2021 Archives - Illawarra Medical Centre

COVID-19 Vaccines and Children

walrus — Mon, 20 Dec 2021 09:30:33 +0000

The Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) recently approved COVID-19 vaccinations for children aged 5-11 years from 10 January 2022. This follows on from the introduction of vaccines for those aged 12-15 years in September this year. As the vaccine rollout extends to these younger age groups, it’s natural for parents and children alike to be curious about what the risks and benefits are for children.

In this month’s blog, we look at some of the questions people may have about COVID-19 vaccines for children.

Are children at risk of getting COVID-19?

Yes, children are at risk of getting COVID-19. The good news, however, is that they appear far less likely than adults to get seriously ill from the virus.

The Australian Government Department of Health reports that there have been over 70,000 cases and three deaths from COVID-19 in Australian children aged 0-19 since the country recorded its first reported case.

National data from January to August this year shows 2.5% of children aged up to nine and 2.9% of children and teenagers aged 10-19 who contracted COVID-19 were hospitalised with the virus.

On a global scale, it also appears that very few children infected with COVID-19 require hospitalisation and even fewer require ICU or die from the virus.

However, it’s important to remember that COVID-19 remains a major risk around the world and while children seem to be at less risk of getting seriously ill from the virus, they still have the ability to pass it onto others who are more at risk.

How does COVID-19 affect children?

Most children who get COVID-19 have a mild infection that resembles a common cold or flu. Some children show no symptoms at all.

The most common symptoms of COVID-19 in children include:

Fever
Runny nose
Cough
Sore throat
Fatigue
Headache
Irritability
Loss of appetite
Breathing difficulties
Vomiting and/or diarrhoea
Poor oral intake and dehydration

It’s important to get your child tested if they show any of these symptoms. If your child experiences worsening symptoms or you are concerned, contact your GP or seek medical care. In the case of an emergency, phone 000 and request an ambulance.

Why have children now been included in the vaccine rollout?

With new variants, increasing case numbers and state and international borders opening up in Australia, more children are now getting the virus.

The Therapeutic Goods Administration’s (TGA) approval to expand COVID-19 vaccinations to children aged 5 years and over was based on careful evaluation of the available data to support its safety and efficacy among this age group.

Vaccinating younger children and adolescents is an important step in Australia reaching herd immunity and it remains the most important way we can protect ourselves, our families and the wider community from the spread of COVID-19.

That’s why vaccination remains a priority for all, as it protects the small percentage of young people with underlying health issues and also means children are less likely to transmit it to others.

Which vaccines will children receive?

Children aged 5-11 years old have been approved to receive a two-dose primary dose of the Pfizer (Comirnaty) COVID-19 vaccine, from 10 January 2022. The vaccine dose for this age group is rtp slot one-third the size approved for people aged 12 and over.

Those aged 12 years and over have been approved to receive either the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine or Moderna (Spikevax) COVID-19 vaccine. Two doses of the vaccines are required for optimal protection. The two doses are given at least 3-6 weeks apart for Pfizer vaccines and 4-5 weeks apart for Moderna vaccines.

Clinical trials of these vaccines in children have shown them to provide excellent protection against COVID-19 in adolescents.

To find out more information about these vaccines, visit the WA Health Department website>>

Are COVID vaccines safe for children?

Clinical trials and real world studies have shown that COVID-19 vaccines approved for children and adolescents are very safe.

All vaccines used in Australia, including those used to protect against COVID-19, are thoroughly tested and monitored to ensure their ongoing safety.

In addition, tens of millions of adolescents have been vaccinated in countries that are closely monitoring and reporting on vaccine safety, including the USA, Europe, Canada, Israel, Singapore and Japan.

COVID-19 vaccine side effects in children

Children may experience mild side effects after vaccination, but these usually resolve within 48 hours. The most common side effects following immunisation are:

Pain, redness, swelling or itching at the injection site
Fatigue
Headache
Muscle or joint pain
Gastrointestinal symptoms
Fever

Some people, including children, have experienced serious side effects from COVID-19 vaccines, such as anaphylaxis, myocarditis and pericarditis.

Myocarditis is inflammation of the heart muscle. Pericarditis is inflammation of the outer lining of the heart. Myopericarditis is where these two conditions occur together.

These conditions are very rare and most children and adults who experience them as a result of COVID-19 vaccination recover quickly, with minimal or no treatment required.

Symptoms can include:

Chest pain
Pressure of discomfort palpitations (irregular heartbeat, skipped beats or ‘fluttering’)
Fainting
Shortness of breath
Pain when breathing

These symptoms normally appear within 1-5 days of vaccination and are usually mild. However, if your child does experience any of these symptoms, please seek prompt medical attention.

Further information on these conditions is available from ATAGI>>

If you are concerned about any symptoms following vaccination, you should seek advice from your doctor. If you believe your reaction is severe or life threatening, please phone 000 for an ambulance or go to your closest emergency department.

For the latest information on COVID-19 vaccine safety data in Australia, visit AusVaxSafety>>

Book in for your COVID-19 vaccine

Illawarra Medical Centre is an approved provider of COVID-19 vaccines and will be providing vaccines for children aged 5 and over from 10 January 2022. To book in for your vaccination with us, make an appointment online or contact us on (08) 9208 6400.

If you have any questions or concerns about COVID-19 vaccines or your current available vaccine options, please book a regular appointment with your GP to discuss prior to making your vaccination booking.

For more information, visit our COVID-19 Vaccines page

For more information on this topic, visit:

Australian Government Department of Health – https://www.health.gov.au/resources/publications/coronavirus-covid-19-and-children
AusVaxSafety – ausvaxsafety.org.au
Healthy WA – https://www.healthywa.wa.gov.au/Articles/A_E/Coronavirus/COVID19-vaccine/FAQs
National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance (NCIRS) – https://www.ncirs.org.au
Raising Children – https://raisingchildren.net.au/guides/a-z-health-reference/coronavirus-and-children-in-australia
Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne – https://www.rch.org.au/kidsinfo/fact_sheets/Coronavirus_COVID-19/

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Stress and Burnout

walrus — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 08:19:30 +0000

At this time of year, it can feel like a bit more of a limp to the finish line, rather than a sprint, as we head towards Christmas and the New Year. Add in all the challenges and interruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic over the last two years and it’s no wonder people are feeling a little burnt out and fatigued.

