When you’re feeling well, visiting a doctor isn’t something you usually think about, but it can be very beneficial. Annual physical exams were once a regular practice for most adults, but over time they have become less common, sometimes to the detriment of our health.
In this post, we’ll discuss what a physical exam is, why they’re important to maintain, what to expect when you go for one and who should have them. We’ll also tell you where to make an appointment if you or a family member is due (or overdue) for an annual exam.
What is an annual physical exam?
An annual physical exam is an appointment you have with your primary care provider. It gives you the opportunity to ask questions about what’s concerning you about your current physical health, and to undergo routine tests or screenings to make sure all is well.
It’s also a great time to update your medical team about any lifestyle changes (such as quitting smoking or losing weight), provide any new information you may have about your medical history and discuss any external factors (work stress, addiction, family trouble, sleep issues) that may currently be affecting your health.
What are the benefits of an annual checkup?
Seeing your doctor each year helps them create an overall wellness plan for you and recognize patterns in your health that can help detect and diagnose issues faster than someone who has never treated you. In addition, a certain trust is established through repeat visits so there’s less anxiety about sharing sometimes very personal information about your body with your doctor. In addition, when you have appointments that regularly, there is less likelihood of missing signs of serious illness or progressive conditions.
What should I expect at a yearly checkup?
Each physical exam is tailored to the individual, but there are some common things you can expect each time you go for yours:
Weight and Height
You will be weighed and in some cases also measured for height at each appointment.
Blood Pressure
At the start of the appointment, you will have a cuff placed on your arm and a blood pressure test conducted. Recording this, and also taking your temperature, provides a good baseline for your overall wellness.
Visual and Physical Inspections
Your eyes, ears, throat, back, abdomen and skin are usually checked by touch for any potential issues. The doctor may also use a stethoscope to have you breathe and listen for any lung crackles or wheezes.
Vaccinations
Depending on your age group, if you are due for any seasonal or booster shots, your doctor may administer this during the exam.
Screenings
If you are due for blood tests, a colonoscopy, a mammogram (for women), prostate screening (for men), a urine test or bone density screening, your doctor will schedule these for you at that time (sometimes if a lab is on-site, the blood and urine tests may happen that same day).
Mental Health
In addition to asking about any physical issues, your doctor will also ask if you’re suffering from any mental health problems such as depression, anxiety or mood swings. If experiencing issues, they will provide guidance on potential treatments and support resources.
Prescriptions
Your doctor will review what medications and supplements you’re currently taking and renew or prescribe new prescriptions for you, based on their findings.
Preventative Advice
You may receive guidance from your doctor about how to manage or avoid certain conditions that could arise in the future.
Who needs a yearly physical?
Everyone should get a yearly physical, regardless of age or the presence or absence of health conditions. This appointment can help you establish or strengthen a relationship with your healthcare provider, give you guidance on disease prevention, help you get important screenings, and support your mental as well as physical health.
Especially if if you’re over 40, have a pre-existing health condition or a family history of health problems, a regular checkup is essential.
How to schedule your annual physical
If you or a family member would like to schedule an annual physical, request an appointment with WWMG Family Medicine through MyChart or online through our appointment request form.