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Ice (crystal meth) What is ice? Ice (crystal meth) is an illegal methamphetamine, a member of the amphetamine family of drugs. It is very addictive and is linked to chronic physical and mental health problems. Ice is a central nervous system stimulant that affects the messages sent between your body and your brain. It is purer and more powerful than other types of methamphetamine, such as speed. It comes as little crystals that look like ice, or as a white-to-brownish, crystal-like powder. It has a strong smell and bitter taste. It can be: injected smoked snorted swallowed Ice is also known as: crystal

What is a hysteroscopy? A hysteroscopy is a procedure that uses a small camera to look inside the uterus, or womb. It is used to diagnose or treat problems with the uterus. Knowing more about what happens during a hysteroscopy means that you can be better prepared. Why is a hysteroscopy performed? You might need a hysteroscopy to investigate problems such as heavy periods, abnormal bleeding, fibroids, polyps or infertility. Some conditions of the uterus can be treated during hysteroscopy. How to prepare for hysteroscopy You should fast (not have anything to eat or drink) for at least 6 hours before your procedure. Your doctor

What is an endometrial resection? An endometrial resection is an operation to remove the lining (endometrium) of your uterus (womb). What are the benefits of surgery? The most common reason for having an endometrial resection is to relieve the symptoms of heavy periods (abnormal uterine bleeding). About a third of women who have the operation will not have periods anymore. Are there any alternatives to surgery? Heavy periods can be treated using a variety of non-hormonal and hormonal oral (by mouth) medications. Other alternatives include an IUS (intrauterine system) — an implant containing a synthetic form of the hormone progesterone that fits in

Vaginal hysterectomy What is a vaginal hysterectomy? A vaginal hysterectomy is an operation to remove your uterus (womb) and cervix (neck of your womb) through your vagina. It is possible also to remove your ovaries but they will usually be left alone. What are the benefits of surgery? The womb and surrounding structures. There are common reasons for having a hysterectomy: Heavy or painful periods. Fibroids, where part of the muscle of your womb becomes overgrown. Uterine prolapse, where your womb drops down. A hysterectomy may cure or improve your symptoms. You will no longer have periods. Are there any alternatives to a vaginal

Laparoscopic hysterectomy What is a hysterectomy? A hysterectomy is an operation to remove your uterus (womb). Your cervix (neck of your womb) is usually also removed. Your ovaries may need to be removed at the same time. What are the benefits of surgery? There are common reasons for having a hysterectomy: The womb and surrounding structures. Heavy or painful periods not controlled by other treatments. Fibroids, where the muscle of your womb becomes overgrown. A hysterectomy may cure or improve your symptoms. You will no longer have periods. Are there any alternatives to a hysterectomy? Heavy periods can be treated using a variety

Abdominal hysterectomy What is a hysterectomy? A hysterectomy is an operation to remove your uterus (womb). Your cervix (neck of your womb) is usually also removed. Your fallopian tubes and ovaries may need to be removed at the same time. What are the benefits of surgery? There are common reasons for having an abdominal hysterectomy: Heavy or painful periods. Fibroids, where part of the muscle of your womb becomes overgrown. The womb and surrounding structures. A hysterectomy may cure or improve your symptoms. You will no longer have periods. Are there any alternatives to an abdominal hysterectomy? Uterine prolapse – Symptoms may

Low blood pressure (hypotension) What is blood pressure? As blood is pumped by the heart around the body, the pressure with which it pushes against the walls of blood vessels changes. When the heart squeezes blood into the arteries, the pressure goes up. 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 2 numbers — highest (systolic) over lowest (diastolic). Systolic is the pressure in the artery as the heart contracts (squeezes). This is represented by the first number. Diastolic is

What is hypoglycaemia? Hypoglycaemia (hypo), is when you have diabetes and have too little glucose (sugar) in your blood. A blood glucose level lower than 4 mmol/L is considered hypoglycaemic. What causes hypoglycaemia? A hypo can happen for many reasons such as: using too much insulin or too much of your glucose lowering medicine delaying or missing a meal or snack being more active or exercising more than usual a hypo can happen 12-15 hours after exercise a hypo can happen while you are asleep not eating enough carbohydrates carbohydrates are found in potatoes, bread and pasta drinking alcohol, especially without much food

