Domestic and family abuse and violence

Domestic and family violence can take many forms. This type of violence does not discriminate and can impact anyone, creating fear and anxiety in families. This page has information and supports for people and their loved ones about domestic abuse and violence.

Domestic violence safety planning

If you are at risk of domestic and family violence, you can take steps to protect yourself and your loved ones in case of an emergency. This is safety planning. This page includes information about how to safely leave a bad situation and supports for you and your loved ones.

Sexual assault

Sexual assault encompasses any sexual behavior that makes someone feel uncomfortable, frightened, intimidated, or threatened. Consent is key, and any sexual assault is a serious crime. This page has information about sexual assault and includes support options.

Antipsychotic medications

What is antipsychotic medication? Psychosis is a serious mental health condition. It is when a person cannot tell the difference...

Anxiety

What is anxiety? Anxiety is when you feel anxious or stressed without a clear reason. It is the most common...

Bereavement, grief and loss

What is bereavement, grief and loss? Bereavement is the process of coping with the death of a family member or...

Depression

What is depression? Depression is a mental health condition that affects your mood. One in six people will experience depression...

Mental health during a disaster

What is a disaster? A disaster can include heatwaves, bushfires, droughts, floods, severe storms and tropical cyclones, earthquakes, tsunamis and...

Problem gambling

What is problem gambling? Some people can gamble responsibly, but others find it hard to stop. Gambling becomes a problem...

Self harm

What is self-harm? Self-harm is when someone purposely hurts a part of their body. Some common forms of self-harm are...

Suicidal thoughts

What are suicidal thoughts? Sometimes, people have thoughts about wanting to harm themselves or end their life. These thoughts may...

Anaemia

What is anaemia? Anaemia is when your body does not have enough healthy red blood cells. This reduces the oxygen...

Deep vein thrombosis

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot that forms in a deep vein, usually in the legs. It can cause pain and swelling and, if left untreated, can lead to serious complications such as a pulmonary embolism. This page has information about DVT and where you can get support.

Haemochromatosis

What is haemochromatosis? Haemochromatosis causes the body to absorb too much iron from food. The condition is genetic, which means...

Hypertension

Hypertension is another name for high blood pressure. It can lead to serious health problems, including heart disease and stroke, if not managed properly. This page has information on how o manage your hypertension and where you can find support.

Iron deficiency anaemia

What is iron deficiency anaemia? Iron deficiency anaemia is a type of anaemia caused by a lack of iron. You...

Pulmonary embolism

What is a pulmonary embolism? A pulmonary embolism is when a blood clot blocks the arteries that supply blood to...

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Acute leukaemia

What is acute leukaemia? Acute leukaemia is a type of blood cancer. It happens when the body makes too many...

Bowel cancer

What is bowel cancer? Bowel cancer is cancer that affects the colon or rectum. It is also called colorectal cancer....

Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL)

What is chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL)? Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) is a type of blood cancer. It affects the white...

Endometrial cancer

What is endometrial cancer? Endometrial cancer is cancer that starts in the uterus. Most women who get this type of...

Family risk of breast or ovarian cancer

What is a family risk of breast or ovarian cancer? Around five percent of breast cancers and 15 percent of...

Family risk of colorectal or endometrial cancer

A family history of other cancers may increase your risk of developing colorectal or endometrial cancer. This page contains information about the familial risk of cancer and provides support options for families.

Head and neck cancer

What is head and neck cancer? Head and neck cancer is a term for cancers that grow in the head...

Liver cancer

What is liver cancer? Liver cancer is cancer that starts in the cells of the liver. In people with liver...

Lung cancer

What is lung cancer? Lung cancer is a form of cancer that starts in the lungs. In Australia, more people...

Lymphoma

Lymphoma is a type of blood cancer. At affects the lymphatic system. The two main types are Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. This page includes information about lymphoma, including how your care may look and what supports you can access.

