A: Common flu symptoms include sudden fever, body aches, chills, cough, sore throat, runny nose, fatigue, and sometimes nausea. It can come on quickly and vary in intensity.
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You can often manage the flu at home by getting plenty of rest and keeping hydrated. However, if symptoms are severe, do not improve after a few days, or you are in a high-risk group, it is worth consulting a GP. 

A: High blood pressure (hypertension) can be caused by lifestyle factors like poor diet, lack of exercise, stress, smoking, or alcohol. It may also be linked to underlying health conditions or genetics.

High blood pressure may have no noticeable symptoms. If you are 45 years old or over - or younger and have risk factors — you should consider having your blood pressure checked regularly. If you experience symptoms like headaches, dizziness, or blurred vision, it is a good idea to speak with a GP.

A: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder(ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterised by symptoms like inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. It can affect both children and adults and may impact focus, learning, and daily life.

If you or someone you know is showing signs of ADHD, a doctor can offer assessment, support, and treatment and referral options

A: Hiccups often go away on their own. You can try holding your breath, sipping cold water, or swallowing a teaspoon of sugar. These techniques may help reset the diaphragm.
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If hiccups last more than 48 hours or interfere with eating and sleeping, it is best to seek medical advice.‍

A: Insomnia is difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up too early and not being able to get back to sleep. This leads to daytime fatigue and drowsiness. It may be short-term or ongoing and is often linked to stress, lifestyle, or health issues.
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If sleep problems continue for more than a few weeks, talk to a doctor to explore possible causes and treatment options.

A: You can try to improve your quality of sleep by setting a good sleep routine. This includes keeping a regular bedtime, limiting screen time before bed, avoiding caffeine late in the day, and making your sleep environment quiet and comfortable.

If better habits don’t help and tiredness continues, speak with a GP to rule out underlying conditions.

A: Snoring is caused by vibration in the airways when airflow is partially blocked during sleep. Common causes include nasal congestion, alcohol use, sleeping on your back, or being overweight.

Snoring can sometimes be improved by changing sleeping positions and turning on your side to sleep. However, persistent or loud snoring may be a sign of sleep apnoea and worth discussing with a doctor.

A: Sleep apnoea is a condition where breathing stops and starts during sleep. It often causes loud snoring and tiredness during the day. It can increase the risk of heart disease and other health issues.

If you experience heavy snoring, wake up breathless, or experience continuous daytime fatigue, a consultation with a GP and sleep study is recommended.

A: Anxiety is a feeling of worry, fear, or nervousness. It becomes a problem when it is persistent or overwhelming. Management strategies include deep breathing, mindfulness, physical activity, talking with a friend, and sometimes therapy or medication.

If anxiety starts affecting your daily life, sleep, or relationships, professional help can make a difference.‍

A: Depression is a common mental health condition that causes persistent sadness, low energy, loss of interest in activities, and changes in sleep or appetite. It can affect anyone and may require support.

If you are feeling down for more than two weeks, or struggling to cope, it is important to speak with a doctor or health professional.

A: Signs of a panic attack include a racing heart, chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, shaking, sweating, and a sense of losing control. They usually peak within 10 minutes and pass shortly after.

If panic attacks happen often or cause distress, a GP can help you understand and manage the symptoms.‍

These answers offer general guidance, but everyone’s health and wellbeing situation is unique.

If you are unsure about symptoms or would like to talk to someone, our Private Medical GPs are here to help.

Private Medical online GP appointments are available online, Australia-wide, seven days a week, including During the Day, Evenings/After Hours and on Public Holidays.