As a primary care physician, I’m a firm believer that everyone should get an annual physical exam regardless of age or health status. Whether you’re in excellent health or dealing with some lingering symptoms, an annual examination is essential to staying healthy and living life to the fullest!
At your physical, your doctor will perform a comprehensive examination of all body systems including the eyes, ears, throat, chest and back. Blood pressure and temperature are also checked to provide a general assessment of wellness.
Early Detection of Health Issues
Getting an annual physical exam is one of the most important things you can do for your health. It can detect issues that may develop into major problems later in life.
The early detection of these health issues can help prevent them from becoming serious or even deadly. This is particularly true when it comes to heart disease, diabetes, cancer and other chronic illnesses.
It can also help establish a relationship with your doctor and make it easier to talk about symptoms and other health concerns.
A physical exam typically involves a thorough discussion of your history and lifestyle behaviors. It can include questions about your diet, exercise, sexual health, alcohol and drug use and other factors that impact your well-being.
The physical exam can also include laboratory tests that look for abnormalities in your blood chemistry, kidneys and other systems. Some of these include a complete blood count and a chemistry panel. Depending on your age and gender, the physical exam may also involve breast exams for women or pelvic exams for men.
Establishing a Relationship with Your Physician
Getting an annual physical exam is critical for your health. It’s a chance to talk with your physician about any concerns you may have, and it can also help you establish a relationship with him or her.
A healthy doctor-patient relationship is based on trust, respect and communication. If you can feel comfortable telling your doctor about all the things that are affecting your health, they will be more likely to provide you with accurate information and treatment recommendations.
Your doctor isn’t a magic wand who can cure everything, so they need to know what’s causing you pain and discomfort. Symptoms can range from minor to severe, but the key is to describe them clearly and accurately.
You should bring all the medications you’re taking with you to your appointment, along with any medical records and vaccinations. This saves time and paints a clearer picture for your doctor.
Keeping Track of Your Health
One of the most important ways to keep track of your health is through an annual physical exam. It gives you an opportunity to see your primary care provider, who can spot issues that may not be symptomatic and provide you with preventive healthcare advice and lifestyle modification suggestions.
During the exam, your doctor will check for changes in your vital signs like blood pressure and pulse. They may also check your temperature and listen to your heart and lungs with a stethoscope.
Additionally, during the exam, your doctor will gather information about your family history and medical habits. This allows your physician to get to know you and develop a relationship that you can trust.
It is also a good idea to use a personal health record (PHR). This will allow you to store all of your medications, drug allergies, contact information for your doctors and other important information in one place. It can be especially useful in an emergency.
