Have you already gone to your annual wellness visit? Read on to learn more about the importance of this yearly medical appointment. Even if you feel healthy, it is still a good idea to schedule annual wellness visits with a primary care physician. This preventive appointment is an effective method when it comes to evaluating your current health and can also let you know if there are any risk factors you currently have that may make it necessary for you to keep a close eye on your health.
What to discuss with a physician at a wellness visit
A wellness visit is part of your primary medical care, and for that reason, it is essential for you to schedule these visits at least once a year. This type of appointment typically involves discussing your medical history as well as any concerns you have about your health, and whether you need to undergo any testing. You can also expect to have the following vitals checked: height, weight, cholesterol, blood pressure, blood sugar levels, mental health, and risk factors for chronic diseases.
When it comes to what patients need to discuss with a physician during a wellness visit, it will simply depend on each individual patient's health needs. The below list includes examples of what patients can discuss with a physician during their wellness visit.
Changes to medications
Patients should go over all their existing prescriptions and supplements at the wellness visit, especially if they are seeing a new doctor. Patients should know whether they are taking the correct meds and if they will need any refills. The doctor should know if patients are experiencing problems with any of their current medications. Before starting a new treatment plan, it also helps to talk to the doctor about any potential interactions or adverse effects with currently-used medications. Patients should ascertain how often and for how long they should be taking each prescription to prevent any unpleasant surprises.
Vaccinations
The human immune system weakens with age and can less adequately defend the body against illness. Elderly adults are more vulnerable to illnesses including the flu, pneumonia, and shingles as a result of their increased vulnerability. These disorders may lead to long-term sickness, hospitalization, and even death if they are not treated properly. The doctor may prescribe vaccinations based on the patient’s lifestyle and other risk factors.
Health screening and tests
Depending on the patient's age and other risk factors, the physician may recommend additional screening tests for illnesses including high blood pressure, diabetes, osteoporosis, colorectal cancer, and heart disease. The doctor may prescribe breast or cervical cancer screenings for women and prostate cancer screenings for men. Patients should remember to tell the doctor about any family history of cancer or illness since this situation might increase the chances of developing it.
Stress
Stress can be very detrimental to someone’s health, making it necessary for those who are experiencing any type of chronic stress in their lives to discuss this with their physician. It is important to be completely open and honest, as this allows for proper treatment recommendations. There is a variety of treatments for addressing stress, which often includes taking medication or participating in one or more alternative therapies, like yoga.
Weight
As many people know, it can be difficult to maintain a healthy weight. For those who are overweight, asking a physician for advice on how to lose weight needs to be a part of the conversation. For those who are underweight, it is important to find the underlying reason why they are not able to put on weight. The treatment for weight problems will depend on the underlying reason. Some common treatments for addressing weight problems include making dietary changes, finding the right exercise routine, and undergoing hormone treatment.
Sleeping patterns
Those who are experiencing changes in their sleeping patterns need to mention this during a wellness visit. Whether they are having trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, sleeping too little, sleeping too much, and/or just feeling tired throughout the day, this is all important information a physician needs to know. Potential treatments include taking medications, wearing a breathing device, undergoing cognitive behavior therapy, and creating a new exercise routine.
Ready to schedule your wellness visit with us today?
If you are in need of a wellness visit, all you need to do is contact us today to set up your appointment. This preventive healthcare service is important when it comes to checking on your overall health, even if you are not currently experiencing any signs or symptoms.
Get more information here: https://tx-urgentcare.com or call Texas Urgent Care & Imaging Center at (832) 941-1894
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