But when do those feelings of tiredness and weariness indicate that there is something more going on with your health and wellbeing?

Is it just stress or burnout?

Stress is a normal part of being human and something that we all experience when we are faced with a challenging situation or feel under pressure, particularly at this time of year!

Stress can cause physical, mental and behavioural reactions in the body, as it responds to the release of stress hormones. Some of the symptoms of stress include:

Headaches, aches and pains
Sleep disturbance
Fatigue
Upset stomach or diarrhoea
Anxiety
Difficulty concentrating
Feeling overwhelmed and out of control
Sudden outbursts of anger
Avoidance
Overeating or undereating
Alcohol, smoking, or drug abuse

People will react to stress differently, depending on their personality, attitude and approach to life. Knowing yourself and how you respond to stress can help you understand what works for you in managing stress.

While stress can sometimes be a useful motivator and push us to get things done, experiencing too much or ongoing stress can affect our mental and physical health.

In fact, ongoing stress can contribute to a number of health problems, such as high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity and diabetes.

We also know that stress is the main contributor to burnout.

What is Burnout?

While stress and burnout are linked, they are different. Stress can feel like being over-reactive or overly engaged, whereas burnout can feel like disengagement or lacking motivation or that you’ve had the life completely sucked out of you.

The World Health Organization defines burnout as a “syndrome conceptualized as resulting from chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed.”

Essentially, burnout is a condition that is caused by an individual’s work. It is generally characterised by:

feelings of energy depletion or exhaustion;
increased mental distance from one’s work, or feelings of negativism or cynicism related to one’s work; and
reduced professional efficacy.

According to Reach Out, some of the signs of burnout include:

Feeling physically and emotionally exhausted and unable to perform basic tasks.
Losing motivation in life, including with work and friendships.
An inability to focus or concentrate on tasks.
Feeling empty or lacking in emotion.
Losing passion and drive.
Experiencing conflict in your relationships with co-workers, friends and family.
Withdrawing emotionally from friends and family.

It’s important to note that burnout is not a medical condition, nor is it something that occurs due to a person’s lack of resilience. Burnout does not discriminate in who it affects and, if left untreated, it can cause depression, anxiety and impact on both professional and personal relationships.

How to prevent stress and burnout

Being aware of feeling stressed or burnt out is an important first step in managing these conditions.

Other things you can do to help manage stress and burnout include:

Taking regular time-out to relax, including time each day to switch off from technology.
Exercising regularly – aim for at least 20 minutes of exercise 3 times a week.
Eating well – include plenty of fruits and vegetables and avoiding fatty and sugary foods.
Limiting alcohol.
Getting enough sleep each night.
Spending time with people who make you feel good about yourself.
Setting boundaries so that you are not overextending yourself.
Staying connected with colleagues, family and friends and encouraging open discussions about how you are feeling and what support you might need.
Having some fun and doing activities that make you feel happy, to keep balance in your life.

Concerned about your health?

It’s important to see your doctor if you:

Feel stressed often.
Experience particular things that stress you and feel beyond your control.
Believe your reactions to stress are extreme or worry you.
Feel anxious or depressed about stress.

If you have any concerns about your health or are feeling overwhelmed with burnout and stress, book in with one of our GPs to discuss your concerns.

Appointments can be made online or by contacting us directly on (08) 9208 6400.

For more information on this topic, visit:

Better Health Channel – https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/stress#your-response-to-stress
Health Direct – https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/stress-symptoms
Healthy WA – https://www.healthywa.wa.gov.au/Articles/F_I/Good-mental-health-and-wellbeing
Lifeline – https://www.lifeline.org.au/get-help/information-and-support/stress-and-overwhelming-feelings/
Reach Out – https://au.reachout.com/articles/burnout-and-chronic-stress
World Health Organization – https://www.who.int/news/item/28-05-2019-burn-out-an-occupational-phenomenon-international-classification-of-diseases

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COVID-19 vaccine update – exemptions

walrus — Sun, 31 Oct 2021 05:37:00 +0000

There’s been a lot of discussion lately around medical exemptions to COVID-19 vaccinations, with an increasing number of people approaching their GP to ask for an exemption. It’s important to know, however, that exemptions for vaccination are extremely rare and can only be granted for very specific reasons.

In this month’s blog, we clear up any confusion about medical exemptions for COVID-19 vaccines.

Medical Exemptions

There are very few situations that warrant a medical exemption to COVID-19 vaccines. Generally, if people are unable to have one of the available vaccines they should be able to have one of the others, as the substances used in each vaccine are different.

The medical exemption criteria that GPs and vaccine providers in Australia must adhere to are determined by the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) and endorsed by the Australian Government. There is no discretion allowed under this criteria.

Valid Reasons for Exemption

In Australia, the only reasons that count as valid reasons for a medical exemption for vaccination are if you:

have had anaphylaxis after a previous dose of a vaccine;
have had anaphylaxis after a dose of any component of a vaccine; or
are significantly immunocompromised (for live vaccines only).

ATAGI has also recently allowed for temporary exemptions for the COVID-19 vaccine.

However, this exemption only allows for a deferral of the vaccine for those who meet specific criteria.

Reasons for Temporary Deferral

This includes people who:

have some acute medical conditions, such as undergoing major surgery or hospital admission for a serious illness;
have had inflammatory cardiac illness within the past 6 months (applies to mRNA COVID-19 vaccines only);
have PCR-confirmed SARS-CoV- 2 infection. Vaccination can be temporarily deferred until complete recovery from the acute illness (which may be up to 6 months), regardless of disease severity. Chronic symptoms following COVID-19 (what is known as ‘long COVID’) is not a cause for exemption but should be discussed with your doctor; or
experience serious adverse events (admitted to hospital) attributed to a previous dose of a COVID-19 vaccine and without another cause identified.

Invalid Reasons for Exemption

The following are NOT valid reasons for a medical exemption for vaccination:

acute anxiety
vaccine hesitancy
mild illness without fever (i.e. a temperature below 38.5^oC)
family history of adverse events following immunisation
history of convulsions
treatment with antibiotics
treatment with locally acting steroids, inhaled or low dose topical
replacement corticosteroids
asthma, eczema, atopy, hay fever or sniffles
previous infection with the same pathogen
neurological conditions, including cerebral palsy and Down Syndrome
contact with an infectious disease
pregnancy
breastfeeding
recent or planned surgery

To date, only 0.005% (or 1,600 people) of Australians have had an adverse reaction to a vaccine or have an illness that makes them significantly immunocompromised and required them to forgo the vaccine.

