Healthdirect Free Australian health advice you can count on.

Medical problem? Call 1800 022 222. If you need urgent medical help, call triple zero immediately

healthdirect Australia is a free service where you can talk to a nurse or doctor who can help you know what to do.

beginning of content

Anatomy

Bladder

Your bladder stores urine (wee). It works with your kidneys to remove waste products through urine. Learn more about your bladder here.

Blood and blood vessels

Blood flows through blood vessels to carry oxygen, nutrients and waste around the body. Find out about different types of vessels and role of blood.

Bones, muscles and joints

Bones, muscles and joints make up the musculoskeletal system. Learn more about their function as well as conditions and injuries that affect them.

Central nervous system (CNS)

Your central nervous system (CNS) is made up of your brain and your spinal cord. Learn more about its role and the different parts of the brain.

Digestive system

Your digestive system breaks down the foods you eat so they can be absorbed into the body and used for energy and nutrients. Discover how it works.

Ears

Ears play a crucial role in hearing and balance. Learn about the outer, middle, and inner ear, common ear problems, and when to seek medical help.

Eyes

Learn how your eyes work, common eye problems, and tips for maintaining healthy vision. Regular eye check-ups are important for optimal eye health.

Female reproductive system

The female reproductive system includes organs such as the uterus (womb), ovaries, fallopian tubes and vagina, as well as hormones.

Heart

The heart pumps blood around the body to supply body cells with nutrition and oxygen. Find out about how it works and related health problems.

Hormonal system

The endocrine (hormonal) system influences your metabolism, growth and other functions. Learn more about what it is and related conditions.

Immune system

Your body's immune system is designed to protect you from, or get rid of, infection. Learn more about how the immune system works.

Kidneys

The kidneys' main functions are to filter or 'clean' your blood of waste products and help control your blood pressure. Find out how they work.

Liver

The liver is one of the largest organs and plays an important role in keeping your body healthy. Learn how to care for your liver.

Lumbar spine

Your lumbar spine lets you move, supports you and protects your spinal cord. Injury is common. Prevent it by handling loads safely and being active.

Lymph nodes

Lymph nodes filter blood and fight infection. They also play an important role in cancer diagnosis. Find out more about lymph nodes and how they work

Male reproductive system

The male reproductive system includes external genitals and internal parts including the prostate gland. Learn how it works and what can go wrong.

Mouth and teeth

A healthy mouth is important to your overall health and for eating, drinking, breathing and speaking. Get tips for keeping your mouth healthy here.

Neuromuscular system

The neuromuscular system includes all the muscles in the body and the nerves serving them. Learn more about how it works and related diseases.

Nose and throat

Your nose and throat are part of your respiratory system. Learn more about their functions and conditions that can affect your nose and throat.

Nervous system

Your nervous system controls many of your body’s functions, including walking, speaking and other activities. Learn more about how it works.

Respiratory system

Your respiratory system brings oxygen into your body and helps to remove carbon dioxide. Learn more about how it functions and how to keep it healthy.

Skin

Skin is the largest organ. It helps control your body temperature and prevent infection. Discover its layers, functions, and how to keep it healthy.

Healthdirect 24hr 7 days a week hotline

24 hour health advice you can count on

1800 022 222

Government Accredited with over 140 information partners

We are a government-funded service, providing quality, approved health information and advice

Australian Government, health department logo ACT Government logo New South Wales government, health department logo Northen Territory Government logo Queensland Government logo Government of South Australia, health department logo Tasmanian government logo Victorian government logo Government of Western Australia, health department logo

Healthdirect Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and their continuing connection to land, sea and community. We pay our respects to the Traditional Owners and to Elders both past and present.