Melanoma

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer. It develops in the skin cells and usually occurs on the parts of the body that have been overexposed to the sun. This page has information about melanoma and includes links to different supports for people who have this type of cancer.

Multidisciplinary teams in cancer care

When you have been diagnosed with cancer, you will be cared for by a whole team of...

Myeloma

What is myeloma? Myeloma is a type of blood cancer. It affects the plasma cells in the bone marrow. It...

Oesophageal cancer

What is oesophageal cancer? Oesophageal cancer is a type of cancer that forms in the cells that line the oesophagus....

Ovarian cancer

What is ovarian cancer? Ovarian cancer is cancer that begins in the ovaries. In people with this type of cancer,...

Breast cancer screening

Screening for breast cancer is your best chance for detecting breast cancer early. It involves having a screening two years from the age of 50 (or earlier if your GP advises it). This page includes information about what may happen during a breast screen and lists supports.

Cervical cancer screening

The cervical screening test is a simple test done every 5 years to check for human papillomavirus (HPV). This is a common infection that can lead to cervical cancer. This page includes information about cervical cancer screening and links to supports.

Anxiety disorders in children and young people

What is an anxiety disorder? An anxiety disorder is when we often feel very anxious. This can be anxious about...

Behavioural concerns In children

What is a behavioural concern? Some children act differently to other children. Behaving differently isn’t always a problem. But, if...

Behavioural Disorders in Children and Young People

What is a behavioural disorder? A behavioural disorder is when a child has difficulty with their emotions and behaviours. Their...

Compulsive disorders in children and young people

What is a compulsive disorder? A compulsive disorder is when a person has repeated unwanted thoughts or the need to...

Depressive and bipolar disorders in children and young people

What are depressive and bipolar disorders? A depressive disorder is when a person has low mood, less interest or enjoyment...

Developmental concerns

What is a developmental concern? GPs use milestones to track your child’s development. Milestones are the skills and tasks children...

Psychotic disorders in children and young people

What is a psychotic disorder? Getting a diagnosis of a psychotic disorder will depend how long, how bad and in...

Behavioural concerns In children

What is a behavioural concern? Some children act differently to other children. Behaving differently isn’t always a problem. But, if...

Developmental concerns

What is a developmental concern? GPs use milestones to track your child’s development. Milestones are the skills and tasks children...

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis

What is juvenile idiopathic arthritis? Juvenile idiopathic arthritis is a type of arthritis that develops in a child aged 16...

Obstructive sleep apnoea in children

What is obstructive sleep apnoea in children? Obstructive sleep apnoea is when something partly or completely blocks the throat during...

Rashes in children

What is a rash? A rash is a change in colour and texture of the skin. They can feel hot,...

Short stature in children

What is short stature in children? Short stature in children means a child is shorter than most other children of...

Weight management in children

What is weight gain in children? Weight management in children is about making long-term changes that support a healthy lifestyle....

Diabetes and diet

What is a healthy diet? Diet is an important part of managing your diabetes. There is no one-size-fits-all diet for...

Diabetes and pregnancy

What is diabetes during pregnancy? If you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes and are pregnant, you need special...

Diabetes eye screening

What is a diabetes eye screening? Diabetes is not just a disease that affects your blood sugar levels. High blood...

Diabetes foot screening

What is a diabetes foot screening? Diabetes is not just a disease that affects your blood sugar levels. High blood...

Diabetes kidney screening

What is a diabetes kidney screening? High blood sugar levels can damage your kidneys. Undiagnosed kidney damage can lead to...

Diabetes medications

What are diabetes medications? If you have type 2 diabetes, you may need medication to help manage your blood sugar...

Gestational diabetes

What is gestational diabetes? Diabetes develops if the body can’t make enough insulin. Insulin helps the body to absorb sugar...

Hypoglycaemia

What is hypoglycaemia? Hypoglycaemia is low blood sugar and it’s one of the most common problems related to diabetes. Taking...

