Health Translations

Health Translations Topics

This page lists the translated health and wellbeing resources by topic. To look in more detail, click on a relevant topic.

AllergiesExternal Link - Allergies occur when our body overreacts to a 'trigger' or allergen. Common reactions include itchiness, sneezing and difficulty breathing. Anaphylaxis is a severe reaction that requires emergency treatment. Common allergies include hay fever, asthma, hives and food allergy.
Allied healthExternal Link - The allied health sector represents a broad range of health professionals who are not doctors, dentists, nurses or midwives.
Alternative medicinesExternal Link - Alternative therapies are used in place of conventional medicines or treatments. There is no scientific or medical evidence for some complementary therapies and many alternative therapies, and they may be unsafe or cause harmful side effects.

AnxietyExternal Link - Anxiety is extreme worry that interferes with our daily lives. Symptoms include panic attacks, dissociation, physical fear reactions and attempts to avoid the situation. Anxiety disorders can lead to social isolation and depression but help is available.
ArthritisExternal Link - Arthritis occurs when joints or muscles become painful, stiff and swollen. Common types include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, gout, ankylosing spondylitis and fibromyalgia. Exercise, medication and supportive therapies can help manage symptoms.
AsthmaExternal Link - Asthma is a serious respiratory condition that causes difficulty breathing and can cause death. Recognise your asthma triggers and manage the condition with medication, relievers and preventers (puffers), exercise and other therapies.
Australian health systemExternal Link - Australia’s health system is a complex mix of service providers and other health professionals from a range of organisations. Australia’s health system is underpinned by Medicare – a universal health insurance scheme. Medicare pays rebates for medical services and procedures provided by private practitioners in the community such as GPs and other medical practitioners, and Medicare ensures Australians have access to free hospital services for public patients in public hospitals and a range of prescription pharmaceuticals subsidised under the PBS.

Behavioural disorderExternal Link - The behaviour of some children and adults can be challenging and may seem outside the norm for their age. The cause may be temporary stress or may involve ongoing autistic or disruptive behavioural disorders.
Blood and blood vesselsExternal Link - Blood carries oxygen and nutrients to the cells of our body and helps us fight infection. Veins, arteries and capillaries are blood vessels that combine with the heart to make up the circulatory system. See a doctor to check for health conditions such as orthostatic hypotension, low and high blood pressure.
Bones muscles and jointsExternal Link - Bones, muscles and joints hold our body together and support freedom of movement. They are part of the musculoskeletal system (also known as the locomotor system). Fractures, back pain and muscle strain, are common conditions.
BowelExternal Link - The bowel is a tube-like organ that is part of the digestive system. The small bowel absorbs the nutrients from the food you eat and the remaining waste forms faeces. The large bowel absorbs liquid back into the body, leaving solid waste. Stomach pain or abdominal pain can be a sign of bowel issues such as diverticulitis or IBS.
Brain and nervesExternal Link - The brain, nerves and spinal cord form part of the nervous system. Nerve cells and chemicals called neurotransmitters help different parts of the body communicate. Tumours, seizures, motor neuron disease, headaches and brain disorders can affect the brain.

CancerExternal Link - Cancer grows when normal body cells multiply in an uncontrolled way. Cancer can affect any part of the body. Some cancers can be treated. Cancer screening tests can help detect some cancers early.
CarerExternal Link - Carers play a critical role in Victoria’s health system. Thousands of Victorians take on paid and unpaid caring roles at different times in their lives. There is financial and service support available to carers in Victoria.
CentrelinkExternal Link - Access translated resources from Centrelink, which provides security payments and services to Australians.
Children and family servicesExternal Link - There are family support services available to help parents raise their children. Creating a safe and nurturing environment for our children is a priority and can sometimes meet challenges.
Children's healthExternal Link - In the first five years of life, a child’s brain and body develop more quickly than at any other time. When babies are young, their learning and development mostly happen within the family at home. Parents of school age children can provide guidance and support, protect their child's safety and look after their health. Good nutrition, physical activity, sleep and immunisation are all important.
Chronic diseasesExternal Link - A chronic or long-term illness means having to adjust to the demands of the illness and the therapy used to treat the condition. There may be additional stresses since chronic illness might change the way you live, see yourself and relate to others.
ContraceptionExternal Link - There are many contraceptive methods available in Australia, including implants, intrauterine devices (IUDs, both copper and hormonal), injections, pills, vaginal rings, barrier methods (male and female condoms and diaphragms), female and male sterilisation, emergency contraception and natural methods (natural family planning).
CoronavirusExternal Link - Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Most people infected with the virus will experience mild to moderate respiratory illness and recover without needing any medical assistance. Some people can still get very sick even if they are fit and healthy. Access translated information on COVID-19 vaccination, COVID medication such as evusheld, COVID testing and how to be COVID-safe.

