Healthy advice from your family doctor
The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way many of us work and for many Australians, working from home, even for part of the week, may be the new normal. While there are many benefits (think the time and cost savings of not having to travel, and having more time in the day) there can also
While the numbers are constantly changing, at the time of writing, almost 12 000 Australians have been infected by the coronavirus (COVID-19) and 123 have died. And while Australia has fared well compared to many other countries, the recent increase in numbers in several states highlights the need for continued awareness and efforts to reduce
Autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a lifelong developmental problem. While each child can be affected differently, they all have difficulties to some degree with social communication and repetitive patterns of behaviour. Some also have sensory sensitivities. It is estimated to affect around 1 in 150 Australians. If your child has been diagnosed with
Breastfeeding has many benefits for both mother and baby and helps with mother-baby bonding. Australia’s infant feeding guidelines recommend that infants are exclusively breastfed until around six months of age when solid foods are introduced and that breastfeeding is continued until the age of 12 months and beyond. Yet, the 2010 Australian National Infant Feeding
The reasons someone might consider ending their own life are complex and can be difficult to understand. What’s important is that we recognise the warning signs, take them seriously and take action. Most people thinking about suicide will give some clues or warning signs to those around them. This might include: Talking about being a
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are infections that are passed on during unprotected sex with an infected partner. This includes vaginal, anal or oral sex. Anyone who is sexually active can get an STI if they don’t practice safe sex. There are many different STIs including Chlamydia, Herpes, Gonorrhoea, Syphilis, Mycoplasma genitalium, genital herpes, hepatitis and
Meditation is a mind and body practice that can be used to help with relaxation, stress management, coping with illness and improving overall health and wellbeing. It can assist you to be more self-aware and to focus on the present moment. While more research is needed, there is some evidence to suggest that meditation can
Planning a holiday over the summer months? Take these steps to stay well and protect yourself from illness while travelling. Visit your doctor, ideally at least 8 weeks before you leave. Discuss whether you need to take any medications or have any vaccinations before you travel. This can help to protect you against infectious diseases
With the Bureau of Meteorology predicting a warmer and dryer than average summer for 2019-2020, it’s important to be prepared for the heat. Whether or not you enjoy the summer months, excess heat can cause stress on our bodies and for some people, puts them at risk of heat-related illness. Those most at risk of
Preparing for pregnancy isn’t just something for the girls. Fertility problems are equally likely to occur in men as women. The good news is that there are a number of things that men can do to improve fertility and increase the chances of conceiving a healthy baby…. Continued