Pre-diabetes

What is pre-diabetes? After you eat, your body breaks down food into glucose, a type of sugar. A hormone called...

Pre-pregnancy planning for women with diabetes

What is pre-pregnancy planning? If you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes and can become pregnant, it is important...

Type 1 diabetes

What is type 1 diabetes? Type 1 diabetes is when your pancreas is unable to make insulin. Insulin is a...

Type 2 diabetes

What is type 2 diabetes? Diabetes develops if the body can’t make enough insulin. After you eat, your body breaks...

Benefits of exercise

Benefits of exercise It can sometimes seem too hard to exercise, with time, money, tiredness and other factors getting in...

Maintaining healthy behaviour change

How can I maintain my health behaviours? Sometimes getting the motivation to change our lifestyle is easy but actually making...

Obesity related conditions

What is a condition related to obesity? Obesity can affect a person’s overall health and wellbeing. People with a body...

Planning to lose weight

What is planning to lose weight? Being overweight or obese can have an impact on your health, but even small...

Quitting smoking

What is quitting smoking? Smoking is the greatest cause of preventable illness and death in Australia. Around two-thirds of long-term...

Vitamin D deficiency in children

What is vitamin D deficiency in children? Vitamin D deficiency is common. If your child has a vitamin D deficiency...

Alcohol

Alcohol is a legal drug sold in Australia for anyone over the ages of 18. Excessive alcohol use can lead to health issues and social problems. This page includes information about alcohol and the health risks and side effects and has support options.

Cannabis

Cannabis, also called marijuana, is an illegal drug. Heavy use could lead to harmful health outcomes. This page includes information on how to reduce harm and has supports for you and your loved ones on how to control your cannabis use.

Medicinal cannabis

Medicinal cannabis can be used to relieve the symptoms of some conditions. Your GP can recommend it if they think it is right for you. This page has information about medicinal cannabis, including things you need to know if it is prescribed to you.

Methamphetamine

Methamphetamine, also known as 'crystal meth' or 'ice,' is a stimulant. It is illegal. This page has information about methamphetamine and includes links to different supports for people who want to stop taking this illegal drug.

Needle and syringe programs

The NSW Needle and Syringe Program provides sterile injecting equipment, peer support and healthcare navigation to people who inject drugs so they don't transfer blood viruses. This page has information about the program.

Opioids

Opioids can be prescribed to you or bought illegally. An opioid is a potent pain reliever and can cause people to become addicted and overdose. This page has information about opioids and shows where you can get support for your addiction.

Safe injecting practices

People who inject drugs can be a risk of blood illnesses. Injecting safely can protect against infection. This page has information about safe injecting and where you can find supports in the area you live.

Obstructive sleep apnoea

What is obstructive sleep apnoea? Obstructive sleep apnoea is when something partly or completely blocks the throat during sleep. This...

Advance care planning

Advance care planning involves making decisions about the care you would want to receive if you become unable to speak for yourself. It is an important step at any age to ensure your wishes are respected. This page includes information about planning the care you want.

End-stage respiratory disease

End-stage respiratory disease happens when lung disease progresses to its final stages. Managing symptoms and providing appropriate care can help improve the quality of life for patients. This page includes information about managing this disease and getting support.

Managing the final stages of dying

Managing the final stages of dying involves careful planning. It is important for the patient and their loved ones. This page has information about managing the final stages of dying and where you can find support.

Palliative care

Palliative care is the type of care aimed at providing relief from the symptoms and stress of a life-limiting illness. It focuses on improving the quality of life for both the patient and their family. This page has information and where you can find support.

Palliative care pain management

Managing pain is a significant aspect of palliative care. Effective pain relief strategies are essential for comfort and quality of life. This page offers information about pain relief and where you can get support.

Self-care for families and carers in palliative care

Caring for someone with a life-limiting illness can be challenging but also fulfilling. It’s important for carers to manage their own health and well-being to provide the best care possible. This page is designed to help you get the support you need.