DementiaExternal Link - Dementia is the term used to describe the symptoms of a number of illnesses that affect the brain. The most common cause is Alzheimer's disease, but there are other causes, including Parkinson's disease. Common early symptoms include memory loss, confusion, personality changes, apathy and withdrawal. Early diagnosis is important to help with early treatment, planning and support. Medications might help some symptoms of dementia, but there is no cure.
DepressionExternal Link - Depression is a mental illness that may be mild or severe. Types include major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, dysthymic and cyclothymic disorders, postnatal depression and seasonal affective disorder.
DiabetesExternal Link - Diabetes occurs when blood glucose (sugar) levels are raised due to problems producing or processing insulin. Diabetes may be genetic, pregnancy related or caused by obesity or illness and may be type 1 or type 2.
Digestive systemExternal Link - The digestive system turns food into nutrients that are absorbed by the body and removes waste. The mouth, oesophagus, stomach, small and large intestines, rectum and anus are involved.
DisabilitiesExternal Link - Accessing disability services in Victoria can be dependent on your location as well as your particular needs. Learn about the kinds of support that are available for managing disability. Understand the rights of people with a disability and their carers and find information about support groups as well as useful information for managing your healthcare.
DiscriminationExternal Link - Discrimination happens when a person, or a group of people, is treated less favourably than another person or group because of their background or certain personal characteristics.
Diseases and conditionsExternal Link - Access translated health information on a range of diseases and conditions.
DrugsExternal Link - Illegal drugs such as marijuana (cannabis), heroin, GHB, ketamine, ice, protonitazene, ecstasy and cocaine can have a serious effect on our physical and mental health. Treatment and support are available.


Ear nose and throatExternal Link - The ear, nose and throat are part of the upper respiratory tract. They help us breathe, smell, hear, keep our balance, swallow and speak. Infections and conditions of the sinus, tonsils and adenoids affect these organs, such as tonsillitis, vertigo and BPPV.
Early learningExternal Link - A quality early learning centre and nurturing home environment is the perfect combination for your child to develop their full potential. It will also help prepare them for school.
Eating disordersExternal Link - An eating disorder is a serious mental health condition that involves an unhealthy preoccupation with eating, exercise or body shape. Anyone can develop an eating disorder, regardless of cultural background, gender or age.

EducationExternal Link - Information in your language about primary, secondary and tertiary education.
EmergencyExternal Link - Emergencies can be medical or family violence emergencies, natural disasters (such as floods, bushfires or heatwaves), communicable diseases (such as pandemic influenza) or a chemical, biological and radioactive emergency. Learn about different types of emergencies and the support services that exist to help you if you are in an emergency situation in Victoria. In an emergency, call triple zero (000).
EmploymentExternal Link - Work and careers can be rewarding but workplace demands, conflict, injury, retirement, losing a job or trouble finding work can cause problems. Learn how to handle job-related stress, understand legal rights and obligations at work, deal with harassment and stay safe at work.
Environmental healthExternal Link - Our environment includes hazards that may affect our health. Smoke, chemicals, toxic minerals, viruses and other materials can impact on the quality of our air, food and water supply. The changing climate and natural disasters also have consequences for our health, wellbeing and safety.
EyesExternal Link - Our eyes allow us to see. The optic nerve carries images from the retina to the brain. Other eye parts include the cornea, iris, pupil, lens and sclera. Damage can cause vision loss or blindness.


