Shin Splints- Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment
What Are Shin Splints? Shin splints (also known as tibial stress syndrome) is a physical condition that describes microscopic boney damage and inflammation of the muscular attachments to the tibia (shin bone). People with shin splints will often report shin pain, increasing with physical activity and exercise. This is particularly common in those who participate […]
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GORD) – Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment
What is Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GORD)? What is Acid Reflux? Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GORD) is a digestive problem caused by stomach acids leaking into the oesophagus (food pipe). This process is known as acid reflux. Any acid that travels up the oesophagus can irritate and burn the lining. If acid reflux occurs frequently enough, you […]
Achilles Tendonitis – Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment
What is Achilles Tendonitis? Achilles tendonitis (also known as Achilles tendinopathy or Achilles tendinitis) is caused by inflammation of the Achilles tendon. The Achilles tendon is a piece of connective tissue found at the back of the ankle located between the calf muscle and calcaneus (heel bone). Achilles injuries are common in more physically active […]
Chlamydia – Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment
What is Chlamydia? Chlamydia is one of Australia’s most common sexually transmitted infections (STI). The infection is caused by chlamydia trachomatis, a type of bacteria transferred during sexual activity. It is easily transmissible as many people with this STI may experience no immediate symptoms. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, there were […]
Scleroderma – Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment
What is Scleroderma? Scleroderma (also known as systemic sclerosis) is an autoimmune condition that causes the hardening of the body’s connective tissue (e.g. skin, lungs, kidney, etc.). According to Scleroderma Australia, the thickening of the connective tissue can become severe and even affect the organs. More than 6000 Australians live with scleroderma. The condition peaks […]
Spina Bifida – Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment
What is Spina Bifida? Spina bifida is a type of neural tube defect. A neural tube defect impacts the development of the brain and/or spinal cord of the child during pregnancy. Spina bifida occurs when parts of the spine or spinal cord do not form properly. During the first month of pregnancy, the embryo (starting […]
What is An Endoscopy? A Complete Patient Guide
If your GP has referred you for an endoscopy, there’s a good chance that you may have some questions about this procedure. Your GP may have identified a need for you to undergo an endoscopy for diagnosis and/or treatment. Australian GPs may refer you to specialist doctors who will be able to perform endoscopy for […]
Stroke – Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment
What is Stroke? A stroke is when the blood flow to the brain is disrupted or stopped. The nutrients and oxygen in the bloodstream are important for keeping the brain functioning and alive. This is a medical emergency that can be fatal and requires immediate attention. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, […]
