor or specialist, and from the Arthritis Australia website. Sources: Arthritis Australia (Juvenile arthritis), Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (Clinical guideline for the diagnosis and management of juvenile idiopathic arthritis), The Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne - Rheumatology (For Parents), Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne (Commonly used treatment for juvenile idiopathic arthritis) Last reviewed: February 2017"
43,"2018-04-19 01:56:21",Arthroscopy,"Why have an arthroscopy? An arthroscopy is done when a doctor wants to inspect the inside of a joint. They use an instrument called an arthroscope which is a small, fibre-optic video camera attached to a narrow tube. The arthroscope can take live images inside the joint. Arthroscopy can be used to help diagnose a problem in a joint, and can also help guide surgical repair of a joint problem. The surgery is done with narrow, pencil-shaped surgical implements, which cause less damage than open surgery. Arthroscopy is most commonly used at the: knee ankle hip shoulder elbow wrist The Australian Government and most orthopaedic surgeons recommend against using arthroscopy for osteoarthritis of the knee. Research shows that doing an arthroscopy for this condition is not effective. During an arthroscopy a surgeon uses an arthroscope to see inside the joint. How to prepare for the procedure Ask your doctor about the benefits and risks of arthroscopy for your condition. Before agreeing to the surgery, ask if there is another option, such as: losing weight pain relief anti-inflammatory medication exercise physiotherapy Before an arthroscopy, the doctor will examine the joint and might ask for x-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or other scans, plus blood or other tests. If you choose to go ahead with surgery, you might be told to stop taking certain medications, quit smoking (if you smoke) and lose weight (if you’re overweight). Read more about preparing for surgery here. What happens during an arthroscopy? Arthroscopy is often done as day surgery. Depending on the joint involved and your health, you might have some form of local anaesthetic, or perhaps a general anaesthetic. The surgeon will make a tiny cut near the joint and insert the arthroscope. The images taken from inside your joint will be shown on a video monitor. The surgeon might be able to see what is causing your problem. If surgery is needed, the surgeon may make a few more narrow cuts and insert surgical instruments to fix particular types of joint problem. Examples of surgery done during arthroscopies include: reconstructing a torn ligament in the knee treating tennis elbow fixing a recurring shoulder dislocation After the surgery, the wounds will be stitched or closed with special tape and then bandaged. The procedure usually takes between 30 minutes and 2 hours. What to expect after an arthroscopy You will have some pain, swelling, bruising and stiffness after the surgery. You can take pain medication to help ease it. You might also need to: raise the part of the body that had the arthroscopy apply ice packs to reduce swelling use a splint, supportive brace or crutches do special exercises or physiotherapy to strengthen your muscles and prevent joint stiffness You might need to take a few days or a week off before you can return to work or school. You will be asked to avoid vigorous activity for the first few weeks. It can take weeks or months before the joint feels normal. What can go wrong? Any type of surgery has some risks. While most arthroscopies go smoothly, possible complications can include: infection blood clots bleeding inside the joint nerve damage or numbness ongoing pain Contact your doctor immediately if you have: high fever severe pain redness or excess swelling around the wounds numbness bad smelling fluid leaking from the incisions Sources: NHS Choices (Arthroscopy), Mayo Clinic (Arthroscopy), American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (Arthroscopy), WebMD (What is arthroscopy?), Australian Orthopaedic Association (Position statement from the Australian Knee Society on arthroscopic surgery of the knee, including reference to the presence of osteoarthritis or degenerative joint disease), ABC Health and Wellbeing (Why have knee surgery that’s ‘no better than a placebo’?), Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care (New clinical care standards set the benchmark for treating knee osteoarthritis) Last reviewed: February 2018"
44,"2018-04-19 01:56:25",Asbestosis,"Asbestosis is a lung disease caused by exposure to asbestos dust. Inhaling asbestos dust can cause scarring in the lungs and in the pleural membrane (lining) that surrounds the lungs. People with asbestosis have difficulty breathing, often have a cough and, in severe cases, have an enlarged heart. Symptoms usually occur 10 to 20 years after exposure to asbestos dust. Symptomatic treatment such as oxygen therapy may help, but the lung damage is not reversible. Follow the links below to find trusted information about asbestos and lung disease, including asbestosis. Last reviewed: July 2016"
45,"2018-04-19 01:56:29","Asperger's syndrome","It seems that the brains of people with Asperger’s syndrome do not deal with information in the same way as the brains of others do. People with Asperger’s syndrome often have average or above average intelligence, and can be quite creative, but they often find life hard. In particular, they find it hard to communicate and interact with other people. For example, people with Asperger’s syndrome often: struggle to express themselves find it hard to understand others find it hard to make friends find it hard to work out what others might be thinking find it hard to use their imagination. These difficulties can lead to anxiety, confusion and frustration for the person with Asperger’s syndrome, and sometimes for their family and friends. Asperger’s syndrome is usually diagnosed in childhood, but some people don’t recognise the condition until they are adults. It’s not clear what causes Asperger’s syndrome. It’s likely that genes play a part, although it's unclear whether the condition is influenced by upbringing or social circumstances. There is no evidence to suggest that vaccines cause Asperger’s syndrome. A diagnosis of Asperger’s syndrome can help an adult or child and their carers understand their feelings and behaviour. It can also assist in getting help and support. With support and encouragement, people with Asperger’s can lead a full and independent life. Support for carersAre you caring for someone with Asperger's syndrome? Find practical information and useful resources for carers on Carer Gateway. You can also learn more about carer support and services in your state or territory through Carers Australia. Sources: Autism spectrum (Asperger's or Autism? What are the different types?), National Autistic Society (Position statement: causes of autism), National Autistic Society (Position statement: MMR vaccine), Autism spectrum (Characteristics), National Autisitic Society (What is Asperger syndrome?), Raising Children Network (DSM-5: autism spectrum disorder diagnosis) Last reviewed: November 2016"
46,"2018-04-19 01:56:33",Asthma,"Asthma is a long-term respiratory condition caused by hypersensitivity and inflammation of the airways. Symptoms include a cough, wheezing, chest tightness and breathlessness, and can vary in severity from person to person. When asthma symptoms get significantly worse, it is known as an 'asthma attack'. Call triple zero (000) to seek immediate help if you or someone else has severe symptoms of asthma. Your doctor can normally diagnose asthma by asking you questions and doing tests. They will want to know when and how often symptoms happen, and if you have noticed anything that might trigger them. A trigger is anything that irritates the airways and brings on the symptoms of asthma. These differ from person to person, and people with asthma may have several triggers. Common triggers include house dust mites, animal fur, pollen, tobacco smoke, exercise, cold air and chest infections. Your doctor will also want to know if you have been taking any medicines, what your occupation is, whether you smoke or are exposed to passive smoking, as well as details about your work and home environment. Visit Asthma Australia website or the National Asthma Council website for more information on asthma, or call Asthma Assist on 1800 ASTHMA (1800 278 462). Are you caring for someone with asthma?Carers are everyday people who provide unpaid and ongoing care and support to someone they know who has a disability, mental illness, drug or alcohol dependency, chronic condition, terminal illness or who is frail. Support for carersFind practical information and useful resources for carers on Carer Gateway. You can also learn more about carers' support and services in your state or territory through Carers Australia. Sources: NHS Choices, UK (Asthma), Asthma Australia (My asthma action plan - pdf), Asthma Australia (Asthma Assist), National Asthma Council (Understanding Asthma) Last reviewed: July 2016"
47,"2018-04-19 01:56:37","Asthma (pregnancy)","However, if your asthma is being treated with oral steroid medication (tablets or syrup, not puffers), check with your doctor about the safety of this treatment while pregnant. Most asthma medicines have been shown to be extremely safe for both you and your developing baby, and will ensure that your asthma symptoms are not left untreated for the duration of your pregnancy. Untreated symptoms may be harmful for the baby. Your asthma management plan should be reviewed regularly throughout pregnancy. Uncontrolled asthma is far more of a danger to your pregnancy than any of your prescribed asthma medicines. Do not stop taking either your preventer or reliever asthma medicines without consulting your doctor first. Some pregnant women with asthma actually experience an improvement in their asthma symptoms, possibly due to increased levels of cortisone in the body during pregnancy. Always check with your doctor before starting or stopping taking any types of medicines during pregnancy. Effect on pregnancy Many women experience breathlessness during pregnancy which is due to hormonal changes, not asthma. Many women also experience breathlessness during the last trimester of their pregnancy due to the enlarging uterus restricting movement of their diaphragm. This is normal in many pregnant women, even those who do not have asthma. Pregnancy is not likely to bring on asthma if you didn’t previously have it, but the effect of pregnancy on women who do have asthma is unpredictable. Around one-third of pregnant women will see an improvement, one-third will see no change and one-third will experience a worsening of their symptoms. The best way to ensure a healthy pregnancy is to keep your asthma well-controlled. As soon as you find out you’re pregnant you should see your doctor for advice on how to manage your asthma. Some women with severe asthma may develop high blood pressure or pre-eclampsia during pregnancy. There is an increased risk of having a low-birth weight baby or a pre-term delivery in women with uncontrolled asthma. Managing your asthma during pregnancy If you have asthma, you should have a self-management plan, which means that you can adjust your treatment to meet your needs. For example, if you have a cough or cold your asthma may get worse, in which case you can increase your ‘preventer’ (inhaled steroids), or start them if you don’t take them regularly. This is completely safe during pregnancy. While you can continue to exercise and work normally, there are some steps you can take to try to prevent your asthma from getting worse during your pregnancy: avoid smoking (get tips on stopping smoking in pregnancy) avoid allergic triggers such as pet fur control hay fever with antihistamines – talk to your doctor or pharmacist about which antihistamines are safe to take in pregnancy avoid your usual hay fever triggers. Signs that your asthma may be getting worse include: a cough that is worse at night or in the early morning, or when you exercise wheezing breathlessness tightness in your chest. You are also more likely to suffer from acid reflux while you’re pregnant. This condition occurs when stomach acid leaks back up into your oesophagus (gullet), and tends to make asthma worse. If you have these symptoms speak to your doctor or asthma specialist, who will advise you on the best treatment. Giving birth Taking asthma medicines during pregnancy does not delay or lengthen labour time. Talk to your doctor before your labour about how your asthma may affect the birth, and ask them to advise other medical staff of your special needs. Pain relieving drugs are available for use by women with asthma during labour and your options for pain management can be discussed with your doctor. Breastfeeding While asthma medicines do enter breast milk, the extremely small concentrations do not harm the baby in any way. See your doctor or healthcare professional if you have any concerns regarding breastfeeding your baby. Will my child have asthma too? The cause of asthma remains unknown, although there is an increased risk of a child developing asthma if they have a parent or brother or sister who has asthma. Protecting your child from cigarette smoke, during pregnancy and afterwards, is recommended to reduce the risk of your child developing asthma. Doctors also recommend breastfeeding for the first 6 months as a means of reducing the likelihood of your child developing asthma and allergy. Sources: NHS Choices, UK (Asthma and pregnancy), National Asthma Council (Pregnancy and asthma) Last reviewed: July 2016"
48,"2018-04-19 01:56:41",Astigmatism,"Astigmatism may be present from birth, develop as you age, or may be due to injury or disease. Eye check-ups can diagnose astigmatism and it can be treated with glasses, contact lenses or laser eye surgery. What is astigmatism? The shape of the outside surface of your eye (the cornea) and the lens inside your cornea are important for focusing and clear vision. Astigmatism occurs when the shape of the cornea or the lens of the eye is not a perfectly smooth curve. The result is blurred vision – mildly blurred for some people, severely blurred for others. Causes of astigmatism Astigmatism may be present at birth or develop with ageing, and may have an hereditary component. It can also result from eye disease or injury. Types of astigmatism There are two types of astigmatism: regular – where the cornea is curved more in one direction (say vertically) than the other (say horizontally) irregular – where the curvature of the cornea is uneven across the surface of the eye. Symptoms of astigmatism blurred vision headaches tiredness"
49,"2018-04-19 01:56:46","Atherosclerosis (peripheral)","If your doctor suspects you have peripheral vascular disease, they will usually carry out a physical examination of your leg. You may have no signs or symptoms, or you may have: shiny skin brittle toenails hair loss pain when you walk pain when you are resting While it is not immediately life-threatening, the fact that peripheral vascular disease has developed suggests that you have a high degree of atherosclerosis, giving you a much higher risk of developing another more serious cardiovascular disease such as: coronary heart disease - a condition where the supply of blood to the heart is restricted, putting you at risk of a heart attack stroke Sources: Australia and New Zealand Society for Vascular Surgery (Intermittent Claudication & Peripheral Vascular Disease), RACGP Australian Family Physician (Arteries and veins - Peripheral arterial disease), MyDr (Peripheral arterial disease), Mayo Clinic (Peripheral artery disease), NHS Choices UK (Peripheral arterial disease) Last reviewed: January 2018"
50,"2018-04-19 01:56:52","Athletes foot","What is tinea? Tinea is a common skin condition caused by a fungal infection. The fungus thrives best in warm moist environments, so areas like the feet ('athletes foot'), the groin ('jock itch'), the scalp and body (such as under the breasts) and sometimes the toe or finger nails are ideal places for the fungus to grow. Tinea symptoms Symptoms can include a red flaky rash that can crack split and peel, blistering and itching. Sometimes the rash appears in a circular ring pattern which is called ‘ringworm’ and can be a little misleading because there is no worm involved. If tinea forms in the nails they may develop a yellow or white discolouration. If tinea forms on the scalp, bald spots may occur. Types of tinea Tinea infections can affect many areas of the skin and depending on their location and fungal type, the infection has different names: Athlete's foot (tinea pedis): fungal infection of the skin on the feet. Ringworm of the scalp (tinea capitis): fungal infection that develops on the head. Ringworm of the body (tinea corporis): fungal infection of the body that develops on the top layer of the skin. Jock itch (tinea cruris): a rash in the moist, warm areas of the groin. Nail infection (onychomycosis): a fungal infection of the toe or finger nails. Most tinea infections are mild and can affect anybody. Young people and men tend to be affected more by tinea on the foot ('athletes foot'). In addition, people who play a lot of sport, spend time in communal changing rooms and showers, or wear trainers (sneakers) are more likely to be affected. Tinea treatments The infected area should be kept clean and dry as the fungi prefer to grow in moist, warm conditions. Tinea is treated with antifungal medicines and generally clears up within four weeks.You can purchase these creams from any pharmacy and some supermarkets. Follow the application instructions on the package carefully and speak to your pharmacist if you have questions. Although rare, tinea can spread to other areas of the body, so good personal hygiene is important to prevent the infection spreading. Go to this page for more information about tinea treatments and prevention. Not sure what to do next? If you are still concerned about your tinea, why not use healthdirect’s online Symptom Checker to get advice on when to seek medical attention. The Symptom Checker guides you to the next appropriate healthcare steps, whether it’s self care, talking to a health professional, going to a hospital or calling triple zero (000). Sources: Patient (Dermatophytosis (Tinea Infections)) Last reviewed: August 2017"
