Healthy advice from your family doctor
Almost all children have one or more middle ear infections (otitis media) before starting school. Middle ear infections are most common in the 6-24 month age group, especially in the cooler months. Middle ear infection is an infection of the small space just behind the eardrum. Ear infections often occur 3-4 days after a head
Fever makes parents anxious. However, fever is now known to be a good thing, and parental concerns are usually misplaced. Do you believe any of these myths? Myth: Fever is bad for you Fever is a symptom of an underlying illness, usually a viral infection and, in itself, is harmless. Fever from an infection will
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a term used to describe two conditions, ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, both of which cause inflammation of the bowel. The warning signs of IBD IBD can occur at any age, but often begins between the ages of 15 – 30 years. Unfortunately, the diagnosis is often delayed as the
Did you know that heart disease is the number one killer for Australian women? In fact, women are 4 times more likely to die from heart disease than breast cancer. What is your ‘absolute risk’? Your ‘absolute risk’ of cardiovascular disease (heart, stroke and blood vessel disease) can be estimated by looking at all your
Preserving the ‘skin barrier’ is the principal aim of skin care, especially for people with dry or sensitive skin. Damage to the skin barrier also contributes to a range of skin disorders including eczema and psoriasis. The skin barrier is the thin, protective outer layer of skin. It can be visualised as a brick wall
Erectile dysfunction (ED or impotence) is a very common and important health issue. ED is present if you are unable to get or keep an erection that allows satisfactory intercourse. ED should never be ignored whether you want to have sex or not. It is advisable to get a medical assessment early because ED: Gets
Test your knowledge of nutrition on the following topics covered in recent issues of the Australian Healthy Food Guide. Who should eat low-fat dairy foods? Everyone over 2 years of age. Low-fat milk and cheese are less fattening and rolex replica are better for weight watchers. However, they are also lower in ‘bad’ saturated fat
Health authorities have advised that seasonal flu vaccine can once again be given to children aged from 6 months to 5 years, using two specific brands, Vaxigrip and Influvac. Vaccination in this age group had been suspended because of an increased risk of fever and febrile convulsions with another brand (Fluvax). However, the risk from Vaxigrip
There is good evidence that a hearty laugh has many health benefits. Disclaimer: Please note this information was correct at time of publication. For up to date information, speak to your doctor.
The Heart Foundation recommends margarine over butter. Margarine has less ‘bad’ saturated fat and more healthy unsaturated fats and helps keep your cholesterol in check. Margarine with added ‘plant sterols’ is even better. Margarine and butter are equally fattening so, whichever spread you choose, use it sparingly. From: Australian Healthy Food Guide. www.healthyfoodguide.com.au Disclaimer: Please