Day: November 26, 2023

Health risks after a cyclone or flood Floods and cyclones are unfortunately a part of life in Australia. Here’s a list of some of the common health risks and hazards associated with natural disasters, and how to avoid them. The most common type of flooding is when rivers flood following heavy rainfall. Flooding due to very high tides occurs in coastal areas. Flash flooding can result from relatively short, intense bursts of rainfall, commonly during thunderstorms, and can occur in any part of Australia. It can be a particularly serious problem in urban areas where drainage systems may not cope

What is a flexible sigmoidoscopy? A flexible sigmoidoscopy is a procedure to look at the inside of the lower part of your colon (large bowel) using a flexible telescope. What are the benefits of a flexible sigmoidoscopy? If the endoscopist (the person doing the sigmoidoscopy) finds a problem, they can perform biopsies (removing small pieces of tissue) to help make the diagnosis. Sometimes a polyp (small growth) is the cause of the problem and the endoscopist may be able to remove it during the procedure. A flexible sigmoidoscopy. Are there any alternatives to a flexible sigmoidoscopy? Other options include a

What is a flexible cystoscopy? A flexible cystoscopy is a procedure to check for any problems in your bladder using a flexible telescope (cystoscope). What are the benefits of a flexible cystoscopy? You may be getting pain, blood in your urine or repeated infections, or you may have an irritable bladder (a sudden and uncontrolled urge to pass urine). If your doctor does see a problem during the cystoscopy, they may perform a biopsy (removing small pieces of tissue). Are there any alternatives to a flexible cystoscopy? A scan may give some information about the cause of the problem but

What is a flexible cystoscopy? A flexible cystoscopy is a procedure to check for any problems in your bladder using a flexible telescope (cystoscope). What are the benefits of a flexible cystoscopy? You may be getting pain, blood in your urine, repeated infections, or you may have an irritable bladder (a sudden and uncontrolled urge to pass urine). If your doctor does see a problem during the cystoscopy, they may perform a biopsy (removing small pieces of tissue). Are there any alternatives to a flexible cystoscopy? A scan may give some information about the cause of the problem but a

What is flatulence? Flatulence is the passing of wind (air or gas) from the intestine and through the anus. It is often accompanied by a sound and smell. Flatulence is commonly called farting, breaking or passing wind, or flatus. Most people pass wind between 7 and 12 times a day. But excessive flatulence can be uncomfortable and embarrassing, and can sometimes indicate a medical problem. What symptoms are associated with flatulence? There are usually no symptoms when flatulence is at a normal level. You might not even notice when you pass wind for much of the time. But if you

What are flat feet? Flat feet is the term used when the arch of your foot is lower than normal. This condition is also known as fallen arches. The foot usually has an arch shape: The middle part of the inside aspect of the foot is off the ground. The heel and ball of the foot touch the ground. However, this isn’t always the case. Sometimes the arch doesn’t develop properly or it might flatten towards the ground. Flat feet are normal in babies and young children. It is good to know whether you have flat feet. This can help

Seizures What is a seizure? Seizures are caused by sudden and uncoordinated changes to electrical signals in the brain. This can cause temporary (short-term) changes in behaviours, feelings, movements (such as sudden stiffening and jerking of the arms and legs), or a loss of awareness or changed awareness level. When should I call an ambulance? Call triple  if: a seizure continues for more than 5 minutes a second seizure quickly follows the first the person doesn’t respond for more than 5 minutes after a seizure stops the person has been injured the person is swimming or in water at the

Physical activity guidelines for older people Why should older people stay active? Whatever your age, you can enjoy the benefits of physical activity. There’s a host of health reasons to stay active and it doesn’t have to be ‘serious business’ — being active can be fun, especially if you can socialise at the same time. Exercise also helps keep your mind active and improves your quality of life. Even a small increase in daily physical activity can reduce your risk of health conditions such as: high blood pressure high cholesterol type 2 diabetes heart disease bone problems, including osteoporosis obesity some

How to start exercising Everyone should aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity activity on most, preferably all, days of the week. Moderate-intensity physical activity is an activity that is energetic and raises your heart rate, but doesn’t make you too breathless, such as fast walking. If you are pregnant, have been previously inactive, or suffer from any medical conditions, it is recommended that you seek medical advice before commencing vigorous physical activity. For best results in achieving a healthier lifestyle and reducing your risk of developing a chronic disease, combine physical activity with healthy eating. Build up slowly

How do I find a health professional? There are many health professionals to choose from. It’s worth thinking about which is best for you. Knowing which questions to ask, and how to search for the right professional, can help you make the right decision. Many people find health professionals by asking people they trust. You can ask your: family members friends colleagues other health professionals (like a general practitioner) To search for a health professional, you can visit the websites of medical colleges and associations, such as: The Australasian College of Dermatologists The Australian Clinical Psychology Association The Royal Australian and

Financial stress and your health How can financial stress impact my health? Money worries a major source of stress in Australia, and can lead to relationship problems, depression or anxiety. Some signs that financial stress is affecting your health and relationships include: arguing with the people closest to you about money difficulty sleeping feeling angry, fearful or experiencing mood swings tiredness, aches and pains withdrawing from others feeling guilty when you spend money delaying health care you need, due to the cost While these are normal reactions to being under financial stress, they can affect your health if they continue for

Dental fillings What is a dental filling? Your dentist or dental practitioner can use a dental filling to fix a cavity (hole), in a tooth. You may need a filling if you have tooth decay or if the tooth has been damaged due to trauma. Your dentist or dental practitioner may find damage to the structure of a tooth when you have a dental x-ray. What types of filling are there? Various materials can be used to fill a cavity (hole) in your tooth. Your dentist or dental practitioner will advise you which is suitable for you. Composite resin Composite resin is a

Fifth disease (Slapped cheek disease) What is fifth disease? Fifth disease (also known as ‘slapped cheek disease’, erythema infectiosum or Parvovirus B19) is a fairly mild viral illness, usually of childhood. It is a common infection — half of adults have been infected during their childhood. Why is it called fifth disease? It is called fifth disease as it was the fifth of the 5 common viral rash illnesses of childhood. The ‘slapped cheek disease’ name comes from its most obvious symptom — a red rash that makes children’s cheeks look like they’ve been slapped. What are the symptoms of