The Importance Of A Regular Medical Check-Up

Most of us make a visit to the doctor’s office only when we have a medical problem.    While we certainly should not ignore situations which require immediate attention, there is a growing trend toward practicing preventive medicine.  This refers to having regularly scheduled appointments, called check-ups or physicals, for the purpose of keeping close tabs on one’s medical status.

Not all serious medical problems have symptoms in their early stages.  A physical could detect something while it is still treatable or while the diagnosis is still favorable.  While most people immediately think of cancer, there are other serious problems that could be detected during a physical.  Getting a regular check up could make treating a problem much easier and could even save your life.

A physical can help find warning signs for serious disorders.  For instance, a physical may find that you have high cholesterol or blood pressure.  While these problems may not be serious themselves, without treatment they can cause an array of problems.  If these are found and treated, you could avoid them becoming more serious. 

A physical is a excellent time to discuss all those problems that you feel are “too small” for a special visit.  Maybe you’ve been feeling a little tired lately, have really dry skin, or toenail fungus.  While you may not think these problems are big enough for an individual doctor’s visit, getting them taken care of can cause a major improvement in your life.  You can bring these problems up during your regular medical check-up without any extra inconvenience. 

A regularly scheduled check-up is also a good time to get updated on new medical information and technologies that are available.  Maybe you’ve heard about a new research study from a magazine or a friend.  Perhaps you’ve seen a commercial for a new prescription drug, vaccine, or other treatment option that might help you.  Discussing those with your doctor during your physical can help keep you up to date on any medical news that is important to you.

Most doctors recommend that women have a medical check-up once a year.  This should also include an annual pap smear and breast exam.  It is also recommended that women have regular mammograms after the age of 40. 

More medical check-up information resources: