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Why are annual physicals important? -

Annual physicals are essential in catching "silent" diseases early and then being able to treat them before a bigger issue arises.

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Who can you go to for your annual physical? -

Consider going to your primary care provider, who might be a physician, assistant physician, or nurse practitioner.

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Biggest health threats -

During your annual check-up, your healthcare provider can scan for health threats like chronic diseases, namely heart disease, diabetes, and lung disease.

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Why is it important to catch and treat diseases early? -

If you and your doctor can identify and treat diseases earlier then it can lead to better health outcomes. Even if you're young and seemingly healthy, having an established care provider is important.

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How often do you need a physical? -

Opinions actually vary on this exact question. While annually is a good benchmark, you should consult your medical professional and develop a plan that's tailored specifically to you and your health.

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Ages -

One doctor advises patients in their 20s and 30s who are seemingly healthy to come in every two years. Others, though, should get an annual physical.

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What happens at a physical exam? -

There are usually two main components to a yearly checkup with your primary care provider. They include talking through your recent health history and a physical exam.

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Is everyone’s appointment the same? -

Each appointment is unique and depends almost entirely on the provider and patient. There are standard components but depending on a patient's needs or ailments, the appointments can be tailored.

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A review of your health history -

This is a great chance to bring up changes in your family health history, concerns you might have, and anything else you might find relevant.

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Physical exam -

Then, your provider will do a physical exam of your body. They will often check you from head to toe and note any areas of potential concern.

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Things to expect during the physical exam -

During the physical, your medical provider will take your pulse. They do this to see if there are any changes from your normal heart rate as it could indicate a health problem.

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Listen to your heart and lungs -

Medical professionals will listen to your heart and lungs. It's their job to then distinguish the normal sounds from those that might indicate disease or malfunction.

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Check your mouth and ears -

The back of your throat, including your tongue, can give doctors and medical professionals an indication of your health. They will also look into your ears to check that everything seems okay.

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Feel your lymph nodes -

Lymph nodes in your neck will be felt also. This is to see if the lymph nodes are enlarged as that could be a sign of your body fighting an infection.

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Examine your skin -

During your annual exam, your doctor should closely look at your skin. They will be looking out for unusual marks or moles that could be dangerous.

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Look for swelling in your extremities -

Swelling in the extremities can be caused in part by aging for people over 50 but it can also be indicative of other other things. Your doctor should be checking and inquiring if you've noticed anything recently. 

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Conduct a breast exam -

For people with breasts, it's important during your annual physical for your doctor to feel for lumps and bumps that could indicate disease or even cancer. Speak up if you've noticed a change in feeling or other sensations.

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Check your height and weight -

Your provider will use your weight and height to calculate your BMI or body mass index. They can then let you know if, at your current BMI level, you're more or less susceptible to things like cancer, heart disease, and stroke. 

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Measure vital signs and blood pressure -

Your body's basic functions are measured by your vital signs. Any significant or drastic changes in your body temperature, pulse, or breathing rate could indicate an underlying medical condition.

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Review of each organ system -

Your medical provider should ideally go through your organ systems one by one and ask questions along the way to help jog your memory of symptoms you may have experienced but forgotten.

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Internal exam -

During your physical, your provider might suggest an internal or sexual health screening. These exams will screen for signs of cervical cancer, HPV, and other gynecological issues.

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Other tests -

If you’re someone with a prostate, your provider might do additional exams to check for signs of testicular cancer, prostate cancer, or hernia.

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Blood test -

Depending on how the physical goes and the conversations you have, your medical provider might want to do blood tests to check your cholesterol, electrolyte levels, blood sugar levels, and much more.

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Questions you might be asked: substance use and abuse -

During the physical, it's likely your doctor will ask if you use substances. Be honest with them regarding frequency and any perceived problems.

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Family history -

Genetic predispositions are important to talk about in your annual check-up so the doctor knows specific areas they should focus on and be sure to inquire about them.

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General life updates -

To better understand your mental health status, your provider may ask questions about whether you're currently employed or working, recent major life changes, and more. This isn't to judge you, only to help.

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How to prepare for your first appointment: write down questions -

Before going into your annual physical exam, take time to write down questions you might have for the doctor as well as symptoms you may have been experiencing lately.

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Catalog your medical history, including medications -

Talk with your family and inquire about any predispositions or potential issues that may have been passed down to you through genetics. Additionally, note any medications and dosage amounts so you can share them with the medical provider.

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Additional health data -

If there is anything else that has stood out to you, don't be afraid to share it with your medical provider.

Sources: (Time) (Clevland Clinic) (University of Rochester Medical Center) (UCSF Health)

See also: Which doctor should you see? Here's a quick guide

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