51,"2018-04-19 01:56:54","Atrial fibrillation","It’s important to recognise and treat atrial fibrillation to help prevent serious complications. Symptoms of atrial fibrillation Some people with atrial fibrillation have no symptoms. Others have: heart palpitations or ‘fluttering’ heartbeat an irregular pulse dizziness or fainting spells weakness or tiredness chest pain (if you have chest pain that lasts for more than a few minutes, or any other heart attack warning signs, call triple zero (000) immediately). Atrial fibrillation can occur as a one-off episode, or can come and go, or can persist. Atrial fibrillation diagnosis Atrial fibrillation is usually diagnosed on an electrocardiogram, or ECG. If you have atrial fibrillation, then your doctor will talk to you and examine you, and may order some other tests such as a 24 hour heart monitor (called a holter monitor) or an echocardiogram (heart ultrasound). Atrial fibrillation treatments Treatments for atrial fibrillation include: medicines to make your heart beat normally again procedures to make your heart beat normally again medicines to slow your heart rate. If you have atrial fibrillation, you are at a higher than normal risk of having a clot form in your heart. If this breaks off, it can cause a stroke. So some people with atrial fibrillation are advised to take medicines to thin their blood, to reduce the risk of a stroke. Long-term management of atrial fibrillation Most people are able to manage their atrial fibrillation and lead a relatively normal life. To look after your heart, it’s important to take medications as prescribed, eat healthily, stay physically active, avoid smoking, look after your general health, and visit your doctor regularly. Sources: Heart Foundation (Atrial fibrillation - arrhythmia), NPS Medicinewise (What are the symptoms of atrial fibrillation?), Heart Foundation (Atrial fibrillation information sheet (PDF)), Mayo Clinic (Atrial fibrillation), NPS Medicinewise (Medicines and treatments for atrial fibrillation) Last reviewed: March 2017"
52,"2018-04-19 01:57:00","Attention deficit disorder (ADD or ADHD)","Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is characterised by symptoms including inattention, hyperactivity and impulsive behaviour. These symptoms are associated with learning, behavioural and emotional problems. Types of ADHD There are 3 types of ADHD: Inattentive ADHD means a person is easily distractible or inattentive but isn’t hyperactive or impulsive. Hyperactive-Impulsive ADHD occurs when a person has symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity, but can maintain concentration. Combined ADHD is where a person has a mixture of symptoms including hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity. Treatment for ADHD Everyone gets restless and distracted from time to time. But for people with ADHD it can be extremely hard to stay focused on a task. The good news is that ADHD is treatable. Psychological and behaviour therapies, and medication can all be effective. For children, positive parenting techniques are also recommended. Sources: Royal Children's Hospital (ADHD - an overview), Adults with ADHD (About Adult ADHD factsheet), Australian Psychological Society (ADHD), Women's and Children’s Health Network (ADD and ADHD - what are they?), Better Health Channel (ADHD) Last reviewed: July 2016"
53,"2018-04-19 01:57:05","Autoimmune diseases","What is the immune system? The immune system incorporates different parts of the body – including certain blood cells, skin, bone marrow and more – that work to keep you healthy. The immune system protects you from infection by detecting and fighting diseases. If infectious agents such as bacteria or viruses get into your body, immune cells usually kill or overwhelm them, removing the infection. This is known as the immune response. Causes of autoimmune disease Autoimmune disease occurs when, instead of attacking bacteria, viruses or other sources of infection, the immune system attacks healthy organs and tissues. It's not known why this happens, although autoimmune conditions most often affect people with a genetic predisposition. An environmental factor such as an infection, stress, medication, diet or even ultraviolet radiation then triggers the symptoms of the autoimmune disease. Microorganisms that live in the gut might also influence autoimmune responses. While this explains why autoimmune disease occurs generally, it’s not usually possible for doctors to determine why it occurs in an individual. Types and symptoms of autoimmune disease There are more than 80 different autoimmune diseases. Most of them are long-term illnesses, with the severity of symptoms changing over time. Some of the more common autoimmune diseases include: Coeliac disease – the immune system reacts to gluten (found in wheat and other grains) and damages the small intestine. Coeliac disease causes flatulence, diarrhoea and abdominal pain. Lupus – many parts of the body can be affected, including the skin, muscles, joints, lungs, heart and kidneys. Rheumatoid arthritis – bone and cartilage are damaged, causing tender, swollen and stiff joints. Graves’ disease – the thyroid gland is overactive, causing anxiety, heart palpitations, weight loss and irritated or bulging eyes. Multiple sclerosis – the nervous system is affected, causing muscle weakness and poor coordination, sight problems and, in some cases, cognitive difficulties. Type 1 diabetes – the pancreas does not produce enough insulin to manage blood sugar levels, resulting in thirst, hunger and frequent urination. Most people have signs and symptoms of autoimmune disorders for a long time before they seek help. It can also take a long time to diagnose an autoimmune disease because some symptoms, such as tiredness and ‘just not feeling right’, are commonly felt by many adults, while symptoms can come and go. With most conditions, there is no one test that confirms a diagnosis. If you think you might have an autoimmune disease, use the healthdirect Symptom Checker and see your doctor. They will investigate your symptoms more closely, examine you and ask you about your general health. They might arrange a blood test, x-ray, MRI or biopsy. Depending on your condition, your doctor might also refer you to a specialist for further investigation or advice on treatment options. Treatment of autoimmune disease While there is no cure for autoimmune diseases, help is available. People diagnosed with autoimmune diseases often benefit from: a healthy diet maintaining a healthy weight plenty of sleep achieving the right combination of rest and exercise reducing stress where possible, and finding ways to deal with unavoidable stress Specific medicines and lifestyle changes can help. For example, people with type 1 diabetes inject insulin, while those with autoimmune diseases that affect skin receive advice about the sun, bathing, creams and lotions. People with Coeliac disease must follow a gluten-free diet. In some people, autoimmune diseases can be mild, while others will need to invest a lot of time and care in managing their condition. However, most people with autoimmune conditions are able to live a full and enjoyable life. Where to seek more help You can find organisations that support people with specific autoimmune diseases at these sites: Autoimmune Resource & Research Centre Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy Sources: Current Allergy and Asthma Reports (Do Bugs Control Our Fate - The Influence of the Microbiome on Autoimmunity), Nature Reviews Endocrinology (Diagnosis and management of Graves disease - a global overview), EPMA Journal (Vaccination and autoimmune diseases - is prevention of adverse health effects on the horizon), The Lancet (Immunopathogenic mechanisms of systemic autoimmune disease), Autoimmune Diseases journal (How Does Age at Onset Influence the Outcome of Autoimmune Diseases), Clinical Reviews in Allergy & Immunology (Environmental basis of autoimmunity), The Lancet (Rheumatoid arthritis), Expert Review of Clinical Immunology (Celiac disease and endocrine autoimmune disorders in children - an update), Australasian Society of Clinical Allergy and Immunology (Autoimmune Diseases), BMC Gastroenterology (A gluten-free diet effectively reduces symptoms and health care consumption in a Swedish celiac disease population), Pharmacy and Therapeutics (Lupus An Overview of the Disease And Management Options), Family Physician (Evaluating and managing patients with thyrotoxicosis), Perspectives in Medicinal Chemistry (Multiple Sclerosis - Overview of Disease-Modifying Agents), Diabetes Australia (Type 1 Diabetes), Thyroid Foundation (Autoimmune disease), American Journal of Epidemiology (Prediction and Prevention of Autoimmune Disease in the 21st Century) Last reviewed: January 2018"
54,"2018-04-19 01:57:10","Avian influenza","Follow the links below to find trusted information about avian influenza (bird flu). Last reviewed: July 2016"
55,"2018-04-19 01:57:12","B12 deficiencies","The nutrients used to grow, maintain and repair our body come from the food we eat. But without enough of the right nutrients, such as in vitamin B12 deficiency, our health can be affected. Vitamin B12 is needed to help blood form, and for the brain and nervous system to function properly. Vitamin B12 deficiency can be caused by not eating enough of the right foods, especially meat and animal products. More often it is caused by the body not being able to absorb the B12 properly. Your doctor will need to do blood tests to work out the cause. The symptoms of B12 deficiency include tiredness, light-headedness, rapid heart rate, easy bruising and bleeding, weight loss, bowel upset and sore tongue. If you have B12 deficiency, you may need to change your diet, or may need supplements by tablet or injection. Follow the links below to find trusted information about B12 deficiency."
56,"2018-04-19 01:57:19","Baby blues","All parents go through a period of adjustment as they try to handle the huge changes a baby brings. For most people, this time of adjustment will be temporary and will not be overly distressing. Many women experience the 'baby blues' in the first few days after having a baby. The baby blues usually only last 2 to 3 days and you might feel teary, anxious and moody during that time. The support of your partner, family and friends is usually enough to help you get through it. When these feelings last beyond these early days and continue to get worse, it may be a sign of developing depression. What are the signs of postnatal depression? There are many signs that someone may be struggling with postnatal depression. Some of the more common ones include: having a very low mood feeling inadequate and a failure as a mother having a sense of hopelessness about the future feeling exhausted, empty, sad and teary feeling guilty, ashamed or worthless feeling anxious or panicky having trouble sleeping, sleep for too long or have nightmares worrying excessively about their baby feeling scared of being alone or going out. In some cases, women may experience thoughts about leaving their family or worried that their partner may leave them. They could also have ideas about self-harm or doing harm to their partner or baby. In situations like this, you should seek professional help straight away. It is also common to experience symptoms of anxiety at the same time as depression. How is postnatal depression diagnosed? If you've had any of these symptoms for 2 weeks or more, talk to your doctor or midwife. You can also visit your local mental health service or community health service. Postnatal depression needs to be properly diagnosed and managed by a trained healthcare professional. Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) is a questionnaire that asks about your feelings and symptoms. The EPDS indicates whether you may have some symptoms that are common with depression and anxiety. Find out more about the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale from beyondblue. Treating postnatal depression A range of different treatments can help with postnatal depression, including: counselling psychotherapy group treatment support strategies medications such as antidepressants. Support from family and friends is also important. Postnatal psychosis Postnatal psychosis (also called postpartum or puerperal psychosis) is less common than postnatal depression and can develop in the first week, or up to 12 weeks, after childbirth. It involves having difficulties thinking clearly, extreme mood swings, seeing or hearing things that are not there (hallucinations), feeling everyone is against you (paranoia) and powerful delusions. This is a medical emergency and a doctor should be contacted immediately. Postnatal depression and fathers Postnatal depression is not limited to mothers. Fathers can have postnatal depression too, either along with their partner’s postnatal depression or by themselves. Read more about fathers and depression. Help and support If you or someone you know is showing signs of postnatal depression, there are a number places you can go for help: PANDA - 1300 726 306 beyondblue - 1300 224 636 Pregnancy, Birth and Baby - 1800 882 436 Personal story - video Need to talk to someone? Pregnancy, Birth and Baby offers non-judgmental emotional support during pregnancy and parenting for when you're feeling anxious or overwhelmed. Call us on 1800 882 436 or video call seven days a week. Sources: PANDA (Anxiety and Depression in Pregnancy & Early Parenthood), beyondblue (A guide to emotional health and wellbeing during pregnancy and early parenthood), NHS Choices (UK) (Postnatal depression), Raising Children Network (Antenatal depression and postnatal depression in women) Last reviewed: October 2017"
57,"2018-04-19 01:57:24","Baby rash","There are several rashes and skin conditions which are very common in babies. Usually they are easily treated and won’t cause any long term problems for your baby. Nappy rash Nappy rash is a very common skin condition that happens to around one third of nappy wearing babies. It’s caused when the skin comes into contact with urine and faeces (poo) in the nappy. Mild cases are usually painless but severe nappy rash can cause discomfort and distress to babies. If your baby gets nappy rash you can treat it with a nappy rash cream. Ask your child health nurse or pharmacist to recommend one. If the rash doesn’t go away or your baby develops a persistent bright red, moist rash with white or red pimples, which spreads to the folds of the skin, they may have a thrush infection.You’ll need to use an anti-fungal cream, available either from the pharmacist or on prescription from your doctor. Cradle cap Cradle cap is a build-up of yellow, greasy and often scaly patches of skin, usually on your baby’s scalp. The affected skin can also appear red in colour, flaky and a yellowish crust might also form. There can be some hair loss when the affected areas of skin loosen. It’s a common and harmless condition causing no discomfort to the baby. It often lasts for a few months and usually clears up by the time the baby is two years old. Cradle cap usually doesn’t need treatment. It should clear up on its own after a few months, but if it doesn’t see your doctor because there are treatments that may help. Not sure what to do next? If you are still concerned about your child's baby rash, why not use healthdirect’s online Symptom Checker to get advice on when to seek medical attention. The Symptom Checker guides you to the next appropriate healthcare steps, whether it’s self care, talking to a health professional, going to a hospital or calling triple zero (000). Sources: NHS (UK) (Skin rashes in babies), Raising Children Network (Nappy rash), Raising Children Network (Cradle cap) Last reviewed: August 2017"
58,"2018-04-19 01:57:30","Back injuries","Back injuries often occur as a result of sudden movements, bumps, knocks or falls. Injuries to your back vary in seriousness depending on the cause of the injury and what damage is done. Minor injuries may cause strains to your back muscles, bruising and small cuts and grazes. A strain is sometimes called a ‘pulled muscle’— this happens if a muscle is overstretched or it tightens too strongly, resulting in the tissues being torn or stretched. The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists recommends that an X-ray in response to low back pain is only needed if you have other significant symptoms such as problems with bladder and bowel control, severe pain or weakness or numbness in one or both legs. For further information, visit the Choosing Wisely Australia website. More severe injuries could cause fractures (a break in a bone), wounds, extensive bruising and damage to your spinal cord and internal organs. If you suspect a severe back injury, you should seek medical assistance immediately, and phone your doctor or call an ambulance by dialling triple zero (000). Not sure what to do next? If you are still concerned about your back injury, check your symptoms with healthdirect’s online Symptom Checker to get advice on when to seek medical attention. The Symptom Checker guides you to the next appropriate healthcare steps, whether it’s self care, talking to a health professional, going to a hospital or calling triple zero (000). Sources: Choosing Wisely Australia (Recommendations), Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (Back pain and problems), MedlinePlus (Back injuries) Last reviewed: July 2017"
59,"2018-04-19 01:57:35","Bacterial infections","There is more bacteria in and on our bodies than there are cells in the human body. They live on the skin and in the bowel, and mostly are not contagious or harmful. They are essential for good health. But sometimes they, or more often bacteria from elsewhere, can cause infections. Bacterial infections can affect the throat, the lungs, the skin, the bowel and many others parts of the body. Many are mild, some are severe. Treatment is usually a course of antibiotics (which don’t work against viruses). Bacterial infections can be highly contagious and so you need to take special care to avoid spreading infections by washing hands, covering up when sneezing and coughing, and not sharing cups and drink bottles. Follow the links below to find trusted information about bacterial infections."
