WHY DO I NEED A PHYSICAL EXAM?

The purpose of a physical exam is so your doctor can evaluate your body thoroughly and ensure all of your vital organs, such as your heart and lungs, are working properly. You don’t need to be sick to get a physical exam.

Physical exams can help catch illnesses and diseases early. If your doctor spots something early enough, they can get you started on treatment and help prevent something worse from developing. Men and women should get a physical exam once a year.

WHAT CAN I EXPECT ON MY PHYSICAL EXAM?

During a physical exam, your will doctor assesses your heart, lungs, tonsils, ears, head, neck, abdomen, and legs for any abnormalities. Your vital signs will also be checked including blood pressure, pulse (heart rate), weight, and respiratory rate.

Also, your blood tests will typically include a CBC (complete blood count), Lipid Panel (good and bad cholesterol and triglycerides), Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (18 different measurements that include blood sugar testing for diabetes, kidney and liver function tests, electrolytes, protein and calcium levels). Depending on your age and symptoms other blood tests will also be included.

WHAT CAN BE DETECTED WITH A PHYSICAL EXAM?

During your evaluation, your doctor will check for a wide variety of symptoms and factors that could show an underlying medical condition. Your doctor may evaluate you for:

High blood pressure

High cholesterol

Diabetes

Heart disease

STD testing

And many other conditions

Depending on your medical history, your doctor may focus on certain areas more than others. Your doctor will also factor in your family history in determining how to exam you.

If your doctor notices anything out of the ordinary, he or she may recommend more tests, such as X-rays, ultrasounds, or stress tests, to get a more complete picture of your health.

If you need expert care from doctors you can trust, please call to book an appointment today!