Family lawExternal Link - Translated information on divorce, child protection and intervention orders.
Family violenceExternal Link - Family violence (also called domestic violence) is the use of violence, threats, force or intimidation to control or manipulate a family member, partner, former partner or other person the perpetrator has a relationship with. Acts of family violence include not only assault and physical injury but also sexual assault, threats (direct and indirect), controlling access to money, damaging property, social isolation, emotional and psychological torment and any behaviour which causes a person to live in fear. A person’s age, gender, sexual identity, cultural background, ability, religion, wealth, status or even location doesn’t matter – anyone can be affected by family violence.
FeetExternal Link - Many things can cause foot pain and injury. The repetitive way in which our feet and legs move is very important. Podiatrists assess abnormalities in foot and leg movement – as well as techniques, surfaces and footwear – when diagnosing causes and prescribing treatments for foot and leg pain.
First aidExternal Link - First aid can treat simple injuries or it may mean the difference between life and death in an emergency. Cuts, bites, stings, bleeding, choking, frostbite, heat stroke, hypothermia and burns may respond to first aid.
Food and nutritionExternal Link - Eating a variety of healthy foods is the key to a well-balanced diet and good nutrition. It keeps our bodies working well and helps prevent diseases such as type 2 diabetes, cancer and cardiovascular disease.
Food safety standardsExternal Link - Access translated information on food hygiene and safety standards placed on Australian food businesses.


GamblingExternal Link - Gambling can change and grow without the person noticing how it has become more important. Increased gambling creates stress in the person’s life. If you suspect you may have a problem with gambling, understanding why you gamble can help you change your behaviour.
Genes and geneticsExternal Link - Your genes are inherited and contain information that our cells use to control growth, development and health. Genetic changes disrupt these messages and can cause health problems. These may be present at birth or may appear later in life.
Grief loss and deathExternal Link - Grief is your response to loss, particularly in relation to the death of a loved one. Grief can affect your thoughts, feelings, behaviours, beliefs, physical health and relationships with others. Many people experience feelings of sadness, anger, anxiety, fear and numbness.


Hair and nailsExternal Link - Hair and nails work with the skin to protect our body tissues from injury and help regulate temperature. They may be affected by nutritional deficiency, ageing, injury or infection.
Health practitionersExternal Link - Health practitioners or health professionals have certain obligations. Learn about the role of health professionals in managing and treating your health.
HeartExternal Link - Heart disease occurs when your arteries become clogged with fatty material. You can lower your risk of having a heart attack by making simple lifestyle choices such as avoiding high-cholesterol foods. Check your blood pressure or get an ECG test to detect different heart conditions.
HeatExternal Link - Information in your language on heat exhaustion, fire safety and how extreme heat can impact your body.
HepatitisExternal Link - Hepatitis means inflammation (swelling and pain) of the liver. The liver is important for a range of functions in the body. These include regulating metabolism, making proteins, storing vitamins and iron, removing toxins and producing bile.
HIV/AIDSExternal Link - Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a virus that can weaken the immune system to the point that it is unable to fight off some infections. HIV is not the same thing as AIDS. AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome) is the most advanced stage of HIV infection when the immune system is at its weakest and a person has one or more specific illnesses. AIDS is now very rare in Australia, as HIV treatments are highly effective at preventing the virus from multiplying and thereby protecting the immune system from the virus.
HospitalsExternal Link - If you need surgery or other medical procedures, you are likely to attend a clinic or hospital in Victoria. This information will take you through the preparation for a stay in hospital, provide advice about managing your stay through to recovery and discharge. Practical information about paperwork, costs and payments is also available here.
HousingExternal Link - Translated information for current public housing renters, potential social housing renters and anyone wanting to know about housing in Victoria.
HygieneExternal Link - One of the most effective ways we have to protect ourselves and others from illness is good personal hygiene. This means washing your hands, especially, but also your body. It means being careful not to cough or sneeze on others, cleaning things that you touch if you are unwell.


