spliceteam, Author at The Banyans https://thebanyansmedicalcentre.com.au/author/spliceteam/ Medical Centre and Specialist Clinics Mon, 14 Sep 2026 04:12:06 +0000 en-AU hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.1.3 https://thebanyansmedicalcentre.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/cropped-TB_Favicon-1-32x32.png spliceteam, Author at The Banyans https://thebanyansmedicalcentre.com.au/author/spliceteam/ 32 32 Women’s health checks by age: what to book and when https://thebanyansmedicalcentre.com.au/womens-health-checks-by-age-what-to-book-and-when/ Mon, 24 Aug 2026 05:07:23 +0000 https://thebanyansmedicalcentre.com.au/?p=3682 Like many women, you’re probably at the bottom of your own to-do list. The kids’ appointments get booked before yours do. Work...

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]]> Like many women, you’re probably at the bottom of your own to-do list. The kids’ appointments get booked before yours do. Work is flat out. The cervical screening reminder text sits unread for three months, then six. You know women’s preventive healthcare matters, but there’s always something more urgent.

Once you do manage to carve out some time, what should you be getting checked? There’s no single answer to that. It depends on your age and life stage, family history, sexual activity, and overall health.

An ongoing relationship with a GP, rather than a one-off appointment, often makes it easier to stay on top of your health needs. Broadly, here are the health checks women should consider at each stage of life.

Your 20s and 30s: laying the groundwork

At this age, it’s worth finding a GP you like and seeing them consistently when you need to. This builds a relationship over time and makes it less daunting to talk about bigger issues if or when you need to.

And some big issues do creep up in your 20s and 30s – contraception and fertility concerns, pregnancy care, heavy periods, endometriosis, and mental health difficulties, to name just a few.

Your 20s and 30s are a good time to raise anything that’s nagging at you: contraception that isn’t working for you, periods that are heavier or more painful than they should be, questions about fertility or pregnancy timing. None of it needs to wait for a “real” reason.

Cervical screening

If you’re over 25, have a cervix and have ever been sexually active, then you’re eligible for cervical screening every 5 years under the National Cervical Screening Program.

The old Pap smear has been replaced with a new test that checks for HPV, the virus behind most cervical cell changes. Our GPs can collect your sample, or you can do the swab yourself if you prefer.

STI testing

Many sexually transmitted infections are slow to show symptoms, meaning you may have one without knowing it. If you’ve had unprotected sex, have started a new relationship or have any reason for concern, please book an appointment with our GPs for a blood or urine test. Results are usually available within a couple of days.

Your 40s and 50s: the checklist gets longer

By this age, you can’t take good health for granted. You’re eligible for more preventive checks, and you may also have new things to discuss with your doctor, such as perimenopause.

45-49-year-old health check

If you’re at risk of developing a chronic condition, your GP may recommend a Medicare-funded health check for 45-49-year-olds. Your GP will usually discuss your full health history, conduct an examination and test your blood pressure, cholesterol and blood glucose. They’ll also discuss lifestyle issues like your weight, diet, smoking, alcohol intake and physical activity levels.

From there, your GP can develop a preventive plan to reduce your risk of developing cardiovascular disease or diabetes, for example.

Cancer screening

You remain eligible for cervical screening every 5 years, and you become eligible for two new cancer screening programs too.

Once you hit 40, you can choose to have a free mammogram every 2 years through BreastScreen Australia. Once you hit 50, you’ll receive regular invitations to this service, which aims to identify any early signs of breast cancer.

From age 45-74, you’re eligible for a simple at-home test under the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program every two years. If you were a Dawson’s Creek fan, you’ll be aware of James Van Der Beek’s recent death from bowel cancer, which is increasingly affecting younger age groups. When the test arrives in your letterbox, please don’t ignore it – if it’s identified early, it’s often easier to treat.

Remember, cancer screening is for people without symptoms. If you do have any symptoms, such as a breast change, unexpected bleeding or a shift in bowel habits, please see your GP immediately.