Sleep disturbance in palliative care

Sleep issues are common for those near the end of life. This is caused by various factors including pain, anxiety, and medication. Addressing sleep disturbances is crucial for maintaining quality of life. This page has information and where to get support.

Understanding the dying process

The dying process is different for each person. Understanding the common signs and changes that happen can help families prepare and provide appropriate care and support. This page will help you to understand this process and get support.

Voluntary assisted dying in NSW

Voluntary assisted dying (VAD) allows a person to request medical assistance to end their life. It is a legal option in NSW under certain circumstances, providing patients with a choice in their end-of-life care. This page has information about VAD and where to get support.

Diabetes eye screening

What is a diabetes eye screening? Diabetes is not just a disease that affects your blood sugar levels. High blood...

Vitamin B12 deficiency

What is a vitamin B12 deficiency? Vitamin B12 deficiency means you don’t have enough vitamin B12 in your body. Our...

Chest pain

What is chest pain? Chest pain can feel like a dull ache, a sharp stab, or a crushing or burning...

Heart failure

What is heart failure? Heart failure is when your heart can’t pump enough blood to the rest of your body....

Measuring your blood pressure

What is measuring your blood pressure? Measuring your blood pressure at home is an easy way to help your GP...

Rheumatic heart disease

Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) is caused by damage to the heart valves from acute rheumatic fever. It can lead to heart failure and other complications if not treated. Learn more about your diagnosis and how to manage your symptoms on this page.

Immunisation

What is immunisation? Immunisation is the process of getting a vaccine against a serious disease. Vaccines work by producing an...

Immunisation and pregnancy

What is immunisation and pregnancy? Getting certain vaccines before, during and after pregnancy protects you and your baby. Vaccines for...

Influenza immunisation

What is an influenza immunisation? The influenza (flu) vaccine protects against the flu. The vaccine helps reduce the risk of...

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19)

What is COVID-19? COVID-19 is a type of virus. It was first detected in 2019. It is infectious and can...

How to manage COVID-19 at home

Can I manage my COVID-19 at home? Most people can safely manage COVID-19 at home. This means if you get...

Ankle fractures

What is an ankle fracture? An ankle fracture is a broken ankle. Fractures can be thin cracks or complete breaks...

Ankle sprain

What is ankle sprain? An ankle sprain is an ankle injury caused by rolling, twisting or straining the ankle. An...

Burns

What is a burn? A burn occurs when skin is injured by heat. Common causes of burns include hot or...

Clavicle fracture

What is a clavicle fracture? A clavicle fracture is a break in the collar bone. Your collar bone is one...

Foot and toe injuries

What are foot and toe injuries? There are many types of foot and toe injuries. These include: Fractures: A break...

Hand fractures

What is a hand fracture? A hand fracture is a break in a bone in the hand (metacarpal fracture) or...

Lacerations (Cuts)

What is a cut (laceration)? A laceration is a deep cut to the skin or flesh. In some cases, your...

Prepatellar bursitis (Housemaid’s knee)

What is prepatellar bursitis? Prepatellar bursitis is a type of knee injury that occurs when the bursa, in the front...

Scaphoid fractures

What is a scaphoid fracture? A scaphoid fracture is a break in one of the bones in your wrist. They...

Shoulder dislocation and instability

What is shoulder dislocation and instability? A shoulder dislocation is when the upper arm bone comes out of the shoulder...

Acute kidney injury

What is acute kidney injury? Acute kidney injury is a form of kidney damage that occurs quickly, over a few...

Blood in urine (Haematuria)

What is blood in urine (haematuria)? Blood in urine (Haematuria) is when there is blood in the urine. It can...

Chronic kidney disease

What is chronic kidney disease? Your kidneys filter the blood in your body, removing waste products that can harm your...

Diabetes kidney screening

What is a diabetes kidney screening? High blood sugar levels can damage your kidneys. Undiagnosed kidney damage can lead to...