What is hypochondria? Hypochondria is a type of anxiety disorder. It is also known as health anxiety, or illness anxiety disorder, or hypochondriasis. It is normal for people to worry about their health now and again. But people who experience hypochondria get very worried that they are seriously ill, or are about to become seriously ill. This can occur even if they have no symptoms, or their symptoms are very mild. They might even mistake normal sensations for symptoms of a serious illness. Some people with hypochondria have a medical condition that they worry about excessively. Other people with hypochondria

What is blood pressure? As blood is pumped by the heart around the body, the pressure with which it pushes against the walls of blood vessels changes. When the heart squeezes blood into the arteries, the pressure goes up. 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 2 numbers — highest (systolic) over lowest (diastolic). Systolic is the pressure in the artery as the heart contracts. This is represented by the first number. Diastolic is the pressure in the artery when the

What is long-sightedness? Long-sightedness (also known as hyperopia) is a common eye condition that can be hard to detect. It makes close objects appear blurry, or you might be able to focus clearly but get tired eyes or headaches. For people with significant long-sightedness, vision can be blurry for things in the distance as well. How is long-sightedness caused? The size and shape of the eye largely causes long-sightedness. When light enters the eye, it is bent by the cornea, the clear layer on the front of the eye, and the lens. This process is known as refraction. If you have

Excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis) What is excessive sweating? Excessive or uncontrollable sweating, also known as hyperhidrosis, can be very distressing and embarrassing, but it’s quite common. Around 3 in every 100 Australians have excessive sweating, meaning they sweat a lot for no apparent reason, even when they are not hot or doing physical activity. If you have this condition, you might sweat so much it soaks through your clothes. If you live with hyperhidrosis and your condition bothers you, you can get help. Treatments can help lessen the impact of excessive sweating on your life. There are 2 types of excessive

What is hyperglycaemia? Hyperglycaemia is having too much glucose (sugar) in your blood. A blood glucose level above 15mmol/L is considered hyperglycaemia. What causes hyperglycaemia? If you have diabetes, this can happen for many reasons, such as: not taking enough insulin or diabetes tablets being less active than usual eating too much carbohydrate food potatoes, bread, pasta, sugary foods and drinks all contain carbohydrates being sick or in pain some medicines, such as steroids being stressed, emotional or excited having an infection (such as thrush, cystitis or a wound infection) drinking too much alcohol What symptoms are related to hyperglycaemia? If you have hyperglycaemia, you

What is hyperglycaemia? Hyperglycaemia is having too much glucose (sugar) in your blood. A blood glucose level above 15mmol/L is considered hyperglycaemia. What causes hyperglycaemia? If you have diabetes, this can happen for many reasons, such as: not taking enough insulin or diabetes tablets being less active than usual eating too much carbohydrate food potatoes, bread, pasta, sugary foods and drinks all contain carbohydrates being sick or in pain some medicines, such as steroids being stressed, emotional or excited having an infection (such as thrush, cystitis or a wound infection) drinking too much alcohol   What symptoms are related to hyperglycaemia? If you have hyperglycaemia,

What is a hydrocele? A hydrocele is a swelling around the testicle caused by a collection of fluid. It is a common problem in children. All boys have a connection between their abdomen and their scrotum before they are born. By birth, this connection is usually closed. If it stays open, the fluid that surrounds the bowel may trickle down and collect in the scrotum. Fluid collecting around a testicle. What are the benefits of surgery? Your child should no longer have the hydrocele. Surgery should prevent your child from having discomfort or embarrassment caused by having the hydrocele or

Self-harm What is self-harm? Self-harm is defined as the act of someone hurting themselves intentionally (on purpose). Most people who self-harm aren’t attempting suicide. Self-harm can be a way to express or control distressing thoughts or feelings. Self-harm can cause more damage to your health and safety than you may have intended. What signs suggest someone may be self-harming? Self-harm may go unnoticed by others. Many people who self-harm do so in private and may not seek help. Self-harm may include behaviours such as: cutting, burning or hitting yourself participating in risky behaviour abuse of drugs or alcohol Signs that someone

What is human papillomavirus (HPV)? Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a very common virus that is spread through sexual contact. Most people do not experience any symptoms of HPV and the virus often goes away by itself. But in some people, HPV causes genital warts or cancer. HPV can affect any male or female who is sexually active, even if they only experience sexual contact once. Most people have HPV at some time in their lives. There are many different types of HPV virus some are considered ‘low risk’ while others are ‘high risk’. Low-risk HPV types can cause genital warts and do not

hCG test What is being tested? The human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) test is also known as the pregnancy test. This test measures the amount of the hormone hCG in your urine or blood. The hCG test can be used to both confirm and monitor a pregnancy. hCG is usually present only when a female is pregnant. hCG starts being produced by the placenta after the fertilised egg implants in the womb. During pregnancy, the amount of hCG doubles every 2 to 3 days. Home pregnancy test kits test for hCG in your urine. You can buy these from supermarkets and pharmacies.

