Many people visit the doctor only when they are sick and need treatment. For some people, this may mean every few months, but for others, it may be once every few years. However, it is highly recommended that everyone, regardless of age, have an annual physical exam. This is important because Robbinsdale physicals give way to early intervention and prevention of any health issues you are at risk for. The following are answers to the most asked questions about a physical exam.
What is a physical examination?
A physical examination is a routine exam that assesses your physical and neurological health to ensure you stay in good health. It can also be a preventative step; your doctor can catch up on vaccinations or detect serious health conditions like diabetes before it causes problems.
What does a physical exam address?
A physical exam includes a check of your vitals, including your weight, blood pressure, and heart rate. These tests allow your doctor to determine if you are in good health. Depending on your personal health history, your doctor may focus on certain areas. For instance, if you have a family history of heart disease, you may need additional blood tests, blood pressure checks, and diabetes and cholesterol screenings. The exam is also an opportunity to discuss future prevention measures with your doctor; this is usually based on personal health history, age, and test results.
What happens during a physical exam?
Below is a general idea of what an average physical exam includes.
- Health history update
You will update your provider on new developments and changes in your health history. This may include questions about your medications, supplements, allergies, recent surgeries, job, and relationships.
- Vital sign checks
Your doctor will measure your weight and height and take a blood pressure reading. They will also check your heart rate and respiratory rate. Your blood pressure may also need to be checked annually or once every three years, depending on your history.
- Visual exam
For a visual exam, your doctor will review your appearance for signs of any potential conditions. A visual exam entails checking body parts that could visually indicate any existing health issues. These parts include your eyes, head, chest, and abdomen. Your provider may also examine nervous system functions such as speech and walking.
- Physical examination
As the exam continues, the doctor uses tools to look into your eyes, ears, nose, and throat. The exam also includes the following:
- Listening to your heart and lungs
- Palpating body areas like your abdomen to feel for abnormalities
- Testing your monitor functions and reflexes
- Examining your genitalia and rectum
Lab tests
To complete the exam, your doctor may draw blood for laboratory tests such as a complete blood count and a complete metabolic panel. A chemistry panel tests your blood plasma and indicates any issues in your liver, kidneys, immune system, and blood chemistry. Therefore, it helps detect irregularities that indicate a larger problem. Depending on your history, your doctor may request diabetes and thyroid screens. You may also need a lipid panel or cholesterol test if you have an increased risk of heart disease, heart attack, or stroke.
Request an appointment with your healthcare provider at TCS Health for a physical exam to live a healthier life.
