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What is gynaecomastia? Gynaecomastia is a condition where too much breast tissue has developed. The condition can be severe and can affect one or both sides of your chest. Is gynaecomastia surgery suitable for me? For most teenagers, gynaecomastia goes away as your hormone levels naturally get into balance. However, in some men the condition is permanent. Gynaecomastia is not life-threatening but you may want to have treatment if you feel embarrassed by the condition. What are the benefits of surgery? Your chest should have a more male appearance and both sides should look similar to each other. Are there

What is a gynaecologist? A gynaecologist is a specialist doctor who manages conditions that affect the female reproductive system — which includes the vulva, vagina, uterus (womb) and ovaries. How do doctors become gynaecologists? A gynaecologist has completed at least 6 years of additional specialist training after qualifying as a doctor. In Australia, the training allows doctors to become both gynaecologists and obstetricians, who specialise in the care of women during pregnancy and birth. But in practice, most who work in cities choose to be either a gynaecologist or an obstetrician. Some gynaecologists who work outside cities do both. In Australia, most gynaecologists

What is abdominal pain? Abdominal pain is pain felt anywhere in the area between the bottom of the ribs and the pelvis. Most Australians will experience abdominal pain at some point in their lives. Abdominal pain can be serious, but most abdominal pain gets better on its own without needing any special treatment. People sometimes refer to abdominal pain as stomach pain, stomach ache, stomach cramps, tummy pain, sore stomach, wind pain or belly ache. Pain or discomfort in the abdomen can be mild or severe. It may come on suddenly (acute); it could be something that you experience from

What is Guillain-Barre syndrome? Guillain-Barre syndrome (pronounced ghee-yan bah-ray) is a rare illness in which antibodies and immune cells in your body’s immune system attack the nerves connecting your brain and spinal cord with the rest of your body. This causes weakness, numbness or paralysis. When the immune system attacks the body, it is called an autoimmune condition. You may need treatment in hospital for some time, but most people with Guillain-Barre syndrome recover well. What are the symptoms of Guillain-Barre syndrome? Guillain-Barre syndrome can start in many different ways. It usually begins with tingling or weakness in your legs that may spread

What are guide dogs? Guide dogs, also called seeing eye dogs, are working animals that are specially trained to help people who are blind or have low vision to travel safely around their community and become more independent. Guide dogs are a special type of assistance dog. How guide dogs can help those with low vision Guide dogs help people who are blind or have low vision to move safely and confidently through their daily environment and be more independent. They assist their owners (also known as handlers) to navigate through different places, ranging from crowded city centres to quiet

What group exercise can I do? Group exercise is when you train with others for fitness or as a form of physical recreation for fun. Group exercise can be a team sport like soccer, basketball or netball. It could be a fitness class such as a cardio or spin (stationary bicycles) class. When you participate in a fitness class, an instructor will show you what to do. The instructor will cater to different fitness levels. You could get a personal fitness instructor to create an exercise plan to meet your health needs and limitations. You can choose one-on-one or small

The most common causes of groin pain or swelling are swollen glands, a groin injury or groin strain or a hernia. If your groin pain or swelling doesn’t improve in a few days, you should see your doctor. What are swollen glands? Swollen glands or lymph nodes usually mean you’re fighting an infection. If the glands in your groin are swollen, you might have an infection or inflamed area in your leg. Swollen glands usually get better by themselves, but if they don’t go away or you are in discomfort, see your doctor. How does a groin injury or groin strain happen? The groin can

Grief before death – understanding anticipatory grief What is grief? Grief is a natural emotional response to loss. Grieving is a process that can help you come to terms with a loss, such as when a loved one dies. Everyone experiences grief differently. Your experience of grief and how you cope with it will depend on different factors, including your age, your previous experiences with grief and your spiritual or religious views on life and death. How you respond to your feelings of grief might also reflect the type of relationship you share with your loved one, as well as how you

What are grief and loss? Grief is the natural emotional response to the loss of someone close, such as a family member or friend. Grief can also occur after a serious illness, a divorce or other significant losses. Grief often involves intense sadness, and sometimes feelings of shock and numbness, or even denial and anger. For most people, the intensity of grief eases over time and the episodes of grief become less frequent. Grief is a process or journey that affects everyone differently. It can be exhausting and emotionally draining. This can make it hard to do simple things or

