Many people tend to try staying away from doctors until they are in need of service. It is best, however, to have a yearly exam. Even if you are not exhibiting any symptoms of an illness or medical condition, having a yearly exam can keep you from finding you have an underlying situation that needs immediate attention. Here are some of the reasons why seeing your general physician each year is important.
Updating Medical History
During a yearly exam, your doctor will go over your medical history and will ask you if there were any conditions other blood relatives may have had occur since your last visit. This information is beneficial in pinpointing hereditary medical conditions. Your doctor will be better informed on what types of problems to be on the look out for, possibly helping to cure them as a result.
Running Routine Tests
It is a good idea to have blood work done each year to see if there are any changes in levels from the previous year. Your doctor will use your medical history to pinpoint any specific tests that they feel you may benefit from having checked. Having routine blood tests done will help add to your history so they will be able to notice variations very easily, helping you to the get proper care, if needed. Without having this information available for comparison purposes, it is harder to find problems in a timely manner.
Staying On Track
Your doctor will keep track of your weight and will ask you about any lifestyle changes that may contribute to weight loss or gain. If you stray from your recommended body mass index, they will help you with a dietary plan to help you stay within the proper weight range for your age and height. If you are involved in lifestyle choices that are not considered healthy, your doctor will be able to help you wean off substances that may not be desirable. Your doctor will keep these things confidential, making it possible to get help without worry that others will find out.
Preventing Health Risks
By having your doctor give you an exam each year, you can be confident that you are in the best of health. You will have the benefit in getting medication to help any problems before they become worse. Your doctor will also be able to let you know of any symptoms to watch out for, signifying a change in your health. Using this information along with routine visits, will help you keep on top of your health so you do not suffer from conditions unnecessarily.
Contact a practice like Mount Laurel Primary Care Physicians if you have specific questions about yearly checkups.
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