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Amoebic meningitis can cause inflammation and eventual destruction damage of the brain and brain linings. It only occurs when water containing the amoebae goes up the nose. Swimming and skiing in lakes and dams is not recommended when water temperatures are high due to the risk of contracting amoebic meningitis.
Seawater and estuaries are safe as the amoebae will not grow in water with more than 2 per cent salt content. For more information refer to the amoebic meningitis factsheet. This publication is provided for education and information purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical care. Information about a therapy, service, product or treatment does not imply endorsement and is not intended to replace advice from your healthcare professional.
Readers should note that over time currency and completeness of the information may change. All users should seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional for a diagnosis and answers to their medical questions. Search this site Search all sites Search. Go to whole of WA Government Search. Open search bar Open navigation Submit search. Safety and first aid. Share by email Facebook Youtube Twitter. Home Safety and first aid How safe are natural waterways? How safe are natural waterways? What is a natural waterway?
A natural waterway is a natural water body such as a river, estuary, ocean, lake or reservoir.
Natural waterways can be polluted by a number of different ways such as bacteria or algae. What are the common health risks in natural waterways? Two of the most common public health risks to water users are: Microbiological pollution What is it? Where does it come from?
Sources of microbiological pollution include: What are the health risks? Such illnesses can include: Microorganisms Some illnesses and symptoms Bacteria such as Salmonella Gastroenteritis including diarrhoea and abdominal pain Viruses such as hepatitis A Fever, gastroenteritis, diarrhoea, respiratory infections Protozoa such as Cryptosporidiosis Gastroenteritis including diarrhoea and abdominal cramps, dysentery How do I know if the water is contaminated with bacteria and other organisms?
Do not swim in water that looks discoloured, murky, or smells unpleasant. Look for posted warning signs and follow the advice on them. Avoid swallowing water or putting your head under water if you are unsure about its quality.
Avoid swimming if you have an open wound or infection. Do not add to the risk; use appropriate toilet facilities.
Take children on bathroom breaks regularly. Do not swim if you are feeling ill diarrhoea or vomiting. Or, if you know what you are looking for, you can search our resources. If you need help urgently, click here. Resources are saved until you close your browser window. What should you know about mental health conditions and disorders? Now I want to help others understand. A closer look Understanding your diagnosis If you or someone you know has been to see a doctor and received a diagnosis of a mental health condition or disorder, there are a few things you should know.
Things can change over time, and not all diagnoses are right the first time around. Getting a second opinion can often ensure that an accurate diagnosis is given and correct treatments are considered.
Learning about the mental health condition You can find out more about a mental health condition online or via your healthcare professional. You can get ideas on self-care and how to manage symptoms as well as receive support. Many Australians know someone who has experienced a mental health condition.
It is becoming easier to talk and share about mental ill-health and avoid discrimination. Lived experience What I've learned about recovery is that it's an up and down journey, particularly because I was initially diagnosed with depression, then bipolar disorder. Diagnosis can sometimes take a long time. I had periods of depression and mania from childhood right through my twenties, but didn't know what happening to me.
I was 35 before I was finally diagnosed correctly with bipolar disorder.
That's quite common, as many people get diagnosed with depression, but don't realise they're unwell or seek help when they're in the middle of a manic episode. I first realised something was wrong when I was about I remember feeling very empty and confused about how numb I was feeling. I just started crying and I couldn't eat my dinner.
My mum didn't really know what was going on. I just went to my room and isolated myself a bit.
My mental health issues were triggered by my diagnosis of type 1 diabetes and a secondary auto-immune disease, combined with the stress of being a new mother to an extremely unsettled baby; causing chronic insomnia and anxiety. This all fed into each other until I became severely anxious and depressed for a significant amount of time.
In particular, my psychiatrist and endocrinologist had to unpick and address all these issues separately to ensure my mental health issues were managed appropriately. Thanks for your feedback. Your anonymous feedback has been submitted. If you need help now, visit our crisis support page.