As noted by the Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy (ASCIA), people who have had an adverse reaction to one of the vaccines, or have an allergy to an ingredient in the vaccine, should discuss having one of the other vaccines that does not contain that ingredient with their clinical immunology/allergy specialist.

COVID-19 Vaccine Safety

COVID-19 vaccines have been demonstrated worldwide to be safe and effective and are recommended for all Australian’s from 12 years of age.

All vaccines used in Australia, including those used to protect against COVID-19, are thoroughly tested and monitored to ensure their ongoing safety.

A number of people may experience some side effects following vaccination. These are usually mild and most commonly include:

pain, redness, swelling or itching at the injection site
fatigue
headache
muscle or joint pain
gastrointestinal symptoms
fever

These symptoms typically start within 24 hours of vaccination, last one to two days, and resolve without treatment.

If you are concerned about your symptoms, you should seek advice from your doctor. If you believe your reaction is severe or life threatening, please phone 000 for an ambulance or go to your closest emergency department.

For the latest information on COVID-19 vaccine safety data in Australia, visit www.ausvaxsafety.org.au

Book in for your COVID-19 vaccine

Illawarra Medical Centre is an approved provider of COVID-19 vaccines. To book in for your vaccination with us, make an appointment online or contact us on (08) 9208 6400.

For more information, visit our COVID-19 Vaccines page.

For more information on this topic, visit:

ATAGI – https://www.health.gov.au/committees-and-groups/australian-technical-advisory-group-on-immunisation-atagi
ASCIA – https://www.allergy.org.au/patients/ascia-covid-19-vaccination-faq
Australian Government Department of Health – https://www.health.gov.au/initiatives-and-programs/covid-19-vaccines
AusVaxSafety – https://www.ausvaxsafety.org.au/
Healthy WA – https://www.healthywa.wa.gov.au/Articles/A_E/Coronavirus/COVID19-vaccine
SmartVax – https://www.smartvax.com.au
World Health Organization – https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/covid-19-vaccines

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Mental health – it starts with our children

walrus — Thu, 30 Sep 2021 07:41:19 +0000

As we head towards Mental Health month in October, and this year’s Mental Health Week (9-16 October) theme of “mental health starts with our children”, we thought we’d take a closer look at children’s mental health in Australia.

What is Mental Health?

According to the World Health Organisation, mental health is defined as “a state of well-being in which every individual realises his or her own potential, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to her or his community.”

The early years of life are critical for brain development and functioning, learning and wellbeing. From very early on, children are shaped and influenced by a range of social, biological and environmental factors – all of which can impact on their mental health throughout life.

For infants and children, good mental health is just as important as physical health to their overall long-term health, wellbeing and quality of life.

Sound mental health provides an essential foundation of stability which can support all other aspects of human development, including the ability to form friendships, cope with adversity, and achieve success in school, work and community life.

This video from Harvard University’s Centre on the Developing Child explains just how important those early childhood relationships and interactions are for mental health>>

Childhood Mental Health – The Stats

While the Australian Government’s report into the health welfare of Australian children notes that most kids are healthy, safe and doing well, it also reports that mental health conditions are impacting 314,000 (or close to 14 per cent) children aged 4-11 years, with boys more commonly affected than girls.

There are a number of factors impacting on the mental health of Australia’s children, including:

Parent Mental Health – 25% of young Australians grow up in a household where a parent of caregiver experiences mental illness.
Family Violence – research suggests that 25% of children are exposed to family violence.
Parent Alcohol Use – 13% of Australian children live in a household with at least one parent binge drinking.
Sleep Patterns – 30% of 7-18 year olds report lack of sleep, high levels of stress and depressive symptoms.

In Australia, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is the most common disorder for children, with anxiety and depressive disorders being the second and third most common disorders experienced by children.

ADHD is a developmental disorder that begins in early childhood. Children with ADHD may find it hard to concentrate and may become hyperactive to the point where the condition can interfere with their schooling, friendship or family life.

Anxiety is a normal part of childhood. Most of the time, worries are short-lived and will go away. However, when a child’s anxiety stops them from getting the most out of life or they start to experience avoidance behaviours and/or physical symptoms (such as headaches and stomach aches or trouble sleeping); it could be a sign of something more serious.

Depression is another common disorder in children and is more likely to occur in the years leading up to puberty. It can often be linked to stressful triggers such as family difficulties, the birth of a sibling, social changes from moving to a new house or school, or bullying. The signs of depression in children include:

being very sad or cranky for a few weeks;
losing interest in normal daily activities;
being more negative than usual; and
having sad thoughts and feelings that stop them enjoying life.

Impact of COVID-19 on Child Mental Health

The last two years of living with a pandemic have challenged even the toughest and strongest of minds, but what impact has living with the constant uncertainty and change around COVID-19, as well as lockdowns and reduced social interaction, had on our children and their mental health?

A National Youth Mental Health Survey conducted by headspace in 2020 found that COVID-19 appeared to have an impact on young people’s wellbeing, with those in the 12-14 and 22-25 year age groups reporting a decline in their ability to carry out daily activities and cope with stress.

Another report by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare notes that, compared with older age groups, young people have experienced high rates of psychological distress, loneliness, educational disruption, unemployment, housing stress and domestic violence throughout the pandemic.

The demand for services providing phone and online support for children (such as Kids Helpline) has also increased substantially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

How can we help children maintain good mental health?

The most important factor influencing any child’s mental health and wellbeing is having long lasting, safe and secure relationships with their family, including extended family and carers.

Just as with adults, other factors that can help children improve their mental health and prevent mental health issues from developing include:

Getting enough sleep.
Eating well.
Getting enough regular physical activity.
Maintaining consistent routines and social interactions.
Creating a supportive environment by spending time together with friends and family.
Encouraging open discussions about feelings, concerns and/or worries

If you do have any concerns about your child’s mental health, then speak to your GP who can make suggestions or refer you to other healthcare professionals for additional support, if required.

You may also find this checklist from Beyond Blue helpful>>

To make an appointment with any of our GPs at Illawarra Medical Centre, book online or phone us on (08) 9208 6400.