Hormonal medicines and periods A period (menstruation) is bleeding from the vagina that happens once a month. A period is part of your menstrual cycle. The menstrual cycle is controlled by hormones. Hormones make the lining of your uterus become thicker. This gets the body ready in case you become pregnant Hormones also cause an egg to be released from an ovary, which is known as ovulation.   Some forms of hormonal contraception (for example the oral contraceptive pill, hormonal IUD, implant or injection) may affect your periods. They may affect how often you get your period and/or the flow. The pill Usually, oral contraceptive pills (the pill) will make your

Human papillomavirus and HPV vaccine What is human papillomavirus (HPV)? Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a very common virus that is spread through sexual contact. Most people do not experience any symptoms of HPV and the virus often goes away by itself. But in some people, HPV causes genital warts or cancer. HPV can affect any male or female who is sexually active, even if they only experience sexual contact once. Most people have HPV at some time in their lives. There are many different types of HPV virus some are considered ‘low risk’ while others are ‘high risk’. Low-risk HPV types can cause

Babies are usually born with 20 baby teeth (also known as primary teeth). They start to come through the gums at about 6 months of age. This process is called teething. By the time your baby is 2 to 3 years old, all their teeth will usually have appeared. About baby teeth Babies are born with the following teeth: 4 second molars 4 first molars 4 canine teeth 4 lateral incisors 4 central incisors There is one set on each side of the upper jaw, and one set on each side of the lower jaw. Diagram showing the 5 sets of

If you have asthma, you may need to use one or more asthma medications to manage the condition. It is important that you use your asthma inhaler correctly to get the full benefit of the medication you are taking. Most people with asthma, however, do not use the correct technique. What is an asthma inhaler? Most asthma medicines are inhaled through the mouth using an inhaler or puffer. There are several types and the device you use will depend on your age, how your lungs work and which device you find easiest to use. A doctor, pharmacist or nurse should

Why tell anyone about my mental illness? If you’re suffering from a mental health problem, such as depression, it can be very helpful to tell someone you trust. When people understand what you are going through, they can help, by supporting you. If you’re not sure how to start the conversation, you might find it helpful to talk to a health professional first. There are also many mental health resources available. They can guide you in the right direction and help you plan what to say. How do I start the conversation? Just thinking about how to start the conversation on your mental health concern can

  Snoring happens when parts of the throat vibrate while you are sleeping. It indicates that something is interfering with breathing. While snoring is common, and often frustrating for the household, it can be a sign of a more serious health problem. Why do I snore? There are many reasons why people snore. These include: drinking alcohol smoking being overweight or obese a cold, sinus or allergy problems sleeping on your back breathing through the mouth being born with a smaller airway than normal medicines pregnancy If you snore and are often sleepy during the day, you may have obstructive sleep apnoea. Obstructive sleep apnoea happens

What is good posture? Posture is how you sit or stand. Good posture positions the body correctly and makes sure your weight is evenly balanced. This means that the skeleton, muscles and ligaments aren’t overstretched or strained. Good posture makes sure your spine has three curves. It also keeps the muscles on each side of the spine strong and well balanced. It will help prevent pain in your back, and may make you more mobile and less tired. You can use good posture while you are sitting and standing. Make sure you relax and breathe normally. Good posture makes sure

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

What is adoption? Adoption is a process that permanently transfers all the legal rights and responsibilities of being a parent from the child’s birth parents (their biological parents) to the adoptive parents. Different types of adoption There are 2 main types of adoption in Australia. Intercountry adoption is when a child is adopted from an overseas country and brought back to Australia to live. Local adoption is when the child adopted was born or is permanently living in Australia. You may also consider adopting a child with special needs or a child you already have a relationship with, such as