60,"2018-04-19 01:57:40","Bacterial pneumonia","What is pneumonia? Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs. Most infections are due either to bacteria or to viruses. Pneumonia can also be caused by fungi, particularly in people whose immune systems aren’t working properly. Pneumonia can be a mild illness or it can be something much more serious. If you or someone you are caring for seems to be recovering well from a cold or the flu and then suddenly they get worse, it could be pneumonia. The illness can be life threatening, especially in babies, young children and the elderly, so it’s important to see a doctor right away. The most common signs and symptoms are: cough fevers, sweating and shivering difficulty breathing feeling generally tired and unwell loss of appetite. Check your symptoms with healthdirect’s Symptom Checker for advice on when to seek medical attention. Sources: Lung Foundation (Pneumonia Fact sheet), NPS MedicineWise (Pneumonia) Last reviewed: February 2017"
61,"2018-04-19 01:57:44","Bacterial vaginosis","If you think you may have bacterial vaginosis, it’s a good idea to get checked by your doctor, as it can lead to other problems. What causes bacterial vaginosis? The exact cause of bacterial vaginosis is not known. However, it is thought to result from an overgrowth of bacteria that live naturally in the vagina. You are more likely to have bacterial vaginosis if you regularly douche (rinse or flush your vagina), use an intrauterine device (IUD) and have had sex, particularly with a new partner or multiple partners. Having bacterial vaginosis can put you at an increased risk of other conditions, including sexually transmitted infections, pelvic inflammatory disease, and complications during pregnancy. Get checked by your doctor, as bacterial vaginosis can lead to other problems. Symptoms of bacterial vaginosis In about half of all cases of bacterial vaginosis, there are no noticeable symptoms. When they do occur, symptoms usually include a white or grey watery vaginal discharge, and an unpleasant or ‘fishy’ vaginal odour. Sometimes these symptoms come and go, or are more noticeable during menstrual periods. Your doctor or nurse can make a diagnosis of bacterial vaginosis by taking a swab of vaginal discharge, and having it examined under a microscope. Bacterial vaginosis treatment and prevention Bacterial vaginosis doesn’t necessarily have to be treated if there are no symptoms. However, if you are pregnant, it’s important you seek treatment because you can be at risk of complications such as miscarriage and premature delivery. Treatment is with antibiotics such as metronidazole, tinidazole or clindamycin, which may be given as oral tablets, or a vaginal antibiotic cream or gel. More than one course of treatment may be needed. You can also buy an acidic jelly for the vagina over the counter to help correct the acid balance of the vagina. It is not normally necessary to treat sexual partners, but spread between female sexual partners is possible. If you have had bacterial vaginosis, there are some things you can do to help prevent further episodes. In particular, avoid smoking, douching or using perfumed talcs or deodorants around your vagina. Sources: Women's Health Queensland Wide (Thrush and other vaginal infections), myDr (Bacterial vaginosis), MedScape (Bacterial Vaginosis), Family Planning NSW (Common vaginal and vulval conditions) Last reviewed: January 2018"
62,"2018-04-19 01:57:48","Baker's cysts","People with a Baker’s cyst might also have arthritis or an injury such as a torn cartilage in their knee. Baker’s cyst symptoms If the cyst is small, you might not notice it. Otherwise, you may have aching, a swelling or lump behind your knee, or feel pressure when you straighten your leg. Your doctor can often diagnose a Baker’s cyst by examining your knee and shining a torch through the lump. You might also have an ultrasound or MRI scan. Baker’s cyst complications Occasionally Baker’s cysts become infected, grow bigger or can bleed. Sometimes a Baker’s cyst ruptures or bursts, causing pain and swelling in your calf. Your doctor may want to rule out a serious problem such as a blood clot (deep vein thrombosis). Baker’s cyst treatments If a child has a painless Baker’s cyst, it can usually be left alone. In children, most Baker’s cysts disappear eventually without treatment. Adults can ease any pain from a Baker’s cyst with cold packs, or by taking paracetamol or anti-inflammatory medications. The pain may also ease with physical activities such as walking, swimming or Tai Chi. If you are overweight, losing weight may help. Taking supplements or wearing a brace is unlikely to help with your symptoms. If you have a troublesome Baker's cyst, your doctor may drain it using an ultrasound and inject it with corticosteroids, which has been shown to result in significant improvements and a low chance of the cyst coming back. If the cyst is associated with arthritis or a knee injury, then treating these conditions can help. For some people, surgery is needed to fix the cause. For example, repairing a torn cartilage might help. Removing the cyst alone isn't helpful, as it usually recurs unless the underlying cause is addressed. Your doctor can advise you on the treatment options that are best for you. Sources: Cochrane Library (Ultrasound-guided aspiration and corticosteroid injection compared to horizontal therapy for treatment of knee osteoarthritis complicated with Bakers cyst), Patient.co.uk (Bakers Cyst), Murtagh Patient Education (Bakers Cyst), Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne (Orthopaedic fact sheet 5, Baker’s cyst), Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (Guidelines for the non-surgical management of hip and knee osteoarthritis) Last reviewed: July 2017"
63,"2018-04-19 01:57:51",Balanitis,"Symptoms of balanitisIf you have balanitis, you might notice:redness and swellingitchingpainperhaps a smell and a discharge. What causes balanitis?The inflammation is due to overgrowth of the microorganisms, particularly yeast, normally found on the glans. If you are uncircumcised, the warm moist environment under the foreskin provides ideal conditions for the growth of yeast. It is not as common in men and boys who have been circumcised.Balanitis can also be caused by allergies, scabies and nappy rash.It’s not sexually transmitted. Men can’t get it from their partners. Balanitis treatmentYou can usually clear up balanitis by looking after your penis well.At least once a day, gently wash the glans, including the part under the foreskin, and dry it gently. If you have a foreskin, pull it back.You should avoid soap, hot water and vigorous rubbing, which can make the inflammation worse. Your pharmacist will be able to recommend soap-free products.If the careful washing and drying routine does not work, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about the use of over-the-counter mild steroid or antifungal creams.For babies, nappy rash cream applied to the tip of the penis can help clear up or prevent balanitis.Balanitis preventionKeeping the glans clean and dry is the first line of prevention.You can also help prevent balanitis by:washing the penis soon after sex (if balanitis tends to flare up soon after sex)washing your hands free of chemicals before touching your penispulling back your foreskin when weeing and drying any urine before replacing the foreskin.You should see your doctor if you can’t comfortably pull your foreskin back to expose the glans. Don’t use force, especially in toddlers. The foreskin only becomes easy to pull back later in childhood. Sources: SA Health (Health topics- Balanitis), Melbourne Sexual Health Centre (Sexual Health Factsheets - Balanitis), Dermet NZ (Balanitis), Royal Children's Hospital (Clinical practice guidelines - The penis and foreskin) Last reviewed: June 2016"
64,"2018-04-19 01:57:56","Baldness (in men)","Some men aren't troubled by this at all. Others, however, suffer great emotional distress associated with a lack of self-esteem and, in some cases, depression. Pattern baldness is often inherited and can affect men and women. It is caused when hair follicles are oversensitive to the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT), produced by the male hormone, testosterone. DHT causes the follicles to shrink and eventually stop functioning. Both men and women produce this hormone in different amounts. The involvement of testosterone in balding has led to the myth that going bald is a sign of virility. But men with male-pattern baldness don't have more male hormones than other men. Their hair follicles are simply more sensitive to the hormones. Receding hairline Male-pattern baldness is so called because it tends to follow a set pattern. The first stage is usually a receding hairline, followed by thinning of the hair on the crown and temples. When these two areas meet in the middle, it leaves a horseshoe shape of hair around the back and sides of the head. Eventually, some men go completely bald. Male-pattern baldness is not a disease, so it won't affect your health. However, if it's causing you distress, consult your doctor to get a diagnosis. Your doctor can refer you to a dermatologist for further analysis and, if necessary, to a counsellor to help with the trauma of hair loss. If you have inherited the genes responsible for male-pattern or female-pattern baldness there's little you can do to prevent it from happening. Treatments can slow down the process, but there's no cure. The two most effective treatments for male-pattern baldness (also called 'androgenetic alopecia') are medicines called minoxidil and finasteride. Other treatments for hair loss include wigs, hair transplants and plastic surgery procedures, such as scalp reduction. As a general rule, it's easier to maintain existing hair than to regrow it, and once the hair follicle has stopped working it cannot be revived. Sources: Andrology Australia (Male pattern hair loss) Last reviewed: November 2016"
65,"2018-04-19 01:58:02","Barmah Forest virus","Barmah Forest virus symptoms and treatment Symptoms of Barmah Forest virus include fever, headache, tiredness, joint pain, swollen joints, muscle tenderness and skin rashes. Some people (particularly infected children) may show no symptoms. Treatment for Barmah Forest virus involves managing the symptoms. Medication is not always necessary. Prevention against Barmah Forest virus To protect yourself from Barmah Forest virus, you need to protect yourself from mosquito bites. To lessen your chance of being bitten by mosquitoes (as well as midges), cover up as much skin as possible and stay inside in the early morning or at dusk. Screen living areas, and make sure you use an insect repellent when you are outside and there are mosquitoes around. Information on staying safe around mosquitoes can be found on the Queensland Health website. More information Download healthdirect's infographic guide to mosquito bites. Visit our information partners' links below. Sources: SA Health (Barmah Forest virus), Queensland Health (Barmah Forest virus) Last reviewed: January 2017"
66,"2018-04-19 01:58:08","Bartholin’s cysts","What causes a Bartholin’s cyst Bartholin’s glands are found on each side of the vaginal opening and produce the fluid that helps lubricate the vagina. Sometimes the glands become blocked and the fluid causes a Bartholin’s cyst. If the fluid becomes infected, it will form pus and become a Bartholin’s abscess. You'll usually have a cyst or abscess on one side of your vaginal opening. Bartholin cysts can also recur. Bartholin’s cysts symptoms You can have a Bartholin’s cyst and not have symptoms, but a cyst may grow so that you feel a lump near the opening of your vagina. If it becomes infected, you may notice: a tender or painful lump near the vaginal entrance pain during intercourse discomfort when walking or sitting fever. Bartholin’s cysts diagnosis and treatment If your cyst isn't causing pain or discomfort, you may not need treatment. Sometimes home treatment, such as soaking the affected part several times a day in a shallow, warm bath, will make an infected cyst break open and drain by itself. See your doctor if your cyst doesn't get better after three days of treatment with these baths. If the pain is severe, see your doctor right away. Your doctor might want to rule out cancer, especially if you're over . The type of treatment will depend on: the size of the cyst if it's painful whether the cyst is infected whether it is cancerous. Your doctor may perform a pelvic examination and send samples of vaginal secretions for testing. You may need to have the cyst drained or take a course of antibiotics if it's infected. In rare cases, surgery may be needed. Sources: Medical News Today (What are cysts? What causes cysts?), Mayo Clinic (Bartholin’s cyst – Definition), Mayo Clinic (Bartholin’s cyst – Symptoms), Mayo Clinic (Bartholin’s cyst – Treatments and drugs), Mayo Clinic (Bartholin’s cyst – Tests and diagnosis) Last reviewed: July 2017"
67,"2018-04-19 01:58:10","Basal cell carcinoma (skin cancer)","Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in Australia. Skin cancer is a disease of the body’s skin cells caused mainly by cumulative exposure to ultraviolet radiation (UVR) from the sun. Cancer is a group of diseases in which cells are aggressive (grow and divide without respect to normal limits), invasive (invade and destroy adjacent tissues), and sometimes metastatic (spread to other locations in the body). There are two types of skin cancers: Melanoma - is a serious type of cancer that begins in the skin and can spread to other organs in the body. Non-melanoma skin cancer - refers to a group of skin cancers that affect the upper layers of skin. The most common sign of melanoma is the appearance of a new mole or a change in an existing mole. This can happen anywhere on the body, but most often on the back, legs, arms and face. In many cases, melanomas have an irregular shape and have more than one colour. They may also be larger than normal moles and can sometimes be itchy or bleed. Non-melanoma skin cancers are usually named after the type of skin cell from which they develop. The two most common types are: basal cell carcinoma (BCC) squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Early detection improves survival and other outcomes. Get to know your skin. If you find a suspicious spot or mole, see your doctor as soon as possible. Skin cancer is diagnosed by physical examination and biopsy. Biopsy is a quick and simple procedure where part or all of the spot is removed and sent to a laboratory. It may be done by your family doctor or you can be referred to a dermatologist or surgeon. Results may take about a week to be ready. Sources: Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (Skin cancer in Australia), NHS Choices, UK (Skin cancer (melanoma)), NHS Choices, UK (Skin cancer (non-melanoma)), SunSmart (Skin cancer, diagnosis and treatment) Last reviewed: September 2016"
