Shortness of breath

Shortness of breath is when you feel like you can’t get enough air into your lungs. Find out what to do if you have difficulty breathing.

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MERS

Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) is caused by a coronavirus. It can cause fever, cough and shortness of breath. Find out more about MERS here.

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Symptoms of serious illness in babies and children

If your child has a serious illness, it's important to get medical attention quickly. Learn how to recognise the symptoms and what to do.

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Asthma

Asthma symptoms can include a cough, wheezing, chest tightness and breathlessness. Learn more about asthma symptoms, causes and treatment options.

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Snake bites

About 100 Australian snakes are venomous, but only 12 are likely to inflict a fatal bite. Learn about first aid for snake bites.

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Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS)

Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) is a viral disease that can cause severe pneumonia. Know what to do in a future outbreak.

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Laryngoscopy

A laryngoscopy is usually a safe and effective way of finding out if there is a problem with your larynx.

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Sea creature bites and stings

Sea creature stings and bites can be serious due to venom through their teeth, tentacles, spines, or skin. Learn when to get help.

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Inhaled substance or foreign object

Substances such as a liquid, powder and gas or small objects can be breathed in accidentally. Learn what to do if you inhale a substance.

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Upper GI endoscopy and dilatation

An upper GI endoscopy and dilatation is a safe and effective way of finding out if there is a problem with the upper part of your digestive system.

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Kava

Kava is a plant native to the Pacific Islands. It has traditional uses as a ceremonial drink. Find out about the effects of drinking kava.

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Elective caesarean section

A caesarean section is a common operation and is usually a safe method of delivery for you and your baby.

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Flexible sigmoidoscopy

A flexible sigmoidoscopy is usually a safe and effective way of finding out if there is a problem with the lower part of your large bowel.

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Endoscopic ultrasound

An endoscopic ultrasound is usually a safe and effective way of finding out more about a problem in the lining of your upper digestive system and in structures beneath the lining.

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Total thyroidectomy (for thyrotoxicosis)

The thyroid is a gland in your neck that produces a hormone called thyroxine, which regulates your body's metabolism. The thyroid can become overactive, causing weight loss, sweatiness and eye problems.

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Upper GI endoscopy and colonoscopy

An upper GI endoscopy and colonoscopy is usually a safe and effective way of finding out if there is a problem with your digestive system.

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Trans-oesophageal echocardiogram (TOE)

A trans-oesophageal echocardiogram (TOE) is usually a safe and effective way of finding out more about a problem in your heart chambers and heart valves.

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Anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction and can be fatal. Explore triggers, symptoms, treatment and what to do in an emergency.

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Medicines for babies and children

Get practical and reliable advice on giving your sick infant or child medicine, including help with measuring dosage and managing side effects.

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Objects in the nose

An object in the nose can go unnoticed until there is pain or swelling of the nose. See a doctor if you think your child has an object in the nose.

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Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib)

Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) is a dangerous infection. It is rare in Australia, due to routine vaccination of babies. Learn about Hib symptoms.

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Angiogram

Angiograms are images showing blood vessels. Read about what happens when you have an angiogram and what conditions they can diagnose and treat.

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Thyroidectomy for suspected cancer (nodule)

A thyroid lump can be caused by cancer. A thyroidectomy involves removing all or part of your thyroid gland. This gives you the best chance of being free of cancer, and helps your surgeon to decide if you need any further treatment.

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Coronary angiogram

A coronary angiogram is an x-ray used to see whether a person has a certain type of heart disease. See here how the procedure is carried out.

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Guillain-Barre syndrome

Guillain-Barre syndrome is an autoimmune disease causing weakness, numbness or paralysis. Learn about its symptoms, diagnosis and treatment options.

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Paramedics

Paramedics help with serious accidents and injuries, treating many conditions. Learn about their roles, how they assist, and when you may need them.

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Stinging plants

Stinging trees and nettles can hurt. Find out what these plants look like, how to avoid getting stung and what to do when the worst happens.

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Spider bites

Find out what you do for a spider bite in Australia. Redback spider, funnel-web spider and white tail spider bites need different first aid.

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Urgent Care Clinics

Medicare Urgent Care Clinics are open longer hours than GP clinics and provide bulk billed urgent care when you don’t need the emergency department.

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Fentanyl

Fentanyl is a strong opioid medicine prescribed by doctors for severe pain. Learn about its how it works and potential side effects.

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