Why is it important to be aware about heat-related illnesses? Heatwaves have killed more Australians than all other natural hazards combined. Over 400 deaths occurred during the severe heatwaves in south-eastern Australia in January 2009, when Melbourne suffered through 3 days in a row with temperatures at or above 43°C. The year 2019 was Australia’s hottest on record, with temperature records broken in many towns and cities. On 4 January 2020, metropolitan Sydney experienced an all-time high, with Penrith reaching 48.9°C. If temperatures continue to rise as predicted, heatwaves will become more frequent, hotter, and last longer. This is why

What are hot flushes? A hot flush may be a symptom of menopause. You may have a feeling of warmth and your skin may redden (flush). Sometimes you may have sweating. When these hot flushes occur at night, they are called night sweats. Most females have some symptoms of menopause: 20% have no symptoms about 60% have mild to moderate symptoms 20% have severe symptoms About 80% of females experience hot flushes and night sweats during menopause. However, they aren’t always troublesome. Hot flushes may occur even before menopause (before your periods stop). They can continue to occur in females over 60 years

Menopause What is menopause? Menopause is the time in life when you stop having monthly periods. This marks the natural end of the reproductive stage of your life, when your ovaries no longer have eggs to release. Most Australian women experience menopause between 45 and 60 years of age. The average age of menopause is 51 years. You have reached menopause when you have gone 12 months without having your period. Some women experience early menopause due to health conditions, such as primary ovarian insufficiency (where ovaries stop working normally). Menopause can also occur after surgery to remove your ovaries or uterus, or cancer treatment. Each

What is residential care? An aged care home is for older people who can no longer live at home. This might be because you need help with everyday tasks or health care. Aged care homes are also called: residential aged care facilities (RACFs) nursing homes An aged care home gives you the services you need to have a good quality of life. The government funds aged care homes across Australia. These homes supply services to those who need it. Each aged care home is different. They provide different levels of care. Some provide just basic accommodation while others provide continuous

Once you leave hospital, it is important you continue to get the right healthcare and support from the right people. Discharge planning aims to make sure this happens. It is the link between the treatment you had in hospital and the care you will need in the community once discharged. What is hospital discharge planning? Discharge planning is the development of a personalised plan to ensure the smooth transition of a patient from a health organisation such as a hospital to wherever the patient is going next — it might be home, residential care, respite care, palliative care or somewhere

What is the hormonal system? The hormonal system, also called the endocrine system, is a network of glands and organs in the body that produces hormones. Several glands make hormones, including the hypothalamus, the pituitary gland, the pineal gland, the thyroid gland, the parathyroid glands, the adrenal glands, the pancreas, ovaries and testes. Each gland makes one or more hormones. Hormones are important for almost all cells in the body to work. They influence the metabolism, growth and many other functions. Some hormones influence almost all cells in the body. Others only influence a small number of cells in specific organs. Some glands ‘talk to’ other glands, telling them to

What is a Home Medicines Review? A Home Medicines Review (HMR) is when an accredited pharmacist checks the medicines you are taking at home. Taking lots of different medicines can be complicated. A Home Medicines Review makes sure that your medicines are safe. A Home Medicines Review also checks that: you are taking your medicines correctly your medicines are working for you An HMR involves your doctor and your preferred community pharmacy. It may also involve other health care team members, such as carers or nurses in community practice. If you handle someone’s medical care, it’s important to manage their

Travel health advice No matter who you are or which country you’re visiting, it’s important to think about your health as you travel or prepare for a trip. This can help you if you have a medical emergency, and may even prevent something disastrous from happening. Before departure, find out about the health facilities and services that are available at the destination you plan to visit. The services, the facilities, the local customs, weather and the geography may all be quite different from those you are used to. These can all affect your health. Lack of usual supplies In some

What is Hodgkin lymphoma? Hodgkin lymphoma is 1 of 2 main types of cancer that affects your lymphatic system. Your lymphatic system is part of your immune system and is made up of: lymph — a clear fluid that contains white blood cells, which fight infection lymph vessels (small tubes that carry lymph) lymphatic nodes (also sometimes called lymph glands), which filter the lymph Lymphoma occurs when white blood cells in the lymphatic system grow abnormally and multiply. There are 2 types of Hodgkin lymphoma: classical Hodgkin lymphoma, the more common type nodular lymphocyte-predominant Hodgkin lymphoma Hodgkin lymphoma is also known as

What is hoarding disorder? Hoarding disorder is when someone persistently has difficulty letting go of or throwing things out regardless of their value. They have a perceived need to save the items and there is distress associated with discarding them. This leads to an accumulation of possessions and rubbish that clutter the person’s living areas. Many people collect things as a hobby or for sentimental reasons — from stamps to their kids’ teeth, but for people with hoarding disorder they accumulate possessions because it is distressing for them to discard them. People who collect things are more likely to display