Your 60s and beyond: staying ahead of it

Preventive care doesn’t stop mattering once menopause is behind you. If anything, appointments start pulling more threads together at once: bone density, medications, mobility, cardiovascular risk, and ongoing screening.

All 3 cancer screening programs generally continue until age 74. In addition, it’s worth being proactive about maintaining your bone health as osteoporosis risk increases after menopause.

Personalised care at every age and stage of life

Screening programs are valuable, and we encourage you to participate. However, they’re based on population health models, not built for you specifically. Family history, past results, symptoms, sexual health, pregnancy plans and existing conditions can all shift the timeline earlier, or mean certain checks should be done more often.

At the Banyans Medical Centre, our GPs consider far more than your age. We look at preventive care in the context of your whole health history and can guide you on what to prioritise and when.

If it’s been a while since you were top of your own list, then please put yourself at the top of ours. Book an appointment for a women’s health care review in Bowen Hills and we’ll help you work out the next steps.

Book an appointment

Disclaimer: All information is general and not intended as a substitute for professional advice.

References

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]]> What triggers asthma symptoms, and how to manage them in adults and children https://thebanyansmedicalcentre.com.au/asthma-symptoms-and-management-in-adults-and-children/ Mon, 20 Jul 2026 04:23:40 +0000 https://thebanyansmedicalcentre.com.au/?p=3525 Over the years, you develop an instinct about asthma, learning to tell when you or your child is struggling a little more...

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]]> Over the years, you develop an instinct about asthma, learning to tell when you or your child is struggling a little more to breathe or find energy for the day. Sometimes, you’re battling a virus; other times it’s seasonal weather patterns and pollen counts. 

Asthma affects around 1 in 9 Australian adults and 1 in 5 children, and it’s highly individual. Two people with the same diagnosis can have completely different triggers.  

What is asthma?

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory condition of the airways. The airways are more sensitive than usual, and certain exposures cause them to become inflamed and narrowed, making it harder to breathe. That produces hallmark symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. Symptoms tend to change over time, which is why ongoing GP review matters.

Common asthma triggers

Asthma triggers vary from one person to another, but common ones include:  

  • Respiratory infections: Viral infections are the single most common trigger, accounting for an estimated 80% of asthma flares in children and roughly half to three-quarters in adults. The common cold, RSV and flu can all exacerbate asthma. 
  • Allergens: House dust mites are a major year-round trigger in Australia’s humid coastal climate, along with mould, pet dander and pollen, particularly on warm, dry, windy days.
  • Exercise: Physical activity can bring on symptoms, especially with cold or dry air.
  • Cold air and weather changes: Sudden shifts in temperature or humidity are well-recognised triggers, often worsening symptoms overnight or in the morning.
  • Smoke, strong scents and pollution: Cigarette and bushfire smoke, air pollution, and strong fragrances can all irritate sensitive airways.
  • Stress and strong emotions: You breathe faster when you’re angry, stressed, anxious or upset. And, if you’re dealing with ongoing stress or depression, you may not have the capacity to manage your asthma well. 

Often, a combination of triggers sets off an asthma attack. You’ve caught a cold, the house is dusty, and you’re feeling stressed. Perfect conditions for an asthma flare. 

Asthma in children: what parents tend to notice

Asthma is the most common long-term condition affecting Australian children, with roughly 1 in 5 diagnosed at some point. Watch for a persistent or recurring cough (often worse at night or with exercise), wheezing, rapid or laboured breathing, and unusual tiredness or reluctance to keep up with play.

Asthma also ripples into a child’s wider life: disrupted sleep, missed sport, anxiety around exercise or sleepovers, and a knock to confidence if symptoms flare in front of classmates. Starting or returning to school can play a role too, with exposure to new viruses, dust mites, and stress. 

Building an asthma action plan

An asthma action plan is an individualised document developed with a GP, setting out a person’s usual medications, known triggers, and what to do as symptoms change. It may use a colour-coded system to show when things are stable, when caution is needed, and when urgent care is required.

