Hearing Loss in Adults
As we get older, our senses are less acute. It is estimated that over half of Australians aged between 60 and 70 have some hearing loss, increasing to 80% in those aged over 80. Severity, of course, varies. Hearing loss can be sensorineural (affecting the cochlear and/ or nerve, conductive (blockage in the middle ear), or mixed. Generally, aged related loss is sensorineural. Additional risk factors include noise exposure, genetics, ear trauma and chemical exposure.
Child and Adolescent Obesity
We tend to think that only America has issues with weight. The reality is that 1 in 4 Australian children are overweight or obese. This is a significant increase in one generation. Why? Firstly, Children tend to snack on high calorie foods and drinks, and second, is replacing physical activity with time on screens. We can't turn back time, but it not all bad news. There is much you can do as a parent or guardian to help a child get and maintain a healthy weight.
Deep Vein Thrombosis
A Thrombus is a blood clot. The ability of the body to form clots is critical as this stops bleeding when we cut ourselves. However, a blood clot forming in a blood vessel can cause serious problems.
Eczema – Prevention and Treatment
Eczema is a red, itchy rash often starting in infancy or early childhood. The most typical places are the face, neck and "flexures" which are the skin creases at the knees and elbows. It can be a few scattered areas or may be widespread. It ranges from the mild to severe and may weep or be crusty.
Stingers in the water
While shark attacks often make headlines, other creatures in the water can cause problems when swimming. These are many and varied and influenced by season and where on the coastline you are. Most jellyfish stings are not serious but can be itchy or painful.