Physical exams are usually done to determine the status of your health. They also help in the early detection and prevention of health complications that may have devastating health effects. Therefore, it is important for you to have an annual physical exam at least once a year. Physical exams are normally monitored by a primary care physician. Here, we will tell you the importance of having your Phoenix annual exam and what that exam will entail.
Table of Contents
What Is an Annual Physical Exam?
An annual physical exam is an appointment with your primary care physician, where they give you a chance to ask any question on anything associated with your current overall physical health. The exam also allows you to provide necessary updates to your primary care doctor concerning lifestyle modifications, such as losing weight and quitting alcohol. During the exam, you will be required to undergo some routine tests to make sure your body is functioning normally.
What Does an Annual Exam Entail?
At Desert Star Family Planning, an annual physical exam begins after your blood pressure, height and weight have been checked by our medical team. Thereafter, Dr. Taylor will talk to you about your health and counter-check your personal and family medical history. She will then perform your physical exam by examining your lungs and heart as well as feeling your abdomen.
Dr. Taylor will perform a pelvic and breast exam and, if you happen to be at low risk of cervical cancer, a Pap smear will be done every 3-5 years, depending on your age. For patients aged above 40, she will make a mammogram referral. Meanwhile, for women below the age of 25, Dr. Taylor will offer HPV vaccinations. You can also ask her any question about your health on matters such as birth control, STDs, or abnormal menstrual periods during your annual physical exam.
Benefits of an Annual Exam
Below are some of the benefits of having an annual physical exam:
1. Overall Health Assessment
During a routine physical exam, your doctor will be able to review your personal and family medical history. This will help detect any potential health problems that may arise in the future. Additionally, an annual physical exam gives your physician an opportunity to test your vital signs, such as blood pressure, respiration rate, and heart rate to check for any abnormalities. In some cases, blood tests might be done to provide an accurate view of the different aspects of your total body health.
2. Vaccination Updates
During your annual physical exam, you can decide to receive all your yearly recommended vaccinations in a single visit. This ensures that you are well-equipped to survive the flu season as well as other common diseases. The type of vaccination you will receive is mainly dependent on your age and gender.
3. Weight Advice
Your healthcare provider will be able to provide you with Blood Glucose Screening, Cholesterol Screening, and Body Mass Index checks then advise you on weight adjustments.
4. Cancer Screening
Early detection is really important in preventing cancer. At the physical exam, you will receive cancer screening as well as screening for other types of diseases and illnesses.
Conclusion
It is highly recommended that you check on your overall health with an annual physical exam. Dr. DeShawn Taylor, MD, FACOG, MSc, offers annual physical exams to all women at Desert Star Family Planning, Phoenix. For a patient-focused annual exam, schedule an appointment online or call the office today.