What is hives? Hives (also known as ‘urticaria’ or ‘nettle rash’), is a skin rash that can be triggered by a variety of things including allergic reactions, medicines or an infection. Sometimes the trigger is unknown. What are the symptoms of hives? The common symptoms include itchy, raised red or skin-coloured bumps or welts on the skin. The raised areas of skin are known as wheals, which often fade after a few hours but can sometimes reappear elsewhere on the body. The hives rash can last for a few minutes to hours, and usually disappears within 24 hours. Sometimes people

What are HIV and AIDS? The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a virus that affects the immune system. It gradually destroys cells called CD4 cells, which usually help the body stay healthy by fighting off disease. If HIV is not treated, most people will develop severe immune deficiency within 10 years. At this point, the body is no longer able to fight infection and stop cancer from developing. This late stage of HIV infection is called acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). What are the symptoms of HIV infection? Most people have no symptoms or just a mild flu-like illness when they

What is a hip replacement? A hip replacement is a type of surgery that replaces damaged parts of your hip with man-made parts. The operation can help reduce your hip pain and improve how you are able to move around. Your doctor might recommend a hip replacement if you have severe hip damage that interferes with your life, and other treatments have not helped. During hip replacement surgery, damaged bone and cartilage (tissue at the end of the bone that cushions the joint) are removed from the hip joint. These are replaced with man-made parts, for example, metal or plastic.

Fever What is a fever? A fever is when your body temperature is higher than normal. Having a fever can also be called ‘having a temperature’. A normal temperature is around 36°C to 37°C, although it depends on: your age what you’ve been doing the time of day how you take the measurement What are the symptoms of a fever? If you have a fever, you will have a high temperature. A high temperature is usually considered to be above 38°C. You may also have other symptoms, such as: sweating chills shivering aching muscles and joints What causes a fever?

What is hyperglycaemia? Hyperglycaemia is having too much glucose (sugar) in your blood. A blood glucose level above 15mmol/L is considered hyperglycaemia. What causes hyperglycaemia? If you have diabetes, this can happen for many reasons, such as: not taking enough insulin or diabetes tablets being less active than usual eating too much carbohydrate food potatoes, bread, pasta, sugary foods and drinks all contain carbohydrates being sick or in pain some medicines, such as steroids being stressed, emotional or excited having an infection (such as thrush, cystitis or a wound infection) drinking too much alcohol What symptoms are related to hyperglycaemia? If you have hyperglycaemia, you

What is blood pressure? As blood is pumped by the heart around the body, the pressure with which it pushes against the walls of blood vessels changes. When the heart squeezes blood into the arteries, the pressure goes up. 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 2 numbers — highest (systolic) over lowest (diastolic). Systolic is the pressure in the artery as the heart contracts. This is represented by the first number. Diastolic is the pressure in the artery when the

What is blood pressure? Blood pressure is the pressure of your blood pushing on the walls of your arteries as your heart pumps blood around your body. It is measured and described with 2 numbers (for example, 130/90mmHg). The pressure is measured in mmHg, which is short for ‘millimetres of mercury’. Systolic pressure is the higher number and is the pressure of your heart contracting and forcing blood through your arteries. Diastolic pressure is the lower number and is the pressure in the arteries between heart beats (when the heart is resting and filling with blood). Blood pressure measurements are commonly referred to

  What is visceral body fat? Visceral body fat, also known as ‘toxic’ fat, is fat stored deep inside your body. Most fat is stored underneath the skin and is known as subcutaneous fat. This is the fat that is visible and that you can feel. The rest of the fat in the body is stored around your internal organs, including your heart, liver and intestines. This is visceral fat. Visceral fat makes chemicals and hormones that can be toxic to the body. Visceral fat produces more of these toxic substances than subcutaneous fat, so it can be more harmful

What are hiccups? Hiccups, also known as hiccoughs, are caused by a spasm of the diaphragm. The diaphragm is the thin muscle between the chest and abdomen. If it suddenly and involuntarily contracts or tightens, it causes a sharp intake of breath. When this happens, you quickly close your vocal cords, which produces the ‘hiccup’ sound. Hiccups can be annoying but are not usually serious and typically go away after a while. If hiccups go on for longer than 2 days, they are considered ‘persistent’ or long-lasting, and can interfere with eating and sleeping. See your doctor if your hiccups

