If you have asthma, it is essential to be aware of the symptoms of an asthma attack. Understanding what to look for can help you detect an asthma flare-up before it becomes a full-blown attack and provide prompt treatment. Below are some of the key aspects related to an asthma attack.
Asthma symptoms: What to look for
Asthma symptoms differ from person to person, but there are some common signs that indicate a flare-up may be on its way. Common symptoms include shortness of breath, tight chest, coughing (especially during nighttime hours), fatigue, and wheezing. If you experience any combination of these symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention right away. Your doctor or asthma nurse will be able to determine your condition so that you can receive proper care and treatment.
Asthma triggers: Avoiding unnecessary flare-ups
In addition to understanding the symptoms of a serious asthma attack, it is also important to be aware of potential triggers. Different people have different triggers; however, some common ones include exposure to smoke or other pollutants in the air, exposure to dust mites or pet dander in the home environment, physical activity or exercise (especially if done outdoors), exposure to cold temperatures or changes in weather patterns, and contact with certain chemicals like cleaning products or perfumes/colognes. It is important for those with asthma to avoid their triggers as much as possible in order to prevent flare-ups from occurring.
Treatment options for asthma attacks
If you are experiencing an asthma attack, there are several treatments available that can help reduce the severity and duration of your symptoms. Inhalers are one popular option—they contain medication that helps reduce airway inflammation so that breathing becomes easier again. Oral medications such as corticosteroids are another option; they work by reducing inflammation throughout your body so that breathing is easier overall. If your doctor believes that environmental factors like allergies could be causing your symptoms, they may recommend allergy shots or other treatments designed specifically for allergies. The right asthma treatment option will depend on your individual needs and situation; speak with your doctor about which one might work best for you.
What are the consequences of neglecting an asthma attack?
Neglecting to attend to an asthma attack can lead to serious medical complications. As the constricted airways struggle to pass oxygen into the lungs, the respiratory muscles become fatigued, leading to even further restrictions in breathing. In some cases, if left untreated for a prolonged period of time, sufferers may enter an ‘asthma crisis’, which carries additional risks such as lack of oxygen flow due to severe airway constriction and even permanent lung damage. Furthermore, severe asthma attacks can cause people both mental and physical stress – anxiety and shock are common reactions during a severe asthma attack. For these reasons, it is important that asthma sufferers take appropriate precautions when managing their condition and seek professional medical attention should they experience any signs or symptoms of an asthma attack.
Treat your asthma attack at True Health Medical Practice
At True Health Medical Practice, our experienced team of healthcare professionals understand that asthma can be a frightening condition. We strive to provide the most appropriate care and treatment for those who suffer from this condition. Our team is knowledgeable about the latest treatments and medications available, so you can trust us to help you find a solution that will work for you. Contact us today at (02) 9358 5221 to schedule your appointment.
Healthily losing weight isn’t just about the weight loss diets that you follow or how often you exercise. It’s also about making sure that your mind, body and overall lifestyle are in balance. With a few simple guidelines, it is possible to safely lose weight and keep it off for good.
If you’re looking to lose weight in a healthy way, then consider trying some of these science-backed tips. They include making healthier eating choices and being more mindful of the carbohydrates you consume.
reduce your appetite and hunger levels while keeping you satisfied
produce consistent weight loss over time
help improve your metabolic health at the same time
While there are some things you can do to lose weight fast, it’s more important to focus on sustainable habits that will improve your health in the long term. Quick fixes may help you shed a few pounds in the short term, but they’re not typically effective in the long run.
Simple Steps to Help You Lose Weight
Maintain calorie counting
Start by tracking your calorie intake. Knowing how many calories you consume each day is the first step in creating a successful weight loss plan. One way to lose weight faster is by reducing carbohydrates, sugar, and starches, which can happen by following a low-carb diet and replacing refined carbs with whole grains. low carbohydrate diet will reduce your appetite, and therefore, you’ll be eating fewer calories without feeling hungry.
Eat Healthy Food
Make sure to change your eating habits and that the majority of your meals consist of lean protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates such as whole grains, legumes and vegetables for a balanced diet.
When preparing a meal, be sure to include lean protein, healthy fats, complex carbohydrates, and vegetables.
