Stroke DEFINITION A Stroke or cerebrovascular accident (CVA) occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is insufficient, causing an area of brain damage. DESCRIPTION A Stroke occurs when a blood vessel leading to the brain either becomes blocked or bursts. The part of the brain normally fed… Read Article
Be Sun Smart It’s summertime in Australia and that means BBQ’s, cricket and days at the beach. If you are not careful it can also mean sunburn. Australia and New Zealand have the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. More than 430,000 Australians are treated a year for… Read Article
Teeth grinding DEFINITION Teeth grinding (also known as bruxism) usually occurs at night and can cause the teeth to become worn or loosened. DESCRIPTION Teeth grinding is a complex disorder that is not properly understood despite extensive research. About half of all adults will grind their teeth at some point;… Read Article
Thrombosis DEFINITION Thrombosis is the name given to the formation of a blood clot within a blood vessel – both veins and arteries. This condition is a common ailment and is potentially fatal. DESCRIPTION There are three main types of thrombosis: Arterial thrombosis This is the name given to a… Read Article
Tooth decay DEFINITION Decay, or caries, is destruction of the hard tooth, by acid dissolving. As the destruction occurs, a small cavity or hole can result. DESCRIPTION Decay is caused by plaque. The bacteria in your mouth are usually harmless. Food or drinks that are high in carbohydrates, specifically a… Read Article
Travellers’ diarrhoea DEFINITION Travellers’ diarrhoea is a clinical syndrome resulting from microbial contamination of ingested food and water. DESCRIPTION Travellers’ diarrhoea is the most common ailment affecting overseas travellers. The ailment has many names, including Delhi belly, Bali belly, Montezuma’s revenge and Pharaoh’s curse, depending on what country is being… Read Article