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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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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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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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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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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What is COVID-19?

Get information about COVID-19, including on variants such as Omicron, plus how it’s spread and how to avoid it.

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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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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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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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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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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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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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Throat cancer

Throat cancer can be treated if diagnosed early so you should see a doctor if you’re concerned. Learn about symptoms, diagnosis and treatment here.

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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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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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Angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs)

ACE inhibitors and ARBs are commonly taken for hypertension. They work by relaxing your blood vessels. You shouldn’t take ACE inhibitors and ARBs together.

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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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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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Dry mouth syndrome

Dry mouth syndrome is when you don't produce enough saliva. For some, it's annoying; others find it affects the health of their teeth and gums.

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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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Pethidine

Pethidine is an opioid pain-relief medicine that your doctor can prescribe. Find out more about pethidine, how it works and possible side effects.

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What to expect from a physical examination by your doctor

A doctor may need to examine your body to help them diagnose an injury or illness. Read more about your rights and your doctor’s responsibilities.

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