Why an Annual Physical Exam is So Important Scheduling an annual physical exam is a simple, yet very important step to maintaining good health. Your annual physical allows your primary care physician to check for signs of any health issues before…

Why an Annual Physical Exam is So Important

Scheduling an annual physical exam is a simple, yet very important step to maintaining good health. Your annual physical allows your primary care physician to check for signs of any health issues before they worsen, while also providing guidance to help you achieve your long-term health goals.

Many patients make the mistake of thinking that an annual physical exam is unnecessary if they feel healthy. But in actuality, these exams are essential for preventative care. They can uncover potential problems that may not yet have any symptoms. And, if you are currently experiencing symptoms, your doctor can provide better care by having more intimate knowledge of your medical history from routine checkups every year.

What happens at an annual physical exam?

While every medical office is different, there are certain types of checkups that occur at most annual physicals. In general, these exams provide an opportunity for the physician to check your vital signs and overall health, while also addressing any questions or concerns you have.

Your doctor or nurse may check the following:

  • Weight and height: This is to monitor for any signs of dramatic weight gain or loss, which can be caused by a number of health issues.
  • Blood pressure: A blood pressure cuff, placed around the arm, is commonly used to check blood pressure. While each patient is unique, the normal/healthy range is considered to be less than 120/80 mm Hg.
  • Heart rate: Staff will typically check your heart rate a few times, often by a nurse before the doctor sees you, and again by your physician.
  • Respiratory health: Your nurse and/or physician will typically check your breathing for any signs of heart or lung problems.
  • Temperature check: Staff will take your temperature to check for fever (or an abnormally low temperature).
  • Head, neck and throat exam: Stick out your tongue and say ‘ahh.’ This common exam involves checking your throat and tonsils, as well as other parts of your head, including ears, nose, eyes, teeth and neck.
  • Neurological exam: A common part of this checkup is tapping your knee with a little rubber hammer, which helps to check your reflexes. You physician may also check your muscle strength, nerves, balance and mental state.
  • Skin exam: Your physician will typically perform a quick dermatological exam for signs of abnormalities on your skin.

Physicals for men and women can also be slightly different. For example, physicians may check men for signs of testicular or prostate problems, while women are often checked for abnormalities in the breasts.

If any issues are uncovered during the physical, or you have certain risk factors, your doctor may order additional screenings and blood tests, such as:

  • Blood count
  • Chemistry panel
  • Urinalysis (UA)
  • Cholesterol test (lipid panel)

Annual physicals can also include:

  • Abdominal exam
  • Extremities exam
  • General appearance check
  • Blood sugar check

How long does a physical take?

Every appointment is different, but most exams only take about 30-45 minutes.

Physicals can be longer or shorter depending on your age, existing health issues or the specific questions you have for your doctor.

Make an appointment today

Schedule your annual physical exam at Maryland Primary Care in Lanham, MD. Make an appointment today by calling 301-277-3555.

Every patient at Maryland Primary Care receives exceptional care from our entire staff and gets access to our free app, which analyzes cardiovascular risk and creates a personalized plan of activities and diet for a healthier lifestyle.

What are some other reasons for regular physical examinations?

Regular physical examinations serve multiple purposes and provide various benefits. Additional reasons for these examinations include:

1. Updating personal information: Regular examinations allow for the updating of address changes, contact information, as well as the logs of medication and supplement usage. Keeping these details up to date ensures accurate and comprehensive medical records.

2. Monitoring cholesterol and blood pressure levels: Physical examinations provide an opportunity to check cholesterol and blood pressure levels. High cholesterol and elevated blood pressure can lead to serious health issues like heart disease and stroke. Regular monitoring helps identify potential problems early on and allows for appropriate interventions.

3. Screening for cancer: Physical examinations often involve screening tests for various types of cancer. These screenings may include mammograms for breast cancer, Pap smears for cervical cancer, or colonoscopies for colon cancer. Early detection greatly increases the chances of successful treatment and improves overall outcomes.

4. Detecting silent diseases: Certain diseases may not present noticeable symptoms in their early stages. Through regular physical examinations, healthcare professionals can detect these silent diseases, such as diabetes or hypertension, before they progress and cause significant harm.

5. Identifying risk factors: Physical examinations aid in identifying risk factors associated with weight and age-related diseases. Assessing factors like body mass index, waist circumference, and family history helps identify individuals who may be at higher risk for conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or certain types of cancer. This knowledge allows for targeted interventions and lifestyle modifications to minimize the risk.

6. Promoting safe sex practices: Regular physical examinations also serve as a valuable opportunity to educate and inform young people about safe sex practices. Healthcare providers can discuss contraceptive methods, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and provide counseling to promote responsible sexual behaviors.

7. Counseling for tobacco and drug use: Physical examinations offer an ideal platform for healthcare professionals to counsel teenagers on the dangers of tobacco and drug use. Discussions regarding the risks associated with smoking, vaping, or substance abuse can help raise awareness and encourage healthier lifestyle choices.

Regular physical examinations encompass a wide range of important components, including updating personal information, monitoring key health indicators, screening for cancer and silent diseases, identifying risk factors, and providing education and counseling on safe sex practices and substance abuse. By prioritizing regular check-ups, individuals can proactively manage their health and ultimately improve their overall well-being.

Should women receive annual gynecological exams?

It is recommended for women to undergo annual gynecological exams. These exams are important for maintaining women’s reproductive health and overall well-being. Additionally, for those who are pregnant, regular visits to the doctor during their pregnancy are necessary, which usually involve physical examinations.

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