3 Important Questions To Ask At Your Annual Check-up
Annual check-ups are meant to ensure your body functions as it should. They also help you easily identify any issues your physician can promptly address. Several medical reports say many serious medical conditions could have been avoided if people adhered to annual medical checks. More people are becoming conscious of their health, with research revealing that 82.3% of adults did these checks in 2021. As you go about your daily routine, running your business, and so on, making time for regular health checks and knowing the right questions to ask during your visit is essential. Below are three vital questions to ask the physician at your annual check-up.
What screening tests do I need?
Your annual medical check involves a review of your health history to clearly understand your body and how it may function differently from the norm. During the appointment, your vitals will be taken to give further information about your pulse, heartbeat, weight, and height. The data obtained from these checks will explain your current health status. When all these have been done, engaging the physician by asking questions about your health is necessary. For instance, depending on your age, you should ask about screening tests you are eligible for. Women aged 40 are usually advised to screen for breast cancer yearly. However, with genetic mutations and a family history of the disease, specialists advise that screening begins at 25 years.
Meanwhile, annual prostate cancer screening from 45 - 50 years is recommended for men. Asking this question opens the window to learn more about common health conditions in your age range. Subsequently, you will know which tests are right based on your peculiar needs and current health status.
How can I manage any chronic conditions I have?
Chronic medical conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure require long-term treatment and management. If you have already been diagnosed, you may need to see the physician at shorter intervals than annually. This question gives you insight into your condition and how to prevent complications. Sometimes, the physician or specialist may change your medications at these appointments, usually when your body becomes less responsive to the medications you’ve been on for a while. It could also be that you’re uncomfortable with the side effects, and a change can improve your quality of life. You can consider contacting an online doctor if you’re on a very tight schedule. Several specialists are available online, such as Dr. Zachary Solomon, if you need a second opinion from surgeons on whether you’ll require surgery for any chronic condition you may have.
What lifestyle changes can I make to improve my health?
Your lifestyle often has a significant impact on your physical and mental health. For example, if you are a highly-stressed company executive, you may be at an increased risk of cortisol elevation, which could cause cardiac problems, chronic anxiety, and insomnia. If you often rely on illicit substances or excessive alcohol consumption to get through the day, that lifestyle could spell the beginning of dire medical consequences. Suppose you haven’t given much thought to your diet and weight issues. In that case, you must be honest with your physician during your annual medical appointment while asking questions about improving your health. The physician often suggests more physical activity, a diet adjustment, and improved sleeping habits. You may also benefit from mental health tips to improve your overall well-being.
Writing down your questions will make it easier to remember them so you can have an insightful conversation with your physician during your appointment.