Five annual exams can help you and your medical team maintain your health. It is recommended by all doctors to keep yourself under regular maintenance, this is the best way to have a good understanding of your current health level and what can be improved. It also makes it possible to for doctors to catch and track any issues you may have from an early stage. These check ups could be what save your life in many situations.
Blood Work
When you have blood work, a lab will check your cholesterol levels. Specifically, it will assess your good and bad cholesterol. Blood work will also permit your doctor to examine your body’s blood sugar levels to verify how efficiently your body metabolizes sugar. By testing your blood sugar, your doctor can assess your insulin levels.
He or she can also make sure that your thyroid is functioning properly. The thyroid can be a great insight into other issues in the body. By understanding how your thyroid functions and at what level your personal thyroid functions at, you can keep the rest of your heath in check.
Eye Exam
During the exam, your eye doctor will check your eyes for muscle imbalance, eye disease and vision problems. Eye problems can be the first sign of a more serious condition. Your eyes give doctors a distinct view of your blood vessels, which can help him or her assess your overall health. This is a great insight into your general health that is often overlooked.
Physical Exam
An annual physical examination is one of the best ways to maintain your health. During the test, the doctor will check your heart rate, blood pressure and weight. A stethoscope is used to listen to different parts of your body, such as your lungs, heart and intestines, to make sure that your organs are working the way that they should be. Your doctor will also check your body by using the percussion technique. The test lets him or her locate excess fluid in your body.
Dental Exam
An annual or even a semiannual dental examination is important as it will prevent gum disease and tooth problems. During the appointment, a hygienist will complete an oral examination of your gums and your teeth to diagnose periodontal disease, oral cancel and bone loss. The hygienist will also check your mouth, face and neck for abnormalities.
Gender Specific Tests
To identify cancer or other problems when they are just beginning and more treatable, women should have an annual pelvic examination and mammogram. During the pelvic test, the doctor will check a woman’s vulva, cervix and fallopian tubes. The appointment may also include a basic breast examination. When women have a mammogram, a highly advanced X-ray machine will take in-depth pictures of her breasts to look for abnormalities. Men should consider having an annual testicular exam to check for tenderness, lumps or sizing changes. An annual hernia exam is also recommended.
By scheduling annual medical exams, you are taking responsibility for your health, which may decrease your future medical costs and help you feel better throughout the year.
Sources: www.obstetriciandaytonabeach.com