For more information on this topic, visit:

Australian Government Department of Health – https://www.headtohealth.gov.au/supporting-someone-else/supporting/children

Australian Institute of Health and Welfare – https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/children-youth/australias-children/contents/health/children-mental-illness

Beyond Blue – https://healthyfamilies.beyondblue.org.au/

Emerging Minds – https://emergingminds.com.au/

Headspace – https://headspace.org.au/assets/Uploads/Insights-youth-mental-health-and-wellbeing-over-time-headspace-National-Youth-Mental-Health-Survey-2020.pdf

Health Direct – https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/kids-mental-health

Healthy WA – https://www.healthywa.wa.gov.au/Health-conditions/Mental-illness

World Health Organization – https://www.who.int/health-topics/mental-health#tab=tab_1

WA Mental Health Week – https://mentalhealthweek.org.au/

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On a quest to stamp out Strep A

walrus — Tue, 24 Aug 2021 12:33:09 +0000

A sore throat is one of the most common reasons for patients, particularly children, to visit their GP. In a large number of these cases, the sore throat is caused by Strep A bacteria which can lead to severe diseases, if left untreated.

In fact, Strep A infections are a major cause of illness and death throughout the world each year. Illawarra Medical Centre has recently partnered with the Australian Strep A Vaccine Initiative (ASAVI) to help researchers learn more about what causes sore throats and how a vaccine may be developed to help prevent Strep A in the future.

What is Strep A?

Streptococcus A, or Strep A for short, is a bacteria also known as Streptococcus pyogenes. This bacteria is often responsible for mild infections, such as pharyngitis (better known as sore throat or strep throat), scarlet fever, and impetigo (commonly known as skin sores).

Strep A infections are highly contagious and are usually passed directly from person to person through talking, coughing or sneezing. It is very common in school-age children, with one in 10 children having the bacteria in their throats at any one time.

When left untreated, Strep A can lead to severe diseases which can cause heart and kidney failure. One of the most severe diseases to result from Strep A is rheumatic heart disease, which involves damage to one or more of the four small heart valves and can often require heart surgery in more severe cases.

Strep A can become life threatening very quickly if the bacteria invades the body’s blood stream, muscles or lungs. This video from the Telethon Kids Institute shows just how quickly that can occur>>

What are the symptoms of Strep A?

The common symptoms of a Strep A infection include:

sore, red throat and tonsils;
pain when swallowing;
fever;
chills;
headache;
muscle aches and pains;
feeling tired;
swollen, tender lymph nodes in the neck; and
loss of appetite.

Preventing Strep A

The best way to help prevent the spread of Strep A is to continue the good hygiene practices that we’ve all become accustomed to during the COVID-19 pandemic. These include:

Avoid close contact with other people until you feel well.
Use tissues when you cough and dispose of them carefully and straight away.
Wash your hands regularly and thoroughly, especially after you cough and before touching food, dishes, glasses, eating utensils etc.
Do not share food, drinking cups, eating utensils or hand towels with others.
Do not prepare food for others if you are unwell.
Do not go to day care, school or work until you are no longer contagious.

Unfortunately, there is no vaccine currently available to help prevent Strep A. However, the Australia Strep A Vaccine Initiative (ASAVI), led by researchers from the Telethon Kids Institute and Murdoch Children’s Research Institute (MCRI), is currently looking at sore throats in children, as an important first step towards a vaccine for Strep A.

About the ASAVI Sore Throat Study

The ASAVI Sore Throat Study is open to children aged 3-14 years old and will help researcher learn more about:

how many children get sore throats;
what is the most common cause of sore throat in children;
how sore throats can change during the different seasons of the year; and
how a vaccine could be used to prevent sore throats caused by Strep A bacteria.

Children taking part in the study will have their health monitored for 12 months. The study uses cutting edge technology to diagnose sore throats. This means that a child’s sore throat can be diagnosed within minutes of a visit to their local GP, so that the best possible treatment can be provided.

Illawarra Medical Centre is one of the general practices participating in this important study, which is currently looking for participants.

If you and your child would like to take part, please speak with one of our GPs or contact ASAVI on 0422 581 816 or email sorethroatstudy@telethonkids.org.au. To find out more visit the ASAVI website>>

For more information on this topic, visit:

ASAVI – https://asavi.telethonkids.org.au/sore-throat-study/
Better Health Channel – https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/streptococcal-infection-group-a
Doctors Australia – https://doctorsaustralia.com.au/au/topic/general-report/strep-throat
Health Direct – https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/strep-throat
Telethon Kids Institute – https://www.telethonkids.org.au/our-research/research-topics/invasive-strep-a-disease/

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Quelling the confusion around COVID-19 vaccines

walrus — Tue, 27 Jul 2021 02:28:25 +0000

With all the recent changes and conflicting advice around COVID-19 vaccines, many people are understandably feeling anxious and confused. In this month’s blog, we outline the Australian Government’s current guidelines and advice, to help quell some of the confusion around COVID-19 vaccines.

Which vaccines are currently available in Australia?

At the moment, only two vaccines have been approved for use in Australia:

Pfizer/BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine – the first vaccine approved for use in Australia for people 12 years of age and over. Two doses of this vaccine will be required, administered at least 21 days apart. Pfizer is currently only available for patients who are eligible in Phase 1a and 1b of the Australian Government’s vaccination rollout or those aged 40-59 years old.
University of Oxford AstraZeneca COVID-19 Vaccine – the second vaccine to be approved for use in Australia for people aged 18 and over. Two doses of this vaccine will be required, with the second dose administered between 4 to 12 weeks after the first. The current advice from the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) is that the AstraZeneca vaccine remains the preferred vaccine for those aged 60 and over.

Who can currently access these vaccines?

As per the Australian Government guidelines, the following people are now eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine:

All adults aged 40-49;
All Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 16 to 49;
NDIS participants aged 16 years and over, and unpaid and informal carers of NDIS participants of any age;
Temporary visa holders aged under 50 years who are currently in Australia and have been approved for return travel to Australia through the travel exemption process;
Adults aged 18-59 can choose to receive the AstraZeneca vaccine:
- Following an appropriate assessment of suitability by a qualified health professional; and
- If you provide verbal or written consent.

This is in addition to the following people, who were already eligible for vaccination:

All adults aged 50 and over;
Quarantine and border workers;
Health care workers;
Aged care and disability care residents and staff;
People aged 16 and over with an underlying medical condition or significant disability;
Critical and high risk workers aged 16 and over including defence, police, fire, emergency services and meat processing; and
Individuals with an Australian Border Force outwards travel exemption in an eligible category.