Vegetables are an excellent way to make a meal more filling while keeping the calorie count low and boosting the nutrient levels.
Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your body hydrated and stave off cravings for unhealthy snacks or sugary drinks.
Eating healthy foods will not only help you lose weight but also maintain your blood sugar and blood pressure levels.
Exercise Regularly
In addition to increasing calorie burning, regular exercise can improve your overall health and reduce stress levels. This will help make it easier for you to stick with your weight loss goals long-term.
Aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity each day, such as walking, running or cycling, to start making progress toward your fitness goals. Even low-intensity activities like gardening or light housework can help burn calories, lose body fat, and improve your health.
Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
Make healthier lifestyle changes instead of relying on restrictive diets, which can be hard to stick with in the long term. Get adequate good night’s sleep – eight hours is ideal – to help regulate hormones and improve overall wellness.
By following these steps, you can begin to create a healthier relationship between food and your body. You can safely lose weight and keep it off. Incorporating a balanced diet and regular physical activity into your lifestyle is the key to achieving long-term success with healthy weight loss. With consistency and dedication, it is possible to achieve your weight loss goals and develop sustainable healthy habits for life.
With weight loss, there are no one-size-fits-all answers. For an expert medical opinion on what is the best way for you to lose weight, contact us on (02) 9358 5221 today!
References
Effects of weight loss during a very low carbohydrate diet on specific adipose tissue depots and insulin sensitivity in older adults with obesity: a randomized clinical trial https://nutritionandmetabolism.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12986-020-00481-9
Do ketogenic diets really suppress appetite? A systematic review and meta-analysis https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/obr.12230
Weight loss: 6 strategies for success https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/weight-loss/in-depth/weight-loss/art-20047752
Stress is a normal reaction to life experiences and events. But sometimes, the level of stress can become too much to handle. If not managed effectively, stress can lead to mental healthproblems such as anxiety and depression and even physical illnesses.
Early detection and implementation of stress management techniques are crucial to avoiding long-term health complications. So, it is vital to be aware of the signs of stress so you can take steps to manage it.
Common Signs of Stress
Stress causes a physical reaction in the body, including elevated cortisol levels, increased blood pressure and heart rate, and muscle tension.
This can lead to several common signs of stress, including:
Sleep Problems
Cortisol plays a role in the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis, which helps regulate your circadian rhythm. When stressed, you may experience difficulty falling or staying asleep, which can leave you feeling fatigued and unable to concentrate during the day.
Rapid Heart Rate and Chest Pain
When the body is under stress, it releases hormones that can increase your heart rate and cause chest pain. You may also be more prone to high blood pressure or heart disease in the future. If you notice an abnormal heart rate, arrhythmia, or palpitations, visit your doctor.
Muscle Aches and Pains
Long-term stress can lead to cortisol dysfunction and systemic inflammation, leading to muscle aches and pains, particularly in the back, neck, and shoulders.
Weight Fluctuations
Stress can affect your appetite, causing you to either overeat or lose your appetite. This can lead to changes in weight that may not be good for your health.
Rashes
Stress can also affect your skin, causing rashes and other skin conditions—excess cortisol results in skin inflammation, leading to hives or urticaria.
Digestive Issues
When you’re stressed, your body enters flight or flight mode, disrupting the normal functioning of your digestive system. This can lead to diarrhea, constipation, cramps, and nausea. These symptoms can be painful and disruptive to your daily life.
How to Manage Stress?
There are many ways to manage stress, and what works for one person may not work for another. However, some general tips can help you reduce signs of stress and maintain your mental health.
At True Health Medical Practice, we offer several services that can help to manage stress, including:
Mental Health Counsellors and Psychologists
Mental health counsellors and psychologists can help you identify and address the causes of your stress, develop strategies for dealing with stressful situations and help you manage stress in a healthy way.
Family and Marriage Counselors
Family and marriage counsellors are available at our practice to provide support and guidance if you are experiencing relationship or family-related stress.
Support Your Mental Health with True Health Medical Practice
True Health Medical Practice is committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate care for all patients. We offer various services to support mental health, including therapy and medication management. Our providers collaborate with you to create a treatment plan that meets your unique needs.
