The friendlies CPAP consultants offer high-quality care to all Australians suffering from sleep apnea.

We pride ourselves on providing you first-hand advice and guidance on your journey to finding a personalised sleep apnea solution. Our customer service guarantee, personal experience, and extensive range of CPAP products will improve your sleep quality and change your life.

All our technicians are fully trained and our sleep scientists are accredited, ensuring you receive the best sleep care available.

We’re not just here to sell you a machine—we’re committed to supporting your entire sleep wellness journey. From your initial consultation and home-based sleep study, through your CPAP trial and collaboration with your GP, to device selection, ongoing use, and aftercare, we’re with you every step of the way, ensuring the process is seamless and stress-free. For CPAP Hervey Bay consultations please contact us –

Hervey Bay Friendlies – 35 Torquay Road, Pialba. Ph (07) 4128 3899

Maryborough – 217 Adelaide St, Maryborough. Ph (07) 4122 1455

Gympie Friendlies Independent Living – 70 Channon Street, Gympie. Phone (07) 5482 9390

Nambour Day/Night Friendlies – Shop 5 – 7 Cnr Ann Street & Porters Lane, Nambour. Ph (07) 5441 1322

What to look for

• There are generally no symptoms for high blood pressure as the early stages of hypertension may take a few years to develop
• A higher than normal blood pressure. Normal for young and middle aged adults is a pressure of 120/80. A pressure of 140/90 is definitely something to be concerned about. If the pressure is 160/95 it requires treatment.
• Blackouts, a minor stroke are indications that your blood pressure is too high and can be fatal if it is not treated.
• swollen ankles
• shortness of breath
• headaches, dizziness and nose bleeds

Traditional Treatment

Your doctor will give you a thorough examination to check if your blood pressure is the result of another disease such as Cushing’s disease or kidney problems however, usually there is no immediate cause for the high blood pressure.

It is advisable that if over weight, the patient try to stay within your recommended weight level. Also try to avoid salt in your diet and reduce stress levels in your lifestyle. Exercise is also recommended.

If you have a stressful job, some doctors will advise you to give it up and take some time off to rest completely.

These lifestyle changes quite often bring the blood pressure down considerably.

A doctor will prescribe medication for you if the above approaches and lifestyle changes still do not bring the blood pressure down. Some of these drugs will have side effects which can be serious. Your doctor will know which drugs should be given to you and will explain all the side effects to you. The doctor will keep a close check on the patient to take the blood pressure and watch for possible side effects.

Alternative/Natural Treatments

Body/Mind Work – Yoga, Meditation and other relaxation techniques can help relax the patient and lower the stress levels.Yoga, Meditation and other relaxation techniques can help relax the patient and lower the stress levels.

Herbal Remedies – Hawthorn, dandelion and linden, garlic and ginger are helpful for blood pressure problems. Hawthorn, dandelion and linden, garlic and ginger are helpful for blood pressure problems.

Dietary Considerations

• Eat less salt – best of all try to avoid it altogether (use herbs, garlic and ginger instead)
• Avoid heavily salted food (such as packaged food)
• Try to eat more dairy products – low fat one only. You may be low on calcium.
• Avoid too much alcohol as this can raise blood pressure.
• Give up smoking as this can harden the arteries and cause coronary heart disease.

When to seek further professional advice

• if your blood pressure is over the recommended level
• if you have any of the symptoms listed above
• if you are on medication for high blood pressure and are suffering any side effect – see your doctor immediately.

Nearly everyone suffers from outbreaks of pimples at some point in life, making acne one of the most common skin disorders. Acne is a skin affliction usually occurring in teenagers, however quite a high percentage of adults do suffer some form of acne symptoms.

Acne is characterised by inflammation of the sebaceous glands causing pimples, blackheads, white heads and inflammation. It occurs in both sexes, although teenage boys tend to have the most severe cases. Women are more likely than men to have mild to moderate forms into their thirties and beyond, and are somewhat more susceptible to rosacea.

What to look for:

Symptoms include a mixture of pimples, blackheads, whiteheads occurring mainly on the face, neck, upper back and chest but can sometimes occur on other areas of the body as well.

