About this topic
Most people do not want to be sick. Having a checkup each year with your doctor is one way to help you stay healthy. You may need to see your doctor more or less often. How often you need to go to the doctor depends on your age. Your family and medical history also play a role in how often you need to go to the doctor. Going to see your doctor on a routine basis can help you find problems early or even before they start. This may make it easier to treat or cure your problem. ‚
General
Your doctor will talk about many things during your checkup. Your doctor may ask about: ‚
- Your medical and family history.
- All the drugs you are taking. Be sure to include all prescription, over the counter, and herbal supplements. Tell the doctor if you have any drug allergy. Bring a list of drugs you take with you.
- How you are feeling and if you are having any problems.
- Risky behaviors like smoking, drinking alcohol, using illegal drugs, not wearing seatbelts, having unprotected sex, etc.
Your doctor will do a physical exam and may check your: ‚
- Height and weight
- Blood pressure
- Reflexes
- Memory
- Vision
- Hearing
Your doctor may order: ‚
- Lab tests
- ECG to check your heart rhythm
- X-rays
- Tests or treatments based on your exam
What lifestyle changes are needed?
Your doctor may suggest you make changes to your lifestyle at this visit. The doctor may talk with you about being more active or lowering stress levels. Ask your doctor what you need to do. ‚
What drugs may be needed?
Your doctor may order drugs or vaccines to protect you from illnesses. ‚
What changes to diet are needed?
Talk to your doctor to see if any changes are needed to your diet. ‚
When do I need to call the doctor?
Call your doctor if you need to learn about any test results. Together you can make a plan for more care. ‚
Helpful tips
- Make a list of questions for your doctor before you go. This will help you remember to ask about any concerns. Write down any answers from your doctor so you can look over them after your visit.
- Tell your doctor about any changes in your body or health since your last visit.
- Ask your doctor about any screening tests you need.
Where can I learn more?
American Academy of Family Physicians ‚
http://familydoctor.org/familydoctor/en/prevention-wellness/staying-healthy/healthy-living/preventive-services-for-healthy-living.printerview.html ‚
Centers for Disease Control ‚
http://www.cdc.gov/family/checkup/ ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
Copyright
Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