We understand that seeking help for mental health can be difficult, but we are here to support you on your journey to wellness. If you or someone you know is struggling, please get in touch with us by calling on (02) 9358 5221 today.
References
Sleep deprivation and stress: a reciprocal relationship https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rsfs.2019.0092
Stress Can Increase Your Risk for Heart Disease https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?ContentTypeID=1&ContentID=2171
Chronic Stress, Cortisol Dysfunction, and Pain: A Psychoneuroendocrine Rationale for Stress Management in Pain Rehabilitation https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4263906/
A health assessment may be performed to establish a patient’s state of health as well as their physical, social, and psychological functioning. Health assessments are conducted by general practitioners, provided they have rendered health care services to a patient in the preceding 12 months or if they will treat the patient in the following 12 months. In this post, we are going to answer the question ‘what is health assessment’ and under which circumstances it may be required.
What Is Health Assessment?
You may be required to have a health assessment before starting a new job when emigrating, as you get older, or to establish if you are at risk of certain health conditions.
Types Of Health Assessments Performed By General Practitioners
Brief health assessment
A brief health assessment is a simple assessment that can be completed in 30 minutes or less.
Standard health assessment
A standard health assessment is done when a patient needs a more substantial assessment than a brief health assessment and does not present with complex health problems. This assessment takes between 30 and 45 minutes to complete.
Long health assessment
This type of health assessment is extensive. It is done when the patient has complex health issues. It takes between 45 and 60 minutes to complete.
Prolonged health assessment
This is a complex health assessment that is carried out when a patient has long-term health needs that need to be managed by an extensive preventative health care management plan. This assessment may take longer than 60 minutes to complete.
Health assessment for cardiovascular problems
These health assessments are carried out when a patient has cardiovascular disease or is at risk of developing cardiovascular disease.
What Tests Are Included In Health Assessments?
There is quite a bit of variance in health assessments, depending on your stage of life and any symptoms you present with. The assessment is usually a longer appointment with general practitioners and nurses and may include
Asking questions about your state of health and family history
Doing blood tests or other tests and scans
Lifestyle advice on weight loss, exercise, quitting smoking and reducing alcohol intake
Beginning medications to manage diabetes, high blood pressure or cholesterol
Referrals to specialists to help you manage health conditions.
During the appointment, the general practitioners may
Based on the outcomes of the tests you have done, your GP may make further recommendations to help you live a healthier lifestyle or refer you to other specialists for assistance. If your GP makes lifestyle recommendations or prescribes medication, you can expect to return for a follow-up visit so he or she can evaluate your progress.
A health assessment is done to help you improve your quality of life. For more insight into ‘what is health assessment’ or to schedule an appointment with us, please contact us at (02) 9358 5221.
REFERENCES
Health assessments and your record-keeping responsibilities
Understanding the signs and symptoms of asthma can help you get the treatment you need and prevent unexpected and potentially life-threatening asthma attacks.
What is Asthma?
Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways that makes breathing difficult. The airways are tubes that carry air in and out of your lungs. The walls of these tubes become inflamed and narrow in asthmatic individuals. This makes it hard to breathe and can trigger an asthma attack.
What is an Asthma Attack?
An asthma attack is when your asthma symptoms suddenly worsen or increase in frequency, which can quickly lead to an emergency. Asthma attacks can be triggered by several things, including cold air, exercise, allergens, and air pollution.
The airways narrow during an asthma attack, causing respiratory distress. The body may also produce more mucus, further blocking the airways.
Signs and Symptoms of Asthma
While asthma attacks are relatively easy to identify, it is crucial to recognise the signs and symptoms of asthma before an attack occurs. It can also help you determine if you have the disease and seek asthma treatment. The most notable signs and symptoms of asthma include:
Wheezing: Wheezing is a high-pitched whistling sound made when you breathe, caused by the airways’ narrowing.
Coughing: A persistent cough not caused by cold and flu is often the first sign of asthma, which can be worse at night or early in the morning.
Shortness of breath: Shortness of breath is a feeling of not being able to get enough air. This can happen suddenly or gradually.