When will others be eligible to receive the vaccine?

Everyone in Australia will be offered a free, safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine.

As COVID-19 vaccines become approved and available, they will be rolled out in phases, with the aim of having as many people in Australia vaccinated as possible in 2021.

The national COVID-19 vaccine rollout strategy outlines the phases in which vaccines will be made available to different groups.

While waiting for your turn to be vaccinated, it’s important to continue the good COVIDSafe habits adopted over the past year, including:

checking in with the SafeWA app at all times;
practising god hygiene;
maintaining physical distance;
staying at home and getting tested for COVID-19 if you are sick; and
downloading the COVIDSafe app.

I’m under 60 years old. Can I get the AstraZeneca vaccine?

The AstraZeneca vaccine will be prioritised for people aged 60 years and over.

If you are under 60 years of age and have already had your first dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine, and did not experience abnormal side effects, it is recommended that you still receive your second AstraZeneca to protect yourself against severe illness from COVID-19.

If you are aged 18-59 years of age, you can choose to receive the AstraZeneca vaccine:

following an appropriate assessment of suitability by a qualified health professional; and
if you provide verbal or written consent.

ATAGI’s advice on receiving the AstraZeneca vaccine in the case of a COVID-19 outbreak has also changed. In this instance, and where the supply of Pfizer is constrained, ATAGI advises adults aged 60 and under to re-assess the benefits of vaccination with the AstraZeneca vaccine versus the rare risk of a serious side effect.

What are the risks associated with AstraZeneca?

The risk that most people appear concerned about with the AstraZeneca vaccine is blood clotting.

AstraZeneca appears to be associated with a rare side effect called thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome (TTS). TTS involves blood clots and low levels of blood platelets. The blood clots can occur in different parts of the body, such as the brain or in the abdomen.

In Australia, symptoms of TTS have occurred between 4 and 42 days post-vaccination and are more commonly associated with people under 60 years of age.

It’s important to note that the risk of developing TTS is extremely low. In fact, marathon running, drowning and car accidents all present greater risk to the general population than the AstraZeneca vaccine.

While AstraZeneca is preferred for those aged 60 years and over, it can be used in adults under 60 years of age where the benefits clearly outweigh the risk and the person has made an informed decision based on an understanding of the risks and benefits.

Why can’t I just get the vaccine that I want, when I want?

Access to any vaccine approved for use in Australia has been prioritised, ensuring those at greatest risk are vaccinated first.

Specific vaccines will be administered based on availability and clinical guidance on appropriate vaccines for people.

All General Practitioners and vaccine providers must comply with the advice and clinical guidance provided by the Commonwealth Government and ATAGI. For this reason, and your own safety, we are only able to give you the vaccine that you are eligible for, based on the latest health advice.

How can I get vaccinated?

The first thing to do is to check your eligibility and find out when you can receive a vaccine.

If you are eligible, you will be able to view vaccination locations and book an appointment. Bookings in Western Australia can be made via the Roll Up For WA website. Alternatively, you may be able to book in to have your vaccination with your local participating GP.

Vaccination remains the key to protecting our family, friends and community from COVID-19 and to getting back to a more normal way of life.

Having enough people in the community vaccinated against COVID-19 will help to slow down the spread of the disease and make outbreaks much less likely. It will also mean less need for preventative measures, such as border closures and travel restrictions, as well as improvements to the health, social and economic wellbeing of all Australians.

Can I get my COVID-19 vaccine at Illawarra Medical Centre?

Yes. Illawarra Medical Centre has been approved to provide COVID-19 vaccines, in adherence with the rollout of the Australian Government’s COVID-19 vaccination program.

We are currently running COVID-19 Vaccination Clinics on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays for eligible patients, while stocks last. Bookings can be made by phoning us on (08) 9208 6400.

For more information, visit our COVID-19 Vaccines page.

For more information on this topic, visit:

Australian Government Department of Health – https://www.health.gov.au/initiatives-and-programs/covid-19-vaccines
AusVaxSafety – https://www.ausvaxsafety.org.au/
Healthy WA – https://www.healthywa.wa.gov.au/Articles/A_E/Coronavirus/COVID19-vaccine
SmartVax – https://www.smartvax.com.au
World Health Organization – https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/covid-19-vaccines

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Let’s Talk About Men’s Health

walrus — Tue, 15 Jun 2021 02:27:16 +0000

This week is Men’s Health Week, a timely reminder for us to talk about men’s health and raise awareness of the preventable health problems affecting Australia’s men and boys.

We know that men and boys are less likely to talk about or seek help for any health concerns or issues they may have. We also know that men have a shorter life expectancy than women and die more often than women from preventable causes.

So let’s take a look at some of the major health issues affecting men and what can be done to help them live happier, healthier, longer lives.

Men’s Health – The Stats

According to the statistics, a baby boy born in Australia in 2010 has a life expectancy of 78 years, while a baby girl born at the same time can expect to live to 82.3 years of age. Men are also four times more likely to take their own lives than women and are more prone to accidents, cancer and heart disease.

To help address these gaps, the Federal Government developed a National Men’s Health Strategy in 2018 to better engage and support Australian men and boys across all stages of their lives and ensure they can live a long, fulfilling and healthy life.

The National Men’s Health Strategy 2020-2030 sets out a plan to tackle the five key priority health areas for men, including:

Mental health
Chronic conditions
Sexual and reproductive health
Injuries and risk taking
Healthy ageing

Men and Mental Health

Mental health is about our ability to maintain healthy relationships with others and cope and function with the everyday trials, triumphs and challenges that life throws our way.

Continued or long-term feelings of distress and/or the inability to function and maintain relationships with others is a cause for concern and could indicate a mental illness.

The earlier we seek help for any mental health concerns, the better; particularly as mental health conditions are associated with poor physical health and premature death from suicide.

