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Accidents and injuries

Injuries can have a major impact on your quality of life, causing permanent disability, hospitalisation and even death. Learn how to prevent injuries and what to do if you or someone else is injured.

Achilles tendon injuries

The Achilles tendon is the thick cord you can feel above the back of your heel. Find out about Achilles tendon injuries and how to prevent them.

Back injuries

Back injuries can happen as a result of sudden movements, falls or accidents. Learn to recognise symptoms that could indicate a severe back injury.

Black eye

A black eye is a bruise in the tissues around the eye. It's a good idea to get it checked by a doctor to rule out more serious eye injuries.

Bumps, knocks and bruises

Bumps, knocks and bruises are common injuries. Read about related symptoms, when to see a doctor, treatment options and possible complications.

Burns and scalds

Burns and scalds cause damage to skin usually from exposure to heat. Read more about the symptoms, treatment, and pain management options.

Chemical burns

Many chemicals can cause serious burns, which should be treated as a medical emergency. Learn how to perform first aid for chemical burns.

Chest injuries

A chest injury is any injury to your chest area, between your neck and abdomen (tummy). Read about the causes and signs of injury and what to do.

Concussion

Concussion is the short-term loss of brain function following a head injury. Learn more about the causes, signs and symptoms of concussion.

Dental injury

Dental injuries can happen with falls or when playing sport. They can also happen when eating something hard. Learn about dental first aid here.

Electric shocks and burns

An electric shock happens when someone touches a live electrical source. Discover how this medical emergency should be treated.

Facial injuries

An injury to the face can be caused by almost anything, including falling over, cutting yourself shaving or being struck in the face by an object.

Falls

Anyone can be at risk of having a fall, but some older adults are more vulnerable than others. Here's how to take steps to prevent falls.

First aid kits

An organised and properly stocked first aid kit can give you peace of mind. Discover what to keep in your first aid kit and how to use the items.

Head injuries

Head injuries can be serious, even if they're not visible. Read about signs and symptoms, as severe head injuries always need to be seen by a doctor.

Hot weather risks and staying cool

Hot days and heatwaves can place extreme stress the body, and for some it can be dangerous. Here’s how to keep yourself and others cool and hydrated.

Knee injuries

It can be easy to injure your knee and cause a strain or sprain. Find out how knee injuries are treated and can be managed at home.

Limb injuries

A limb injury is harm to limbs including arms, legs, fingers, or toes. Find out more about limb injuries, infection, treatment and prevention.

Mouth and tongue cuts

Cuts to the mouth and tongue can happen after a fall or knock to the head. Most are minor and heal on their own, but some may need treatment.

Objects or chemicals in the eye

A piece of metal, dirt or chemicals in your eye can be annoying and dangerous. Learn what to do if you suspect something’s in your eye.

Poisoning

Poisoning is common and most cases happen at home. Learn about the symptoms, prevention and what to do when there is a poisoning emergency.

Wounds, cuts and grazes

Minor wounds like cuts and grazes can usually be treated without medical attention. Find out more on how to keep them clean and prevent infection.

Spinal cord injuries

A spinal cord injury is damage to the spinal cord that can make you lose feeling, movement, or both. Learn about causes and effects.

Sprains and strains

Sprains and strains are common injuries. Learn symptoms, causes, first-aid treatment, when to seek medical attention and how they are diagnosed.

Subdural haematoma

A subdural haematoma is an emergency condition that can result from a head injury. Here's why it's so important to seek urgent medical attention.

Whiplash

Whiplash is a neck injury from sudden head movement. Learn about causes, symptoms, treatment, and prevention. See a doctor if symptoms persist.

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