Wounds, cuts and grazes What are wounds, cuts and grazes? A wound is a break or damage to the skin surface. Minor wounds do not usually need medical attention and can usually be treated with first aid. What causes wounds, cuts and grazes? Wounds can be caused by something sudden, such as a cut, a fall or a bad knock. Cuts, grazes and lacerations are all examples of wounds. Cuts are usually caused by a sharp object like a knife or glass, or even a sheet of paper. Lacerations are a deep cut or tear of the skin – they

What is grass allergy? Grass allergy occurs when a person experiences symptoms after being exposed to pollen from grasses (as well as trees, plants and some weeds). Grass pollen spreads when blown by the wind. Allergic rhinitis (hay fever) and thunderstorm asthma are 2 conditions caused by pollen exposure. Australian native grasses are less likely to cause allergies than those introduced from overseas, exotic or lawn-variety grasses. When am I at risk of grass allergy? You are more likely to experience symptoms of grass allergy during the time of year when grasses are producing pollen. In northern coastal areas, that’s generally January, February and March. In

What is a granuloma? A granuloma is a tiny cluster of white blood cells and other tissue. It can appear in your lungs, skin or other parts of your body. Granulomas aren’t cancerous. They form as a reaction to infections, inflammation, irritants or foreign objects. What are the types of granulomas? Foreign body granulomas This type of granuloma develops when your body’s immune system reacts to an object or irritant that penetrates your skin or eye . They can form in reaction to: foreign objects such as splinters bee stings and spider bites substances that irritate you, including red tattoo ink and the silica

The role of a GP Your GP (general practitioner, or family doctor) is usually the first person you go to if you have a health issue. They coordinate your healthcare and can look after you through your whole life. What is a general practitioner (GP)? GPs are doctors who have completed training in general practice. In some countries this is known as family medicine. They have broad knowledge and the skills to work out how to manage all the health issues you might have through your life. Because your GP gets to know you, your family and your community, they

beginning of content Asking questions You can get more out of your healthcare if you’re well informed about any treatments, medicines or tests that your doctor or other health professional recommends. Asking questions about your health and healthcare means that you can understand the options and make the best healthcare decisions for you. This is known as health literacy. This page gives you some questions to ask to help you get the best health outcomes. You can print or write them down and take them with you when you see your doctor or other health professional. Add your own questions as

Medicines for gout What is gout? Gout is a painful swelling of a joint. It is a type of arthritis. It is caused by a build-up of uric acid, a waste material that you usually pass in your urine (wee). If your body can’t remove enough uric acid, it builds up in your blood. It can sometimes get in your joints, causing inflammation and pain, which is known as gout. If you don’t treat gout, it can cause permanent damage to your joints. How is gout treated? The treatment of gout involves avoiding alcohol, maintaining a healthy weight and taking medicines. Some gout medicines

What is good mental health? Good mental health is more than just the absence of mental illness. It means you are in a state of wellbeing where you feel good and function well in the world. According to the World Health Organisation, good mental health is when you can: cope with the normal stresses of life learn and work productively use your talents and abilities contribute to the community If you have good mental health, you might feel happy, confident, hopeful and generally satisfied with life. You are likely to feel connected to other people and to be making a contribution

What is gonorrhoea? Gonorrhoea is a sexually transmitted infection caused by bacteria. It is sometimes known as ‘the clap’. It can affect the urethra (the tube for urine), cervix (the opening of the uterus at the top of the vagina), anus, throat or eyes. What are the symptoms of gonorrhoea? Gonorrhoea often has no symptoms. In women, if symptoms do occur, they usually develop within 10 days of infection. In women, symptoms may include: unusual vaginal discharge pain, discomfort or burning sensation when passing urine pelvic pain, especially during sex irregular bleeding, especially between periods or after sex anal discharge and

What is goitre? Goitre is an enlarged thyroid gland. The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped gland at the base of your neck. It secretes thyroid hormones, which are needed for: normal brain growth in children controlling many aspects of your metabolism Goitre is a sign that there is something wrong with your thyroid gland. It is more common in females than males. What are the symptoms of goitre? Goitre can show as an obvious lump or swelling at the bottom of your neck. Goitres are usually painless, but it can feel sore or tender around your thyroid area. In some people,