Globally, men account for 3 out of 4 suicides. In Australia, that equates to the loss of 191 men per month by suicide, as highlighted in this video from Movember>>

There are a number of simple things men can do to help maintain good mental health, including:

Stay connected – spend time with people who make you feel good.
Talk – if you are struggling with your mental health, talk to your GP or someone you trust.
Listen – if you know someone is having mental health issues, check in with them regularly.
Eat well – eating a healthy diet is not only good for your physical health, it can also help to give you a better overall sense of wellbeing.
Move more – keeping active can help you stay physically fit and mentally healthy and provides a healthy outlet for everyday stresses.
Cut back on drugs and alcohol – drugs and alcohol change the way your body and brain work and can cause symptoms of anxiety and depression or make an existing problem worse.
Get plenty of sleep – a good night’s sleep is crucial for your mental health and physical wellbeing.

Men and Chronic Health Conditions

Together, there are seven chronic health conditions that contribute to half of all adult male deaths in Australia. These are:

Coronary Heart Disease (CHD)
Cerebrovascular Disease
Type 2 Diabetes
Bowel Cancer
Lung Cancer
Dementia; and
Chronic Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

Healthy lifestyle choices and reducing risk factors are key prevention tools against these chronic health conditions. To help reduce your risk:

Stay physically active by getting 150 minutes or more of moderate to vigorous physical activity per week and be active on 5 or more days per week.
Eat a balanced diet that includes sufficient fruit and vegetables and limit discretionary foods and drinks.
Maintain a healthy weight.
Steer clear of smoking and illicit substance use; and
Reduce your alcohol consumption.

Men and Sexual and Reproductive Health

Prostate and testicular cancer are both found in the male reproductive system, with prostate cancer being the second most commonly diagnosed cancer in males, accounting for a quarter of all cancer diagnoses.

Testicular cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in younger males aged 20-39 years.

While the survival rate for both cancers is high, early detection is the key. If you are aged over 50, are 45+ and of African or Caribbean descent, or have a family history of prostate cancer, talk to your GP about Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) testing. This is a simple routine blood test that measures the PSA concentration in your blood.

One of the easiest ways to reduce your risk of testicular cancer is to do a regular self-check and get to know what’s normal for you so that if things do change, you can act on it quickly. This short video from Movember shows you how>>

Men, Injuries and Risk Taking

According to the National Men’s Health Strategy 2020-2030, men account for the majority of the overall health burden related to injuries in Australia. This includes injuries due to assault and homicide, poisoning, alcohol and drugs, transport accidents, burns, drownings and falls, workplace related injuries, and self-inflicted injuries and suicide.

Males have been found to be more likely to engage in risk-taking behaviour compared to females from an early age, and these behaviours tend to peak during adolescents and young adulthood.

One simple way to reduce your risk of injury is to stop and think twice before taking part in any potentially unsafe activity. If you think something is unsafe or dangerous, then you should probably avoid it. Keeping involved in sports, recreational activities, work and/or social networks can also help reduce the need to engage in risk-taking behaviours.

Men and Healthy Ageing

Eight of the ten top causes of death in Australian men are typically diseases of older age, including coronary heart disease (CHD), lung cancer, dementia, stroke, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), prostate cancer, bowel cancer and diabetes.

Taking a proactive approach to your health is the best way to influence your health and wellbeing as you get older and decreases your risk of developing chronic health conditions in later life.

This includes:

Remaining physically active throughout life;
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and diet; and
Staying active socially and regularly engaging with family, friends and community.

Concerned about your health?

At Illawarra Medical Centre, we provide a range of men’s health services and work with our male patients to better understand and treat the health issues affecting them. We can provide assistance with blood pressure, prostate, cholesterol, diabetes, fertility, cardiovascular disease and general health concerns.

So, if you have any health concerns, book in with one of our GPs. Appointments can be made online or by contacting us directly on (08) 9208 6400.

For more information on this topic, visit:

Australian Government Department of Health – https://www.health.gov.au/
Australian Institute of Health and Welfare – https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/men-women/male-health/contents/who-are-australias-males
Australian Men’s Health Forum – https://www.amhf.org.au/
Health Direct – https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/mens-health
Healthy Male (Andrology Australia) – https://www.healthymale.org.au/mens-health-week#cpnExplore
Men’s Health Week – https://www.menshealthweek.org.au/
Movember – https://au.movember.com/mens-health/general
Western Sydney University Men’s Health Information and Resource Centre – https://www.westernsydney.edu.au/mhirc/mens_health_information_and_resource_centre

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Thyroid Health

walrus — Mon, 24 May 2021 05:43:01 +0000

As part of Thyroid Awareness Month in May, we thought we’d take a closer look at thyroid health, including the function of the thyroid and how to keep it healthy.

What is the thyroid?

The thyroid gland is a butterfly shaped endocrine gland, located in the lower front of the neck.

The job of the thyroid is to make thyroid hormones, which are secreted into the blood and carried around to every tissue in the body. These hormones help the body to use energy, stay warm and keep the brain, heart, muscles and other organs all working as they should. Thyroid hormones are responsible for controlling your metabolism. They also help regulate blood pressure, body temperature, heart rate and growth.

Thyroid Problems

When the thyroid produces too many or too few hormones, it can result in problems with your thyroid. It is estimated that almost one in six Australians has a thyroid problem, with statistics indicating around 1 million Australian’s have some type of undiagnosed thyroid disorder.

Women are more affected than men and the chances of developing a thyroid problem increase with age.

There are three main types of thyroid problems that people experience:

Hyperthyroidism
Hypothyroidism
Thyroid Cancer

Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland becomes overactive and produces more hormones than needed. This causes your metabolism to speed up and makes your body work harder and faster.

The most common cause of hyperthyroidism is Graves’ disease – an autoimmune disorder caused by your own immune system antibodies attacking your body.

There are a number of symptoms associated with hyperthyroidism, including:

Nervousness, anxiety, irritability and high emotions;
High libido;
Tremors and muscle weakness;
Heat intolerance and excessive perspiration;
Fatigue and interrupted sleeping patterns;
Unexplained weight loss or weight gain;
Increased heart rate and palpitations;
Rapid pulse;
Infrequent menstrual cycles and bleeding patterns;
Difficulties getting pregnant;
Diarrhoea;
Shortness of breath, especially when exercising;
Loss or thinning of hair;
Enlarged thyroid gland (goitre); and
Double vision and swollen eyes.

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland becomes underactive and fails to produce the amount of hormones needed. This slows down your body’s metabolism gradually over time. It is the most common thyroid disorder in Australia and mainly affects women over 40 years of age.

Hypothyroidism is usually due to Hashimoto’s Disease – an autoimmune thyroid disease. A diet low in iodine is another major cause of hypothyroidism.

