Article Library

First aid and related topics. New articles published several times a week.

Redback Spiders are found across Australia in warm, sheltered sites. They are known for their distinct red stripe and venomous bite.
Bites and Stings

Bites and Stings

The Redback Spider | Spider Facts

Redback spiders are found across Australia in dry, sheltered sites typically close to human habitation. Bites from a female Redback can cause serious illness and have resulted in deaths. Continue reading for step-by-step first aid instructions for Redback spider bites.

Anaphylaxis and Anesthesia - know the triggers
Allergy and Asthma

Allergy and Asthma

Anaphylaxis and Anesthesia

Severe allergies to anesthesia are a serious problem because it may be difficult for your anaesthesiologist to observe some of the usual early symptoms associated with anaphylaxis. Symptoms that may be difficult to detect include light headedness and shortness of breath.

Head injuries can be Severe, Moderate, or Minor – the category varies according to signs and symptoms.
Injury

Injury

3 Categories of Head Injuries

Head injuries are categorised as Severe, Moderate, and Minor, with signs and symptoms that vary accordingly. Problems not detected initially, may emerge later. There are specific symptoms of a head injury that should be reported to a doctor or emergency department within the first 48 hours.

Open seed follicles of Banksia cones on a burnt tree branch following a bushfire in Sydney woodland, NSW, Australia
Seasonal Concerns

Seasonal Concerns

Australia Bushfire First Aid Tips

Although many people associate fire casualties with heat and flames, smoke inhalation is actually the leading cause of death among those who get caught in fires.

Adelaide is consistently celebrated as Australia's "Most Liveable City", and this is partly due to its long and proud history as the purveyor of high-quality food and drink.
Danger

Danger

Rare Food Allergies on the Adelaide Food Trail

As some of Adelaide's most renowned festivals, such as the Adelaide Beer & BBQ Festival, can attest to - Adelaide is famous for its dynamic food and drink culture. However, no matter how delicious the food and drink is, some people may still experience allergic reactions while exploring the Adelaide dining scene.

Adelaide is renowned for offering hikers a variety of trails to choose from, many of which offer gorgeous views of the Adelaide city skyline.
Danger

Danger

First Aid on the Adelaide Hiking Trail

Adelaide is home to a thriving hiking culture, as it is flanked to the east by the Mount Lofty Ranges. Hiking is a brilliant opportunity to explore Adelaide’s unique flora and fauna, but it is not without its dangers.

Exercise is important for maintaining a fit and healthy lifestyle. However, in asthmatic people, exercise can result in a temporary narrowing of the airways. This phenomenon is known as Exercise-Induced Asthma (EIA).
Allergy and Asthma

Allergy and Asthma

Asthma and Exercise

Though exercise is an important factor in staying fit and healthy, it can be a trigger for asthma. In saying that, with careful management and control, people with asthma can continue to enjoy their usual activities.

Food allergies are on the rise in Australia. Researchers still don't know why this is happening. As such, it is important for people living with food allergies to understand how to prevent, identify, and manage their symptoms.
Allergy and Asthma

Allergy and Asthma

Anaphylaxis and Food Allergies

Australia has one of the highest incidences of food allergy in the world. Allergic reactions to food can range from mild to life threatening. As such, it is important to know how to prevent, identify, and treat allergy symptoms.

Anaphylaxis and hypotension article header
Allergy and Asthma

Allergy and Asthma

Anaphylaxis and Hypotension

Hypotension refers to low blood pressure. It can be a severe and life-threatening condition, as low blood pressure can starve vital organs of oxygen and nutrients. One cause of hypotension is anaphylaxis.

Epipen – an easy to use adrenaline auto-injector
Allergy and Asthma

Allergy and Asthma

Asthma & Anaphylaxis Emergency First Aid

In an asthma or anaphylaxis emergency you should know the symptoms, remove triggers, and know how to respond. Read on to understand these important aspects in the context of such an emergency.

Lung function can be monitored with spirometry or peak expiratory flow (PEF) meter.
Allergy and Asthma

Allergy and Asthma

Asthma management

Asthma is one of the world's most pervasive chronic diseases. Australia has one of the highest prevalence rates in the world – more than two million asthmatics.

Arm with Measles rash
Virus

Virus

Measles in Australia

Measles is an acute, highly infectious illness caused by the measles virus. It can lead to serious complication such as pneumonia (lung infection) and encephalitis (inflammation to the brain)