A physical examination is more than a check-up; it’s one of the best ways to boost longevity and health in the long term by committing to preventative care and medical screenings. Proactive measures help you and your doctor identify potential health risks, making it easier to avoid and interrupt chronic illness before it takes hold. This is why it is important to see your doctor for annual physical exams. We know that visiting the doctor is intimidating for many, and we encourage you to confront any fear you may be feeling and make the appointment. Your doctor is a partner in creating good long-term health outcomes, and the peace of mind which comes from taking positive action is worth the nerves and effort. While overcoming fear of doctor’s visits sounds great in theory, in practice it feels overwhelming for some at first. Anxiety about medical care is common, and can be difficult to manage at times. When calling to make your medical appointments, it is helpful to communicate your concerns to the individuals responsible for scheduling. Maybe you have a fear of needles, and you want to ensure you are seen by your doctor’s best and most sensitive phlebotomist. By communicating your needs to your care providers, you give them the opportunity to accommodate you and make your visit as comfortable as possible.
Happy Side Effect of a Physical Examination It is important to remember that scheduling an annual physical examination is just one part of making the commitment to self-care and better health choices. Lifestyle habits such as exercise, proper sleep habits / hygiene, nutrition, stress management, and medical care are all key to supporting your health over time. As you learn to find ways to commit to lasting change, you can be sure that your efforts will pay off. Benefits such as better sleep, healthier body weight, increased energy, and better mental clarity result from taking charge of your health and well-being.
Some Things to Consider Before Your Physical Examination
- Preventative care will help decrease and ease anxiety over time by protecting your health in the long term.
- A proactive approach to health care includes developing healthier lifestyle habits such as exercise, sleep hygiene, and stress management which contribute to the prevention of many chronic and degenerative diseases.
- Preventative medical screenings help protect your financial future. Illness is far less expensive to prevent than it is to treat.
- Annual medical screenings actually reduce your time spent in the doctor’s office by decreasing the likelihood of more complex illnesses developing over time.
Action Steps:
- Choose a type of exercise you enjoy, and commit to it at least three times per week.
- See your doctor regularly for physical exams.
- Eat a nourishing and balanced diet based in whole, natural, and minimally processed foods.
- Do not smoke. If you do smoke, talk with your doctor about the right smoking cessation program for you.
- Drink alcohol in moderation or not at all.
- Get at least seven to eight hours of sleep each night. Turn off your phone and electronic devices at least one hour before bed, and sleep in a well darkened room.