The common signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism include:

Depression, feeling withdrawn, and a lack of motivation;
Inability to concentrate;
Body fatigue, muscle aches, and low energy levels;
Needing more sleep;
Intolerance to cold temperatures;
Unexplained weight gain;
Dry skin and/or pale skin and facial bloating;
Hair loss or thinning out;
Constipation;
Heavy, irregular, or prolonged menstrual periods;
Goitre (an enlarged thyroid gland that is visible); and
Slower heart rate.

Thyroid Cancer

Thyroid cancer occurs when cells within the thyroid gland divide and grow in a disorderly manner and become malignant. It is the ninth most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia and affects more than twice as many women than men.

The five-year survival rate for thyroid cancer is 97%. Early detection, diagnosis and treatment remain key to successfully fighting the disease.

Thyroid cancer can often develop with no obvious signs; however, if you have one or more of the following symptoms, talk to your GP:

A lump in the neck or throat, particularly if it gets bigger over time.
Difficulty breathing or swallowing.
Swollen lymph glands in the neck.
A hoarse voice.

How are thyroid problems diagnosed?

Problems with thyroid hormone levels can be diagnosed with a simple blood test. If your blood test confirms you have hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism, your GP will refer you to an endocrinologist who specialises in hormone conditions. Your endocrinologist may send you for further tests and scans.

While these conditions aren’t curable, the good news is that they can generally be easily managed with medication and/or treatment.

For those with hypothyroidism, eating foods containing iodine can help to improve thyroid function. Iodine is a chemical element that is essential for producing thyroid hormones; however, as our bodies don’t produce iodine, it needs to be sourced through our diet.

The easiest way to get iodine from your diet is through salt. Other sources of iodine include:

Seafood;
Milk or dairy products, such as yoghurt and cheese;
Eggs; and
Any foods containing iodised salt.

Concerned about your thyroid?

If you are concerned about your thyroid health, book in with one of our GPs to discuss your concerns. Appointments can be made online or by contacting us directly on (08) 9208 6400.

Illawarra Medical Centre also has an onsite specialist endocrinologist – Dr Imran Badshah – available for appointments with a referral from your GP. Dr Badshah consults on all aspects of endocrinology, including thyroid and parathyroid disorders.

For more information on this topic, visit:

Better Health – https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/thyroid-gland
Health Direct – https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/thyroid-problems
Healthy WA https://healthywa.wa.gov.au/Articles/S_T/The-thyroid-gland
House of Wellness – https://www.houseofwellness.com.au/health/conditions/foods-help-improve-thyroid-function
The Australian Thyroid Foundation – https://thyroidfoundation.org.au/

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Why you should get your flu vaccine this year

walrus — Thu, 22 Apr 2021 05:56:02 +0000

With all the focus on COVID-19 vaccines in recent months, many people may be wondering if they need to bother with their annual flu vaccine this year.

The short answer is YES! Flu remains a potentially serious disease and it is important to continue to vaccinate against it each and every year.

What is influenza?

Influenza, or the flu, is a highly contagious viral disease that is easily spread through coughing, touching and sneezing. It can often be mistaken for a common cold. However, flu tends to last longer and be more debilitating.

While most people experience symptoms such as fever, headache, sore throat, runny nose, cough, tiredness and general aches and pains, children can experience more uncommon symptoms such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea.

Influenza can cause severe illness or death, particularly among high risk groups, including children under five, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with serious medical conditions.

Who should get vaccinated?

Anyone over the age of 6 months is encouraged to get vaccinated annually against influenza.

Those at greatest risk of serious complications from influenza are eligible to receive the vaccine for free, through the Australian Government’s National Immunisation Program (NIP). This includes:

Children aged 6 months to <5 years
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
Adults aged 65 years and over
Pregnant women
Anyone aged 6 months and over who has:
- heart disease
- severe asthma (requiring frequent medical consultations or use of multiple medications)
- chronic lung conditions
- diseases of the nervous system that affect breathing
- impaired immunity
- diabetes
- kidney disease
- haemoglobinopathies
- children aged 6 months to 10 years on long-term aspirin therapy

In Western Australia, all primary school aged children from pre-primary to Year 6, are also eligible to receive the influenza vaccine for free.

While social distancing, travel restrictions and good hygiene measures due to the COVID-19 pandemic contributed to a decline in flu cases and deaths last year, the flu vaccine remains key to helping reduce the severity and spread of seasonal influenza this year.

This brochure from the Australian Government Department of Health provides more information on how to protect yourself from influenza in 2021. View brochure here>>

Is the flu vaccine safe for children?

Children under 5 years of age are one of the groups at greatest risk of developing this highly contagious viral disease and experiencing serious health complications as a result.

Flu vaccines are perfectly safe for children. Like any vaccine, it is possible that some children may experience a reaction; however, the risk of the flu vaccine causing serious harm is very low.

In Australia, all vaccines must pass strict safety testing before being approved for use by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). We also have a national program – AusVaxSafety – that monitors the type and rate of reactions to each year’s new influenza vaccine in young children.

At Illawarra Medical Centre, we utilise the SmartVax system as an additional vaccine safety measure for our patients. SmartVax uses SMS and smartphone technology to actively monitor vaccine safety in real time and feeds into the AusVaxSafety program.

How safe is the vaccine for pregnant women?

The influenza vaccine has been given safely to millions of pregnant women worldwide over many years and pregnant women are strongly recommended to get the influenza vaccine.

Those who do get influenza while pregnant are at higher risk of hospitalization, and even death, than non-pregnant women.

Not only does the vaccine protect pregnant mothers against influenza, it also helps to protect their unborn babies from the disease.

In fact, research shows that the risk of stillbirth is reduced by 51% in pregnant women who are immunised against influenza. The antibodies produced by pregnant mothers from the influenza immunisation can also help to protect their babies for up to 6 months after birth.

Click here for more information on the influenza vaccine in pregnancy>>

Which vaccine should I get first – COVID or flu?

With both COVID-19 and influenza vaccines available at the same time in Australia, it can be difficult to know which vaccine to get first and when.

COVID-19 vaccination remains a priority, so if you meet Phase 1a or 1b eligibility, it is recommended you book in for your COVID-19 vaccine first.