68,"2018-04-19 01:58:14","Bat bites","Usually bites are minor, but infections can occur if the skin is broken and bacteria from the saliva (spit) of the animal that has bitten you is passed into your bloodstream. Bites often result in the following types of injury. puncture lacerations abrasions or scrapes bruising and swelling. Bites can be very painful and uncomfortable. You should also pay close attention for signs of an infection developing. Signs of an infection include: swelling redness increasing tenderness around the bite the wound gets more painful discharge from the wound swollen lymph nodes (especially in the neck, armpits or groin) shivers or developing a high temperature (over 38°C ). Learn more about bacterial infections, such as tetanus, and how to treat minor wounds or cuts from bites in the ‘Treatment and self-care’ section below. Check your symptoms with healthdirect’s Symptom Checker to get advice on when to seek medical attention. Dog bites Most dog bites are caused either by a family pet or a dog that belongs to someone you know, such as a neighbour. Dogs can bite anybody, but children under 5 are most at risk. A dog can bite if it: is provoked, stressed or frightened is looking after puppies and gets disturbed is unwell or in pain is disturbed while eating or asleep becomes too excited during play is young. Bites from dogs typically cause a puncture wound in the skin, as well as lacerations (jagged cuts) and abrasions (scrapes or grazes).Young children are more likely to be bitten on the head, neck and face – around the lips, cheek or nose. Dog bites can lead to infection and scarring. Cat bites Cat bites usually cause only minor injuries but they tend to increase the risk of an infection developing. However, because cats have smaller and sharper teeth they can cause very deep puncture wounds, which can sometimes go right down to the bone. Cat bites generally occur on the upper limbs (arms and hands) but children may also be bitten on the face and neck. Learn more about bacterial infections, such as tetanus, or how to treat minor wounds or cuts from bites in the ‘Treatment and self-care’ section below. Bat bites Australian bat lyssavirus (ABLV) belongs to a group of viruses known as lyssaviruses. ABLV is transmitted from bats to humans, but is very rare. Only 3 cases of ABLV have been recorded since the virus was first identified in 1996. All 3 were in Queensland and were fatal. The early symptoms are flu-like, including headache, fever and fatigue. The best way to prevent yourself from being exposed to ABLV is to avoid handling any bat in Australia. Only people who have been vaccinated against ABLV and who have been trained in the care of bats should ever handle bats or flying foxes. Anyone who comes across an injured bat should contact the local WIRES wildlife rescue network on 1300 094 737. If you are bitten or scratched by a bat in Australia you should: immediately wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water for at least 5 minutes apply an antiseptic solution or alcohol gel after washing see your doctor – you may need a tetanus injection or other treatment. Treatment and self-care Tetanus Tetanus is a serious bacterial infection that releases toxins into the blood stream and can be fatal. If you have been bitten by an animal and the skin is broken, your healthcare professional may recommend that you have a tetanus booster injection. Treating minor wounds or cuts from bites You can easily treat a minor wound or cut. However, a larger or more serious wound or cut will need medical attention. A wound or cut is considered to be deep if tendons or other internal parts can be seen. A gaping wound is one where the edges of the cut cannot be pulled back together. If the wound is still bleeding: cover it with a clean cloth, apply pressure with the palm of your hand, then keep the pressure on the wound for 15 minutes apply pressure directly over the affected area with a pad made from a clean, rolled up piece of material such as a handkerchief or towel; the material should be dampened with clean water if possible since this will reduce the amount of blood soaked up use a bandage to wrap around the pad or dressing; do not wrap the bandage too tightly since it may affect the circulation if the bleeding is very heavy, it may seep through the bandage; you should use a second dressing to cover the first one if the bleeding continues through both bandages and pads, remove the second bandage only and apply a new one do not look at the wound to see if it has stopped bleeding in case removing the pressure causes it to start bleeding again. If the wound is not bleeding: rinse under running water for 2 minutes (it might be easier for you to rinse the injury with a shower head, if possible); pat dry with a clean cloth, then cover the wound with a dry, sterile, non-sticky dressing to help prevent infection check the area daily for signs of infection such as increasing pain, redness, swelling or yellow discharge if you have not had a full course of tetanus immunisation, or if your boosters are not up to date, contact your doctor. if you are in pain, get advice from a pharmacist or doctor on medicines you can take. Not sure what to do next? If you are still concerned about an animal bite, why not use healthdirect’s online Symptom Checker to get advice on when to seek medical attention. The Symptom Checker guides you to the next appropriate healthcare steps, whether it’s self-care, talking to a health professional, going to a hospital or calling triple zero (000). Sources: Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne (Dog bites), Australian Family Physician (Management of mammalian bites), Women's and Children's Health Network (Cuts, grazes and bruises), NSW Health (Rabies and Australian Bat Lyssavirus Infection), Australian Doctor (A systematic approach to the assessment of bite wounds), Queensland Government (Australian Bat Lyssavirus) Last reviewed: August 2017"
69,"2018-04-19 01:58:19","Bell's palsy","What is Bell’s palsy? Bell’s palsy is a weakness or paralysis of the facial muscles that usually affects just one side of the face. It is thought to be mainly caused by an infection with a virus. The infection inflames or puts pressure on the nerve that controls your facial muscles. It can be mild, or it can be severe. Most people recover without treatment in 3 to 9 months. Bell’s palsy signs and symptoms The main symptom is weakness or paralysis of one side of the face. It usually is at its worst within 2 to 3 days of starting. It can also cause: drooping eyelid or difficulty closing one eye difficulty smiling and making facial expressions drooping of one side of the mouth difficulty eating and drinking drooling pain or sensitivity around the affected area headache loss of taste changes in the amount of tears or saliva If you develop these symptoms, see your doctor immediately or go to your nearest emergency department. Bell’s palsy diagnosis There is no specific test for Bell’s palsy, but it is important to make sure you don’t have a more serious condition like a stroke or a tumour. Your doctor will diagnose the condition by examining you carefully. You may be referred to a specialist or have tests such as X-rays or CT scans to rule out other causes. Bell’s palsy treatment 3 out of 4 people recover, with or without treatment. However, your doctor may prescribe oral steroids, or an antiviral medicine in the first few days of the onset of Bell’s palsy, as this can improve the chances of full recovery. They may also prescribe lubricating eye drops and an eye ointment to protect the affected eye and recommend physiotherapy or face massage. Recovery from Bell’s palsy You can help your recovery by: use prescribed eye drops and ointment regularly wear glasses or goggles during the day use an eye patch or tape your eye shut if recommended If the pain is bothering you, place a warm, damp washcloth over your face several times a day and take over-the-counter pain medication. Most people begin improving within two weeks and recover within 3 to 9 months. A few people don’t recover fully and are left with some weakness or paralysis of the muscles in their face. Sources: NPS Medicinewise (Management of Bell's palsy), MedlinePlus (Bell’s palsy), EyeSmart (What is Bell’s Palsy?), American Academy of Neurology (Bell’s Palsy: Treatment with steroids and antiviral drugs), NHS Choices (Bell’s Palsy), The Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne (Bell’s Palsy), Mayo Clinic (Bell’s Palsy), National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (Bell’s Palsy information) Last reviewed: December 2017"
70,"2018-04-19 01:58:24","Benign prostate hypertrophy","It can cause symptoms that interfere with your ability to urinate and affect your sex life. Here is some basic information about benign prostate hypertrophy, including what it is, what symptoms to look out for and how it’s treated. What and where is the prostate? The prostate is a gland found only in men, forms an important part of the reproductive system. It secretes a fluid that keeps sperm alive and healthy and that forms part of semen. The prostate is found behind the base of the penis and underneath the bladder. The urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder to the penis, runs through the middle of the prostate. What is benign prostate hypertrophy? Benign prostate hypertrophy, also called prostate enlargement or BPH, is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland. The prostate enlarges slowly, and over time puts increasing pressure on the urethra and the base of the bladder. This is what causes the symptoms of BPH. What causes BPH? The causes of an enlarged prostate are not clear. It becomes more common as you age – half of men over the age of 60 have some symptoms. It is also related to testosterone (a male sex hormone) and may run in families. BPH symptoms There are usually no symptoms at the start, even after the prostate has started to enlarge. The first sign of BPH is usually problems with urinating. This is because the enlarged prostate is squeezing and narrowing the urethra. The symptoms of BPH can include: inability to completely empty the bladder when peeing poor urine flow urgent need to pee, which can disturb your sleep if you need to urgently empty your bladder at night dribbling of urine at the end of peeing bladder infections. Occasionally, BPH interferes with your ability to have sex, causing impotence or painful orgasms. BPH diagnosis To diagnose BPH, your doctor may: talk to you and examine you do a digital rectal examination, which involves your doctor placing a gloved finger into your rectum (back passage) to feel the size and shape of your prostate do blood tests or urine tests. You might also need to have a biopsy or ultrasound. BPH treatment BPH treatment usually depends on your symptoms. Treatment options include: no treatment – especially if your symptoms are mild medicines – to help manage considerable symptoms surgery – you may need transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) if the symptoms are significantly affecting your daily life. Read more about treatments for prostate problems. Sources: Andrology Australia (Enlarged prostate or BPH), Lab tests online (Benign prostatic hypertrophy), myDr (Prostate problems: benign prostatic hypertrophy) Last reviewed: August 2016"
71,"2018-04-19 01:58:33","Bipolar disorder","Bipolar disorder is a condition that affects moods where people are able to swing from one extreme to another. It was previously known as 'manic depression'. People with bipolar disorder experience periods or 'episodes' of: depression - where they feel very low and lethargic mania - where they feel very high and overactive (less severe mania is known as 'hypomania'). There are 2 main types of bipolar disorder: Bipolar disorder I - where people are more likely to experience mania for longer periods of time, as well as depressive episodes and sometimes psychotic symptoms. Bipolar disorder II - people generally have shorter, less severe episodes of mania (hypomania) and depressive episodes. In between, they may have periods where their mood is relatively normal. There are also people who experience 'mixed episodes' where they can feel some of the signs and symptoms of both depression and mania. The symptoms of bipolar disorder depend on which mood the person is experiencing. Unlike simple mood swings, each extreme episode can last for several weeks or longer, and some people may not experience a 'normal' mood very often. Depression The depression phase of bipolar disorder is often diagnosed first. You may initially be diagnosed with clinical depression before having a manic episode later (sometimes years later), after which you may be diagnosed with bipolar disorder. During an episode of depression, you may have overwhelming feelings of worthlessness, which can potentially lead to thoughts of suicide. If you're feeling suicidal or having severe depressive symptoms, contact your doctor, or the local mental health emergency services as soon as possible. If you can't or don't want to contact these people, call Lifeline on 13 11 14. You can call them 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Mania During a manic phase of bipolar disorder, you may feel very happy and have lots of ambitious plans and ideas. You may spend large amounts of money on things that you cannot afford and would not normally want. Not feeling like eating or sleeping, talking quickly and becoming annoyed easily are also common characteristics of the manic phase of bipolar disorder. During the manic phase, you may feel very creative and view mania as a positive experience. However, during the manic phase of bipolar disorder, you may also have symptoms of psychosis (where you see or hear things that are not there or become convinced of things that are not true). Where to get help If you need help, talking to your doctor is a good place to start. If you'd like to find out more, or talk to someone else, here are some organisations that can help: Black Dog Institute (people affected by mood disorders) – online help Lifeline (anyone having a personal crisis) – call 13 11 14 or chat online Suicide Call Back Service (anyone thinking about suicide) – call 1300 659 467 SANE Australia (people living with a mental illness) – call 1800 18 7263 beyondblue (anyone feeling depressed or anxious) – call 1300 22 4636 or chat online You can also visit Head to Health, an online gateway funded by the Australian Government that can help you find free and low-cost, trusted phone and online mental health resources, including information about bipolar and related disorders. Sources: ReachOut.com (What is bipolar disorder?), NHS Choices, UK (Bipolar disorder), beyondblue (Bipolar disorder) Last reviewed: September 2016"
72,"2018-04-19 01:58:36","Bird flu","Follow the links below to find trusted information about avian influenza (bird flu). Last reviewed: July 2016"
73,"2018-04-19 01:58:41","Birth defects","Birth defects are quite common. Some are minor and cause little, if any, long term problems. Other birth defects are life threatening or cause significant disability.  Birth defects may affect how the body looks and functions, such as structural problems with bones, skin, nerves or tissues. Examples include cleft lip, spina bifida and neural tube defects. Birth defects can also cause mental disabilities.  Some of the causes of birth defects include: genetic problems, inherited from one or both parents exposure to chemicals exposure to high risk medicines, which are known to increase the risk of birth defects such as thalidomide, isotretinoin, and lithium. exposure to alcohol - as seen in foetal alcohol syndrome Follow the links below to find trusted information about birth defects. Sources: MedlinePlus (Birth Defects), Healthline (Birth Defects) Last reviewed: July 2016"
74,"2018-04-19 01:51:49","Bites and stings",
75,"2018-04-19 01:58:50","Bites and stings (sea creatures)","It’s important to be aware that bites and stings can cause a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) in some people. Learn more about first aid treatment for severe allergic reactions in the ‘anaphylaxis’ section below. Box jellyfish and other tropical stingers Tropical stingers (jellyfish) live in tropical waters around Australia’s coastline north of Bundaberg in Queensland through to Geraldton in Western Australia. The most dangerous are the box jellyfish and Irukandji. The stinger season generally runs from November to March. To treat a sting, call triple zero (000) for an ambulance and pour vinegar liberally over the tentacles on the person’s skin for at least 30 seconds to deactivate the sting. If vinegar is not available wash the area with seawater. Do not use fresh water. You may need to provide emergency assistance including cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Keep the person calm. Never substitute vinegar with methylated spirits or alcohol because they will make the sting worse. If you are in tropical waters and you can’t clearly identify the cause of the jellyfish sting, then treat the sting with vinegar and seek medical assistance just to be safe. Stonefish Stonefish live all around the Australian coastline. They look like rocks and actually live among rocks on coral reefs. They can also be found sleeping in the mud or sand. The stonefish’s back is lined with spines that release a venomous toxin. This makes it very dangerous. Call triple zero (000) for an ambulance and soak the affected area in hot water (no hotter than can be easily tolerated) for 20 minutes to relieve the pain. Remove briefly before reimmersing and continue this cycle if pain persists. If immersion is not possible, a hot shower is an alternative. The person may need hospital treatment to further relieve their pain and to be given stonefish antivenom. To protect yourself from stonefish stings, wear thick-soled shoes and shuffle your feet when you walk in the shallows. Also, don't pick up rocks on reefs – they could be stonefish. Blue-ringed octopus, sea snake and coneshell bites and stings Bites and stings from the blue-ringed octopus, sea snakes and coneshells are very dangerous. Provide emergency care including cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) if needed. Call triple zero (000) for an ambulance. Apply a pressure immobilisation bandage and keep the person calm and as still as possible until