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Getting an Annual Physical Exam

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Physician checking patient 's glands in the neck areaWhy get an annual physical exam? What happens during the exam? Does it make a difference?

Yes, an annual exam can make a big difference. It is an opportunity to check in with your doctor about your health and overall wellness. Also, you may be able to catch a medical condition early that you were unaware of. During the exam, your provider will ask you questions, examine your body, and determine if you need any additional tests.

Here is what you can expect during an annual exam:

  • Questions about Family History and Lifestyle:
    • These questions will help your doctor determine if you have any risk factors for diseases and health conditions. You might be asked about smoking, alcohol consumption, sexual activity, and sleep quality.
  • Physician visiting with patientQuestions about Mental Health:
    • Your doctor will ask if you are struggling with any mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression, and can refer you to a mental health specialist if needed.
  • General Physical Exam:
    • After taking vital signs (blood pressure; heart rate; respiration rate; temperature), your doctor will examine your body, specifically: the head and neck area (ears, nose, sinuses, lymph nodes, thyroid, throat, tonsils); heart and lung functioning (check for regular heartbeat and if your lungs are clear); the abdominal area; and your skin, posture, and memory.
  • Body Mass Index calculation:
    • This is just one way for your doctor to assess whether you are at a healthy weight. If you have any concerns about weight loss or weight gain, the exam is a time to discuss it with your doctor.
  • Vaccinations:
    • You can talk with your doctor about immunizations and get vaccines as needed, such as: Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis), Flu, HPV, Pneumonia, Shingles, Hepatitis B, and COVID-19.
  • Update Medical Records:
    • The exam is the perfect opportunity to talk with your doctor about any changes in medication or whether you have developed any new allergies.
  • Cholesterol and Blood Glucose screening:
    • These blood tests tell how much cholesterol and sugar is in your blood. Both tests require you to fast 9-12 hours the night before the test, so it’s important to check in with your doctor ahead of time if you plan to get this done. These results can help you and your doctor determine if you need to make some adjustments to your diet and lifestyle.
  • Osteoporosis screening:
    • This test (DEXA scan) checks for osteoporosis, typically recommended for women over the age of 65.
  • Routine Cancer Screenings:
    • Depending on history and risk factors, this could include screenings for skin, breast, cervical, colon, prostate, and lung cancers.

Patient asking physician questionsDevelop a Relationship with your Doctor

The annual exam is also an opportunity to develop a better relationship with your doctor. Through talking and asking questions, you and your doctor will each learn more about your health and your choices moving forward.

So why get an annual physical exam? Basically, it is an easy way to do preventative care. If you have a complex medical history, the exam will give you and your doctor important health information. Or the exam might simply reassure you that you are healthy. The annual physical exam is for everyone.

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