One of the best things you can do for your health is to schedule annual physicals, also known as wellness examinations, at a healthcare clinic near you. In contrast to sick visits, which typically are used to diagnose and treat problems, a physical is a comprehensive assessment of your overall health and well-being.
The purpose of annual physicals is to prevent disease, or if there is a problem, catch it early so that it can be promptly treated. While the services provided during these appointments vary, depending on age and gender, the physician will typically review your medical history and perform a thorough examination on all parts of the body. Additional screening, such as laboratory tests, may also be provided to check for potential problems.
Please keep in mind that if you present with symptoms relating to an illness or other medical condition, whether acute or chronic, this may be categorized as a “sick visit,” and the examination performed will be limited to the body systems involved. In that case, your physical examination may be rescheduled until you are otherwise healthy.
What to Expect?
Medical History Review
Your physician will review your medical history at the start of each appointment, especially if you start care at a new healthcare clinic. That includes information about your overall health, well-being, and lifestyle habits. Typically, test results are discussed during a follow-up appointment, as these are often ordered as part of the exam.
Essential Tests and Screenings
Your vital signs – blood pressure, heart rate, respiration rate, and temperature – are always taken regardless of the reason for the visit. During the physical, the doctor will listen to your heart and lungs; inspect your head, neck, and abdomen; and exam different parts of the body. Like the exam itself, the latter varies, depending on gender. The doctor may also order specific laboratory tests to screen for disease.
Recommendations for a Healthy Lifestyle
Towards the end of your appointment, your physician may offer tips for promoting a healthy lifestyle, such as eating a balanced diet and drinking plenty of water. Living an active lifestyle is equally important for preventing disease. According to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, adults should integrate two muscle-strengthening exercises per week, with a minimum of 150 to 300 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity.
Schedule an Annual Physical Today
The physicians at Woodlands Diagnostic Clinic believe that patients should receive general physical or wellness examinations periodically, depending on their age and overall health status. Book your appointment today!
Woodlands Diagnostic Clinic is an internal medicine practice that provides patients with compassionate, quality care at our conveniently located healthcare clinic in Shenandoah, Texas. Another option offered by our practice is virtual telehealth.
The physicians at Woodlands Diagnostic Clinic have been caring for the families of Conroe, North Houston, and The Woodlands for many years. They are committed to optimizing patient health and well-being.
We are open Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. Dr. Charron offers extended hours on Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday from 8:00 am to 7:00 pm. Schedule an appointment for all your medical needs at (281) 863-9554.
Resources:
“Annual Physical Examinations.” WebMD.
“How to Prepare for a Doctor’s Appointment.” The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services: National Institute on Aging.
“Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans: 2nd Edition.” The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services.
“Physical Exam Frequency.” The National Institutes of Health (NIH): U.S. National Library of Medicine.
“What to expect during a physical exam.” Medical News Today.