medical help arrives. A guide to pressure immobilisation bandages can be found on the Australian Venom Research Unit website. Non-tropical stingers (jellyfish) Non-tropical stingers live in waters all around Australia’s coastline, but are more generally found south of Bundaberg in Queensland and south of Geraldton in Western Australia. To treat a sting, wash any remaining tentacles off the skin with seawater or pick them off the skin. Soak the affected area in hot water (no hotter than can be easily tolerated) for 20 minutes to relieve the pain. Remove briefly before reimmersing and continue this cycle if pain persists. If immersion is not possible, a hot shower is an alternative. Seek further medical attention if the person’s condition gets worse. Check your symptoms with healthdirect’s Symptom Checker to get advice on when to seek medical attention. Bluebottle stings Bluebottle stings are the most common jellyfish stings in Australia. If stung wash any remaining tentacles off the skin with seawater, or carefully pick them off the skin (wearing gloves if possible). Do not use vinegar. Immerse the person’s sting in hot water (no hotter than can be easily tolerated) for at least 20 minutes. You can even run a hot shower over the affected area if that’s easier. Do not use this method for suspected box jellyfish or Irukandji stings. If you can’t access hot water, apply an ice pack or cold water to the affected area. Seek medical attention if the person develops further symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, or if there is continuing pain, itchiness or blistering at the site. Never rub sand or pour soft drink over any jellyfish sting, or urinate on the stung area. Check your symptoms with healthdirect’s Symptom Checker to get advice on when to seek medical attention. Fish stings injuries There are numerous other venomous or spiny fish, such as red rock cod in New South Wales, and soldier fish and cobblers in southern Australia. Most of these cause injuries when they are handled, for example by fishermen. They cause immediate severe pain that lasts for up to an hour with minimal other effects. There are a number of things you can do to help manage pain from fish sting injuries: any pieces of spine should be removed for pain relief immerse affected area in water (or shower) as hot as patient can tolerate (45°C) until resolution of pain, or a maximum of 90 minutes. The temperature must be tested with an unaffected limb first painkillers can be used to treat the pain. Sea urchin injuries Most sea urchin injuries are from non-venomous spines and the main problem is removal of broken-off spines. Venomous spines are less common but cause more intensely painful puncture wounds. There are a number of things you can do to help manage pain from sea urchin injuries: remove spines close to the surface pain relief – immerse affected area in water (or shower) as hot as patient can tolerate (45°C) until resolution of pain, or for a maximum of 90 minutes. The temperature must be tested with an unaffected limb first painkillers can be used to treat the pain. Check your symptoms with healthdirect’s Symptom Checker to get advice on when to seek medical attention. Sponge injuries Sponge contact reactions are uncommon and may be difficult to diagnose if they are delayed. Initially there may only be a mild sensation with localised itchiness and stinging developing after minutes to hour. In some cases this sensation increases and can cause intense symptoms for two to three days. No specific treatment has been recommended except washing the sting site. The effects resolve over days to weeks irrespective of treatment. Painkillers can be used to manage the pain. Check your symptoms with healthdirect’s Symptom Checker to get advice on when to seek medical attention. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) Read these articles for an overview of: cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) how to perform CPR. For printable charts, see St John Ambulance Australia’s first aid resuscitation procedures (DRSABCD) poster, as well as their quick guide to first aid management of bites and stings. Pressure immobilisation bandage A pressure immobilisation bandage is recommended for anyone stung by a sea creature. This involves firmly bandaging the area of the body involved, such as the arm or leg, and keeping the person calm and still until medical help arrives. If possible, mark the site of the bite on the bandage with a pen. A guide to pressure immobilisation bandages can be found on the Australian Venom Research Unit website. Anaphylactic shock Occasionally some people have a severe allergic reaction to being stung. In cases of severe allergic reaction, the whole body can react within minutes to the bite or sting which can lead to anaphylactic shock. Anaphylactic shock is very serious and can be fatal. Symptoms of anaphylactic shock may include: swelling of the mouth, throat or tongue difficulty swallowing difficulty breathing or shortness of breath or wheezing difficulty talking a rash that may appear anywhere on the body itching – usually around your eyes, ears, lips,throat or roof of the mouth flushing (feeling hot and red) stomach cramps, feeling or being sick feeling weak collapsing or falling unconscious. Call triple zero (000) for an ambulance. If the person has a 'personal action plan' to manage a known severe allergy, they may need assistance to follow their plan. This may include administering adrenaline to the person via an autoinjector (such as an Epipen®) if one is available. The Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy recommends that for a severe allergic reaction adrenaline is the initial treatment. For further information, visit the Choosing Wisely Australia website. The St John Ambulance Australia first aid fact sheet for bites and stings can be found on their website. For more information on anaphylaxis, including setting up a personal action plan, go to www.allergy.org.au. People with diagnosed allergies should avoid all trigger agents and confirmed allergens and have a readily accessible anaphylaxis action plan and medical alert device It is wise to ensure your friends and family know how to follow your anaphylaxis action plan too in case you need help. How to prevent bites and stings To protect you from marine stingers: swim at patrolled beaches between the red and yellow flags and inside stinger nets if they’re available don’t enter the water when the beaches are closed wear a full-body lycra suit for extra protection (particularly from tropical stingers during stinger season) don’t touch marine stingers if they are on the beach – they can still sting you enter the water slowly to give marine stingers time to swim away ask a lifeguard for help or advice if needed. More information on marine stingers can be found on the Marine Stingers website. Should I do a first aid course? Knowing what to do in an emergency can save a life, so it’s a very good idea to do a first aid course. You can book a first aid course through St John Ambulance Australia’s website or call them at 1300 360 455. You will need to pay a fee to do a course. Not sure what to do next? If you are still concerned about your bite or sting from a sea creature, why not use healthdirect’s online Symptom Checker to get advice on when to seek medical attention. The Symptom Checker guides you to the next appropriate healthcare steps, whether it’s self care, talking to a health professional, going to a hospital or calling triple zero (000). Sources: Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy (ASCIA) (Allergic reactions to bites and stings), Allergy & Anaphylaxis Australia (What is anaphylaxis?), Choosing Wisely Australia (Recommendations), NSW Poisons Information Centre (Bites and Stings), St John Ambulance Australia (Bites and stings - Quick guide to first aid management, PDF), St John Ambulance Australia (DRSABCD action plan PDF), St John Ambulance Australia (Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) - managing a severe allergic reaction PDF), Australian Venom Research Unit (Pressure immobilisation bandaging), Australian Prescriber (Managing injuries by venomous sea creatures in Australia) Last reviewed: August 2017"
76,"2018-04-19 01:58:55","Bladder cancer","What is bladder cancer? The bladder is a small organ in the lower part of the stomach which stores urine. If you develop bladder cancer, abnormal cells grow in the lining of the bladder. This is called superficial bladder cancer. The cancer cells can sometimes spread to the muscle wall of the bladder or even further to other organs or lymph nodes. This is called invasive bladder cancer. While it can be treated if detected early on, more than 1,000 people in Australia still die of bladder cancer each year. Bladder cancer risk factors We don’t fully understand why bladder cancer develops in some people. Your risk is greater if: you smoke you are exposed to certain chemicals you have diabetes other people in your family have had bladder cancer you have chronic inflammation of the bladder you have had some sorts of chemotherapy or radiotherapy treatment for cancer Types of bladder cancer The most common form of bladder cancer is called urothelial carcinoma. This starts in the urothelial cells in the bladder wall. Rarer types of bladder cancer are squamous cell carcinoma, which begins in the cells that line the bladder, and adenocarcinoma, which starts in a type of cell that produces mucus. Bladder cancer symptoms The most common sign of bladder cancer is blood in the urine. It usually happens suddenly but isn’t painful. If you ever see blood in your urine, you should always get it checked by a doctor. Other symptoms of bladder cancer include: having trouble emptying the bladder when you go to the toilet a burning feeling when you’re trying to pass urine needing to pass urine often, or feeling the need to go urgently pain in your lower stomach or back None of these symptoms are necessarily caused by bladder cancer. But if you have any of the above, tell your doctor. Anatomy of the kidneys and bladder with a bladder tumour Bladder cancer diagnosis Your doctor will examine you and may order several tests, including blood tests, urine tests and scans such as a CT, ultrasound or MRI scan. However, the main test to diagnose bladder cancer is called a cystoscopy, which is usually performed by a specialist doctor called a urologist. The doctor will look inside your bladder with a small camera. If they see anything suspicious, they will take a biopsy, a small sample of tissue, to be examined in a laboratory. Bladder cancer treatment Any treatment will depend on the type of bladder cancer and how far it has spread. Surgery may be done to remove any tumours. This is called a ‘transurethral resection’ and is done using a cystoscope with a wire loop at the end. The cancer cells can also be burned or lasered during surgery. If you have non-invasive bladder cancer, you may be given medicine to stimulate your own immune system to fight the cancer (known as immunotherapy). Some people will have chemotherapy medicine delivered straight into the bladder via a catheter. Invasive bladder cancer is usually treated with surgery and sometimes radiotherapy and chemotherapy as well. If the cancer has spread to the muscle and other organs, the entire bladder will probably need to be removed along with nearby lymph nodes. A new bladder will be constructed for you either inside your body or in a bag outside your body. Living with bladder cancer If your bladder has been removed, you will have reconstructive surgery. You will need to learn how to manage a bladder reconstruction and will be helped with this by continence nurses and physiotherapists. For more information, visit the Cancer Council Victoria website. After you have been treated for cancer, it is normal to feel afraid that the cancer will return. If you are struggling, it is important to seek support from your doctor, a therapist or other people who have been through cancer. More information The Continence Foundation of Australia provides information about bladder control. Call them on 1800 33 00 66. The National Public Toilet Map helps you find the location of the nearest public toilet. You can download it as an app. Information on the social and emotional impact of cancer is available in the Cancer Australia resource, Cancer – how are you travelling? Cancer Council Australia provides services and support to all people affected by cancer. Call on 13 11 20. beyondblue provides support for people with depression and anxiety. Sources: Cancer Council Australia (Bladder cancer), Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (Cancer in Australia 2017), Cancer Australia (Bladder cancer), The Conversation (Australia’s high rates of bladder cancer deaths show why blood in urine should always be investigated), healthdirect (Cystoscopy), Australian Cancer Research Foundation (Bladder cancer), Cancer Council Victoria (Living with a bladder reconstruction), Cancer Council Australia (Living with cancer) Last reviewed: July 2016"
77,"2018-04-19 01:58:59","Bleeding after menopause","There can be several causes for vaginal bleeding after menopause. In most cases a cause is never found. However, it can also be a sign of something more serious, so you will need to see your doctor to rule this out. Bleeding after menopause is often caused by: inflammation and thinning of the lining of your vagina thinning of the lining of your uterus thickening of the lining of the uterus, often because of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) polyps (growths) in the cervix or uterus abnormalities in the cervix or uterus. You may also want to check with your doctor to see if your Pap tests are up to date. You may think you have finished menopause if you have not had a period for a few months. However, it is still possible to have a period up to a year after your last one. It’s important you visit your doctor to discuss your bleeding. If you are bleeding very heavily or you feel faint or as if you might pass out call triple zero (000) immediately and ask for an ambulance. If calling triple zero (000) does not work on your mobile phone, try calling 112. Not sure what to do next? If you are still concerned about bleeding after menopause, why not use healthdirect’s online Symptom Checker to get advice on when to seek medical attention. The Symptom Checker guides you to the next appropriate healthcare steps, whether it’s self care, talking to a health professional, going to a hospital or calling triple zero (000). Sources: The Royal Women’s Hospital (Bleeding after menopause) Last reviewed: June 2017"
78,"2018-04-19 01:59:00","Bleeding disorders","Follow the links below to find trusted information about bleeding disorders. Last reviewed: July 2016"
79,"2018-04-19 01:59:06",Blepharitis,"What causes blepharitis? The most common cause of blepharitis is a bacterial infection. The infection can be at the base of the eyelashes or in the glands of the eyelids. Other causes include: blocked oil glands at the edge of the eyelids allergic reactions to eye drops skin complaints such as dandruff or rosacea (skin redness) Blepharitis symptoms If you have blepharitis, you might: feel that something is in your eye have itchy or burning eyes and eyelids find the edge of your eyelids are red have watery eyes be sensitive to light have crusty or sticky eyelashes, especially in the morning Self-care tips for blepharitis To treat blepharitis, you can: massage your eyelid towards your nose clean your eyelids with: water an eyelid cleaner. Eyelid cleaners are available as a foam, liquid or wipe. Ask your pharmacist for more information. diluted baby shampoo (2 drops in 1/2 cup of warm water). Dip a cloth in this and gently scrub your eyelids use warm compresses for 5 to 10 minutes a few times a day Don’t wear your contact lenses until the swelling goes down. When to see your doctor If your eyes do not get better after a few days of eye care, see your doctor. Your doctor will probably ask you about your symptoms and check your eyes. If your doctor suspects an infection, they may prescribe an antibiotic ointment. Your doctor may also prescribe steroid eye drops to reduce the swelling. Your doctor may check and treat you for related conditions such as dandruff and dry eye syndrome. Blepharitis prevention To stop blepharitis from coming back, keep your eyelids clean. Don’t use cosmetics around your eye. Sources: The Royal Australia and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists (Blepharitis), Merck Manual Consumer Version (Blepharitis), Cochrane Library (Interventions for chronic blepharitis) Last reviewed: January 2018"
