Health Conditions
There are a number of health conditions. They can be physical or mental. Early detection and management of your health concern is important. There are lots of ways you can stay healthy and prevent disease.
Where can I get more information?
On this page you can find the information you need about your health condition and the right support for you in South Western Sydney. There are many easy to understand factsheets available.
Factsheets about health conditions
Splenomegaly
What is splenomegaly? The spleen is on the left side of the belly. It filters the blood and removes abnormal cells, such as old and damaged red blood cells. It also makes white blood cells and antibodies to help you fight infection. Splenomegaly is when the spleen is larger than...
Ear Infection
What is an ear infection? Ear infection happens when fluid builds up behind the ear drum. This is the middle part of your ear. It often starts due to a simple cold. It is very common in children but can also affect adults. It can be very painful. If you...
Red eye
What is red eye? Redness of the eye is common. It can occur in one or both eyes. It happens when the small blood vessels in the eye become larger. This can happen for many reasons. Usually, it is because something is in the eye. It can also happen because...
Chronic Fatigue
What is chronic fatigue? Chronic fatigue syndrome (myalgic encephalitis) is a chronic disease that can affect many of the bodies systems. In most people it is a lifelong illness. People with chronic fatigue syndrome are not able to function the same way they did before they became ill. The cause...
Staphylococcal (Staph) infections
What is a staphylococcus (staph) infection? Staphylococcus aureus (or ‘staph’) and Group A streptococcus (GAS) are kinds of bacteria which can be found on the skin. These bacterias can sometimes cause skin infections. These bacterias are more commonly found in children than adults. A staph infection is contagious. For...
Whooping cough (Pertussis)
What is pertussis (whopping cough)? Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, is a life-threatening infection in vulnerable people. Symptoms are similar to a cold with tiredness and fever, but also a persistent cough. The "whoop" is the sound made when the patient has extreme difficulty in breathing. It is easily...
Bowel polyps
What is a bowel polyp? A bowel polyp is an abnormal growth on the inside of the large bowel. Approximately 50% of Australian are likely to develop a polyp, and most are undetected as polyps rarely produce symptoms. There are different types of polyps: Serrated polyps: hyperplastic polyps (HP), sessile...
Hives (Urticaria)
What is hives (urticaria)? Hives (urticaria) is a type of itchy skin rash. The raised bumps (wheals) appear when skin cells release chemicals such as histamine. They can vary in size, and may look white or red. Each wheal can last a few minutes or several hours and may change...
ADHD in adults
What is ADHD in adults? Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a developmental disorder that affects how people behave. People with ADHD may find it hard to pay attention. They may also fidget, talk a lot or not be able to sit still. Another symptom of ADHD is finding it...
Genital ulcers
What are genital ulcers? Genital ulcers are small sores on your penis, vagina or anus. They can be caused by infections like sexually transmitted infections (STIs) but can also have many other causes. Your GP will ask you some questions and may perform tests to find out the cause of...