What is a hiatus hernia? A hernia is where a part of the body protrudes through an abnormal opening in another part and gets into a space where it doesn’t normally sit. In a hiatus hernia, a part of the stomach pushes up through a hole in the diaphragm, the muscle that separates the chest from the abdomen. As a result, part of the stomach moves into the lower part of the chest. A hiatus hernia can also be called a hiatal hernia. Are there different types of hiatus hernias? Hiatus hernias are classified into types, depending on which part of the

Shingles What is shingles? Shingles is a viral infection that causes a painful, blistering rash. Who can get shingles? You can only get shingles if you have had chickenpox. It’s possible to have had chickenpox with only minor symptoms. Shingles can occur at any age. However, risk of shingles is higher in people: aged over 50 years with a weakened immune system who had chickenpox in their first year of life About 1 in 3 people will develop shingles at some stage during their lifetime. Usually, people have shingles only once in their lives. But sometimes, especially if you have

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

What is heroin? Heroin is an addictive drug that is illegal in Australia. It is made from the opium poppy. Heroin belongs to the family of drugs called opioids, along with prescription medicines such as: morphine codeine pethidine methadone Opioids work in the brain to relieve pain and make people feel relaxed and contented. However, they can cause unwanted effects, such as breathing problems. Heroin comes as: a fine white powder off-white granules tiny brown ‘rocks’ Heroin is usually injected into a vein, but it can be smoked or snorted as well. Heroin is also known as: smack gear hammer dragon H

What is a hernia? A hernia occurs when tissues or organs bulge through a weak point in the wall of the belly (abdomen). There are a number of different types of hernia, including: Hiatus hernia — Part of the stomach pushes up into the chest through the opening in the diaphragm (the layer of muscle separating the stomach from the chest) where the oesophagus (food pipe) passes through. It is sometimes called a hiatial hernia. Inguinal hernia — The bowel or other abdominal tissue pushes through the abdominal wall in the lower part of the abdomen, causing a lump in the groin.

What is lynch syndrome? Lynch syndrome is a genetic condition that puts a person at higher risk of developing certain types of cancer, including bowel cancer. If you have lynch syndrome, you will need regular monitoring with colonoscopies, as well as other tests. Some people with lynch syndrome may be advised to have preventative surgery. Lynch syndrome was previously known as hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC). Lynch syndrome is caused by a mutation in a specific type of gene. It significantly increases a person’s risk of developing some types of cancer, such as bowel cancer (also known as colorectal cancer) and endometrial cancer (sometimes

What is hepatitis C? Hepatitis C is a liver infection caused by the hepatitis C virus. It can cause serious liver disease in an infected person. The hepatitis C virus is usually transmitted when blood from an infected person enters the bloodstream of another person (such as through sharing needles or certain sexual activities). What are the symptoms of hepatitis C? Most people with hepatitis C don’t have any symptoms until their liver is damaged, which can take years. However, they may experience: aches, pains and fever fatigue and sleep problems nausea or vomiting loss of appetite abdominal pain jaundice (a yellowing of the skin and eyes)

What is hepatitis B? Hepatitis B is a liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus. It can cause long lasting liver damage. Hepatitis B can be acute or chronic. If a person has acute hepatitis B, the virus makes them sick for a short time (less than 6 months), then their body clears the virus and they recover. If the infection last for more than 6 months, it is called chronic hepatitis. Chronic hepatitis is a lifelong illness. Vaccination can prevent hepatitis B. What are the symptoms of hepatitis B? Many people do not have any symptoms when they

What is hepatitis A? Hepatitis A is a contagious disease caused by the hepatitis A virus that can cause inflammation or swelling of the liver. The illness may last only a few weeks, but some people are seriously ill for up to 6 months. Hepatitis A usually does not cause long-term damage like other types of hepatitis. Most people with hepatitis A fully recover, but very occasionally it can be severe and result in liver failure. What causes hepatitis A? You get hepatitis A by coming in contact with the faeces (poo) of someone with the virus, or through consuming

What is hepatitis? Hepatitis is an illness that inflames and damages your liver. It affects how your liver does its job. This includes making proteins and cleaning your blood. Hepatitis is most often caused by an infection. What are the types of hepatitis? There are many types of hepatitis. These can cause symptoms that go from mild to very serious. There are 5 types of hepatitis caused by viruses (viral hepatitis). These are: hepatitis A — is an illness that can last from a few weeks to 6 months hepatitis B — is a serious infection that can lead to liver damage