Kidney infection (pyelonephritis)

What is a kidney infection (pyelonephritis)? Kidney infections happen when bacteria enters your body via the urethra (the tube you...

Proteinuria

What is proteinuria? Proteinuria is the medical name for protein in the urine. There is usually a small amount of...

Fatty liver disease

What is fatty liver disease? Healthy livers have very little or no fat in them. But if you drink too...

Hepatitis B

What is hepatitis B? Hepatitis B is a virus that affects the liver. The virus is spread through body fluids...

Hepatitis C

What is hepatitis C? Hepatitis C is a virus that affects your liver. It is spread by direct blood contact...

Breathlessness (Dyspnoea)

What is breathlessness? Breathlessness is shortness of breath, or difficulty breathing. It can happen for a number of reasons, including:...

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

What is COPD? COPD, or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, describes a range of lung diseases, including emphysema, chronic bronchitis, non-reversible...

End-stage respiratory disease

End-stage respiratory disease happens when lung disease progresses to its final stages. Managing symptoms and providing appropriate care can help improve the quality of life for patients. This page includes information about managing this disease and getting support.

Pneumonia

What is pneumonia? Pneumonia is a serious lung infection caused by a bacteria or virus. It can affect one or...

Shortness of breath action plan

The Shortness of Breath Action Plan shows different ways to manage your breathlessness. It is completed with...

Carpal tunnel syndrome

What is carpal tunnel syndrome? Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by a pinched nerve in your wrist. The pinched nerve...

Dupuytren’s contracture

What is dupuytren’s contracture? Dupuytren’s Contracture happens when the skin under your hand slowly thickens and gets tight. This can...

Ganglia

What is ganglia? Ganglia are small cysts, they are also known as ganglion cysts. They look like small bumps and...

Stroke

What is a stroke? A stroke occurs when the blood supply to the brain is blocked. There are two main...

Transient ischaemic attack (TIA)

What is a transient ischaemic attack (TIA)? A Transient Ischaemic Attack, also known as a TIA, is a minor stroke....

ADHD in children

What is ADHD in children? Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common developmental disorder that affects how people behave. Children with...

Autism in children

What is autism in children? Autism spectrum disorder (autism for short) affects how someone thinks, feels, acts and behaves with...

Dementia

What is dementia? Dementia causes a decline in brain function. It affects parts of the brain like memory, thinking, learning,...

Epilepsy and pregnancy

What is it epilepsy in pregnancy? It is important to plan for a healthy pregnancy if you have epilepsy. Most...

Mild cognitive impairment

What is mild cognitive impairment? Mild cognitive impairment is memory loss that is not a normal part of ageing. It...

Birthmark (Infantile haemangioma)

What is a birhmark? An infantile haemangioma is the most common type of birthmark in babies. They often appear a...

Back pain

What is back pain? Back pain is the term for pain felt in the spine or back. It can be...

Chronic pain

What is chronic pain? Chronic pain is pain that lasts longer than expected. It usually occurs after an injury or...

Foot pain

What is foot pain? Foot pain can happen in any part of the foot. It can affect the toes, midfoot,...

Ingrown toenail

What is an ingrown toenail? Ingrown toenails occur when your toenail grows into the skin of the toe. They are...

Knee pain

What is knee pain? Knee pain is pain you can feel in the knee joint or around the knee. Knee...

Medication for acute pain

What is medication for acute pain? There are two main types of pain: acute and chronic. Acute pain starts suddenly...

Shin pain

What is shin pain? The shin bone (tibia) is the large bone at the front of the lower leg. Shin...

Trigger finger

What is trigger finger? Trigger finger happens when your finger is hard to straighten after bending. You might notice a...

Anaemia in pregnancy

Anaemia means there is not enough red blood cells to carry adequate oxygen through the body. It is often caused by low iron levels and needs to be managed to ensure the health of both mother and baby. This page has information for pregnant women and supports.

Antenatal screening

What is antenatal screening? A fetal anomaly, sometimes called a birth defect, is when there is a change to part...

