An annual physical exam is a chance to take charge of your health and well-being. It’s a comprehensive medical visit that includes a range of tests to assess your overall health.
Every year, millions of people schedule their annual physical exams with the intention of maintaining good health and preventing disease. But only a few of them actually understand what these tests are for and why they are so important.
Here we will shed some light on the key screenings and tests that are usually part of an annual physical exam and explain their significance.
Key Screenings and Tests
Here are some examples of key screenings and tests that are regularly offered as a part of annual physicals.
Blood Pressure Check
A blood pressure check is a standard part of almost every physical exam. High blood pressure (hypertension) often has no symptoms but can lead to serious conditions like heart disease and stroke.
Regular blood pressure monitoring can help detect hypertension early and manage it effectively.
Cholesterol Test
High cholesterol levels can increase your risk of deadly diseases like heart disease and stroke. A cholesterol test is performed by measuring the number of different types of cholesterol in your blood, including LDL (“bad” cholesterol), HDL (“good” cholesterol), and triglycerides.
If your levels of LDL are high, your primary care provider might suggest dietary changes, physical activity, or medication.
Blood Glucose Testing
Blood glucose testing is another key test during an annual physical, and it measures your blood sugar levels.
Your body needs the right amount of glucose to function correctly, but having too high of a blood sugar level can cause serious health problems like diabetes. Your provider will perform this test to check for signs of prediabetes or diabetes and suggest the right course of treatment and lifestyle modifications to manage your glucose levels.
Body Mass Index (BMI)
Your BMI is a calculation based on your height and weight and can indicate whether you’re underweight, overweight, or at a healthy weight. A high BMI can be a sign of increased risk for certain diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer.
Early detection of obesity can help control weight and reduce the risk of various health problems.
Colon Cancer Screening
Recommended for adults over the age of 45, colon cancer screenings can detect early signs of colorectal cancer. There are several types of screenings, including stool tests, colonoscopy, and sigmoidoscopy that can detect colon cancer.
Prostate Cancer Screening
For men, especially those over 50 or with a family history of prostate cancer, this screening is essential to detect prostate cancer early. It typically involves a blood test known as a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test.
Breast and Cervical Cancer Screenings
For women, mammograms (breast cancer screenings) and Pap smears (cervical cancer screenings) are crucial. These tests can detect early signs of cancer, significantly improving the chances of successful treatment.
Importance of Screenings and Tests
Here are some reasons why screenings and tests involved in annual physicals are so important.
Early Detection
Screenings and tests can detect potential health problems before they become symptomatic or severe. For instance, tests like mammograms and colonoscopies can identify breast cancer and colon cancer at an early stage when they are often more manageable and treatable.
Prevention
Some screenings can help prevent diseases entirely. For example, cholesterol checks, and blood pressure screenings can help identify risk factors for heart disease and stroke, allowing for preventive measures to be taken.
Monitoring of Ongoing Health Problems
Regular screenings and tests allow healthcare providers to monitor ongoing conditions and adjust treatment as necessary.
Peace of Mind
Regular screenings provide reassurance. Knowing that you’ve been checked for various potential health issues can bring you peace of mind.
Annual Physical Exams Near Me in Kent, Washington
An annual physical is one of the most valuable things you can do to stay healthy and proactive about your wellness. By understanding the key screenings and tests involved, you can prepare for your visit and feel confident that you’re getting the care you need.
At FamilyCare of Kent, our highly trained and board-certified nurse practitioners provide annual physical exams as a part of preventive health care to people of all ages and genders. In addition to annual physicals, we also provide appropriate vaccination and immunization as well as treatment for acute and chronic health conditions.
If you would like to schedule a private consultation with our nurse practitioner contact us today at (253) 859-2273 or use our online appointment request form now. We look forward to keeping you in your best health!