What is a hemicolectomy? A hemicolectomy is an operation where one side of the colon (large intestine) is removed. Some people who have this surgery may need a stoma — an opening on the surface of the abdomen connected to the bowel. Why is hemicolectomy performed? The usual reasons for hemicolectomy are bowel cancer, polyps, diverticulitis, inflammatory bowel disease or an abdominal injury. How to prepare for hemicolectomy If you are going to have hemicolectomy you might need to take ‘bowel prep’ medicine. This is a type of laxative that empties your bowel for the procedure. You may need to be on a ‘clear fluids’ only diet

Who may benefit from home-based care? Anyone with a chronic or terminal illness, or people who are older and frail, but wish to stay living at home, may benefit from home-based care. Everyone’s needs are different, but depending on your situation, you might benefit from: home modifications (such as a stair lift or ramp), if you have a condition that affects your mobility and strength an emergency call system, if you live alone and/or are at risk of falls food or meal delivery service (such as Meals on Wheels), if you are unable to shop or cook signs or pictures to help you

What is Helicobacter pylori? Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a bacterium that lives in the lining of the stomach. More than half of the world’s population is infected with it and 15 per cent of Australians are estimated to have it. The prevalence is much higher among Indigenous Australians and in developing countries. H. pylori causes inflammation of the stomach lining (known as gastritis) and increased production of gastric acid. Infection with H. pylori is a major cause of peptic ulcers (gastric ulcers and duodenal ulcers) and is linked to some stomach cancers. How is Helicobacter pylori transmitted? It’s not fully understood how

What is heel pain? Heel pain is usually caused by overuse. The most common causes are plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis and arthritis. Sever’s disease a common cause of heel pain in growing children. You should see a doctor, physiotherapist or podiatrist if you have: sudden, severe pain after an injury persistent heel pain What symptoms are related to heel pain? Depending on the cause of your heel pain, you may also have: bruising cramping pins and needles stiffness swelling other skin changes What causes heel pain? Plantar fasciitis Plantar fasciitis is inflammation of the plantar fascia. This is a ligament (a piece of strong, thin tissue) that connects your

What is heatstroke? Heatstroke is a life threatening condition in which your body overheats and can no longer maintain a healthy temperature. You can avoid heatstroke by taking precautions in very hot weather. Heatstroke occurs when your body temperature rises from about 37°C to above 40°C. It is sometimes called hyperthermia. Dehydration and heat exhaustion are milder heat-related illnesses. They can lead to heatstroke if they’re not treated. Why is heatstroke an emergency? Heatstroke needs immediate first aid to lower your body temperature as quickly as possible. If not, it can lead to organ damage and death. The risk of death increases

Winter health hazards at home Winter injuries and risks Winter products such as hot water bottles, electric blankets and heaters can cause burns and other injuries. Other winter risks come from faulty electrical products that can overheat, give you an electric shock or could potentially cause a fire. Fire safety About half of all fires in the home start in the kitchen, and more than 4 in 10 of all deaths from fire happen during winter. It is essential to install smoke alarms throughout your home and test them every month. Change the batteries every year, perhaps on a memorable date such

Why is it important to be aware about heat-related illnesses? Heatwaves have killed more Australians than all other natural hazards combined. Over 400 deaths occurred during the severe heatwaves in south-eastern Australia in January 2009, when Melbourne suffered through 3 days in a row with temperatures at or above 43°C. The year 2019 was Australia’s hottest on record, with temperature records broken in many towns and cities. On 4 January 2020, metropolitan Sydney experienced an all-time high, with Penrith reaching 48.9°C. If temperatures continue to rise as predicted, heatwaves will become more frequent, hotter, and last longer. This is why

Why is it important to be aware about heat-related illnesses? Heatwaves have killed more Australians than all other natural hazards combined. Over 400 deaths occurred during the severe heatwaves in south-eastern Australia in January 2009, when Melbourne suffered through 3 days in a row with temperatures at or above 43°C. The year 2019 was Australia’s hottest on record, with temperature records broken in many towns and cities. On 4 January 2020, metropolitan Sydney experienced an all-time high, with Penrith reaching 48.9°C. If temperatures continue to rise as predicted, heatwaves will become more frequent, hotter, and last longer. This is why

