You know to schedule an appointment with your doctor when you’re sick, but do you keep up with your annual wellness exams? Annual physicals are important to your overall health and an essential component of preventive care. Pooja Mehta, MD, at Garden State Family Care in Scotch Plains, New Jersey, provides annual wellness exams to maintain optimal health. Call the office or schedule an appointment online today.
An annual exam allows your doctor to evaluate your health over time. Many medical conditions occur without symptoms, including high blood pressure or high cholesterol. Getting routine annual physicals gives the medical team a baseline of your health to easily identify health issues as they develop and before they become severe.
The goal of annual exams is to prevent issues before they occur. During an annual wellness exam, Dr. Mehta performs basic screening and lab tests. Your annual exam includes:
Each annual wellness exam includes a measurement of your height and weight. Significant changes in your weight can be a sign of illness, so Dr. Mehta compares your measurements from year to year.
Dr. Mehta takes your vital signs, including your blood pressure and heart rate. Most people with high blood pressure don’t have symptoms.
Every annual exam includes a review of your family’s medical history because genetics can increase your risk for some health conditions.
Your annual wellness exam is an opportunity to discuss potential symptoms with Dr. Mehta. If you have chronic symptoms or newly developing issues, or if you just want to ask questions about how to best maintain good health 一 the annual exam is the ideal time.
Dr. Mehta keeps your medical records up-to-date with a list of medications, vitamins, and supplements you take. That ensures Dr. Mehta avoids prescribing medications that may interact with other medications or supplements you take.
Every annual wellness exam includes a physical evaluation. Men’s physicals may include a prostate exam while women may receive a pelvic or breast exam.
Depending on your age, health condition, and gender, Dr. Mehta may order various health screenings and tests, including blood work.
While you can show up to your appointment as you are and without any preparation, you can help Dr. Mehta accurately evaluate your health with just a little preparation. Make and bring a list of:
Remember to review your list and update it with any new medical, surgical, or family medical history information since it was created.
Maintain good health and schedule your next annual wellness exam by calling Garden State Family Care or booking an appointment online today.