Plans usually have 4 main sections: 

  1. Daily asthma care
  2. Handling a mild flare-up
  3. Handling a severe flare-up
  4. Actions to take in an asthma emergency.  

Plans should be shared with teachers and carers and reviewed annually (sooner if symptoms change). 

Everyday management strategies

You can reduce your exposure to common asthma triggers by: 

  • Reducing dust mite exposure by regularly washing bedding and ensuring good ventilation
  • Reducing the risk of catching a virus by washing hands thoroughly and getting your flu jab annually
  • Working with your doctor to time medication before exercise so you can stay fit
  • Managing stress and being aware of its impact on your asthma. 

Asthma shifts with growth, seasons and life changes; regular GP review can be helpful to ensure your asthma strategy matches your current needs.   

When to seek medical support

Discuss any new or worsening symptoms with a GP, particularly if:

  • Reliever medication is needed more than 2-3 times a week
  • Night-time symptoms disrupt sleep
  • A child is missing school. 

Seek urgent care if:

  • Breathing becomes severely laboured
  • Your reliever inhaler doesn’t provide relief
  • Lips or fingertips appear blue or grey.

A GP-led approach to ongoing asthma care

Managing asthma can help you or your child breathe more comfortably and keep everyday life on track. 

At The Banyans Medical Centre, our GPs take a proactive approach to asthma, talking with you about your symptoms, triggers, sleep, stress and family routine. Private, unhurried consultations give space to properly review an asthma action plan and put a personalised approach in place for adults and children alike.

Book an appointment


Disclaimer: All information is general and not intended as a substitute for professional advice.  

References

The post What triggers asthma symptoms, and how to manage them in adults and children appeared first on The Banyans.

]]> Flu symptoms and recovery: what to know during flu season https://thebanyansmedicalcentre.com.au/flu-symptoms-and-recovery-what-to-know-during-flu-season/ Tue, 30 Jun 2026 02:18:11 +0000 https://thebanyansmedicalcentre.com.au/?p=3166 You wake up feeling a little off. Perhaps you went to bed with a scratchy throat or a mild headache. By lunchtime,...

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]]> You wake up feeling a little off.

Perhaps you went to bed with a scratchy throat or a mild headache. By lunchtime, you’re exhausted. Your body aches. Even simple tasks feel harder than they should. You cancel plans, move meetings, and tell yourself you’ll be fine after an early night.

But you’re not.

Influenza, commonly known as the flu, has a way of stopping life in its tracks. During flu season, many people are surprised by how quickly symptoms can develop and how long it can take to feel like themselves again.

For busy professionals, parents and carers, the disruption often extends beyond physical symptoms. Illness and the slow process of recovery can have an impact on your energy levels, work rhythm, exercise routines and sleep patterns.  

What is the flu?

Influenza is a highly contagious viral infection that affects the respiratory system, including the nose, throat and lungs. Most people recover relatively easily at home, but some groups are at higher risk of serious illness, including the very young and old, smokers, and those with underlying health conditions or pregnancy. 

Flu cases usually peak in winter and, each year in Australia, flu causes about 3,500 deaths, 18,000 hospitalisations and 300,000 visits to a GP. The flu should be taken seriously. 

What are common flu symptoms?

Flu symptoms commonly include:

  • Fever
  • Chills or sweats
  • Muscle aches and body pain
  • Headache
  • Fatigue or extreme tiredness
  • Cough
  • Sore throat
  • Runny or blocked nose

Some people may also experience nausea, vomiting or diarrhoea, particularly children. 

It may take a week or so for most symptoms to fade, though you may find that the cough and fatigue drag on for a fortnight more.

How long does flu recovery take?

Flu can strike quickly and linger like an unwelcome guest. Fever, congestion and body aches may start to ease by the end of the first week, but the fatigue and cough may persist for weeks after the initial infection has resolved.