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 is heartburn? Heartburn is a feeling of burning pain or discomfort in the chest, usually after eating. It is also called reflux or indigestion. When should I call an ambulance or go to the emergency department? If you experience chest pain and have any doubt about whether it is heartburn or a heart attack, you should call triple zero (000) immediately and ask for an ambulance. You can use the healthdirect Symptom Checker to help you make this decision. What causes heartburn? Normally, a ring of muscle at the lower end of the oesophagus (the tube connecting the mouth to the stomach) relaxes to

  What are heart palpitations? Most of the time you won’t notice your heartbeat, but if you suddenly become aware of it, this may concern you or come as a surprise. The feeling of being aware of your heart beating is described as a palpitation. Palpitations can range from simply being aware of your heart’s activity to the sensation of it beating faster and harder than usual. It can sometimes feel like your heart is missing beats or you have a heart flutter. Changes to your heartbeat are usually not serious. But always see your doctor if you have palpitations

What is a heart murmur? Heart murmurs are sounds made by blood flowing through your heart or nearby blood vessels. There are several causes of heart murmurs. Usually, heart murmurs can be heard only through a stethoscope (a medical instrument doctors use to listen to sounds in the body). A normal heartbeat is made up of 2 sounds — ‘lubb-dubb’. Those are the sounds made when your heart valves close during each heartbeat. A doctor using a stethoscope to listen to a patients heartbeat. Heart murmurs are whooshing or swishing sounds heard between the sounds of the heartbeat. Heart murmurs can be

What is heart failure? Heart failure (also known as ‘congestive heart failure’ or CHF) occurs when your heart muscle has become too weak to pump blood effectively through your body. It can also happen if your heart becomes too stiff to fill up with blood properly, so not enough blood is pumped around your body. As a result, your muscles and organs don’t get enough oxygen and nutrients. This may cause fluid to build up in your body and make you feel breathless or tired. Heart failure is usually an ongoing (chronic) condition — unlike heart attacks, which occur suddenly and require immediate treatment (acute).

What is heart disease? Heart disease affects both sexes but often goes undetected in women. Although more men than women are admitted to hospital for heart attack, the number of deaths from heart attack in men and in women is roughly the same. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) — often called ‘heart disease’ — is an umbrella term that includes diseases and conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels. These include coronary heart disease (CHD) (also called ‘coronary artery disease’ and ‘ischaemic heart disease’), heart failure, arrhythmias, angina and others. CHD is a common cause of heart attack, which occurs when blood supply to the heart is suddenly interrupted.

What is a heart attack? To work properly, your heart needs a continuous supply of blood. It normally receives this from blood vessels called coronary arteries. When a coronary artery suddenly becomes blocked, oxygen can’t get to your heart muscle. This causes a heart attack (or ‘myocardial infarction’). A heart attack is a medical emergency: without oxygen, your heart muscle begins to die and your heart can become permanently damaged. Heart attacks can be fatal — every day, 17 Australians die from a heart attack. One patient is admitted to hospital due to heart attack every 13 minutes. What are the symptoms

beginning of  What is the heart? The heart is a muscular organ that sits inside the rib cage, behind and just to the left of the breastbone. It pumps blood around the body to supply tissues with nutrition and oxygen. The heart pumps blood to the lungs, where it absorbs oxygen. This oxygen-rich blood then returns to the heart to be pumped to the rest of the body via arteries. The major artery coming from the heart is the aorta. The heart delivers blood to its own muscle via the coronary arteries. How does the heart work? The heart has

What are hearing aids? A hearing aid is a small electronic device that makes sounds louder to help you hear. It is used by people who have hearing loss. It has a microphone, an amplifier, a speaker and a battery. How do hearing aids work? The microphone receives sounds from around you. The amplifier makes them louder and sends them to your ear through the speaker. Your hearing aids will be programmed by an audiologist to match your type of hearing loss. The audiologist will make sure that your hearing aids help with the sounds you have difficulty with and won’t

What is a habit? A habit is something that is routine to you and that you repeat, often without knowing it. Some habits are good, some are bad. Good habits include: healthy diet and exercise healthy sleep habits healthy relationships assertive communication work-life balance time management stress management relaxation and mindfulness How can I create good habits? It’s hard to change everything all at once; it’s easier to set small goals and achieve them. This helps create good habits. For example, it is easier to do a small amount of exercise each day than to decide to run a marathon. It might take you several months