When you connect with your healthcare needs and plant seeds for your wellness, you can achieve notable results once the fruits of your efforts start to appear. One way to plant those seeds to health and wellness is to establish a trusting relationship with a doctor who can help you prevent potential health conditions down the line and suggest adjustments to your diet and activities. Start by scheduling a physical exam with a doctor for preventative health screenings.

Why Preventative Physical Exams Are Recommended

Doctors recommend yearly physical exams for patients to get a complete picture of their current health status. That includes the condition of the body, vital readings, weight, and levels in the blood. It allows the doctor to diagnose potential conditions before they become more serious and prescribe medication, better known as preventive medicine. At physical checkups with a primary doctor, you can also receive a referral to a specialist who can help you with unique medical matters. For instance, if you’re experiencing back pain or mental health issues, your doctor can refer you to a chiropractor or therapist.

Preventive Health Screenings: What to Expect

This is what you can likely expect at your physical examination with a primary care doctor for preventive health:

• A practitioner will record your weight and height and then take your blood pressure.
• The doctor will ask about your health history (including current prescriptions) and family history.
• Your doctor will order blood panels and a urinalysis test.
• Your doctor will examine your eyes, ears, neck, throat, skin, and other body parts and listen to your heart rhythm and lungs.
• You’ll receive necessary immunizations (such as for the flu) and also updated prescriptions.
• You will have a chance to ask your health questions and get medical advice.

Tips for Good Checkups

When you go for a doctor's visit, the ultimate goal is having a clean bill of health. Here are some tips for staying healthy between appointments:

• Start a journal tracking your eating habits (breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks) and make substitutions for healthier whole foods with less fat content.
• Add at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise to your daily routine, even if it’s just a walk in the park.
• Reduce or eliminate your consumption of alcohol and tobacco.
• Consider stress management techniques like breathing exercises, yoga, new hobbies, and counseling services.
• If your blood readings indicate a vitamin deficiency, consider taking supplements as your physician recommends.

Schedule a Physical Exam Today

It takes courage, knowledge, and a strong relationship with a qualified primary care doctor to take control of your health. Get the help and support you need at regular preventive health screenings, at least yearly.