Chest tightness: Chest tightness is a feeling of pressure or discomfort in the chest.
Frequent nighttime wakefulness: People with asthma may often wake up at night coughing or wheezing. This can lead to daytime fatigue and extreme lethargy.
Sighing: Sighing is a deep breath taken to relieve shortness of breath. Frequent sighing may mean your body isn’t getting enough oxygen.
Nasal flaring: Nasal flaring is when the nostrils open wider than normal when trying to breathe in.
Anxiety: Anxiety can be a symptom of asthma, as shortness of breath and chest tightness can cause feelings of panic. Anxiety or depression symptoms can also linger due to fear of another asthma attack.
Asthma Triggers
Since asthma attacks can be dangerous, it is important to be aware of potential triggers. Asthma attacks can be caused by several things, including:
Allergens: Allergens are substances that can trigger an asthma attack. Common allergens include pollen, dust mites, pet dander, and mould.
Cold air: Cold air causes constriction of the airways, leading to asthma attacks. Dry air, which often accompanies cold weather, can worsen this effect.
Exercise: Exercise can trigger an asthma attack by causing the airways to constrict.
Air pollution: Air pollution can inflame the airways and trigger an asthma attack.
How Can I Treat Asthma?
While asthma cannot be cured, your doctor can create a chronic disease management plan, including medication and lifestyle changes. Asthma treatment means patients must take medication daily to control their asthma symptoms. Some people with asthma may also need to carry a rescue inhaler for sudden attacks.
If you think you or your child may have asthma, it is essential to consult your GP. They will be able to give a diagnosis and develop an asthma treatment plan.
If you have been prescribed medication for asthma, it is important to take it as directed. Medications will not work if they are not taken as prescribed. There are several common asthma medications, with your doctor prescribing the best one for you based on factors such as age, other health conditions, and the severity of your asthma.
The most common asthma treatment medications include:
Corticosteroids: Corticosteroids are steroids that assist in chronic disease management by reducing airway inflammation. Common corticosteroids include prednisone, prednisolone, methylprednisolone, and dexamethasone. They are typically inhaled.
Long-acting beta agonists (LABAs): These medications are bronchodilators, meaning they help relax the muscles that control your airways. Most often, these are used in combination with inhaled corticosteroids.
Short-acting beta-agonists (SABAs): Unlike LABAs, which are taken daily for chronic disease management, SABAs are intended for use during an asthma attack. These are commonly called rescue inhalers. The two primary SABAs are albuterol and levalbuterol.
Create an Asthma Action Plan
An asthma action plan is a document that outlines what you will do in the event of an asthma attack. It is important to have an asthma action plan and to share it with family, friends, and co-workers; however, an estimated 71% of Australians with asthma do not have a plan. Here is an example of what an asthma action plan can look like:
Stick to your medication routine: Take your medications as prescribed. This is the best way to prevent asthma attacks and keep your asthma symptoms under control.
Identify triggers: Work with your doctor to identify your triggers. These can be things like smoke, dust, and pollen. Once you know what triggers your asthma, you can avoid them or take steps to reduce your exposure.
Monitor your asthma symptoms: Keep a close eye on your asthma symptoms. If you notice them worsening, take action immediately. This may mean using your rescue inhaler or taking a short-acting bronchodilator.
Be prepared for an attack: Have a plan for what to do in case of an asthma attack. This may include taking medication and seeking medical help if needed. Ensure all family members know the plan and how to execute it if needed.
Get vaccinated for trigger conditions: Stay up to date on your vaccinations. This is especially important for influenza and pneumonia, which can trigger serious asthma attacks.
By following these steps, you can create an asthma action plan to help you manage your condition and prevent asthma attacks.
Manage Your Asthma Symptoms With True Health Medical Practice
At True Health Medical Practice, we understand that living with asthma can be challenging. We can help you manage your asthma symptoms and improve your quality of life. Our team of experienced doctors will work with you to develop a treatment plan that is right for you.
If you need help with your asthma, we encourage you to call us today at (02) 9358-5221 to schedule an appointment. We look forward to helping you breathe easier.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
Colds and the flu are often confused, and it’s easy to understand why. Colds and the flu are caused by viral respiratory infections that can lead to similar symptoms. Various viruses cause colds, and “cold” is used as a catchall term for many mild, seasonal viral infections. The flu is a specific virus, influenza, with more specific and severe symptoms.