ImmunisationExternal Link - Immunisation prevents many illnesses in children and adults by improving immunity. Immunising yourself or your children is important for not only your health, but also for the health of your community because when enough people are immunised diseases no longer spread. If you want to know more about immunisation – how it works, what vaccinations you need and what the possible side effects are – speak with your GP.
InfectionsExternal Link - Infections are generally caused by bacteria or viruses. These can be spread in blood, body fluids, contaminated food and airborne droplets or by animals and insects. Some infections can be prevented by immunisation.
Interpreting and translationExternal Link - Access translated information about using interpreting and translation services and working with interpreters.


Kidneys and bladderExternal Link - The kidneys clean the blood and remove waste through urine, which is stored and passed by the bladder. Genetic disorders, lifestyle, diet and infections can affect the kidneys and bladder.

Legal issuesExternal Link - Information in your language about child support, where to get legal aid, driving laws and other legal issues.
LGBTIQA+External Link - A range of support services are available specifically for LGBTI Victorians that require them. Find information in your language about sexuality and gender.
LungsExternal Link - The lungs are part of our respiratory system. Along with the trachea, alveoli, bronchi and diaphragm, they help us breathe in oxygen and exhale carbon dioxide. Lungs can be affected by infection or allergy or may puncture or collapse. Visit a respiratory clinic to detect any respiratory issues.


Medical examinationsExternal Link - Medical tests can detect, diagnose or assess your risk of developing a medical condition. The results can help you and your doctor decide on treatment. Screening tests can provide early warning of health risks.
MedicationsExternal Link - Medications include prescription, over-the-counter and complementary or herbal treatments designed to help keep us well. Incorrect use of medicines can cause side effects, overdose and other reactions. Make sure you take your medicines correctly.
Men's healthExternal Link - The male reproductive system is involved in sexuality and fertility. It includes the penis, testicles, epididymis, vas deferens and prostate gland. These body parts have a role in semen production and ejaculation.
Mental healthExternal Link - Mental health relates to the cognitive, social and emotional wellbeing of individuals, and their families, carers and supporters. Good mental health is a state of overall wellbeing which includes social and emotional wellbeing, not just the absence of mental health challenges. Achieving and maintaining wellbeing is an ongoing process, which may include recovery from specific mental health challenges, and which can change over a person’s life.
Migrants and refugeesExternal Link - Information in your language for newly arrived migrants navigating the Australian system. Information on cultural safety for newly arrived migrants.


Online safetyExternal Link - Information in your language on avoiding scams, technological abuse and safe use of the internet.
Oral healthExternal Link - The mouth is made up of the lips, tongue, jaw, teeth and gums. Our mouth plays a key role in the digestive system and are important for speech. Keeping your teeth, gums and mouth clean and healthy can prevent disease and infection.
Organ and tissue donationExternal Link - Translated information on donating organs and tissue.
Other resourcesExternal Link - Other health and human service related information.


PainExternal Link - Pain is our bodies built-in alarm system. Learn about types of pain, what is acute, persistent or chronic pain and how to manage your pain.
Palliative careExternal Link - Palliative care and end of life services help improve your quality of life if you have a life-limiting illness and provide support to your family and carers. End of life and palliative care services include help with daily tasks and access to a range of emotional, spiritual and mental health care options to suit your needs. Services also provide information and advice about death and dying, advance care planning, financial planning and many other issues that can arise at the end of life.
ParentingExternal Link - Whatever the age of your child, parenting requires lifelong skills. Good communication is the key to a good relationship with the children in your life. Being a parent is a joyful and rewarding experience but it can be challenging. Your child's needs change as they get older. Knowing what to expect can make parenting less stressful.
Patient's rightsExternal Link - As a patient in hospital, you have the right to receive high-quality and safe care. You and your carers should expect clear communication about medical issues and treatment options in a way that you can understand.
Physical activityExternal Link - Physical activity and fitness protect our health and can be fun. Walking, playing sport, swimming, running, cycling and gardening can all keep you fit. Stay safe and prevent injury during exercise by following some sensible tips.
Pregnancy and post-natal careExternal Link - Translated information for pregnant or new parents. Pregnancy is a different experience for everyone. Learn what to expect during your pregnancy including how to care for yourself and your baby.


RelationshipsExternal Link - A ‘good relationship’ means different things to different people. However, good adult relationships generally involve two people who respect each other, can communicate and have equal rights, opportunities and responsibilities.