Asthma during pregnancy

What is asthma during pregnancy? If you have asthma and are pregnant, your asthma control can change. Some women have...

Birth after caesarean section

What is a birth after caesarean section? For women who have had one or more caesarean sections in the past,...

Bleeding in mid-late pregnancy

What is bleeding in mid-late pregnancy? Mid-late pregnancy is any time from 20 weeks to full term. Bleeding can happen...

Bleeding in rhesus negative women

What is bleeding in rhesus negative women? The four major blood types are A, B, AB and O. Each of...

Coping with pregnancy loss

What will my healthcare team do to help my cope with my pregnancy loss? Your healthcare team can answer many...

Diabetes and pregnancy

What is diabetes during pregnancy? If you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes and are pregnant, you need special...

Epilepsy and pregnancy

What is it epilepsy in pregnancy? It is important to plan for a healthy pregnancy if you have epilepsy. Most...

Factor V leiden in pregnancy

What is it factor V leiden? Factor V Leiden is a gene mutation. It can increase your chance of developing...

Fetal movements

What is fetal movements? Fetal movements is a term that refers to the baby’s movements in the womb during pregnancy....

Gestational diabetes

What is gestational diabetes? Diabetes develops if the body can’t make enough insulin. Insulin helps the body to absorb sugar...

Hypertension in pregnancy and pre-eclampsia

What is hypertension in pregnancy and pre-eclampsia? Hypertension in pregnancy and pre-eclampsia are health concerns that can affect pregnant women...

Immunisation and pregnancy

What is immunisation and pregnancy? Getting certain vaccines before, during and after pregnancy protects you and your baby. Vaccines for...

Medical termination of pregnancy

What is medical termination? A medical termination uses medication to end a pregnancy. It is safe and effective for pregnancies...

Miscarriage

What is miscarriage? A miscarriage is a pregnancy loss that occurs within the fi­rst 20 weeks. This is usually confirmed...

Obesity in pregnancy

What is obesity in pregnancy? It is normal to gain weight during pregnancy. However, being overweight or obese before pregnancy,...

Options for pregnancy care

It is important you have a say in your pregnancy care. In South Western Sydney, there are a few types...

Perineal tear follow up

It is common for women to have some form of tear during a vaginal birth. A tear...

Planning to have a baby

What is planning to have a baby? If you’re planning to have a baby, it’s important to see your GP...

Pre-pregnancy planning for women with diabetes

What is pre-pregnancy planning? If you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes and can become pregnant, it is important...

Thyroid disease in pregnancy

What is thyroid disease in pregnancy? Your thyroid gland is located in your neck, near the base of your throat....

Unintended pregnancy

What is an unintended pregnancy? An unintended pregnancy is a pregnancy that is not planned. A chance pregnancy brings up...

Colonoscopy

A colonoscopy uses a long, snake like tube with a light and camera to look inside the...

Criteria-led discharge

Many people find hospital a worrying and confusing time. Not knowing when they will leave the hospital...

Dilatation and curettage

What is a dilatation and curettage? A Dilatation and Curettage (D&C) is an operation performed on women to scrape away...

Iron therapy

What is iron therapy? Iron therapy is when you get iron injected into your vein through an intravenous (IV) infusion....

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy

A laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the removal of the gallbladder and gallstones by keyhole surgery. Sometimes, the surgeon...

Medical termination of pregnancy

What is medical termination? A medical termination uses medication to end a pregnancy. It is safe and effective for pregnancies...

Recovering from keyhole surgery

What is keyhole surgery? Laparoscopic, or keyhole surgery, involves 3-4 small incisions (cuts) up to 1cm long in the abdomen...

Surgical termination of pregnancy

What is a surgical termination of pregnancy? Surgical termination of pregnancy is a safe day-surgery procedure. It can be performed...

Acute pelvic pain in women

What is acute pelvic pain? Acute pelvic pain is soreness that’s felt in your lower stomach area. The pain may...

