It’s that time of year again! When it seems like every discussion seems to revolve around new year’s resolutions and how you can work off all that turkey. Most people base their resolutions around one of two things, their career or health. The potpourri of new health trends available for us to jump into seems to stretch for miles. But one consistently overlooked area that no one ever mentions tends to be the full physical examination. Even though this process is one of the best indicators of our current and future physical positions.
If you are like most people, you probably feel reluctant to visit your doctor unless you ‘feel’ something is wrong. Nothing could be more counterproductive to your overall health than waiting until something is physically manifesting before you have your body looked over by a professional. This year, instead of just starting up on the newest Keto diet fad, first let your doctor have a look at your current health and discuss how your resolution plans will work with your individual genetic make-up.
Here are a few reasons why setting a physical exam should be priority #1 of your 2019;
- Prevent future health issues– This is absolutely the most important reason to get a physical exam at any time. We want to avoid the westernized status quo of treating already developed illnesses by being proactive and doing what we can to prevent health problems before they start. Based on your medical history doctors will know what needs to be monitored on an ongoing basis to help you avoid a potentially traumatic future event. Think about that strange mole on your back. A doctor will be able to tell you whether or not it could be a concern for melanoma and if it should potentially be removed as a precautionary action.
- Establish baselines– If you haven’t been to the doctor in a while, which is the case with most men 18-60, this could be the perfect opportunity for you to establish some health baselines. To take the most advantage of your following checkups, having a baseline allows for a more accurate measurement of bodily changes. Weight, blood pressure, heart rate, or cholesterol are some very important key performance indicators of good health that should be taken on a regular basis.
- Develop a relationship with your doctor– If you are not visiting your doctor regularly you haven’t had a chance to develop a professional relationship with them. A relationship with your medical professional is much more beneficial for both sides of the equation. The more comfortable you are with your MD, the more likely you will open up with them about all issues and concerns. Your doctor will also be able to gather more information and a better understanding of you which can help in the avoidance of incorrect diagnosis or missed symptoms that can have serious consequences. Never underestimate the value of trust between you and your doctor.
- Save money– Yes, we are totally serious! This coincides with the prevention of future health issues. If you let medical conditions get out of control, the cost associations with such conditions can be astronomical. Even with some half good insurance.
- Find out if your resolutions are right for you– As mentioned previously, sometimes our ideas for resolutions are not necessarily the right fit for our individual bodies. It is always beneficial to consult a medical professional prior to making a dramatic lifestyle change regardless of the online ‘success’ articles you have been reading all holiday long.
How Often Should You Get a Physical?
- If you are in your 20’s?… Every 3-5 years.
- If you are in your 30’s?… Every 3 years.
- If you are in your 40’s?… Every 2 years.
- If you are 50 or above?… Every year.
To do list for today? Schedule yourself a new year physical exam! Contact us today to schedule yours