80,"2018-04-19 01:59:15",Blepharospasm,"A twitching eye happens when the muscles in your eyelid contract (spasm) without your control. Causes of twitching eye Numerous factors can cause eye twitches, including stress, fatigue, bright lights and excess caffeine. These sorts of twitches usually go away on their own. Eye twitches can remain for longer than a week or become more serious, such as when the eyelid closes for a few seconds, and may be triggered by eye irritations, such as: dry eyes injury to the eye surface (cornea) sensitivity to light. Other causes of troublesome eye twitching are blepharospasm (a movement disorder of the muscles around the eye) and hemifacial spasm (spasm caused by irritation of a facial nerve). Very rarely, serious eyelid spasms may be a sign of a brain and nerve disorder such as Tourette syndrome, Bell’s palsy, or multiple sclerosis Check your symptoms with healthdirect’s Symptom Checker to get advice on when to seek medical attention. Twitching eye treatments While most eye twitches are mild and short-lived, it may help to: get enough sleep rest the eyes avoid bright lights (and screens) use lubricating eye drops manage your stress avoid caffeine. If the twitching makes it difficult to keep your eyes open, see your doctor. Depending on the cause, botulinum toxin type A injections (such as Botox or Dysport) in the muscles surrounding your eye may be given to reduce the spasms. When to see your doctor While most eye spasms are mild, it’s important to see your doctor if: the twitching lasts longer than a few weeks the twitching closes your eyelid the spasms also happen in other parts of your face or body you have droopy eyelids your eyes are red, swollen, or discharge (fluid) is oozing from them. Sources: Mayo Clinic (Eye twitching - Causes), Mayo Clinic (Eye twitching - Definition), Benign Essential Blepharospasm Research Foundation (What is Blepharospasm), Brain Foundation (Blepharospasm), Mayo Clinic (Eye twitching – When to see a doctor) Last reviewed: February 2017"
81,"2018-04-19 01:59:19",Blindness,"Follow the links below to find trusted information about blindness. Last reviewed: July 2016"
82,"2018-04-19 01:59:24","Blood coagulation disorders","Follow the links below to find trusted information about blood coagulation disorders. Last reviewed: July 2016"
83,"2018-04-19 01:59:29","Blood disorders","Disruption of the plasma, cells or platelets affects blood function. Blood disorders can be inherited, or caused by other problems like lack of nutrients in the diet (anaemia) and cancers (leukaemia). Follow the links below to find trusted information about blood disorders. Last reviewed: February 2014"
84,"2018-04-19 01:59:32","Blood platelet disorders","Follow the links below to find trusted information about blood platelet disorders. Last reviewed: July 2016"
85,"2018-04-19 01:59:35","Blood pressure (high)","When the heart is squeezing blood into the arteries, the pressure is high. When the heart is relaxed, the pressure is lower. Your blood pressure is a measurement taken of the highest reading and the lowest reading. It is given as two figures - highest (systolic) over lowest (diastolic). What is high blood pressure? Your blood pressure is high if the reading is higher than 140/90 mm/Hg and is considered to then put you at risk of having a heart attack or stroke (cardiovascular disease). Having a blood pressure below this figure is even better in terms of reducing cardiovascular risk. That is, you have high blood pressure if the higher figure (systolic) is higher than 140, or the lower figure (diastolic) is higher than 90, or both. This is also known as hypertension. More than 30% of Australians over the age of 18 have high blood pressure. Why is your blood pressure important? Your blood pressure is important because if it is too high, it affects the blood flow to your organs. Over the years, this increases your chances of developing heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, diabetes, eye disease, erectile dysfunction and other conditions. Very occasionally, people with very high blood pressure are at serious risk of problems and need urgent treatment in hospital to reduce the risk of a stroke or heart attack. Current Australian guidelines recommend that if you have persisent raised blood pressure over 160/100, but are at low risk of having a stroke or heart attack, your should talk to your doctor or specialist about taking medication to lower your blood pressure. For further information, visit the Choosing Wisely Australia website. If you’re over 18, you should have your blood pressure checked by your doctor at least every two years, or more often if advised. What causes high blood pressure? For most people, the cause of high blood pressure is not known. This is known as ‘essential’ or ‘primary’ hypertension.  But while the cause is not known, it is clear that various conditions and behaviours make high blood pressure more likely. These are known as risk factors, and include: leading a sedentary lifestyle (with little or no exercise) smoking being overweight a diet with a high salt intake high blood cholesterol a family history of high blood pressure high alcohol consumption. In a few people, there is an identifiable cause such as narrowing of the arteries of the kidney (renal stenosis) or some hormonal conditions. What are the symptoms of high blood pressure? Most people with high blood pressure have no symptoms, and may feel quite well. This is why it’s important to see your doctor and have your blood pressure checked regularly, especially if you have one or more of the risk factors listed above. A few people with very high blood pressure may experience headache, dizziness or the sudden effects of diseases of the arteries such as chest pain or stroke. Check your symptoms with healthdirect’s Symptom Checker to get advice on when to seek medical attention. Diagnosing high blood pressure Your blood pressure varies from day to day, even moment to moment. Generally, if a person has a blood pressure reading greater than 140/90 taken on three different occasions, they have high blood pressure. What is the treatment for high blood pressure? For most people, the first step is to make changes to their lifestyle. These include: doing regular physical activity stopping smoking improving your diet to reduce salt, reduce fat and eat plenty of fruit and vegetables losing weight limiting your alcohol intake to no more than two drinks per day for men, or one drink per day for women with high blood pressure. Lifestyle changes may not be enough. Some people also need medication to help reduce blood pressure levels to normal. While medicines are usually very effective at lowering blood pressure, they may cause side effects in some people. Usually doctors will start a person on a low dose of a medicine and see how it goes. If it doesn’t work well enough, or if there are troublesome side effects, other medicines will be used, sometimes in combination, until the blood pressure is controlled. This can take time. Some people will take medicines for life, although others will find that continuing to lose weight and change their diet reduces the need for medicines. Someone whose blood pressure is very high or causing symptoms such as headache, or if they have conditions such as heart disease or diabetes, may need urgent treatment with medicines to bring the blood pressure down to normal levels. The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners recommends that you regularly review with your doctor or specialist any medications you are taking for high blood pressure or high cholesterol to assess the ongoing benefits and risks. For further information, visit the Choosing Wisely Australia website. Preventing high blood pressure If you can follow a healthy diet, keep to a healthy weight and avoid smoking, you will reduce your chances of having high blood pressure. More information There are a number of resources and services available if you need help or more information on high blood pressure: Healthdirect - Is your blood pressure healthy? Download Managing high blood pressure information sheet from the Heart Foundation High Blood Pressure Research Council of Australia National Stroke Foundation High Blood Pressure and Stroke Sources: Heart Foundation (High blood pressure statistics), Heart Foundation (Blood pressure), Heart Foundation (Hypertension guideline), High Blood Pressure Research Council of Australia (What is High Blood Pressure), myDr (High blood pressure should be treated), The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (Guidelines for preventive activities in general practice (Blood pressure)), myvmc (Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)), NHS Choices (UK) (Low blood pressure (hypotension)), Choosing Wisely Australia (Recommendations) Last reviewed: October 2016"
86,"2018-04-19 01:59:41","Blood pressure (low)","When the heart is squeezing blood into the arteries, the pressure is high. When the heart is relaxed, the pressure is lower. Your blood pressure is a measurement taken of the highest reading and the lowest reading. It is given as two figures - highest over lowest. Blood pressure is measured in ‘mmHg’, which refers to millimetres of mercury. What is low blood pressure? Low blood pressure is also known as hypotension. Most doctors would say that you have low blood pressure if it is below 90/60 mm/Hg. Your doctor will refer to this as ‘90 over 60’. Is low blood pressure a problem? For some people, low blood pressure is a sign of good health. These are generally people who are very fit and who have a slow pulse. For other people, low blood pressure is a problem. It is better to have low blood pressure than high blood pressure. Often, people with low blood pressure can be expected to lead longer lives. However, people who experience continuing symptoms of low blood pressure should see a doctor. Sudden, severe low blood pressure (shock) can be associated with serious medical conditions. What are the signs and symptoms of low blood pressure? The symptoms of low blood pressure may include: light-headedness dizziness weakness blurry vision pale, clammy skin fatigue fainting These symptoms can occur when doing nothing. They are more likely to occur when changing position, such as standing up or when straining on the toilet. However, often there are no symptoms and low blood pressure is often only identified as a result of a routine medical examination or during the course of an investigation for some other condition or underling illness. Low blood pressure may be more serious in elderly people who may have an underlying illness or who may be at risk of a fall. Check your symptoms with healthdirect’s Symptom Checker to get advice on when to seek medical attention. What causes low blood pressure? Apart from being very fit, people can have low blood pressure if they: are overheated, either from the weather, from hot baths or showers, or from wearing too many clothes have too little blood circulating, either from donating blood, or from bleeding heavily, or from being dehydrated are pregnant are taking one of many different types of medicines have a lot of drugs or alcohol in the system are having an allergic reaction are seriously ill with an infection have certain heart conditions have a disorder of the nervous system or glandular (endocrine) system are in severe pain There is also a particular type of low blood pressure called ‘postural hypotension’ or ‘orthostatic hypotension’. In this condition, a person’s blood pressure is normal when they are sitting or lying down, but it drops suddenly when they stand, making them feel dizzy or lightheaded. This can also occur when standing too long without moving. Postural hypotension is fairly common, more so in older people. It can be caused by one of the situations or conditions listed above. If it happens often, or if it causes problems, you should see your doctor about it. When should I see a doctor? If you think you might have symptoms of low blood pressure listed above, it’s best to see your doctor. Treating low blood pressure If there is an underlying cause for your low blood pressure, and it is giving you problems, you may need treatment for that underlying cause. But if it is causing you no problems, then treatment won’t be needed. Your doctor may advise you to take precautions to prevent episodes of low blood pressure, such as avoiding dehydration, hot showers, or standing up too quickly. Sources: American Heart Association (Low Blood Pressure), Mayo Clinic (Low blood pressure (hypotension)), myDr (Low blood pressure), NHS Choices (UK) (Low blood pressure (hypotension)) Last reviewed: October 2016"
87,"2018-04-19 01:59:43","Bluebottle stings","It’s important to be aware that bites and stings can cause a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) in some people. Learn more about first aid treatment for severe allergic reactions in the ‘anaphylaxis’ section below. Box jellyfish and other tropical stingers Tropical stingers (jellyfish) live in tropical waters around Australia’s coastline north of Bundaberg in Queensland through to Geraldton in Western Australia. The most dangerous are the box jellyfish and Irukandji. The stinger season generally runs from November to March. To treat a sting, call triple zero (000) for an ambulance and pour vinegar liberally over the tentacles on the person’s skin for at least 30 seconds to deactivate the sting. If vinegar is not available wash the area with seawater. Do not use fresh water. You may need to provide emergency assistance including cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Keep the person calm. Never substitute vinegar with methylated spirits or alcohol because they will make the sting worse. If you are in tropical waters and you can’t clearly identify the cause of the jellyfish sting, then treat the sting with vinegar and seek medical assistance just to be safe. Stonefish Stonefish live all around the Australian coastline. They look like rocks and actually live among rocks on coral reefs. They can also be found sleeping in the mud or sand. The stonefish’s back is lined with spines that release a venomous toxin. This makes it very dangerous. Call triple zero (000) for an ambulance and soak the affected area in hot water (no hotter than can be easily tolerated) for 20 minutes to relieve the pain. Remove briefly before reimmersing and continue this cycle if pain persists. If immersion is not possible, a hot shower is an alternative. The person may need hospital treatment to further relieve their pain and to be given stonefish antivenom. To protect yourself from stonefish stings, wear thick-soled shoes and shuffle your feet when you walk in the shallows. Also, don't pick up rocks on reefs – they could be stonefish. Blue-ringed octopus, sea snake and coneshell bites and stings Bites and stings from the blue-ringed octopus, sea snakes and coneshells are very dangerous. Provide emergency care including cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) if needed. Call triple zero (000) for an ambulance. Apply a pressure immobilisation bandage and keep the person calm and as still as possible until medical help arrives. A guide to pressure immobilisation bandages can be found on the Australian Venom Research Unit website. Non-tropical stingers (jellyfish) Non-tropical stingers live in waters all around Australia’s coastline, but are more generally found south of Bundaberg in Queensland and south of Geraldton in Western Australia. To treat a sting, wash any remaining tentacles off the skin with seawater or pick them off the skin. Soak the affected area in hot water (no hotter than can be easily tolerated) for 20 minutes to relieve the pain. Remove briefly before reimmersing and continue this cycle if pain persists. If immersion is not possible, a hot shower is an alternative. Seek further medical attention if the person’s condition gets worse. Check your symptoms with healthdirect’s Symptom Checker to get advice on when to seek medical attention. Bluebottle stings Bluebottle stings are the most common jellyfish stings in Australia. If stung wash any remaining tentacles off the skin with seawater, or carefully pick them off the skin (wearing gloves if possible). Do not use vinegar. Immerse the person’s sting in hot water (no hotter than can be easily tolerated) for at least 20 minutes. You can even run a hot shower over the affected area if that’s easier. Do not use this method for suspected box jellyfish or Irukandji stings. If you can’t access hot water, apply an ice pack or cold water to the affected area. Seek medical attention if the person develops further symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, or if there is continuing pain, itchiness or blistering at the site. Never rub sand or pour soft drink over any jellyfish sting, or urinate on the stung area. Check your symptoms with healthdirect’s Symptom Checker to get advice on when to seek medical attention. Fish stings injuries There are numerous other venomous or spiny fish, such as red rock cod in New South Wales, and soldier fish and cobblers in southern Australia. Most of these cause injuries when they are handled, for example by fishermen. They cause immediate severe pain that lasts for up to an hour with minimal other effects. There are a number of things you can do to help manage pain from fish sting injuries: any pieces of spine should be removed for pain relief immerse affected area in water (or shower) as hot as patient can tolerate (45°C) until resolution of pain, or a maximum of 90 minutes. The temperature must be tested with an unaffected limb first painkillers can be used to treat the pain. Sea urchin injuries Most sea urchin injuries are from non-venomous spines and the main problem is removal of broken-off spines. Venomous spines are less common but cause more intensely painful puncture wounds. There are a number of things you can do to help manage pain from sea urchin injuries: remove spines close to the surface pain relief – immerse affected area in water (or shower) as hot as patient can tolerate (45°C) until resolution of pain, or for a maximum of 90 minutes. The temperature must be tested with an unaffected limb first painkillers can be used to treat the pain. Check your symptoms with healthdirect’s Symptom Checker to get advice on when to seek medical attention. Sponge injuries Sponge contact reactions are uncommon and may be difficult to diagnose if they are delayed. Initially there may only be a mild sensation with localised itchiness and stinging developing after minutes to hour. In some cases this sensation increases and can cause intense symptoms for two to three days. No specific treatment has been recommended except washing the sting site. The effects resolve over days to weeks irrespective of treatment. Painkillers can be used to manage the pain. Check your symptoms with healthdirect’s Symptom Checker to get advice on when to seek medical attention. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) Read these articles for an overview of: cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) how to perform CPR. For printable charts, see St John Ambulance Australia’s first aid resuscitation procedures (DRSABCD) poster, as well as their quick guide to first aid management of bites and stings. Pressure immobilisation bandage A pressure immobilisation bandage is recommended for anyone stung by a sea creature. This involves firmly bandaging the area of the body involved, such as the arm or leg, and keeping the person calm and still until medical help arrives. If possible, mark the site of the bite on the bandage with a pen. A guide to pressure immobilisation bandages can be found on the Australian Venom Research Unit website. Anaphylactic shock Occasionally some people have a severe allergic reaction to being stung. In cases of severe allergic reaction, the whole body can react within minutes to the bite or sting which can lead to anaphylactic shock. Anaphylactic shock is very serious and can be fatal. Symptoms of anaphylactic shock may include: swelling of the mouth, throat or tongue difficulty swallowing difficulty breathing or shortness of breath or wheezing difficulty talking a rash that may appear anywhere on the body itching – usually around your eyes, ears, lips,throat or roof of the mouth flushing (feeling hot and red) stomach cramps, feeling or being sick feeling weak collapsing or falling unconscious. Call triple zero (000) for an ambulance. If the person has a 'personal action plan' to manage a known severe allergy, they may need assistance to follow their plan. This may include administering adrenaline to the person via an autoinjector (such as an Epipen®) if one is available. The Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy recommends that for a severe allergic reaction adrenaline is the initial treatment. For further information, visit the Choosing Wisely Australia website. The St John Ambulance Australia first aid fact sheet for bites and stings can be found on their website. For more information on anaphylaxis, including setting up a personal action plan, go to www.allergy.org.au. People with diagnosed allergies should avoid all trigger agents and confirmed allergens and have a readily accessible anaphylaxis action plan and medical alert device It is wise to ensure your friends and family know how to follow your anaphylaxis action plan too in case you need help. How to prevent bites and stings To protect you from marine stingers: swim at patrolled beaches between the red and yellow flags and inside stinger nets if they’re available don’t enter the water when the beaches are closed wear a full-body lycra suit for extra protection (particularly from tropical stingers during stinger season) don’t touch marine stingers if they are on the beach – they can still sting you enter the water slowly to give marine stingers time to swim away ask a lifeguard for help or advice if needed. More information on marine stingers can be found on the Marine Stingers website. Should I do a first aid course? Knowing what to do in an emergency can save a life, so it’s a very good idea to do a first aid course. You can book a first aid course through St John Ambulance Australia’s website or call them at 1300 360 455. You will need to pay a fee to do a course. Not sure what to do next? If you are still concerned about your bite or sting from a sea creature, why not use healthdirect’s online Symptom Checker to get advice on when to seek medical attention. The Symptom Checker guides you to the next appropriate healthcare steps, whether it’s self care, talking to a health professional, going to a hospital or calling triple zero (000). Sources: Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy (ASCIA) (Allergic reactions to bites and stings), Allergy & Anaphylaxis Australia (What is anaphylaxis?), Choosing Wisely Australia (Recommendations), NSW Poisons Information Centre (Bites and Stings), St John Ambulance Australia (Bites and stings - Quick guide to first aid management, PDF), St John Ambulance Australia (DRSABCD action plan PDF), St John Ambulance Australia (Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) - managing a severe allergic reaction PDF), Australian Venom Research Unit (Pressure immobilisation bandaging), Australian Prescriber (Managing injuries by venomous sea creatures in Australia) Last reviewed: August 2017"
88,"2018-04-19 01:59:53","Body dysmorphic disorder","If you have body dysmorphic disorder, you feel a part of your body is unusual or deformed, so that you feel ashamed, distressed or depressed. These feelings may affect your wellbeing and prevent you from living a normal life. Medication or psychotherapy can often help treat body dysmorphic disorder, so talk to your doctor if you think you have the condition. What is body dysmorphic disorder? Body dysmorphic disorder is a common mental illness. People with body dysmorphic disorder can feel emotions such as shame or disgust concerning a part or parts of their body and how they imagine they appear to other people. The face and facial features - such as the size and shape of the nose, lips or ears, or the skin or complexion - are the most common cause of worry for people with body dysmorphic disorder. But any body part - including the arms and legs, buttocks and hair - can become the focus. Complications of body dysmorphic disorder People with body dysmorphic disorder often stay at home, avoid social situations and miss work or school because of their feelings about their body. Many people who have the disorder also have or develop obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) or an eating disorder such as anorexia nervosa. Some become so anxious or depressed that they use drugs, have suicidal thoughts or attempt suicide. Causes of body dysmorphic disorder It is not fully understood what causes body dysmorphic disorder. Genetics may play a part, but so might factors such as: teasing or verbal abuse concerning appearance an overemphasis on appearance among family or friends sexual abuse and related feelings of worthlessness. Some people with body dysmorphic disorder also have mental illness in their family. Body dysmorphic disorder symptoms Symptoms of body dysmorphic disorder include a person: strongly (but incorrectly) believing they have a physical defect that makes them ugly frequently checking their appearance in mirrors, or avoiding mirrors wearing a lot of make-up or growing a beard as cover spending a lot of time grooming constantly comparing their appearance to others severely limiting their food intake exercising excessively undergoing cosmetic surgery related to their false beliefs compulsively picking at their skin inflicting self-harm. Diagnosis of body dysmorphic disorder If you think you may have body dysmorphic disorder, you should talk to your doctor. Your doctor will probably ask questions to confirm your condition and how serious it is, and talk about whether you should seek help from a psychologist or other specialist. A physical exam and lab tests may help diagnose body dysmorphic disorder or other conditions. You should try to talk honestly about your feelings to help your doctor diagnose your illness and work out the best treatment. You can use the Question Builder tool to create your question list for the appointment. Prepare your list, then print or email it so you remember what you want to ask. Treatment of body dysmorphic disorder Body dysmorphic disorder is difficult to treat without professional help. It doesn’t usually get better on its own and can get worse. Medication or working with a psychologist, or both, can help. A psychologist may suggest cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). Physical activity and exercise can help manage depression, stress and anxiety. Sources: Cochrane (Medication, psychotherapy, or a combination of both, in treating body dysmorphic disorder), Mayo Clinic (Body dysmorphic disorder—Lifestyle and home remedies), National Eating Disorders Collaboration (Body image, emotions and thought control strategies in body dysmorphic disorder compared to eating disorders and healthy controls), Jean Hailes for Women’s Health (Body image), Australian Psychological Society (The secret life of body dysmorphic order) Last reviewed: August 2017"
89,"2018-04-19 01:59:54",Boils,"What are boils? Boils are red painful lumps in your skin. They can occur anywhere, but most often in hairy areas that sweat or rub, such as your face, neck, armpits and buttocks. Boils result from infected hair follicles. One infected hair follicle is a furuncle, and a group of infected follicles joined together is a carbuncle. Symptoms include: a red lump with a white or yellow centre pain feeling unwell and having fevers, particularly with a large boil. Causes and risk factors Boils are usually caused by infection with the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus. This bacteria usually lives on your skin without causing harm, but can infect hair follicles if the skin is broken. The infection can spread to other parts of your body, or to other people. Boils treatment Boils should be kept clean and covered. It is important not to squeeze boils, as this can be very painful and can spread the infection. Pus needs to drain before a boil will heal. This may happen by itself, but sometimes treatment is needed. For small boils, you can put a warm compress on the boil several times a day. This may help the pus to drain. For larger boils and carbuncles, see your doctor. They may need to make a cut in the boil to help the pus drain, and you may need antibiotics. Large boils and carbuncles can scar. Looking after yourself If you have boils, you can help them heal more quickly and prevent them from spreading if you: wash your hands regularly, especially after touching your boil eat well and bath or shower regularly keep any skin cuts clean and protected don’t share personal items such as razors or towels wash clothes, linen and towels in hot water. Sources: Mayo Clinic (Boils and carbuncles definition), NSW Health (Boils and skin infections), Raising Children Network (Abscess or boil) Last reviewed: April 2017"
90,"2018-04-19 01:59:57","Bone diseases","Follow the links below to find trusted information about bone diseases. Last reviewed: July 2016"
91,"2018-04-19 01:59:57",Botulism,"How can you get botulism? You can get botulism in two different ways: Through food – usually honey, home preserves, canned food, meat, seafood and soft cheeses. Through a wound – this is more common in people who work on the land or who use injecting drugs. There is a type of botulism called infant botulism. In this situation, a child gets the Clostridium botulinum bacteria in their gut, and it produces the toxin from there. Honey sometimes causes this – children under 12 months of age should not be given honey. You can’t catch botulism from someone else. Botulism symptoms The main symptom of botulism is extreme weakness – weakness that is so severe it is hard to open your eyes, hard to speak and hard to have the strength to breathe. It is sometimes fatal. Adults with botulism can also get diarrhoea and vomiting, a dry mouth and blurred vision. Babies with botulism can’t tell you how they feel. But it makes it hard for them to cry, to move, to eat and to drink. Botulism treatment If you suspect that you or someone you know has botulism, see a doctor as soon as possible or go to your nearest emergency department. If medical help is sought quickly, treatment can reduce the severity of the condition. Botulism prevention Botulism is very rare, but you can reduce the risk further by: not feeding honey to infants breastfeeding taking care when preserving food – the bacterial spores can survive at temperatures of 100 °C, so make sure food is well cooked and containers are thoroughly sterilised throwing away canned food that is past its use-by date, damaged or spoiled covering open wounds when gardening or in contact with soil Sources: My Virtual Medical Centre (Botulism), WA Health (Botulism), NSW Health (Botulism - Factsheet) Last reviewed: February 2018"
92,"2018-04-19 02:00:03","Bowel cancer","Symptoms of bowel cancer include blood in your stools (poo), an unexplained change in your bowel habits, such as prolonged diarrhoea or constipation, and unexplained weight loss. Most bowel cancers develop from tiny growths inside the colon or rectum called 'polyps', which look like small spots on the bowel lining or like cherries on stalks. Not all polyps become cancerous. If polyps are removed, the risk of bowel cancer is reduced. Bowel cancer can be treated using a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy and, in some cases, biological therapy. As with most types of cancer, the chance of a complete cure depends on how far the cancer has advanced by the time it is diagnosed.The National Bowel Cancer Screening Program (NBCSP) provides free bowel screening to people turning 50, 55, 60, 64, 65, 70, 72 and 74 years of age. More information can be found on the NBCSP website or by ringing their Information Line on 1800 118 868 Personal story: bowel cancerBeing diagnosed with bowel cancer can be both emotionally and practically challenging. Listening to others who have experienced similar situations is often re-assuring and can be helpful for you, your loved ones or when preparing questions for your doctor or a specialist. Watch this video about a patient's experience after being diagnosed with bowel cancer. Read the related video transcript >More information about this video >  Video Copyright: ©2013 University of Oxford. Used under licence from DIPEx. All rights reserved. Sources: NHS Choices, UK (Bowel cancer), Cancer Screening (National Bowel Cancer Screening Program), Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (Bowel cancer screening), healthtalk.org ((Colorectal cancer, less than 3 years since diagnosis, interview 11)) Last reviewed: August 2016"