Chlamydia

What is chlamydia? Chlamydia is a common sexually transmitted infection. It’s caused by bacteria. You get chlamydia by having unprotected...

Contact tracing

What is contact tracing? You’ve just found out you have a sexually transmitted infection (STI). There’s a lot going through...

Epididymo-orchitis

What is epididymo-orchitis? Epididymo-orchitis is the painful swelling of the testes and the tubes attached to each testicle. It is...

Genital warts

What is genital warts? Genital warts, or Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), is a sexually transmitted infection caused by strains of...

Gonorrhoea

What is gonorrhoea? Gonorrhoea is a sexually transmitted infection caused by bacteria. Common symptoms include genital discharge, pain when urinating...

Herpes

What is herpes? Herpes is a common sexually transmitted infection caused by the herpes simplex virus. As many as one...

HIV exposure

What is HIV exposure? People can become exposed to HIV in several ways. This may be from unprotected sex, sharing...

Living with HIV

What is HIV? Living with HIV is the term used to describe people who are HIV-positive. Over the last three...

Permanent contraception (Steralisation)

What is permanent contraception? Permanent contraception stops a person from being able to reproduce. There is an option for people...

Pre-exposure prophylaxis for HIV (PrEP)

What is pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP)? Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) is a medication that greatly reduces the risk of getting HIV. PrEP...

Sexual health screening

What is sexual health screening? Sexual health screening is testing for one or more sexually transmitted infections (STIs). You might...

Syphilis

What is syphilis? Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection. It’s a bacterial infection that spreads by having unprotected sex or...

Urethral discharge in males

What is urethral discharge in males? Urethral discharge is when fluid leaks from the tube that carries urine and semen...

Acne

What is acne? Acne is a condition causing spots and painful bumps on the skin, also known as pimples. Acne...

Cellulitis

What is cellulitis? Cellulitis is a bacterial skin infection. The infected area may be swollen, red, hot and tender. Common...

Corns and calluses

What is a corn or callus? Corns and calluses are patches of thick, hard skin. They usually form on feet...

Eczema (Atopic dermatitis)

What is eczema? Eczema, also called atopic dermatitis, is dry and irritated skin. Eczema often appears on the face, neck,...

Hives (Urticaria)

What is hives (urticaria)? Hives (urticaria) is a type of itchy skin rash. The raised bumps (wheals) appear when skin...

Pruritus

What is pruritus? Pruritus is the medical word for itchy skin. There are many reasons why your skin can itch....

Psoriasis

What is psoriasis? Psoriasis is a type of skin condition that usually appears as an elevated round or oval patch...

Rashes in children

What is a rash? A rash is a change in colour and texture of the skin. They can feel hot,...

Skin conditions in pregnancy

Pregnancy can cause changes to happen to your skin. There are a number of skin conditions a woman can develop during pregnancy. This page has information about this and where you can find support.

Warts and verrucas

What are warts/verrucas? Warts and plantar warts (verrucas) are small, hard lumps on the skin. They are caused by a...

Acute rheumatic fever

Acute rheumatic fever is a disease that can develop after an infection such as strep throat or scarlet fever. It can cause significant damage to the heart and other organs. This page has information about managing your disease and where to find support.

After a loved one has died

What happens after a loved one has died? After a loved one has died, your GP may sign a certificate...

Caring for your cast

How do I look after my cast? It is important to let the case fully dry. Arm plaster casts can...

Exercises for arm and hand casts

Why is this important? Your wrist has been put in a cast to stop it from moving so the bones...

Heatstroke

What is heatstroke? Heatstroke happens when your body gets too hot. It is more common in summer due to the...

Preparing for a heatwave

What is a heatwave? A heatwave is when there are more than three days in a row with a temperature...

Self-care for families and carers in palliative care

Caring for someone with a life-limiting illness can be challenging but also fulfilling. It’s important for carers to manage their own health and well-being to provide the best care possible. This page is designed to help you get the support you need.

