We all know that we are “supposed” to see the doctor every year, but somehow it seems to be the easiest thing to drop off our to-do list. This is especially true if we are feeling well; why go see the doctor if you aren’t sick? Well, today’s Doc Talk is going to explore why yearly physicals are crucial for your health and well-being and can potentially save your life.
While you might not feel unwell, consistent yearly physicals enable your doctor to track the big picture of your health. In addition to a general check of your vitals, reflexes, organs, etc., we also will run lab work on your blood and urine samples. This is where a diagnosis may occur - we will check your blood for anemia, your sodium levels, your LDL and HDL cholesterol levels, and your organ function. Based on these results, we will make a health and wellness plan with specific treatments and adjustments to your lifestyle with accurate information.
But why is it so important that these tests and check-ups occur every year? Because the last thing you want is to find yourself in the ER suffering from a heart attack linked to a preventable cause. Your annual physical will look at your family health history and your lifestyle to help you think through prevention; diabetes, high blood pressure, cardiac complications, and cancer are all genetic diseases, so understanding your big-picture health and genetics will help you better understand your risk and prevention options.
Annual physicals help our medical staff to have a good picture of your overall health, and they enable us to track your health year over year. You can make an appointment for your annual physical today by calling us at (423) 472-6548. Don’t wait! Your physical this year could save your life!