Sexual healthExternal Link - Good sexual health is important for our overall health and wellbeing. Gaining the confidence to talk openly with sexual partners, health professionals and learning more about safer sex practices helps you take charge of not only your own but the sexual health of others.
SkinExternal Link - The skin protects our body against injury and infection, regulates temperature and controls the loss of body fluids. Its two main layers are the dermis and epidermis. Skin can be affected by sun, ageing, injury and infection such as boils, chilblains, acne and rashes.
SleepExternal Link - Sleep is important for the health of our body and mind. Sleep deprivation can cause exhaustion, fatigue, poor concentration, dissociation and mood changes. Common disorders include sleepwalking, restlessness, hypersomnia, snoring, insomnia and sleep apnoea.
SmokingExternal Link - Tobacco causes more preventable illness and death than any other drug. Smoking causes a range of cancers as well as heart disease, stroke and emphysema. Treatment and support to quit smoking are available.
STIExternal Link - Sexually transmissible infections (STIs) are common. Anyone who has sex can get an STI – even if you practise safe sex most of the time. Not all STIs have obvious symptoms, so you may not know you have one. Most STIs can be treated. If untreated, they can have serious effects on your health. Get an STI test at least once a year - usually with a simple blood test or urine sample. Condoms are the best protection.
StressExternal Link - Stress is a process, not a diagnosis. We experience stress when there is an imbalance between the demands being made on us and our resources to cope with those demands.
StrokeExternal Link - Stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is blocked. Stroke can affect adults and children. Signs of stroke include dizziness, numbness and loss of vision. Early treatment can help manage the effects of a stroke.
SuicideExternal Link - Someone who is thinking about suicide will usually give some clues or signs to people around them, though these may be subtle. Everyone is different and there is no definitive way to predict how someone will act, but suicide prevention starts with recognising the warning signs and taking them seriously.
SurgeryExternal Link - Surgery is an operation to investigate or treat a disease or injury. Ask your surgeon to explain what you can expect and any risks involved. Take time to understand the information when deciding about surgery such as a laparotomy or key hole surgery.


TaxExternal Link - Translated information on lodging tax returns, superannuation, business activity statements and more.
Tobacco reformExternal Link - The Tobacco Amendment Act 2016 has amended the Tobacco Act 1987 to ban smoking in outdoor dining areas and regulate e-cigarettes and shisha tobacco in the same way as other tobacco products.
TravelExternal Link - Plan and prepare to get the most out of your holiday. Get good medical advice, get immunised if you need to, and do what you can ahead of time to protect your health and safety while travelling. Information in your language about travel and car safety.
TuberculosisExternal Link - Tuberculosis, commonly known as TB, is an infectious disease caused by infection with the Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacterium. Typically TB affects the lungs but it can also infect any other organ of the body.


Vitamins and mineralsExternal Link - Vitamins and minerals are organic compounds that our bodies use in very small amounts for a variety of metabolic processes. They keep us healthy and help our bodies to function.
Voluntary Assisted DyingExternal Link - Voluntary assisted dying means a person in the late stages of advanced disease can take a medication prescribed by a doctor that will bring about their death at the time they choose. Only people who meet all the conditions and follow the process set out in the law can access voluntary assisted dying medication.


Weight managementExternal Link - Managing your weight means a healthy diet and regular exercise. Fad diets are not the answer. A healthy weight may vary for different people. Some health conditions can make it difficult to control weight gain.
WellbeingExternal Link - How we think and feel can affect our emotional, mental and physical health. Learning to manage our anger, change our outlook on life or address psychological issues can help keep our minds active and healthy.
Women's healthExternal Link - The female reproductive system is involved in sexuality and fertility. It includes the vagina, womb (uterus), fallopian tubes and ovaries. Menstrual periods, ovulation, pregnancy, birth and menopause are part of the reproductive cycle.

Young peopleExternal Link - Parents can offer information and guidance to support young people through their teenage years. Good nutrition, physical activity and sleep are important. Challenges include dealing with family issues, peer pressure, drugs and alcohol, sex and relationships.
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