Day: January 7, 2024

Medicines for psoriasis   What is psoriasis? Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that typically causes red, scaly patches on the skin. It is not contagious. While there is no cure, treatments are available to help ease your psoriasis symptoms. Psoriasis occurs when there’s too much inflammation in the skin. This causes rapid growth and shedding of skin cells, which build up into red and scaly patches. The patches can appear anywhere in the body but are most common in areas such as your: scalp elbows knees abdomen groin between the buttocks It often shows as red, raised skin rashes with

What is psoriasis? Psoriasis is a long-term inflammatory disease that affects the skin. Psoriasis will typically look like thick silvery scales, and can be dry, itchy and often painful. Psoriasis can occur on any part of the body, including the scalp, hands, feet, finger or toes nails and genitals. Psoriasis tends to come and go over time. About 1 in every 2 people with psoriasis have changes in their nails, such as pitted, discoloured or crumbly nails. What are the different types of psoriasis? There are many different types of psoriasis. Plaque psoriasis is the most common type of psoriasis, occurring

Prostate specific antigen (PSA) test What is the prostate specific antigen (PSA) blood test? The prostate specific antigen (PSA) blood test measures the amount of prostate specific antigen in your blood. PSA is a protein that is made by the cells in your prostate gland. The prostate is part of the male reproductive system. Most of the PSA made is released into semen but some goes into your blood. High levels of PSA can be caused by prostate cancer, but it doesn’t always mean a diagnosis of prostate cancer. You might have high levels of PSA if you have other prostate conditions

Itchy anus (pruritus ani) What causes an itchy anus? There are many different possible causes for having an itchy anus, such as: leakage of poo (stool) from the rectum as a result of diarrhoea, constipation, diet, food intolerance or tears in the rectum infections such as herpes, bacteria or tinea intestinal parasites such as threadworms. The itch is usually worse at night, and you might be able to see small, white worms that are around 8-13 mm long haemorrhoids (piles), warts, and in extremely rare cases, cancer of the anus excessive sweating a health condition like diabetes or underactive thyroid skin conditions like psoriasis and contact dermatitis, which can

International normalised ratio (INR) test What is the international normalised ratio blood test? The international normalised ratio (INR) blood test tells you how long it takes for your blood to clot. A test called the prothrombin time (PT) actually measures how quickly your blood clots. The PT results can be expressed as an INR to standardise the results. This is done when the test is used to monitor treatment with a medicine called warfarin. Why would I need an INR blood test? INR tests are used in people taking warfarin — a medicine that treats and prevents blood clots. Warfarin is prescribed

Keeping your kids safe Most crimes against children are not committed by a stranger but by someone they know. It is important to teach your child how to recognise suspicious behaviour – from both strangers and people they know – and what to do about it. Protective behaviour for children Parents are often worried about ‘stranger danger’. But this is only a small part of keeping children safe from people who want to hurt them. More than 8 in 10 crimes against children are committed by someone they know, even relatives or friends. There are also dangers online. Young children may

What are prostheses? A prosthesis substitutes for a part of the body that may have been missing at birth, or that is lost in an accident or through amputation. Many amputees have lost a limb as part of treatment for cancer, diabetes or severe infection. A prosthesis might also be an alternative to reconstructive surgery; for example, after removal of a nose or breast to treat cancer. Modern prostheses for areas such as the hands, feet and face look very natural. They are often used to improve appearance rather than function. However, researchers are now developing hand prostheses with moving fingers. Technological developments

Prostate cancer is a disease in which abnormal cells develop in the prostate, part of the male reproductive system. In Australia, it is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in men, affecting up to 1 in 7 men by the age of 75. While high-grade prostate cancer spreads quickly and can be fatal, for most men it’s a slow-growing disease. With appropriate care, most men can live with prostate cancer for many years without serious consequences. What is prostate cancer? Prostate cancer occurs when cells in a man’s prostate gland grow in an unusual way to form an abnormal growth called a tumour. The

Prostate cancer is a disease in which abnormal cells develop in the prostate, part of the male reproductive system. In Australia, it is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in men, affecting up to 1 in 7 men by the age of 75. While high-grade prostate cancer spreads quickly and can be fatal, for most men it’s a slow-growing disease. With appropriate care, most men can live with prostate cancer for many years without serious consequences. What is prostate cancer? Prostate cancer occurs when cells in a man’s prostate gland grow in an unusual way to form an abnormal growth called a tumour. The

