Staying in Tip Top Shape: How Often Do You Need a Full Medical Check Up?

The most recent data from the CDC shows that 83.4% of people visited a medical professional in one year period. But, while people are visiting doctors, many are overlooking the importance of a full medical check-up.

This means they’re also neglecting their health. Read on to learn why a full medical check-up is so important and when you should schedule yours.

Why Is an Annual Medical Check-Up Important?

Before discussing when you should schedule a full medical check-up, you need to understand why they’re important. One main reason is that they help catch health problems early and monitor any existing conditions.

Early diagnosis and treatment are especially important for conditions such as infection, high blood pressure, and cancer. Regular visits also help maintain a relationship with your doctor. You can learn more about visits from MediCare.

Scheduling Medical Check-Ups

So, when are medical-check ups necessary and when should you schedule one? The answer depends on your current health and medical history. However, an annual medical check-up is ideal for most people.

Factors to Consider

While everyone should plan on an annual medical check-up, some factors can change this recommendation. A medical check-up ensures you’re healthy, but this means different things for different patients.

For example, senior citizens or those with existing health concerns may need to visit more frequently. Talk with your doctor to discuss the appropriate number of visits per year based on your health.

What Happens at a Full Medical Check-Up?

Now that you know when to get a check-up, let’s discuss what goes on at one. Understanding the full medical check-up lists prevents surprises and can help validate the importance of regular visits.

History and Vital Signs

The first part of your annual medical check-up is patient history and vital signs. Some of the benefits of this part of the exam are getting to mention any concerns you have about your health and establishing a baseline.

The doctor’s team will likely ask you follow-up questions just to get you thinking about your health differently. Certain symptoms can go unnoticed, especially if they seem minor. A regular exam catches these early.

Physical Exam

During the exam, your doctor performs a comprehensive check of your body. They ensure your heartbeat is regular, your lungs sound clear, your abdomen is not painful, and more.

When you visit the doctor due to an injury or illness, it can overshadow other symptoms. Comprehensive medical check-ups allow your doctor to focus on your health as a whole instead of addressing one issue at a time.

Laboratory Tests

The health of certain body parts can’t always be determined by a physical exam alone. This makes medical testing an important part of the full medical check-up list.

Blood and urine tests are some of the most common laboratory tests performed during an annual exam. These tests give your doctor information on how your body is functioning internally.

Don’t Delay a Full Medical Check-Up

Getting a full medical check-up is essential in preventing serious disease and worsening health. Talking with your doctor can help you determine the right frequency for medical check-ups, but you should aim for once per year.

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