Annual Physical Exams in Wilmington DE.
You shouldn’t only wait until you’re sick to visit your primary care doctor. It’s important that you’re visiting for an annual physical exam to make sure you’re doing what you can to prevent certain illnesses from occurring and keeping yourself as healthy as possible! Annual physicals are important in making sure that there aren’t any issues that are going unnoticed and untreated and to make sure that your overall health isn’t of concern to you or your doctor.
Why Annual Physical Exams are Important to Your Health
Your primary care doctor wants to make sure you are as healthy as possible and that you’re getting the treatment you need for any specific conditions you may be dealing with. The best way to make sure these conditions are being identified and treated is by staying consistent with your annual physical exam.
During an annual physical exam, your primary care doctor will check various aspects of your body and systems to ensure that everything is functioning as expected. They’ll check your vital signs and the general appearance of how your skin looks. Your doctor will also use a stethoscope to listen to your heart and lungs and ensure that your heartbeat is regular, and your lungs are clear.
Your ears, nose, sinuses, lymph nodes, thyroid, and throat will also be examined. Your doctor will make sure there’s no inflammation or swelling in any of these areas. Last, they’ll check your abdomen to make sure there is no tenderness in that area and that there’s no swelling in your liver. You may also need to have a blood test or urinalysis done to make sure nothing is going unchecked.
What to Expect at an Annual Physical Exam
When you come in for a annual physical exam at DelCare Health Solution you will begin by filling out a few health history forms if we don't have them on file already. The nurse will then take your vital signs, including your height, weight and blood pressure.
Once your primary care doctor comes in, he or she will begin the examination, which may cover parts of your body including your head, neck, heart, lungs and abdomen. Your primary care doctor will also note your general appearance and do any necessary neurological or dermatological assessments as well.
Your annual physical exam is the perfect time to have any routine screenings done. Recommended screenings vary by age, gender and health history, but may include a colonoscopy, mammogram or pap smear.
How to Prepare for an Annual Physical Exam
The more prepared you are for your physical, the smoother the process is likely to go. Come prepared with your health history, a list of all of your current medications and supplements, and a list of any symptoms you have been experiencing. Bring the names and contact information for other doctors you are seeing or have seen recently as well as a list of questions you would like to ask. Annual physical exams generally move pretty quickly and if you neglect to write down your questions in advance, you may forget.
In addition to bringing all relevant health information, you will also want to dress in comfortable clothing with easy-to-remove shoes. Avoid excessive jewelry or makeup. Be sure to arrive early so you have time to find the office and to fill out your health history forms before your appointment time.