Supporting Your Health

What is an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health assessment? If you are Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander, you can get a health check at your local GP or health service. This health check is important and can help you find information you need to know about your health. Having...

What is acute rheumatic fever? Acute rheumatic fever (ARF) is an illness that can be very severe. It can happen when a skin or throat infection caused by a germ called ‘Strep A’ isn’t treated. It is not common, but you are more likely to get it if you have...

What happens after a loved one has died? After a loved one has died, your GP may sign a certificate that confirms the death. You cannot make funeral arrangements unless your GP has signed and issued this certificate. The certificate is used by the funeral director, or the person managing...

How do I care for my cast? It is important to let the case fully dry. Arm plaster casts can take up to 24 hours to dry and leg plaster casts can take up to 48 hours. Fibreglass casts only take 20 minutes to dry. Do not dry the cast...

What is chickenpox in pregnancy? Chickenpox is an infectious disease. It is very contagious and anyone of any age can catch it. Women who have chickenpox while pregnant are more likely to develop serious illness and have complications with their pregnancy. Your GP will talk to you about treatment options....

What is a concussion? A concussion is a type of mild traumatic brain injury. It happens when the head or body is violently shaken, or hits something. The most common symptoms of are confusion and finding it hard to remember. Other symptoms include headache, dizziness and nausea. You should see...

What is a driving and vehicle assessment? If you have a medical condition that could affect your ability to drive safely, you will need yearly medical assessments. Medical assessments are needed for anyone who has had a medical condition that impacts their ability to drive. The assessment needs to be...

What is an energy rebate? A rebate is a small refund on the cost of an item or service. The NSW Government offers rebates to help make the cost of your energy bills lower. If you are eligible, you can apply for one or more of the rebates. If you...

Why is it important to do hand and arm exercises? Your wrist has been put in a cast to stop it from moving so the bones can heal properly. Because of your injury your arm might swell, your wrist become stiff and your muscles become weak. It is important to...

What is fever in returned traveller? People can sometimes get sick when they travel to other countries. Common illnesses seen in people who have recently returned from overseas include: Stomach illness (causing diarrhoea and vomiting) Flu or pneumonia Skin problems, such as rashes, sores, or insect bites Other illnesses that...

What is a food allergy or food intolerance? A food allergy is when the immune system responds to an allergen (an ingredient that is usually harmless) in food. This triggers a reaction, which can range from mild to severe. A mild allergic reaction can cause hives, swelling, itching, redness, discomfort or...

What is heatstroke? Heatstroke happens when your body gets too hot. It is more common in summer due to the hot and humid weather. It is the most harmful heat-related illness. If left untreated, heatstroke can damage your brain, heart, kidneys and muscles. Anyone can get heatstroke but older people,...

What is hyperthyroidism? Hyperthyroidism is due to an overactive thyroid. The thyroid is a gland in the neck. It makes hormones that help control some body processes. These include heart rate, body temperature, digestion, metabolism and weight. If you have been diagnosed with hyperthyroidism, your GP will work with you...

What is hypothyroidism? Hypothyroidism is when you have an underactive thyroid, causing it to produce lower than normal amounts of thyroid hormone. It can cause symptoms such as tiredness, weight gain, depression and intolerance of cold. Your GP will investigate the cause of your underactive thyroid and may prescribe synthetic...

What is motor vehicle accident advice? If you are injured in a motor vehicle accident in NSW, the compulsory third party (CTP) Green Slip scheme ensures you get medical treatment, care and support. 

What is organ and tissue donation? Organ and tissue donation is the process of donating your organs and tissues to people who are very sick. The organ or tissue is removed and transplanted into another person. Donating organs and tissue saves lives. Many critically-ill people require donated organs and tissues...

What is physical activity in adults? It is important to keep active as an adult. Being active reduces your risk of mental and physical health and wellbeing issues. It can also reduce the risk of some cancers and other diseases. Keeping physically active can help you to stay at a...

What is polypharmacy? Polypharmacy is when people are taking five or more medications each day. These can be prescribed, over the counter or alternative medicines. Many medications interact with each other. This can cause unplanned side effects. A person's age can also affect how they respond to medications.

What is a heatwave? A heatwave is when there are more than three days in a row with a temperature above 34 degrees. It often happens during the summer months. It is easy to become overheated and dehydrated during a heatwave. Heatwaves can cause heat-related illnesses, such as: Heat rash:...

What is an adult refugee health assessment? A refugee health assessment is a detailed check of a person who has arrived in Australia as a refugee. The check includes migration history, full medical history, physical examination, tests and plans for any health concerns. Refugee health assessments are provided by a...

What is a child refugee health assessment? The refugee health assessment is a detailed check of a child or adolescent who has arrived in Australia as a refugee. The check includes migration history, full medical history, physical examination, tests and plans for any health concerns. Refugee health assessments are often...

What is returning to work after an illness or injury? Returning to work after an illness or injury can be challenging, but your GP can help. Returning to work is beneficial for your health and wellbeing. In fact, taking too much time off work is linked with poorer physical and...

What is self-care for families and carers in palliative care? Caring for someone who has a life-limiting illness is hard but rewarding. It is normal to feel very upset during this time. You may also feel scared, helpless, confused, worried and shocked. As a carer, your effort will play a...

What is sleep hygiene? Sleep hygiene means good sleep habits – the things you can do to give yourself the best chance of a good, refreshing sleep. Most people need between seven and nine hours sleep each day, which includes naps and time spent dozing in front of the television....

What is subclinical hyperthyroidism? Subclinical hyperthyroidism is when a person has a low amount of thyroid stimulating hormone. It usually does not cause any symptoms. If you have subclinical hyperthyroidism you may not need treatment. Healthy hormone levels are important for overall health. If left untreated, subclinical hyperthyroidism can cause...

What is support for carers? Caring for someone can be a challenging task. Many people provide informal support for friends or family members who need it. However, there are many additional roles and responsibilities a carer has. The person you care for may have a disability, mental illness, chronic health...

What is Systemic Lupus Erthematatosus (SLE)? SLE (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus) is a disease where the body’s immune system attacks its own healthy parts by mistake. It does this by making proteins that harm the body’s own cells. This leads to swelling and damage in different parts of the body. It...

What is travel health advice? When you travel, it is important to think about your health. This is especially true if you plan to visit a different country. You may need a special vaccination to travel in certain countries. You should also be aware of how your health can change...

What is a natural disaster? A natural disaster is a severe weather event which can result in harm for humans, animals, property and roads. It is an emergency event and can happen at any time. It is important to be ready for if a natural disaster happens. If you have...

Your healthcare journey Your healthcare journey will often start by seeing your GP (general practitioner or family doctor). A GP can help anyone of any age. It is good to see one GP who you trust. You may want to find a GP who speaks your language or is the same...