Recovery is rarely a straight line, and many people find they need more rest than expected. It can be frustrating to be under pressure to pick up your responsibilities when your energy, concentration and exercise tolerance have not fully returned. 

It is not uncommon to feel:

  • More tired than usual
  • Less productive or mentally sharp
  • Frustrated by reduced energy levels
  • Slower to return to your usual routine.

Looking after yourself during flu recovery

Resting when you have the flu allows your body to direct energy towards healing and immune function. Try to:

  • Stay hydrated
  • Prioritise sleep and rest
  • Return to normal activities gradually
  • Eat regular, nutritious meals when possible
  • Avoid strenuous exercise until symptoms have improved
  • Follow medical advice regarding symptom management.

When should you see a doctor for flu?

Many cases of influenza can be managed at home with rest, fluids and symptom management, but there are times when medical review is appropriate.

Please see your GP if:

  • Symptoms are severe or worsening
  • You are having difficulty breathing
  • Fever is persistent or returns after improving
  • Symptoms are not improving as expected
  • You are pregnant
  • You have underlying medical conditions
  • Recovery feels unusually prolonged
  • You’re in a higher-risk group, such as:
    • Children under 5
    • Adults over 65
    • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

If you’re not sure what you should do, you can call 1800MEDICARE (1800 633 422) for 24/7 advice from a registered nurse. 

How can we help?

Flu can have a significant impact on your energy, productivity, family life and overall wellbeing. We provide comprehensive primary care, preventive health support and personalised advice to help you recover and return to your usual routine.

Please book an appointment if you would like support during flu season.

Disclaimer: All information is general and not intended as a substitute for professional advice.  

References

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]]> Trauma, stress and sleep: when symptoms may point to PTSD https://thebanyansmedicalcentre.com.au/ptsd-symptoms-trauma-stress-sleep/ Sat, 06 Jun 2026 23:45:26 +0000 https://thebanyansmedicalcentre.com.au/?p=3084 You’re functioning. Mostly. You’re still getting through work, meeting deadlines, getting the kids where they need to be and doing what’s expected...

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]]> You’re functioning. Mostly.

You’re still getting through work, meeting deadlines, getting the kids where they need to be and doing what’s expected of you.

But something has changed.

You’re more irritable than you used to be (in fact, downright angry at times). Your sleep is poor. You overreact to things. You feel constantly on edge, yet you can’t switch your mind off, and your concentration is starting to slip.

Many high-functioning professionals describe feeling as though their nervous system is permanently “on”. That could be due to chronic stress, burnout, anxiety or grief. But there’s also another condition that can affect sleep, stress responses, concentration, and emotional regulation: could you have PTSD?

What is PTSD?

PTSD is a mental health condition that can develop after someone experiences or witnesses a traumatic event, such as:

  • Serious accidents or injuries
  • Physical or sexual assault
  • Family violence
  • Military service or combat exposure
  • Medical trauma, such as a life-threatening emergency or a high-risk birth
  • Sudden loss
  • Natural disasters, like bushfires or floods
  • Repeated exposure to distressing situations through work or caregiving roles (think nurses or first responders).

Trauma has an impact on everyone who experiences it, but for most people, those symptoms pass with time and with the right support.

PTSD risk is linked to the type and severity of the trauma. It’s more likely to be triggered by sexual assault, abuse, military combat and terrorist incidents than by car crashes or natural disasters.

You are more likely to develop PTSD if you:

  • Experienced someone causing deliberate harm
  • Were exposed to repeated trauma at work, for example, soldiers, paramedics, firefighters or nurses
  • Experienced other stresses after the trauma, such as losing your home, your job or someone you love
  • Are prone to anxiety or depression
  • Didn’t have enough support after the traumatic event. 

PTSD can only be diagnosed by an appropriately qualified health professional using recognised diagnostic criteria. About 12% of Australians experience PTSD at some point, although rates may be higher among defence personnel, emergency workers, healthcare professionals and people exposed to repeated trauma.