93,"2018-04-19 02:00:04","Bowel obstruction","What is bowel obstruction? Bowel obstruction (also called intestinal obstruction) refers to when something prevents the normal movement of food and liquids through your bowel (intestines). It can happen to people of all ages, and for a variety of reasons. The blockage to your digestive system can be: either in the small intestine or the large intestine partial, meaning the intestine is partly blocked, or complete, meaning it is fully blocked and not even gas can get through simple, meaning it is just a blockage, or complicated, meaning the blockage has caused other problems It’s important to get medical treatment straight away if you have signs of a bowel obstruction because it can lead to very serious complications. Causes of bowel obstruction There are many reasons for bowel obstruction. Depending on your age and medical history, you might be more susceptible to certain types of bowel obstruction. In babies, bowel obstruction can be caused by: a birth defect a twisted or malformed section of intestine intestinal contents that have hardened and formed a blockage In adults, common causes of bowel obstruction are: adhesions – scar-like bands of tissue that can form after abdominal or pelvic surgery tumours – bowel cancer (colon cancer) hernias Less frequently, bowel obstruction can be caused by: inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn's disease diverticulitis twisting of the colon, known as a volvulus severe constipation There is also a type of bowel obstruction known as 'pseudo-obstruction'. This is when the bowel is not working properly because of something other than a physical blockage. Possible causes include a muscle or nerve disorder, intestinal surgery or infection, or certain medications. Symptoms of bowel obstruction The symptoms of bowel obstruction depend on where the obstruction is, and the cause. Generally, symptoms come on within hours, although if a disease like diverticulitis or bowel cancer is the cause, symptoms might take weeks to develop. The main symptoms of bowel obstruction are: bloating, cramps and pain in the abdomen loss of appetite constipation (or diarrhoea if there is a partial blockage) inability to pass gas nausea and vomiting generally feeling sick If you have signs of bowel obstruction, seek medical attention straight away. Diagnosis of bowel obstruction To diagnose bowel obstruction, your doctor will likely: ask you questions about your health examine your abdomen run some blood tests use imaging, such as x-rays, a CT scan or an ultrasound Treatment of bowel obstruction Treatment for bowel obstruction depends on the cause, but you will need to go to hospital. While in hospital, you might have the following procedures: Your urine output may be monitored. You may be given fluids through an intravenous drip. You may receive pain relief and anti-nausea medicines. A nasogastric tube may be inserted through your nose and down into your stomach (but usually only if there is severe bloating or vomiting). Other procedures, such as colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy, may be done. You may need to discuss the need for surgery. Sometimes surgery needs to be done immediately; sometimes, other treatments are used before it’s decided that surgery is necessary. However, surgery may also not be needed at all. If the obstruction is caused by bowel cancer, surgery might be needed to remove the affected part of the bowel. Read more about bowel cancer here. More information Mayo Clinic Bowel Cancer Australia Sources: Harvard Health (Bowel obstruction), Agency for Clinical Innovation (Bowel obstruction), MSD Manual (Intestinal obstruction), National Center for Biotechnology Information (Decision making in bowel obstruction: a review), Bowel Cancer Australia (Metastatic bowel cancer), Agency for Clinical Innovation (Small bowel obstruction), Agency for Clinical Innovation (Large bowel obstruction), Mayo Clinic (Intestinal obstruction – symptoms and causes), Mayo Clinic (Intestinal obstruction – diagnosis and treatment) Last reviewed: February 2018"
94,"2018-04-19 02:00:07",Bradycardia,"What is bradycardia?Bradycardia is a slower than normal heart rate. A normal adult resting heart rate is between 60–100 beats per minute (bpm). People who are physically very fit can have a heart rate as low as 40 bpm. But in people who aren’t physically very fit, bradycardia is usually a sign of problems with the heart. Bradycardia symptomsA person with a slow heart rate might not be aware of it, but symptoms can include:feeling faint or dizzyshortness of breathfeeling tired or weakchest pain or irregular heartbeats.If you have any of these symptoms and you have a slow heart rate, you should see a doctor or go to your nearest emergency department. What causes bradycardia?Bradycardia can be due to extreme fitness. But it is often related to other causes, such as:irregular heartbeat or arrhythmiahypothyroidismdamage to your heartelectrolyte imbalancemedication, such as those to treat high blood pressure. Bradycardia diagnosisIf you have a heart rate under 60, and you’re aren’t exceptionally fit, it’s important to see your doctor. It might help to make a note of the times you notice your heart is slow, and how you’re feeling at the time.When you see your doctor, they will measure your heart rate. Your heart rate might have returned to normal, so it’s a good idea to keep a record of when you experience bradycardia or related symptoms.Your doctor will also need to work out the cause of your bradycardia. They will ask about your symptoms and your medical and family health history, and will examine you. Tests, such as an electrocardiogram, or ECG, might be done to check your heart. Depending on what is found, you might need further tests such as a stress test. Bradycardia treatmentTreatment will depend on the cause of your bradycardia. For example if you have hypothyroidism, treating it might bring your heart rate up to normal. People who have a slow heart rate because they are physically fit won’t need any treatment. Some people might need medication, a pacemaker or some other form of treatment for the heart. Bradycardia preventionBradycardia can’t always be prevented. You may help prevent bradycardia by lowering your risk of heart disease. This includes:regular exercisemaintaining a healthy weighteating wellreducing stressstopping smoking if you smoke. Sources: myDr (Heartbeat), Mayo Clinic (Bradycardia), Heart Foundation Australia (How your heart works) Last reviewed: June 2016"
95,"2018-04-19 02:00:08","Brain diseases","Problems like inflammation, loss of brain cells (stroke), brain tumours, trauma and age-related diseases, like Alzheimer's, interfere with normal function. Follow the links below to find trusted information about brain diseases. Last reviewed: February 2014"
96,"2018-04-19 02:00:10","Brain injuries","Follow the links below to find trusted information about brain injuries. Last reviewed: July 2016"
97,"2018-04-19 02:00:13","Brain tumours","What is a brain tumour? When cells grow abnormally they may form a lump called a tumour. Tumours can be benign or malignant. A benign tumour grows and stays in one place. It can’t spread to another part of your body. Benign tumours are not cancerous. But a benign brain tumour may cause damage just by being there and pressing on your brain. This can be life-threatening, or affect other parts of your body, and may need urgent treatment. A malignant tumour is cancerous. It can spread to other areas of your brain, or your body. It can also be called brain cancer. Some benign tumours can become malignant. Types of brain tumours Brain tumours can either be ‘primary’ or ‘secondary’. A primary brain tumour is a tumour that has started in the brain. A secondary brain tumour is a cancer from elsewhere in the body that has spread or ‘metastasised’ to the brain. There are many types of brain tumours. Together with tumours of the spinal cord, they are collectively called central nervous system (CNS) tumours. Brain tumours are usually named according to the type of cell they started in. Some common types of primary brain tumours are gliomas (including astrocytomas and glioblastomas), meningiomas and medulloblastomas. Most types of cancer can spread to the brain, forming a secondary brain tumour. The types of cancer that most commonly spread to the brain include melanoma, bowel, breast, kidney and lung cancers. Risk factors for brain tumours It’s not known what causes brain tumours. Occasionally people develop brain tumours because of genetic factors, or because they’ve been exposed to radiation. Research is investigating whether certain genes are important risk factors for brain tumours. Read more about brain tumour research at Cure Brain Cancer Foundation. How common is brain cancer? Almost half of all brain and spinal cord tumours are malignant. Each year, about 1,700 people are diagnosed with malignant brain tumours in Australia, including about 130 children. About 1,300 Australians die of it each year. Sources: Cancer Council (Understanding brain tumours), Cure Brain Cancer Foundation (About Brain Cancer), Cancer Research UK (Further tests for brain tumours) Last reviewed: July 2017"
98,"2018-04-19 02:00:16","Breast cancer","Breast cancer occurs when cells in a woman's breast tissue start to grow abnormally and have the potential to spread outside the breast. There are several different types of breast cancer: Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) and lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS) are non-invasive breast cancers that are confined to the ducts or lobules of the breast. Invasive ductal or lobular carcinoma is an invasive breast cancer that starts in the ducts or lobules of the breast and can spread into the breast tissue. Invasive breast cancer may be confined to the breast and lymph nodes in the armpit (early breast cancer) or may have spread outside the breast to other parts of the body (secondary breast cancer or metastatic disease). Paget’s disease of the nipple is a rare form of breast cancer that affects the nipple and the area around the nipple (the areola) and is commonly associated with an invasive cancer elsewhere in the breast. Inflammatory breast cancer is a rare form of invasive breast cancer that affects the lymphatic vessels in the skin of the breast, causing the breast to become red and inflamed. Breast cancer can have a number of symptoms but often shows as a lump or thickening in the breast tissue, although most breast lumps are not cancerous. If you notice any of these symptoms, see your doctor as soon as possible. Breast cancer is often treated using differing combinations of surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Sometimes breast cancer may also be treated using biological or hormone treatments. There is a good chance of recovery if breast cancer is detected in its early stages, so it is important to check your breasts regularly for any changes. After a period can be a good time to do this. Outcomes for women with breast cancer are improving over time. This is probably due to early detection through screening and more effective treatments. BreastScreen Australia is the national breast cancer screening program. It provides free screening to all women over 40, and specifically targets women aged 50-69 years. To make an appointment phone 13 20 50. Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) can provide more information on breast cancer through their website www.bcna.org.au, or by calling their information line on 1800 500 258. Personal story: breast cancer Being diagnosed with breast cancer can be both emotionally and practically challenging. Listening to others who have experienced similar situations is often re-assuring and can be helpful for you, your loved ones or when preparing questions for your doctor or a specialist. Watch this video about Tess's experience after being diagnosed with breast cancer. Read the related video transcript > More information about this video > Video Copyright: ©2013 University of Oxford. Used under licence from DIPEx. All rights reserved. Sources: healthtalk.org (Breast cancer, women 30-49, interview 53), BreastScreen Australia (About breast cancer), BreastScreen Australia (About breast screening), Breast Cancer Network Australia (Understanding breast cancer), NHS Choices, UK (Breast cancer (female)), Cancer Australia (What is breast cancer?) Last reviewed: September 2016"
99,"2018-04-19 02:00:22","Bronchial asthma","Asthma is a long-term respiratory condition caused by hypersensitivity and inflammation of the airways. Symptoms include a cough, wheezing, chest tightness and breathlessness, and can vary in severity from person to person. When asthma symptoms get significantly worse, it is known as an 'asthma attack'. Call triple zero (000) to seek immediate help if you or someone else has severe symptoms of asthma. Your doctor can normally diagnose asthma by asking you questions and doing tests. They will want to know when and how often symptoms happen, and if you have noticed anything that might trigger them. A trigger is anything that irritates the airways and brings on the symptoms of asthma. These differ from person to person, and people with asthma may have several triggers. Common triggers include house dust mites, animal fur, pollen, tobacco smoke, exercise, cold air and chest infections. Your doctor will also want to know if you have been taking any medicines, what your occupation is, whether you smoke or are exposed to passive smoking, as well as details about your work and home environment. Visit Asthma Australia website or the National Asthma Council website for more information on asthma, or call Asthma Assist on 1800 ASTHMA (1800 278 462). Are you caring for someone with asthma?Carers are everyday people who provide unpaid and ongoing care and support to someone they know who has a disability, mental illness, drug or alcohol dependency, chronic condition, terminal illness or who is frail. Support for carersFind practical information and useful resources for carers on Carer Gateway. You can also learn more about carers' support and services in your state or territory through Carers Australia. Sources: NHS Choices, UK (Asthma), Asthma Australia (My asthma action plan - pdf), Asthma Australia (Asthma Assist), National Asthma Council (Understanding Asthma) Last reviewed: July 2016"
100,"2018-04-19 02:00:26",Bronchiolitis,"What causes bronchiolitis? Bronchiolitis is caused by inflammation in the very small airways that deliver air to the lungs (the bronchioles). It is a viral infection usually caused by the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). The airways become clogged with fluid and mucus, making it hard for your baby to breathe and obtain enough oxygen. The virus is spread in small droplets produced by talking, coughing or sneezing and also by contact with objects that carry the virus. The best ways to prevent the spread of bronchiolitis are to: keep your sick baby away from other children wash your hands frequently. What are the symptoms of bronchiolitis? Your child might have bronchiolitis if they appear to have a cold and a runny nose that progresses to a cough after a day or two. Their breathing might become fast and wheezy, making it hard for them to eat and drink. The symptoms are usually worst on the second or third day of infection. Your child will be mostly better within 7 to 10 days, but the cough might take a couple more weeks to go away completely. What is the treatment for bronchiolitis? There are steps you can take to help your baby recover from mild bronchiolitis. Your baby needs to rest and take in small amounts of fluids frequently so they don't get too tired when feeding and don’t become dehydrated. It is important to make sure that your home is free of cigarette smoke as it makes the symptoms worse. Because bronchiolitis is usually caused by a virus, antibiotics won’t help. When to seek medical help It is a good idea to take your child to a doctor if you notice them: wheezing or having difficulty breathing breathing rapidly eating less than half the usual amount for at least two feeds having a dry nappy for 12 hours or more. Also arrange to see a doctor if: the symptoms worsen quickly your baby is less than 12 weeks of age your baby was born with a medical condition that affects their heart and lungs. Dial triple zero (000) and ask for an ambulance if your child is: having a lot of difficulty breathing or is exhausted from trying to breathe pale and sweaty or their skin is blue around the lips or fingernails breathing very rapidly having trouble feeding very tired, cannot be woken or goes back to sleep soon after being woken. Visit Pregnancy, Birth and Baby website for more information about children's health. Sources: The Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne (Bronchiolitis guideline), NPS MedicineWise (What are the symptoms of bronchiolitis?), Health VIC (Croup or bronchiolitis), SA Health (Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection - including symptoms, treatment and prevention), The Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne (Bronchiolitis) Last reviewed: September 2016"