“You are a VIP, a very important person, so take care with self care. If not you, who? If not now, when?” – Toni Hawkins Self-care should always come first in your life. The problem is, we probably aren’t doing enough of it. 92% of Americans say it is important to get an annual physical and… The post Your Annual Wellness/Physical Exam appeared first on .

“You are a VIP, a very important person, so take care with self care . If not you, who? If not now, when?” – Toni Hawkins

Self-care should always come first in your life. The problem is, we probably aren’t doing enough of it.

92% of Americans say it is important to get an annual physical and 62% of Americans actually get an annual physical, according to a Kaiser Family Foundation survey .

You may have a perceived notion that self-care is all about tending to ephemeral mental “ouchies”. This is not true. It is also about dealing with, AND PREVENTING physical “ouchies” too.

Your Annual Wellness Exam or your Annual Physical is an important part of self-care.

“If you didn’t go in for a complete physical, you’re only going to the doctor when you’re sick, and that makes absolutely no sense,” Think of it as a “check-in” rather than a “check-up”

• Annual exams are free for most insurance companies as most preventive exams are under the Affordable Care Act.

• Annual wellness visits can help spot potential problems before they get serious. Plus, it’s important to keep track of key measurements over time.

“I have come to believe that caring for myself is not self-indulgent. Caring for myself is an act of survival.” – Audre Lorde

Do Self-Care – Schedule Your Annual Exam Today

Of course, as stated above, the best way to deal with things is to prevent them from happening.   We’re open seven days a week, 365 days a year. Just come on in or contact us to set up an appointment!

6 Things We Do At Your Annual Physical

Stay on Top of Your Health

What your doctor does during your yearly checkup will vary some from person to person. Your health, your age, and your gender make a difference. Also, not all doctors check the same things. For instance, some might check your skin for signs of skin cancer, but others won’t. You would need to see a dermatologist for that. The same is true for many other conditions. But here are six things most people can expect at their annual physical.

Cancer Screening

After age 50, your physical may include a rectal exam. The doctor also may want to analyze a stool sample. These tests check for colon and rectal cancer. In men, a rectal exam also checks for an enlarged prostate. Women, especially after age 40, may have a breast exam as part of their annual physical. Doctors also might do a full body skin exam, looking for early signs of skin cancer.

Blood Tests

An annual physical may include taking a blood sample to test for cholesterol levels. A cholesterol test is common for men 35 and older and women after age 45. If you are at risk of heart disease, you might have these levels checked starting in your early twenties. Some people also have their blood tested for diabetes. The American Diabetes Association recommends testing for diabetes after age 45. But your doctor may do earlier testing if you have high blood pressure or symptoms of diabetes. These include thirst, hunger, and frequent urination.

Age-Related Exams

If you are an older man, your doctor may look for signs of an abdominal aortic aneurysm. That can occur if the main artery that passes through the belly becomes weak. It can balloon out. If it ruptures, it can be fatal. This is more common in men older than 65. Your doctor may want you to have an ultrasound to rule this out. If you are a woman older than 65, your doctor may suggest screening for osteoporosis. Men may also have or request this screening. Finally, an annual checkup gives younger women the chance to talk with their doctor about reproductive issues, including birth control or family planning options.

Blood Tests

An annual physical may include taking a blood sample to test for cholesterol levels. A cholesterol test is common for men 35 and older and women after age 45. If you are at risk of heart disease, you might have these levels checked starting in your early twenties. Some people also have their blood tested for diabetes. The American Diabetes Association recommends testing for diabetes after age 45. But your doctor may do earlier testing if you have high blood pressure or symptoms of diabetes. These include thirst, hunger, and frequent urination.

Counseling for a Healthy Lifestyle

An annual physical is the time for a good chat with your doctor about healthy—and unhealthy—habits. Your doctor might ask about how much alcohol you drink, or whether you smoke. Your doctor might also ask about drug use, domestic violence, and safe sex. Depression is another topic that many doctors now ask about at yearly visits. Your doctor will probably want to know about your diet and level of physical activity. Also, be sure to give your doctor a full list of all medicines you take. Include prescription and over-the-counter drugs and all supplements.