Those in these categories include:

Quarantine, border and front line health care workers
Frontline health care workers
Aged care and disability care staff
Aged care and disability care residents
Patients aged 70 years and over
Health care workers
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders aged 55 years and over
Adults with an underlying medical condition or significant disability
Critical and high risk workers, including defence, police, fire, emergency services, and meat processing workers.

Check your eligibility for the COVID-19 vaccine here>>

Even if you do get your COVID-19 vaccine first, the flu vaccine can be given in between your two COVID-19 vaccine doses, so long as they are given 14 days apart.

If you are not yet eligible to receive your COVID-19 vaccination, then you should book in for your flu vaccine as soon as it becomes available.

When booking in for your flu vaccination, it’s important to tell your vaccination provider if you have received the COVID-19 vaccine and when, so that they can best plan your appointment.

Flu Clinics at IMC

Illawarra Medical Centre will be running flu vaccination clinics at our practice, as stocks become available. We currently have flu vaccines available for those aged 65 years and over.

Our flu clinics will be held at our adjacent DermCosmesis building and are available Monday to Friday from 9am-12pm and 2-3pm.

Bookings are essential. Visit the website for further details or to make a booking.

For more information on this topic, visit:

Australian Government Department of Health – https://www.health.gov.au/health-topics/flu-influenza
Health Direct – https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/influenza-a-flu
Healthy WA – https://healthywa.wa.gov.au/Articles/F_I/Flu-influenza
World Health Organization – https://www.who.int/health-topics/influenza-seasonal#tab=tab_1

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Flushing out the salty facts on kidney health

walrus — Wed, 17 Mar 2021 05:18:58 +0000

With March bringing us Salt Awareness Week (8-14 March), World Kidney Day (11 March) and Kidney Awareness Week (15-21 March), we thought we’d take a closer look at how salt impacts on your kidney health.

What do kidneys do?

Most people are born with two kidneys. The organs are shaped like a bean and sit in your abdomen, below the ribs at the back. They are around the size of your fist and each kidney weighs around 150 grams.

Kidneys are a very important part of your overall health. Their main function is to filter out waste products, excess water, and other impurities from your blood and turn these into urine.

Not only that, but they also help to keep your blood pressure regular and manage your body’s production of Vitamin D, which is crucial for maintaining strong bones and producing red blood cells that carry oxygen around your body.

Kidneys are one of the hardest working organs in your body. They clean around 200 litres of blood per day, with your entire blood supply cycling through your kidneys at a rate of around 12 times per hour!

Kidney Disease

When your kidneys don’t function as well as they should, waste gradually builds up in your body and can result in kidney disease.

Kidney disease impacts 1.7 million Australians each year. Most kidney disease occurs gradually, over several years. It often goes undetected in the early stages. In fact, people can lose up to 90 percent of kidney function before any symptoms appear.

What are the symptoms of kidney disease?

While symptoms of kidney disease are often rare, there are some noticeable signs of reduced kidney function. These include:

High blood pressure;
Changes in the amount and number of times urine is passed;
Changes in the appearance of your urine (for example, frothy or foaming urine)
Blood in your urine;
Puffiness in your legs, ankles, or around your eyes;
Pain in your kidney area;
Tiredness;
Loss of appetite;
Difficulty sleeping;
Headaches;
Lack of concentration;
Itching;
Shortness of breath;
Nausea and vomiting;
Bad breath and a metallic taste in your mouth;
Muscle cramps;
Pins and needles in your fingers and toes.

There are a number of other factors that can also increase your risk of developing kidney disease.

These include:

Diabetes;
High blood pressure;
Established heart problems (including heart failure, heart attack or stroke);
A family history of kidney disease or kidney failure;
Obesity;
Smoking;
Being aged 60 years or older;
Being of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander origin; and
A history of acute kidney injury.

To see if you are at risk of developing kidney disease, take the Kidney Risk Test>>

If you experience any of the symptoms or risk factors outlined above or are concerned about your kidney health, make sure you see your GP sooner, rather than later.

The good news is that when kidney disease is detected early, changes to lifestyle, diet and medication can be implemented to help prevent any further damage.

How does salt impact on kidney health?

We all know that too much salt is bad for our health, but did you know that one of the reasons for this is the impact it can have on our kidney health?

Eating too much salt can make it harder for your kidneys to do their job in removing excess fluid. This extra fluid can build up and result in increased blood pressure and may also result in shortness of breath and swelling of your ankles, feet, hands, and puffiness under your eyes.

According to the UK led World Action on Salt and Health (WASH), a diet high in salt has been shown to increase the amount of protein in urine, which is a major risk factor for the decline of kidney function. In addition, there is increasing evidence that a high salt intake may increase the level of deterioration of kidneys in those people who are already suffering from kidney disease.

How to reduce your salt intake

According to Kidney Health Australia, the recommended daily salt intake for adults is less than 6g a day (or about a teaspoon of salt) and less than that for babies and children under 11 years of age.

Most salt in our diet comes from processed foods or by adding it directly to food during cooking or at the dinner table.

Some of the easiest ways to reduce your salt intake at home include:

Eating a balanced diet consisting of fruit, vegetables, wholegrains, proteins and low-fat dairy products;
Limiting your consumption of salty snacks and processed foods;
Avoiding adding salt during the preparation of food when cooking. Instead, use herbs and spices to give more flavour to your food;
Keeping the salt shaker OFF the dinner table at meal times; and
Choosing products with a lower sodium content, when shopping.

Keeping your kidneys healthy

There are a number of other simple ways to help keep your kidneys healthy

These include:

Avoiding smoking. People who smoke are three times more likely to have reduced kidney function.
Keeping up with regular exercise and being active most days of the week.
Minimising long periods of time sitting.
Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water and avoiding soft drinks and fruit juice.
Minimising alcohol and limiting your intake to less than two standard drinks per day. Excessive drinking can lead to high blood pressure, and this increases the risk of kidney disease.

Concerned about kidney health?

If you are concerned about your kidney health, book in with one of our GPs to discuss your concerns. Appointments can be made online or by contacting us directly on (08) 9208 6400.

For more information on this topic, visit:

Health Direct – https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/kidneys
Kidney Health Australia – https://kidney.org.au
Kidney Risk Test – http://kidney.org.au/kidneyrisktest/
National Kidney Foundation, USA – https://www.kidney.org/atoz/content/sodiumckd
World Action on Salt – http://www.worldactiononsalt.com/salthealth/factsheets/kidney/
World Kidney Day – https://www.worldkidneyday.org

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