We all feel anxious at times. It can even help our performance in certain situations. The challenges of modern life, social media and even what we eat have been associated with increased feelings of anxiety. So when is feeling anxious part of the normal ups and downs of everyday living and when is it a health issue?

Your body needs water to work properly, but it’s not always easy to know if you are drinking enough, especially in the summer months. Excessive sweating on hot days or when exercising vigorously can cause significant fluid loss. So while you may be drinking, it may not be enough. 

Did you know severe eczema may be a sign of food allergy in young babies? Food allergies usually occur soon after eating the food or within two hours. According to Allergy and Anaphylaxis Australia, some babies can be sensitised to a food protein through breast milk or creams that contain food allergens such as nuts, oils, milk or egg.
 
The most serious symptoms of food allergy (anaphylaxis) are breathing difficulties and/or a sudden drop in blood pressure. Your infant may appear pale and floppy. This severe reaction can be life threatening. Follow emergency procedures (scroll down to see what to do in an emergency) then dial 000 immediately for an ambulance.

With childhood allergy rapidly on the rise in Australia, managing allergies and making the right decision in an emergency can be a challenge for parents, grandparents, babysitters, teachers and other carers.
 
It’s estimated 40 per cent of children will be affected by some kind of allergy. Currently there is no cure for allergies, and research is now aimed at finding ways to prevent allergies from developing.

This year’s improved flu vaccination is now available at clinic. We encourage you to take advantage of our convenient flu vaccination clinics. Please contact us on 5422 2877 to book a time. Should you wish to discuss health-related vaccination issues before having your vaccination, please book to see your GP.

Confusion often arises because the symptoms of food intolerances and allergies can appear similar when mild or moderate. While symptoms of food intolerances may be unpleasant or debilitating, the immune system is not involved in food intolerances and therefore there is no chance of a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis).

With popular medical TV shows putting the spotlight on the link between our gut health and physical and mental wellbeing, even usually polite conversation is venturing to previously unmentionable areas: poo, bowels, faecal transplants, farting, bloating, constipation, diarrhoea and cramping.

Gut issues are a hot topic. How the food you eat affects the microorganisms in your gut - and how your gut microbiome affects your health - is being keenly studied by researchers worldwide.

Feeling tired and irritable? Then you may be one of the many Australians in the grip of a national sleep deprivation epidemic, according to the Sleep Heath Foundation. Newly published results from a national survey last year found a third to almost half of adults sleep poorly or not long enough most nights.

Flu season is a time of sharing (germs) and caring. If you’ve ever had seasonal influenza, you certainly wouldn’t want it again - or want to share it with friends and family. That’s where the caring bit comes in. Having an annual flu shot is your best protection against weeks of illness and recovery with the virus. Plus, by being vaccinated you may be saving the lives of others in your community. 2017 vaccines are available at Campaspe Family Practice now.