Common PTSD symptoms

PTSD symptoms can vary significantly between individuals. Some people notice symptoms shortly after trauma, while others experience delayed symptoms months later.

Common post-traumatic stress symptoms may include:

  • Feeling constantly on edge: hypervigilance, irritability, exaggerated startle responses, or difficulty fully relaxing
  • Sleep problems: sleep disruption, nightmares, difficulty switching off, not feeling refreshed when you wake up
  • Intrusive memories or flashbacks: triggering strong emotional or physical reactions
  • Avoidance: deliberately not being in conversations, situations, or environments that remind you of distressing experiences
  • Changes in mood or thinking: anxiety, emotional numbness, withdrawal, guilt, low mood, or difficulty feeling emotionally connected to others
  • Difficulty concentrating: decline in focus, memory, productivity, and cognitive performance.

These symptoms exist on a spectrum and do not automatically indicate PTSD. However, persistent symptoms that interfere with daily life may benefit from professional support.

Can someone have “high-functioning” PTSD?

Some people continue performing highly at work and maintaining daily responsibilities while quietly experiencing significant trauma-related symptoms.

The term “high-functioning PTSD” is not a formal medical diagnosis, but it may aptly describe people in high-pressure roles who prioritise productivity and compartmentalise distress. In some cases, maintaining high levels of achievement or constant busyness can become part of how people cope with unresolved stress or trauma.

How trauma can affect sleep

After distressing or overwhelming experiences, the nervous system can remain in a heightened state of alert, responding as though it needs to remain prepared for danger. That can make it hard to rest.

Sleep problems like insomnia and nightmares are common for people with PTSD. Persistently bad nights can affect your mood, concentration, memory and day-to-day functioning.

Trauma-related sleep problems may include:

  • Difficulty falling asleep
  • Waking frequently
  • Nightmares or distressing dreams
  • Feeling restless or “on alert” at night
  • Waking earlier than planned
  • Feeling tired during the day

Sleep problems can also overlap with other concerns, including anxiety, depression, chronic stress, alcohol use or sleep apnoea, so it is worth speaking with a GP.

When should you seek support?

Many people experience stress, poor sleep or emotional ups and downs after a difficult event. These responses are often temporary.

It may be worth speaking with a GP if symptoms:

  • Persist for several weeks or longer
  • Regularly disrupt your sleep
  • Affect your work, relationships or daily life
  • Cause significant distress
  • Lead you to withdraw from people or activities
  • Feel increasingly difficult to manage

For high-performing professionals, symptoms can be easy to dismiss because work and family responsibilities continue. Outwardly, life may appear unchanged while sleep, concentration, mood and stress tolerance gradually deteriorate.

Because trauma-related symptoms can overlap with burnout, anxiety, depression and sleep disorders, assessment can help clarify what is contributing to your symptoms and what support may be appropriate.

A GP can provide an initial assessment, develop a Mental Health Care Plan if appropriate, coordinate referrals, and support ongoing care.

When should you seek support?

You should seek urgent support or call 000 if you or someone else is at immediate risk of harm.

Urgent assessment is also important if symptoms involve:

  • Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
  • Severe distress or panic
  • Inability to function safely day-to-day
  • Significant substance misuse
  • Extreme behavioural changes or withdrawal

In Australia, support services are available 24 hours a day, including:

Looking after your mental wellbeing

Trauma does not always announce itself in obvious ways. Sometimes it appears as poor sleep, irritability, difficulty concentrating, anxiety, or a persistent feeling of being “on edge”.

While these symptoms do not automatically indicate PTSD, they may be a sign that your mind and body are carrying more than they can comfortably manage. If stress, trauma or sleep difficulties are affecting your daily life, the team at The Banyans Medical Centre and Specialist Clinics can help you explore the next steps and connect you with appropriate support.

Please book an appointment.

Disclaimer: All information is general and not intended as a substitute for professional advice. 