What is the progestogen-only pill (POP)? The progestogen-only pill (POP) is a type of contraception (birth control). It is a pill that you take daily to avoid getting pregnant. One type is known as the ‘mini pill’. The POP is different from the combined oral contraceptive pill (‘the pill’). The combined pill contains both oestrogen and progestogen. The POP contains only progestogen. The POP is useful if you can’t take the combined pill for health-related reasons. Talk to your doctor about whether this type of contraception is suitable for you. You need a prescription from your doctor or family planning clinic to take the

What is private health insurance? Private health insurance allows you to get treatment in hospital as a private patient. It can also pay for other treatments that Medicare doesn’t cover. To get private health insurance, you need to: buy a policy from a registered health insurer pay regular premiums to stay covered What types of private health insurance are available? There are two types of private health insurance: Hospital cover Extras cover Hospital cover helps with the cost of treatment and accommodation as a private patient in hospital. You can choose to be cared for as a private patient in either a public hospital

Primary Health Networks (PHNs) were set up to improve patient care and to make health care in Australia more efficient and effective. They are advised by local doctors, health workers and patients in the community. What are PHNs? The Australian Government established 31 PHNs across Australia in 2015. They aim to: improve medical services for patients, particularly those at risk of poor health outcomes make sure government money is directed to where it’s needed and is spent on health programs that will be most effective improve the links between local health services and hospitals, so that patients receive the right care, in

What is acid reflux? Acid reflux is a condition where acid from your stomach passes up into your oesophagus (gullet). If this happens too often it can cause symptoms of a burning sensation in your chest (‘heartburn’) or acid in the back of your mouth. The acid can cause the lining of your oesophagus to become inflamed (oesophagitis) or scarred. What are the benefits of surgery? This surgery aims to improve your reflux symptoms. You should get relief from symptoms of acid reflux and no longer need to take medication. Are there any alternatives to surgery? Avoiding foods that make

What is heat rash? Heat rash — sometimes called prickly heat, sweat rash or miliaria, is a harmless but very itchy skin rash. It causes small red spots in places where sweat collects, such as the armpits, back, under the breasts, chest, groin, elbow creases and back of the knees, and the waist. It happens when the body sweats more than usual, and is more common during summer months or in a hot climate. What are the symptoms of heat rash? Heat rash causes: tiny red spots or clear blisters. In babies, these are often in the skin folds, on

What are pressure ulcers or sores? Pressure ulcers — also known as bed sores, pressure sores or decubitus ulcers — develop when the skin or tissue beneath the skin is damaged due to constant pressure or friction. Pressure ulcers often occur on bony areas, such as the heels and elbows. However, they can appear on any part of the body that is under pressure for a long time. Pressure ulcers can be painful and uncomfortable and can take a long time to heal. They can also create sleep and mood disturbances, get infected and affect rehabilitation, mobility and long-term quality of life.

Choosing your surgeon It can be hard to choose a surgeon. You want to find a person who has all the technical skills you need. You also need to find someone who listens well and can talk to you about any concerns you have. You could ask your doctor who is the best surgeon to do my operation? And why? You could ask your surgeon about their experience doing this surgery. If it’s their first time, you should know that. It’s a good idea to ask your surgeon: How many times have you done this operation? What results do you get

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) What is PrEP? Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is one way you can lower your risk of catching human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). PrEP is a prescription tablet that you can take daily to reduce your risk of infection if you are exposed to HIV. This medicine is called pre-exposure prophylaxis or ‘PrEP’, because you take the medicine even if you don’t have HIV, with the aim of reducing your risk of catching it. Truvada is a medicine used as PrEP by people without HIV, and well as an anti-HIV medicine used by people who already have HIV. Although they sound similar, it is

Warning signs during pregnancy How can I tell if there is a problem with my pregnancy? Pregnancy is a time of great change for your body as you get ready for your baby to arrive. You may be worried about some of the changes you are experiencing, and want to know when you should seek help. Many changes in your body are likely to be a normal part of pregnancy. It’s a good idea to be familiar with common pregnancy health issues that you might experience. However, some signs could point to a more serious pregnancy complication. Some of these symptoms may happen

What is prednisolone? Prednisolone is a medicine that belongs to a group of medicines called corticosteroids. Corticosteroids are synthetic (manufactured) versions of a natural body chemical called cortisol. This medicine helps reduce inflammation in your body or suppress your immune system. Prednisone is a different medicine that is related to prednisolone and works in the same way to treat inflammatory diseases. Your doctor will prescribe the medicine and dose that is most suitable for your condition. What is prednisolone used for? Prednisolone helps reduce inflammation in your body. Symptoms of inflammation may include: swelling redness pain or tenderness itching Inflammation