Sleep hygiene

What is sleep hygiene? Sleep hygiene means good sleep habits – the things you can do to give yourself the...

Biliary scan

What is a biliary scan? A Biliary scan is a test to detect certain diseases of the gall bladder. It...

Bone scan

What is a bone scan? A bone scan is useful in diagnosing and assessing a wide range of bone and...

Colon transit scan

A Colon Transit scan is a test to examine if there is a problem with the movement...

Gallium scan

A Gallium Scan is a test that is used to detect a number of diseases including infections,...

Gastric emptying scan

A Gastric Emptying Scan is a test to examine if there is a problem with the movement...

Gated heart pool scan

A gated heart pool scan looks at how well the heart is pumping. It may be performed...

Liver spleen scan

A Liver-Spleen scan is a test to examine the liver and/or the spleen for abnormalities. This test...

Lung (V/Q) scan

A lung (V/Q) scan is also known as a lung ventilation and perfusion scan. This test is...

MIBG scan

An MIBG Scan is a test that is used to detect various tumours of the neuro-endocrine system....

Octreotide scan

An Octreotide scan is a test that is used to detect various tumours of the neuro-endocrine system....

Oral glucose tolerance test

What is an oral glucose tolerance test? An oral glucose tolerance test, or OGTT, is a test that looks at...

Parathyroid scan

A Parathyroid scan is a test to identify and localise overactive parathyroid gland(s). What do I...

Positron emission tomography scan

Positron Emission Tomography (PET) detects and measures glucose metabolism within the body. PET scans can diagnose certain...

Radioiodine total body search

A Radioiodine Total Body Search detects the presence of residual thyroid tissue or cancer spread in patients...

RBC (red blood cell) liver scan

Liver masses are often found by other tests such as ultrasound or CT scans. An RBC Liver...

Renal cortex scan

A renal cortex scan is also known as a DSMA renal scan. The scan examines the functioning...

Renal scan

A renal scan looks at kidney blood flow and function. It can give information that cannot be...

Sentinel lymph node scan

What is a sentinel lymph node? Lymph is fluid that escapes from blood vessels into the tissues. It travels in...

Skin biopsy

What is a skin biopsy? A skin biopsy is a quick and simple procedure that removes a small sample of...

Thyroid scan

A thyroid scan shows the function and structure of the thyroid gland. It can give information not...

Ultrasound

An ultrasound scan creates a real-time picture of the inside of the body using sound waves. Ultrasound...

White blood cell scan

A white blood cell scan is a test used to detect areas of infection in the body...

Dialysis

What is dialysis? Your kidneys filter the blood in your body. They remove waste products that could harm your vital...

Mallet splints

A mallet splint is designed to keep your finger tip in an over-extended position to allow the...

Abnormal vaginal discharge

Vaginal discharge is a fluid that comes out of your vagina. It is normally clear or white....

Long-acting contraceptives

What is a long-acting contraceptive? Long-acting contraceptives are birth-control devices that stay in your body for a long time (from...

Medical termination of pregnancy

What is medical termination? A medical termination uses medication to end a pregnancy. It is safe and effective for pregnancies...

Ovarian masses (Cysts)

What is an ovarian mass? Ovarian masses (cysts) are fluid-filled sacs that appear in the ovary. The most common types...

Pelvic inflammatory disease

What is pelvic inflammatory disease? Pelvic inflammatory disease is a bacterial infection of your uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries. This...

Pre-pregnancy planning for women with diabetes

What is pre-pregnancy planning? If you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes and can become pregnant, it is important...

Short-acting contraceptives

What is a short-acting contraceptive? Short-acting contraceptives prevent pregnancies but are either single use or only last for a short...

Burns

What is a burn? A burn occurs when skin is injured by heat. Common causes of burns include hot or...

Leg ulcers

What is a leg ulcer? A leg ulcer is a wound on the leg or ankle. The wound is usually...

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