• Blackheads are flat, dark spots in the pores of skin which are blockages of excess oil and dead skin that have darkened after being exposed to the air.
• In whiteheads, the blockage is not visible but a small lump can be seen under the skin. This is the blockage of oil.
• Pimples can be described as persistent inflamed red areas or swellings on the skin. These areas are often painful; they can become pus-filled. They are due to a rupture of the blocked gland under the skin.
• If the blockage occurs slightly deeper, then very large cysts can develop. These cysts appear as red or pale lumps which can be inflamed and filled with fluid. This is a more severe form of acne.
• Red swellings or lumps, sometimes visibly filled with pus, are pustules, which develop from blackheads or whiteheads.
• Acne also tends to be worse in people with oily skin.

Causes

The cause of acne is not fully understood. While poor hygiene, poor diet, and stress can aggravate acne, they clearly do not cause it. Acne occurs because of a blockage in the opening of the oil glands in the skin.

It starts when tiny hair follicles become plugged with oily secretions from the skin’s sebaceous glands.

Tiny hair follicles, especially those on the face, neck, chest, and back, can become plugged with sebum and keratin. As the follicles fill up and bacteria multiply, blackheads or whiteheads form on the skin’s surface, a condition called non-inflammatory acne.

If the follicle wall breaks under pressure and sebum leaks into nearby tissue, pustules or inflammatory acne can develop. If pustules become infected, matters are further complicated: The infection can penetrate deep into the skin and create cysts, which can rupture and leave temporary or permanent scars.

Various factors appear to make certain people prone to developing acne, it can be inherited, a stressfullifestyle, and the use of oral contraceptives. Taking oral contraceptives may trigger acne in some women but actually suppress it in others, depending on the type of pill taken. Anabolic steroids taken by some bodybuilders can also lead to severe outbreaks.

However common acne vulgaris usually occurs in adolescent years as this is when there are large increases in hormone production from the sex organs and the Adrenal Glands.

During puberty, both boys and girls produce high levels of androgens – male sex hormones that include testosterone. Androgens can increase production of sebum, the substance that lubricates the skin and helps it retain moisture. There is usually only enough sebum produced to keep the skin supple and healthy.

Acne can afflict anyone who is undergoing hormonal changes for whatever reason. The inflamed redness, pimples, blackheads, whiteheads and in extreme cases, cysts are the result.

Traditional Treatment

The most important treatment is to keep the skin clean which allows the pores to breathe. Do not squeeze or touch any infected or inflamed areas as acne can produce lifelong scars.

A clean face can only be of help if the hair is also washed and away from the face. The overactive sebaceous glands cause the hair to become oily and dandruff can develop which can aggravate acne problems.

The occasional pimple or two need no treatment. Over-the-counter cover-up creams and cosmetics, if used at all, should be water based and hypoallergenic. These creams usually contain anti-bacterial antiseptics to reduce skin bacteria and keratolytics which remove any plugs of sebum blocking the follicles. These products can be very helpful for many patients.

Always follow the instructions carefully. Mild degreasing products may also be beneficial.

If you use cosmetics ensure that only water-based products are the favoured choices.

If these simple procedures do not help the problem, it is sensible to consult a doctor who may prescribe certain treatments.

To treat mild acne, your doctor may recommend a topical over-the-counter medication containing benzoyl peroxide or prescribe the anti-acne drug tretinoin (retinoic acid), a vitamin A derivative. Before applying the medication, wash the affected area with a mild oil- and scent-free soap.

When pus-filled pimples are ready to break, applying a hot towel for a few minutes may encourage the process. Infected pimples should be opened only by a nurse or doctor using surgical instruments and following antiseptic practices. Squeezing pimples yourself may lead to further infection and the possibility of permanent scars.

Conventional medicine favours drug therapies that inhibit sebum and keratin production, limit bacterial growth, or encourage shedding of skin cells to unclog pores.

Because many therapies can have potent side effects, any patient with a skin problem should proceed with caution when trying a new treatment. People with severe, persistent cases need the care of a dermatologist. However, if this course of action is chosen antibiotics can be quite helpful.

Oral antibiotics are usually left to treat the more severe cases of acne. They are of a lower dose that would be prescribed for an infection. Some forms of bacteria inflame acne and this is where antibiotics can help by removing these and settling the problem.

For moderate to severe cases, a mainstay of treatment is tetracycline, an antibiotic that is usually taken orally, sometimes in combination with topically applied tretinoin. Other useful antibiotics are oral erythromycin and clindamycin.