If you are thinking about pregnancy, visit your doctor for a preconception consult. They will provide you with expert advice on planning your pregnancy. The preconception period (3 to 6 months prior to pregnancy) is the time to make life changes that can help boost fertility, reduce problems during pregnancy and assist in recovery from birth. Folic acid If you and your partner are planning to conceive, you should start taking a folic and iodine supplement before you get pregnant. Folic acid helps to provide the best health outcomes for your baby when they are growing. Taking folic acid daily

What is pre-diabetes? Pre-diabetes is when blood glucose levels are higher than normal but not high enough to be called diabetes. If you have pre-diabetes, you are at 10 to 20 times greater risk of going on to develop type 2 diabetes. If you have been told you have pre-diabetes, it is important to make lasting changes to your lifestyle, including healthy eating, exercising and losing weight, to prevent type 2 diabetes and its complications. What are the symptoms of pre-diabetes? There are normally no symptoms of pre-diabetes — most people find out they have it if their doctor orders a blood test. This

What is potassium? Potassium is a mineral that is essential for all of the body’s functions. It helps nerves, muscles and the heart to function properly, as well as helping move nutrients and waste around your cells. What is potassium deficiency? Potassium deficiency is when a person has abnormally low levels of potassium in their body. It is also called hypokalaemia. What are the symptoms of potassium deficiency? Some people with potassium deficiency don’t experience any symptoms. If you do have symptoms, they may include: weakness and fatigue feeling tired muscle cramps an abnormal heart rhythm (arrhythmia) — skipped heartbeats or

What is a posterior prolapse? A posterior prolapse is a bulge in the back wall of your vagina. It is caused by weakness of the support tissues between your vagina and your bowel. What are the benefits of surgery? A posterior prolapse can cause the following problems. A sensation of ‘something coming down’. A bulge in your vagina, which can cause discomfort when having sex and difficulty keeping a tampon in. The feeling of not having fully emptied your bowel. The need to press on the back wall of your vagina to fully empty your bowel. The aim is to

Rectocele What is a rectocele? A rectocele is a type of pelvic organ prolapse. You may hear it called posterior vaginal prolapse. Prolapse means ‘fall out of place’. If you have rectocele, the rectum (the lower part of the large bowel) bulges forward into the vaginal wall. There are things you can do to help manage this condition. Rectocele What are the symptoms of a rectocele? It is possible to have a small rectocele without noticing any problems. For some people, the symptoms of a rectocele have a big impact on their life. Rectal symptoms These can include: difficulty or

What is PTSD? Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a treatable anxiety disorder affecting around 3 million Australians at some time in their lives. It happens when fear, anxiety and memories of a traumatic event don’t go away. The feelings last for a long time and interfere with how people cope with everyday life. What are the symptoms of PTSD? Everyone is affected differently by PTSD. Symptoms can range from subtle changes in day-to-day life, withdrawal and numbness, to distressing flashbacks or physical anxiety. Symptoms of PTSD may appear in the month after the traumatic event, but sometimes they can stay dormant for

What is post-nasal drip? ‘Post-nasal drip’ is when mucus from your nose or sinuses drips down the back of your throat. Post-nasal drip can sometimes cause a cough. What causes post-nasal drip? The most common causes of post-nasal drip are: viral infections in your nose and throat (such as a cold) hay fever — inflammation of the inside lining of your nose, also called ‘allergic rhinitis’ sinusitis —inflammation of the hollow spaces in the bones of your face (sinuses) cold air some medicines Other causes are asthma and gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD). Rarely, post-nasal drip can be a sign of a foreign object in the nose (usually in

What is post-menopause? Post-menopause refers to the final stage of the menopause process, and marks the end of the reproductive stage of life. During post-menopause, your body learns to function with low hormone levels, and symptoms caused by fluctuating hormones may become less troubling — or disappear altogether. Post-menopause officially begins 12 months after your final period (the menopause). Most Australian women enter menopause between 45 and 60 years of age. The average age of menopause is 51 years. What causes post-menopause? For most women, the same hormone level changes that triggered the menopausal process affect when post-menopause occurs. However, certain

What is a PET scan? A PET (positron emission tomography) scan is an imaging test that uses radioactive material to diagnose a variety of diseases. Doctors use it to find tumours, diagnose heart disease, brain disorders and other conditions. A PET scan provides a picture of the body working, not just a picture of its structure, like some other scans. How do PET scans work? If you have a PET scan, you’ll be given an injection of a small amount of short-acting radioactive liquid, known as a tracer. The one most commonly used is FDG (fluorodeoxyglucose). FDG is a simple