The annual physical exam is not necessarily an appointment that most men and women look forward to, but it is an incredibly important part of preventative medicine. Whether you are 20 or 60 years old, an annual physical can provide valuable insights into your overall health. Getting a solid benchmark on your health is imperative as you move through life. You may have a doctor you’ve seen for years, and that’s great. However, even if you do not have a primary care physician, it is still a good idea to schedule your regular physical exam with your doctor’s office. So schedule that doctor visit, put on some comfortable medical clothes, and prepare yourself for what’s to come!
What Can You Expect During Your Annual Physical Exam?
The typical annual physical exam will last around 30-60 minutes. During this time, your doctor will ask you about your medical history and any current symptoms you may be experiencing. They will also perform a physical examination, which may include checking your blood pressure, heart rate, and weight. Your doctor may also order some tests to be performed. These tests can help screen for potential health problems, such as diabetes or high cholesterol.
The Different Types of Tests That May Be Performed
Some of the different types of tests that your doctor may order during your annual physical exam include:
- Blood tests: Blood tests can help screen for a variety of potential health problems, such as diabetes, anemia, and kidney disease. Your doctor may also order a complete blood count (CBC) to check your overall health.
- Urine tests: Urine tests can help screen for a variety of potential health problems, such as kidney disease and urinary tract infections.
- Cholesterol tests: Cholesterol tests can help screen for potential heart problems.
- Vision tests: Vision tests can help identify potential vision problems.
- Hearing tests: Hearing tests can help identify potential hearing problems.
Your doctor may also order some other tests, depending on your individual health needs.
How to Prepare for Your Physical Exam
There are a few things that you can do to prepare for your physical exam. Depending on the types of tests that will be conducted, you may need to abstain from eating anything for a minimum amount of time. You should also plan to wear comfortable clothes that will allow your doctor to easily access any areas that need to be examined.
Do You Need to Fast or Abstain From Eating?
Some of the tests that may be performed during your physical exam, such as blood tests, will require you to fast for a minimum amount of time. This means that you will need to abstain from eating or drinking anything (except for water) for at least eight hours before your appointment.
Wear Comfortable Clothes
You should also plan to wear comfortable clothes for your physical exam. The medical staff may be wearing comfortable scrubs, so consider putting on your favourite women’s scrubs or scrub jackets, too! The bottom line is that if you need to remove any item of clothing for the examination, it should be done without too much hassle. Furthermore, your clothing, accessories, or jewellery should not get in the way of any tests or procedures that need to be conducted.