Another development in acne treatment is the use of medication called isotretinoin which is taken from Vitamin A. However it should only be considered in extreme cases of acne where no other treatment has been of assistance and its use must be strictly supervised by a medical practitioner. It must not be used during pregnancy or if there is any likelihood that conception has taken place. At present this drug can only be prescribed by a dermatologist. Chemical peeling and laser therapy are also avenues that could be investigated.

Patients taking anti-acne drugs should be alert to possible side effects and interactions. The drugs tretinoin and benzoyl peroxide can leave skin reddened, dry, and sensitive to sunlight. Benzoyl peroxide may inhibit the healing effects of tretinoin, so never apply them at the same time. Taking antibiotics for more than a few weeks may leave women susceptible to yeast infections.

There are surgical procedures available to eliminate the scars from acne and your medical practitioner will be able to advise on this treatment.

Alternative/Natural Treatments

Some alternative therapies have proven to be very beneficial. In addition to these therapies it is advisable to keep the skin and hair clean as in the conventional treatments mentioned above.

• Use mild soaps designed for skin health every day
• Use a skin scrub based on oatmeal, calendula, tea tree oil (which is a natural anti-bacterial agent), thyme or cinnamon which gently removes the top layer of the skin and open the pores. Use 2-3 times per week.
• Avoid alcohol based skin toners
• Herbal treatments aid in reducing excess oil production, help the system cope with the overload of bacteria, helps reduce inflammation and aids in healing
• Expose your acne to some sunlight in moderation, but be careful to avoid overexposure.
• Diet is vitally important and fatty or oily foods should be reduced.
• Reduce stress by relaxing with a cup of tea made from lavender or chamomile.
• Chinese herbal medicine for acne seeks to rid the skin of dampness and heat, which are believed to be contributing factors.
• Many herbs are used to help heal the skin and soothe inflammation and itching. The herbs a trained naturopath or herbalist may consider are Echinacea, calendula, tea tree oil, and goldenseal.

Never use any herbal medicines on newborns without consulting your doctor. 

Dietary Considerations

Most doctors now believe that acne is not a food-related problem. Some alternative therapists, however, make a change in diet the basis of treatment. While experts in both camps concede that chocolate, fats, and other suspect foods don’t cause acne, debate continues over whether they can aggravate the condition. Most Health Professionals agree that fatty or oily foods should be avoided and to eat plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables.

It is also important to drink plenty of filtered water throughout the day. Try to combine fresh food with vitamin supplements such as Vitamin A, B complex, Vitamin C and the minerals Zinc and potassium. Also useful are Lecithin, Echinacea, Garlic and Evening Primrose Oil. Always check the required doses.

When to Seek Further Professional Advice

• If you notice your condition worsening and the infection becomes severe with the formation of larger boils, cysts or abscesses
• If the surrounding tissue is bruised and damages as a result of squeezing the blackheads.
• If your acne doesn’t respond in two to three months to over-the-counter remedies; you may need medical treatment.

You will need;

• Cleanser
• Toner
• Face Moisturiser
• Eye Moisturiser
• Cotton wool balls or pads

Select a cleanser that is suitable for your skin type. Remember just because skin care products are expensive, does not indicate that they are always more effective. 

1. Warm your cleanser between your hands and apply to your face and neck. Place your hands against your face and try not to scratch your face with sharp fingernails. Do not press too hard. 
2. Rinse thoroughly – ensuring all the cleanser is off. Some cleansers need to be wiped off. Do this gently.
3. Put some toner or witch hazel onto a cotton wool ball or pad and wipe onto your cleansed skin.
4. Once the toner has dried, apply eye cream around the eyes – making sure you avoid getting the cream in the eye itself. 
5. Apply your day moisturiser all over your face. Start at your chin and work your way upwards towards the forehead. If your skin is oily, try a product which is water based and oil free. It is always best to use a moisturiser which has a sun factor in it to protect against the harmful effects of the sun. 

At Night

You will need;

• Eye make-up remover
• Cleanser
• Toner
• Night Moisturiser
• Eye Cream

1. Remove your eye makeup carefully by soaking cotton balls in an eye makeup remover and gently stroking your eyelids from the inner corner to the outer. Stroke your eyelashes gently as well, removing all makeup. Hold the skin above the lid while you do this. Use a new cotton ball for each eye. 
2. After the eye makeup is removed, use a cleanser to remove your facial make up. Follow the same instructions for the morning cleansing routine.
3. Tone as per morning routine.
4. Use an eye moisturiser around the eye area. Be extra careful with this area as the tissue is very delicate. 
5. Apply a night time moisturiser on your face and neck areas with sweeping upward movements.

Special Times During The Week

It is important to use special treatments on particular skin types during the week. 

• If your skin is oily, it is important to use a gentle exfoliant or scrub once per week to remove the dead skin cells and oily grime which may have built up. There are many available, so choose carefully. 
• A mask may help some people’s skin look more refreshed and helps give skin a deeper cleanse.

What to look for

• pink or red colour on the skin, the skin also feels tender.
• itchy blisters.
• pain and irritation of the eye associated with overexposure to ultraviolet rays from sunlight or other sources.

Gone are the days when people go to the beach hoping to get burnt in the hope of eventually getting a great tan. These days, it is almost common knowledge that too much sunburn may equal skin cancer and premature aging.

Everyone is at risk. If you have dark skin do not think you can escape the dangerous rays of the sun.

Your reddened skin will normally heal within a few days but the damage can last a lifetime. If your sunburn is accompanied by blisters, the sunburn is quite severe and no doubt will be extremely painful. You will lose a few layers of skin through peeling.

Any sunburn will inevitably cause skin damage.

Causes 

The sun has two types of ultraviolet radiation important in a discussion of damaging effects to the skin.

• The first type, UVA radiation generally only tans skins but it is reported now that it can also take part in premature aging and wrinkling.
• UVB rays cause sunburn and the potential for skin cancer. You can also become burnt from reflected sunlight- from sand, water, or snow.

Certain drugs can intensify the harmful effects of UV radiation.

Traditional Treatment 

At-home care will alleviate many of the symptoms of sunburn, but no treatment can undo the damage caused by prolonged exposure to the sun.

Few cases of sunburn require medical care. If the burn is very painful or widespread, a doctor may prescribe oral corticosteroids to relieve the discomfort. Treatment for extremely severe cases of sunburn (those involving extensive blistering, dehydration, or fever) usually requires bed rest and possibly hospitalisation. (See Burns.)

Alternative/Natural Treatments

Herbal Therapies –  Lotions, poultices, and compresses containing calendula (Calendula officinalis) will reduce inflammation. Echinacea (Echinacea spp.) may be used on exposed new skin after peeling or blistering, to help prevent infection. Lotions, poultices, and compresses containing calendula (Calendula officinalis) will reduce inflammation. Echinacea (Echinacea spp.) may be used on exposed new skin after peeling or blistering, to help prevent infection.

Preparations containing aloe (Aloe barbadensis) are excellent for relieving sunburn.

Aromatherapy  –  A gentle massage using lavender essential oil diluted in a carrier oil. See our section on Aromatherapyfor more details.A gentle massage using lavender essential oil diluted in a carrier oil. See our section on Aromatherapy for more details.

Homoeopathy –  Cantharis   taken orally every three to four hours for up to two days is recommended for relieving pain and helping to heal blisters. Cantharis   taken orally every three to four hours for up to two days is recommended for relieving pain and helping to heal blisters.

Personal Care

Apply cold compresses or calamine lotion to ease itchiness, take a pain killer, and have a cool bath or shower for overall relief. Drink plenty of water, avoiding alcohol.

When your skin peels or the blisters break, gently remove the dried skin and apply an antiseptic ointment or cream to the skin beneath. If you feel feverish or nauseated, drink lots of fluids and see a doctor immediately.

Prevention 

The best way to prevent sunburn is to limit your exposure to direct sunlight, especially between 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. Take a look at your shadow: If it’s shorter than your height, stay under cover.

Don’t forget to ‘Slip Slop, Slap’.

Just a few sunsense tips for the whole family:

• Get into the habit of using a sunscreen everyday.
• Always apply your sunscreen at least 15 minutes before going outside this will allow time for the sunscreen to dry on your skin and form an effective barrier.
• Keep out of the sun between 10am and 3pm.
• Re-apply sunscreen after swimming or exercise
• Wear a hat
• UV protective swim wear and shirts to be worn by children fro extra protection.

By practising these sunsense tips you should prevent excessive sun damage to you and your family’s skin

When to seek further professional advice 

• your sunburn blisters and is accompanied by chills, fever, or nausea. Severe sunburn requires professional care to limit the risk of infection and to prevent dehydration.
• your eyes are extremely painful and feel gritty. You should have your eyes examined by an ophthalmologist to determine whether the corneas are damaged.