Annual physicals are recommended for everyone of all ages. Your primary care provider normally performs them, and they can help you stay on top of your health and learn about new issues before they become a bigger problem. In addition, they give you a chance to develop a relationship with your doctor.
The Physical Exam
People usually go to the doctor when they are sick and need to be treated. Some people may not need to see a doctor for years. However, there could be underlying issues that you don’t know about. By having an annual physical exam, your doctor will keep records of what is normal for you, and you will be better able to discern when something changes.
They check certain vitals, including the following:
- Blood pressure
- Cholesterol levels
- Blood glucose levels
- Body mass index
You will know if anything changes and your doctor can advise you if they fall outside of the normal range.
Preventative Care
Another reason to go to the doctor for an annual exam is for preventative care. You may not be sick, but people’s bodies change as they grow older. People often feel tired, and they think it is because of age. While this might be the case, it is deeper than that. They might be tired due to physiological changes that are a function of age.
If you go for your annual physical checkup, you will be able to stay on top of these things, and your doctor can prescribe treatments so that you have the energy you need. There may be an underlying reason if you are gaining or losing a small amount of weight each year. You can address these issues before they are out of control.
Should I Go to the Doctor If I’m Not Sick?
Yes, you should. It is important to go for an annual physical exam so that your doctor has accurate records of your health. When you do become ill in the future, your doctor will have more information about what is normal for you. This helps them diagnose you and determine what is going on. They can better provide treatments when you really need them.