No matter your age or where you are in life, annual physical exams are an essential part of your long-term health. But why do I need an annual physical? Well, here are the top five reasons to schedule one today.
Is annual physical really necessary?
Yes, it is. In fact, many employers require a yearly wellness exam. Your annual physical is the best way to assess your overall health. Depending on your age, risk factors, lifestyle and family history, your primary care provider may order a variety of blood tests and other screenings during your annual physical. This includes:
- Blood pressure screening
- Cholesterol screening
- Blood glucose screening
- Osteoporosis screening
- BMI
These tests help your provider identify underlying conditions like diabetes and heart disease even if you aren’t experiencing symptoms yet. This can help your provider make recommendations for follow up testing and lifestyle or diet changes to help you improve or maintain your health.
Is it bad to not get a physical every year?
In addition to health screenings, your annual physical is also a great time to update your vaccinations. Vaccines aren’t just for children, adults need to stay up to date on immunizations as well. Your provider will review your vaccination history and recommend immunizations. This may include:
- COVID-19 Vaccine
- TDAP Vaccine
- Flu Vaccine
- HPV Vaccine
- Pneumonia Vaccine
- Shingles Vaccine
- Hepatitis B Vaccine
What is typically done during an annual physical?
Another important aspect of your annual physical is cancer screening. A routine cancer screening increases your chances of detecting cancer early when it’s most treatable. Your provider will consider your risk factors and age during your annual wellness exam and may recommend cancer screenings for:
- Skin cancer
- Breast cancer
- Gynecological cancer
- Cervical cancer
- Colon cancer
- Prostate cancer
- Lung cancer
What is the point of a physical exam?
Finally, your annual physical exam is the perfect time to update your medical records. A lot can change in a year, so it’s important to let your provider know about changes that could impact your health. Such as:
- Medication changes
- Allergies
- Social history
- Mental health
- Family history
Is it time? Schedule your annual physical today.
Annual physical exams are a fantastic way to stay on top of your health. With proper care, you can prevent serious health conditions and stay healthy. Scheduling your annual physical exam could be the best thing you do for your health this year. Contact us today to schedule your appointment.