Why do people set goals? Most people want to see some kind of change or improvement in their lives from time to time. Setting goals is an effective way to increase motivation and to help you to create the changes you want. It can be used to improve health and relationships, or improve productivity at work. Setting goals can also be an important step in the recovery from mental illness. Common disorders like depression or anxiety can make it hard to function at work or home, or relate to others. Setting goals can be used as part of cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) to start the process of

What are carbohydrates? Carbohydrates, also known as ‘carbs’, are a major source of energy for your body. Your body breaks carbs down into glucose, which is used by your body’s cells for energy. Foods that are high in carbs include: bread and pasta rice and grains fruits starchy vegetables What is glycaemic index (GI)? The glycaemic index (GI) (also spelled glycemic index) is a ranking of carbohydrates based on their immediate effect on blood glucose (blood sugar) levels. The higher the GI, the faster your blood sugar will rise after you eat the food. Low GI carbohydrates break down more slowly, releasing

A gluten-free diet is a diet that excludes foods containing gluten. If you’ve been diagnosed with coeliac disease, read this article to find out what problems gluten can cause and how to choose gluten-free foods. Gluten is a protein found in wheat (including spelt, durum and atta), rye, barley and oats. This means gluten is found in a wide variety of foods, including flour, bread and baked goods, cereals, pasta, processed foods, takeaway foods, snacks, beer, seasonings, sauces and stock cubes. What problems can gluten cause? In some people, gluten can cause a variety of unpleasant symptoms after it’s eaten such

What problems can gluten cause? In some people, gluten can cause a variety of unpleasant symptoms after it’s eaten such as abdominal pain, diarrhoea, bloating, excessive wind, tiredness, poor concentration and general aches and pains. Although dietary intolerance to wheat or gluten is felt to be quite common, finding the cause of these symptoms is important to make sure there are no serious medical conditions present such as coeliac disease. Who should follow a gluten-free diet? If you have medically diagnosed coeliac disease you must follow a strict gluten-free diet for your whole life. This is because your sensitivity to gluten will never

What is glaucoma? The optic nerve carries images from the retina (light-sensitive layer at the back of your eye) to your brain, allowing you to see. Glaucoma is the name given to a group of conditions that cause damage to the optic nerve where it leaves your eye. Glaucoma can cause loss of vision. Glaucoma is usually caused by an increase in pressure in your eye Cross-section of the eye. Sometimes the optic nerve can be damaged, even though the pressure in your eye is within the normal range. What are the benefits of surgery? The aim is to lower the

What is glandular fever? Glandular fever is a viral infection usually caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). It is also called infectious mononucleosis or ‘mono’. It is sometimes known as the ‘kissing disease’ because it is spread through saliva. Glandular fever can affect people of all ages but is more common in young adults and teenagers. What are the symptoms of glandular fever? Symptoms of glandular fever include: sore throat fever swollen glands, usually in the neck fatigue (tiredness) nausea Other signs and symptoms can include: rash abdominal (tummy) pain swelling of your spleen (a large organ in the upper left

What is GHB? GHB (gamma hydroxybutyrate) is an illegal drug commonly found around the dance and party scene. It’s known as a ‘date rape’ drug, because it is hard to detect if it is slipped into a drink at a party. GHB was originally developed to be used as an anaesthetic. It is a central nervous system depressant. This means that it slows down brain activity and produces feelings of relaxation and drowsiness. GHB usually comes as liquid. It can be bitter or salty tasting and is odourless or has a slight odour. It can also come as a powder or in crystal form. GHB

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

What are genital warts? Genital warts are lumps on genital areas, such as the vagina, vulva, penis and scrotum. They are sexually transmitted and very common. The warts can also appear on your cervix, around your anus and rectum (back passage), in your urethra (the tube that carries urine out of your body) or around your mouth. What are the symptoms of genital warts? Genital warts are usually painless, but they may be itchy. They can be bumpy, flat or appear in clusters. If you have genital warts, you might also notice: differences in your stream of urine blood in

What is genital herpes? Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that is caused by herpes simplex viruses (HSV) types 1 and 2. This is the same type of virus that causes cold sores. Around 1 in every 8 sexually active Australian adults have genital herpes. Genital herpes can cause outbreaks (flare-ups) of blisters or sores on the genitals and anus. Once infected, you can continue to have outbreaks of symptoms throughout your life. If you think you have genital herpes, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible to get a diagnosis, and start treatment. What are the

