Why Are Physical Exams Needed?

Find out who should be getting physical exams in Plano and how often you should come in.

You feel great so you must be healthy, right? Not so fast. While you may feel fine at the moment, you never know when there might be problems lurking that you aren’t even aware of. Visiting your Plano, TX, family doctor, Dr. Sarah Payberah, for routine physical exams may not be necessary, but it could be helpful for some.

What goes into a physical exam?

Every doctor is different so your physical examination may be rather quick or it could be more in-depth. A lot will depend on your overall health and whether you are dealing with any preexisting conditions. These exams typically consist of:

• Discussing your medical history
• Monitoring your vital signs (blood pressure; heart rate; temperature)
• Examining your overall appearance
• A lung and heart exam
• Ear, nose and throat exam
• Testing reflexes and other neurological and muscular tests
• Abdominal exams
• Testicular exam (men)
• Breast and/or pelvic exam (Women)

Sometimes blood work or vaccinations are also part of your physical examination. These visits are also a great way to not just check your overall health but to also ask any questions you might have and to take some time to prevent and screen for a multitude of health problems.

These physical exams often become more important as we age. Colorectal cancer becomes more prevalent in those over 50 and annual mammograms for women over 40 could prevent breast cancer. Coming in routinely is a good way to get the care you need and to protect your health for the future.

Are annual physical exams necessary?

While this visit isn’t crucial it’s always a good idea to check in with your health every once in a while to make sure you are doing everything you can for your body. Some people know they have to lose weight but aren’t sure how. Others want to quit smoking to reduce their risk of lung cancer but aren’t sure of the next step. Coming in to our office and establishing rapport with us is a great way to have a medical professional who can provide you with the healthy advice you need to feel great.

If you need to get a physical examination in Plano, TX, then you should turn to Dr. Payberah to provide you with the tailored medical care you can trust. Schedule your next visit today.