Day: October 25, 2023

Arsenic is a naturally occurring chemical found in water, food and soil that is toxic when someone is exposed to a significant amount. It can also be found due to contamination from human activity. Sometimes arsenic is found in low levels in food. There are limits to levels of arsenic allowed in seaweed products, seafood, rice and cereals in Australia. These foods are being constantly monitored to make sure they are safe. The only food which has higher levels of arsenic is a type of seaweed called Hijiki. You should only eat small amounts of this food. A small amount

What is apraxia of speech? Apraxia is a rare type of speech disorder that makes it difficult to move the mouth in the way needed to produce sounds and words. A speech pathologist can often provide therapy that can help a person’s speech to improve. Apraxia occurs when the brain can’t move the mouth, lips, jaw and tongue properly. Even though they know what they want to say, people with apraxia have problems pronouncing sounds, syllables and words. The condition is usually noticed when a child is first learning to talk, but it can continue into adulthood. In adults, it can be

What is appendicitis? Appendicitis is inflammation of the appendix. The appendix is a thin pouch attached to a part of your large intestine (gut) on the right side of your abdomen (‘tummy’ area). It is usually about the size of a finger. If you have appendicitis, this means that your appendix is swollen and infected. A swollen and infected appendix can sometimes burst. If this happens, the infection may spread throughout your abdomen, causing serious problems such as peritonitis (infection inside the abdomen) or an abscess (a collection of pus) around the appendix. Appendicitis can occur at any age but it is most common in children

What is an appendicectomy? An appendicectomy is an operation to remove the appendix, which is a small, tube-like part of the bowel. It often needs to be performed urgently when someone has an infected and inflamed appendix (appendicitis). It is also known as an appendicectomy. Why is an appendicectomy performed? An appendicectomy is usually done because the appendix is inflamed or has burst. How to prepare for an appendicectomy The hospital will tell you how long you should fast (have nothing to eat or drink) before the operation. You might be given fluids through a drip (intravenously, directly into a

What is anxiety? Anxiety is a normal part of life and can affect anyone. Sometimes, if anxiety becomes overwhelming and doesn’t go away, it can be a sign of an anxiety disorder. However, with treatment and support from family and friends, anxiety can be managed. Anxiety affects the body and mind. Your teenager may often feel tense, jittery or agitated, and worry about a situation they’re in or what might come next. A bit of anxiety from time to time is normal, especially for teenagers. It can help with motivation at school, sport or work. But if anxious feelings don’t go away,