Genes are one of the basic units of life. Problems with genes can cause health or development problems. Some genetic disorders affect people from birth, others develop later in life. If you are concerned that you or someone you care for has, or might have, a genetic disorder, this page will provide you with more information. Where are genes made of? Almost every cell in the body has a centre called a nucleus. In almost every nucleus, there are 46 chromosomes. Chromosomes are passed from parent to child, and are the vehicle for carrying all that a child inherits from their

What is generalised anxiety disorder (GAD)? Generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) is a type of anxiety disorder where people have uncontrollable and persistent worry that affects their day-to-day life on an ongoing basis. What are the symptoms of GAD? You could be dealing with GAD if:   you uncontrollably worry about many different things, a lot of the time your worry makes it hard to do everyday things like working and seeing friends you’re often tired but can’t sleep properly you constantly feel tense or restless your heart races or your mouth gets dry you have difficulty concentrating you are irritable your jaw or

The role of a GP What is a general practitioner (GP)? GPs are doctors who have completed training in general practice. In some countries this is known as family medicine. They have broad knowledge and the skills to work out how to manage all the health issues you might have through your life. Because your GP gets to know you, your family and your community, they can provide care that is most suitable for you. GPs complete a basic medical degree and internship, then they do additional medical training in general practice. This qualifies them to provide continuing care for

What is a general anaesthetic? A general anaesthetic is a combination of drugs that produce deep sleep. It is used for operations or procedures as it causes a loss of sensation. Your child will not be aware of what is happening and afterwards will not remember anything that has happened. What are the benefits of a general anaesthetic? Your child needs to have an operation or procedure. So that your surgeon or doctor can perform the operation safely, your child needs to be in a state where they do not move and their muscles are relaxed. A safe way to

What is gender incongruence? Gender incongruence is the term used to describe when your gender is different to when you were born. People with gender incongruence may describe themselves as transgender (trans) or gender diverse. What is gender? Gender and sex are different things. Your gender identity is how you feel about yourself. It reflects your experiences and your sense of self. Your gender might be the same or different to the sex you were given at birth. There are many ways to experience gender and it may change over time. Your sex is assigned to you at birth based on your external genitals.

What is gender affirming surgery? Gender affirming surgery refers to a variety of procedures that some trans or gender diverse people may use to affirm their gender. Surgery is just one option for gender affirming care. All trans and gender diverse people are unique and will choose to affirm their gender in a way that feels right for them. Gender affirming care might include: Social affirmation, such as changing names, pronouns, hair or clothing. Legal affirmation, such as changing legal name or gender. Medical affirmation, with hormones or surgery. Read more about gender incongruence, gender dysphoria, and gender affirming care here.

What is gastroparesis? Gastroparesis is a condition in which food stays in the stomach for longer than normal. Usually, the muscles around the stomach contract and grind food into small pieces, then mix those small pieces with acids and enzymes so the food can start to be digested. The muscles then contract (tighten) and push food out of the stomach into the first part of your small intestine (duodenum). If you have gastroparesis, the muscles around your stomach don’t work properly. This means that food isn’t broken down as much as normal, and it stays in the stomach for longer.

What is gastritis medication? Gastritis is when your stomach lining becomes inflamed (irritated, swollen and red). Gastritis has several causes, including infection. Your treatment will depend on the cause. How does gastritis medicine work? Gastritis medicines may be used to: reduce the acid in your stomach treat an infection with Helicobacter pylori (also called H. pylori), which is one cause of gastritis What types of gastritis medicines might I be prescribed? The medicines your doctor prescribes will depend on: your symptoms the type of gastritis you have the cause of your gastritis H2 blockers H2 blockers are medicines that reduce the amount of acid

What is gastric sleeve surgery? Gastric sleeve surgery, or sleeve gastrectomy, is surgery for weight loss that involves removal of a large part of the stomach. After the surgery, the person feels full after eating a small amount of food. The surgery also makes people feel less hungry because a smaller stomach will produce lower levels of a hormone called ghrelin, which causes hunger. When should I consider gastric sleeve surgery? Gastric sleeve surgery is a form of bariatric surgery, also called weight loss surgery. It is sometimes recommended for people who are very obese, or who have health problems caused