It is essential to understand the difference between cold and flu symptoms so that you treat them effectively and reduce the chance of wider transmission. It can be challenging to know which one you have based on symptoms alone. If you are experiencing severe or persistent cold or flu symptoms, it is important to visit your doctor for a diagnosis and recommended treatment plan.
Cold Symptoms
The common cold is a condition many people have at least once a year, and the symptoms can run from mild to severe. Colds usually have a gradual onset, with symptoms becoming more noticeable over a few days.
Some common symptoms that many people experience while fighting a common cold include a runny nose and nasal or sinus congestion, sneezing, a sore throat, and a mild cough. Some people also have mild to moderate fatigue.
Symptoms are generally mild, and people tend to feel better after a few days. Common colds do not have severe symptoms like vomiting, fever, muscle aches, or headaches.
Cold Treatments
Unfortunately, no medication can cure the common cold virus; it just needs to run its course. However, you can manage the symptoms and boost your immune system to help it fight the cold virus.
You should get plenty of rest and sleep and avoid going to crowded areas where you could spread the virus. You should stay hydrated and drink plenty of fluids, especially water, though having certain fruit juices that are low in sugar and rich in vitamin C can also help.
Some over-the-counter medications can also help relieve some of the symptoms of a common cold. Antihistamines and decongestants like pseudoephedrine, chlorpheniramine, and diphenhydramine can help alleviate nasal symptoms like congestion or a runny nose.
An antitussive like dextromethorphan can effectively treat a dry cough, and an expectorant like Guaifenesin can be good for treating a cough with phlegm.
Over-the-counter analgesics like ibuprofen, aspirin, and acetaminophen can relieve muscular aches and pains that might accompany a common cold. However, before taking any medication, it is vital to have a health check and speak with a doctor to know what is right for you.
Flu Symptoms
Generally, flu symptoms are stronger than the symptoms associated with a common cold. Flu symptoms include fever, chills, head and body aches, sore throat, a fever between 38°C and 40°C, a cough, intense fatigue, nausea in adults, and vomiting and diarrhoea in children.
The flu may not be accompanied by the nasal and sinus symptoms often present with the common cold. While this can be an excellent way to distinguish the two, it is not foolproof, and the only way to know which virus you have is to have a health check from a doctor.
Flu Treatments
While there are differences between cold and flu, like the common cold, there is no cure for the influenza virus. You can take steps to help mitigate the severity of flu symptoms and help speed up your recovery.
Like with a common cold, rest and sleep are very important, as is staying hydrated. Hydration is particularly crucial if you have a fever, as dehydration can occur quickly if you are experiencing a fever. Influenza is highly contagious, so avoid crowded places where you could spread the virus. It is best to stay home, rest, and recover.
Anti-inflammatory analgesics like ibuprofen are often the most effective choice as they can relieve several flu symptoms, including head and body aches and lower a fever. Cough treatments like expectorants and antitussives are helpful for respiratory flu symptoms.
Generally, flu symptoms are more serious than cold symptoms, so it is essential to have a health check from your doctor if you have the flu to make sure you take the right over-the-counter medication and recover quickly.
Difference Between Cold and Flu
Common colds and the flu have similar symptoms and similar treatments; however, there is a difference between cold and flu, and they need to be treated differently.
If you have some of the symptoms of either, it is important to schedule a health check with your doctor as soon as you can. The quicker you begin to rest, hydrate, and treat the symptoms of the illness, the quicker you will recover. Your doctor can examine you and give you a treatment program that will get you back on your feet soon, no matter if it’s a cold or flu that has got you down.
In addition to increasing calorie burning, regular exercise can improve your overall health and 
There are many ways to 
Asking questions about your state of health and family history
Allergens:
Like with a common cold, rest and sleep are very important, as is staying hydrated. Hydration is particularly crucial if you have a fever, as dehydration can occur quickly if you are experiencing a fever. Influenza is highly contagious, so avoid crowded places where you could spread the virus. It is best to stay home, rest, and recover.