References

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]]> Heart health checks: what to know and when to book one https://thebanyansmedicalcentre.com.au/heart-health-check/ Fri, 05 Jun 2026 08:57:40 +0000 https://thebanyansmedicalcentre.com.au/?p=3079 Most people who are living with elevated cardiovascular risk have no idea. You may feel fine (mostly!), and you assume that feeling...

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]]> Most people who are living with elevated cardiovascular risk have no idea. You may feel fine (mostly!), and you assume that feeling well means being well.

That gap between how you feel and what’s actually happening inside your body is exactly why heart health checks exist. High blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, rising blood sugar — these things tend to develop slowly and quietly, either with no symptoms or with subtle ones that are easily missed or put down to a particularly busy week.

But, if you’re honest, your life may be a series of busy weeks! Many mid-career professionals are constantly juggling high workloads, disrupted sleep and competing responsibilities. When you’re time-poor, it’s harder to exercise and easier to order takeaway than cook something nutritious. Alcohol intake can also creep up.

What are common heart disease risk factors?

There are recognised modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors for heart disease, including:

  • Age
  • Family history
  • Ethnicity
  • High blood pressure and high cholesterol – there may be no outward signs, which is why a heart health check is helpful
  • Diabetes
  • Smoking
  • Physical inactivity
  • Weight
  • Diet
  • Alcohol consumption
  • Chronic stress
  • Poor sleep
  • Limited social support
  • Depression, which can be as significant as smoking and obesity when it comes to heart health.

What is a heart health check?

A GP heart health check is a preventive cardiovascular assessment designed to estimate your risk of heart attack, stroke, or other cardiovascular disease over the next five years and develop a plan to reduce that risk if necessary.

Your GP will review your personal and family medical history, discuss your lifestyle, and arrange any necessary blood tests to assess cholesterol or blood sugar levels. They’ll also measure your blood pressure, waist circumference and weight.  

Your cardiovascular risk profile depends on the combined effect of multiple risk factors. Many GPs use the Australian cardiovascular disease risk calculator to integrate these factors. Once they have a clear picture of your cardiovascular risk, they’ll talk through what it means for you.

Depending on your age and risk profile, your GP may recommend follow-up investigations, ongoing monitoring, medications, lifestyle changes or referral for specialist assessment.

Are the results of a heart health check useful?

Yes. Knowledge is power. Once you know your cardiovascular risk profile, you can take steps to change its trajectory.

Obviously, there’s nothing you can do about your age, genetics or past habits. But many modifiable risk factors can be addressed through lifestyle changes or medical intervention. The cumulative effect of everyday habits can influence cardiovascular risk over time, particularly when unfavourable patterns persist. While change is not easy, your GP and other healthcare professionals can help you to:

  • Enjoy a sustainable rhythm of exercise
  • Improve your diet and reduce your alcohol consumption
  • Find better ways to manage or reduce stress
  • Improve your sleep

For some people, lifestyle changes alone are enough to reduce risk. For others, medication or specialist support may also play a role. The important thing is that you’re making decisions based on actual information rather than assumptions.

When should you see a GP about your heart health?

It’s worth booking a GP heart health appointment if you’re 45 or older, haven’t had your blood pressure or cholesterol checked recently, have a family history of cardiovascular disease, or simply want a clearer picture of where your long-term health is heading.

Call 000 if you experience severe, worsening, or persistent chest pain lasting more than 10-15 minutes.
Key warning signs of a heart attack include chest pressure or squeezing, pain radiating to the arms, neck, or jaw, shortness of breath, sudden sweating, or dizziness.

How can we help?

Autumn is not about drastic changes, it’s about sustainable adjustments that carry through winter. Our GPs provide preventive heart health assessments tailored to your individual history, risk factors, and health goals. If you’re due for a heart health check or if you have concerns about your heart health, we encourage you to book an appointment.

Disclaimer: All information is general and not intended as a substitute for professional advice. 

References

The post Heart health checks: what to know and when to book one appeared first on The Banyans.

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