What is gastric bypass surgery? Gastric bypass is a surgical procedure that can help people with obesity to lose weight and improve their health. It decreases the size of the stomach and changes the way the stomach and small intestine absorb food, making it easier to lose weight. This procedure is also called a Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. When should I consider gastric bypass surgery? If you are very obese and have other health problems, and have tried hard to lose weight by dieting and doing more exercise, your doctor might suggest gastric bypass surgery to help with weight loss. Gastric bypass surgery

What is bacterial vaginosis? Bacterial vaginosis is a common condition. It is sometimes known as BV, non-specific vaginitis, or Gardnerella. Bacterial vaginosis occurs when the types of bacteria that live in the vagina are out of balance. It is normal to have vaginal discharge. But any change in what you usually experience might mean there is an underlying issue. What are the symptoms of bacterial vaginosis? In about half of all cases of bacterial vaginosis, there are no noticeable symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they usually include: a white or greyish, wateryvaginal discharge an unpleasant or ‘fishy’ vaginal smell mild

What is Garcinia cambogia? Garcinia cambogia is a tropical plant native to India and South-East Asia. It looks like a cross between a pumpkin and a tomato. It’s also a supplement that has been promoted as a way to lose weight without additional exercise or dieting. The skin of the fruit contains a chemical called hydroxycitric acid (HCA), which has been found to aid weight loss in animal trials. The extract of HCA is available in powdered form or pill form and can be purchased online or in health stores under a range of names — garcinia, garcinia cambogia extract,

What is a ganglion cyst? A ganglion cyst is a collection of fluid on a joint or tendon. Tendons are tissues that connect muscles and bones. Ganglion cysts usually appear on parts of the body including: the backs of hands the fingers the wrists the feet the ankles the knees Ganglion cysts are more common in women than men. They usually occur in young to middle-aged adults. What are the symptoms of a ganglion cyst? A ganglion cyst looks like a smooth lump under the skin. They can range from pea-sized to golf ball-sized. Occasionally they might not be visible at all.

When does gambling become a problem? Most people who bet don’t have a gambling problem, but some people become compulsive gamblers at some point in their life. People in this group lose control of their betting to the point that it negatively impacts their life. Pathological (harmful) gambling can be a form of addiction. People with a gambling addiction can’t control their urge to gamble, even if they are losing a lot of money. They are willing to risk something of value in the hope that the reward will be more valuable. Gambling addiction can seriously affect all areas of life.

What are gallstones? Gallstones (cholelithiasis) are hard, pebble-like masses that form in your gallbladder. Your gallbladder is a small pear-shaped organ on the right side of your abdomen (tummy), below your liver. Gallstones can be made of undissolved cholesterol (called cholesterol gallstones) or the digestive fluid bile (called pigment gallstones). Your gallstones may be as small as a grain of sand or as large as a golf ball. You can develop one gallstone or many. Gallstones can block the tubes that carry digestive fluids from your gallbladder to your bowel, causing pain and/or other symptoms. What are the symptoms of gallstones? Some

Generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) What is generalised anxiety disorder (GAD)? Generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) is a type of anxiety disorder where people have uncontrollable and persistent worry that affects their day-to-day life on an ongoing basis. What are the symptoms of GAD? You could be dealing with GAD if:   you uncontrollably worry about many different things, a lot of the time your worry makes it hard to do everyday things like working and seeing friends you’re often tired but can’t sleep properly you constantly feel tense or restless your heart races or your mouth gets dry you have difficulty concentrating you are

What is G6PD deficiency? G6PD deficiency is a lifelong genetic disorder that causes your red blood cells to break down if you are exposed to certain foods, medicines or chemicals (triggers). People with G6PD deficiency are normally healthy but must avoid these triggers. Most people with G6PD deficiency are male. The breakdown of red blood cells, called ‘haemolysis’, can lead to anaemia (lack of red blood cells) and jaundice (the yellowing of skin and eyes). Certain triggers can cause your red blood cells to be destroyed faster than they can be replaced, known as acute haemolytic anaemia (AHA), which can be life-threatening. Triggers can include: medicines such