Feeling Healthy? What to Talk to Your Doctor About During Your Annual Check-Up
An annual physical is an important measure for staying healthy. It allows your physician to get to know you and your current condition, anticipate potential problem areas and develop a rapport in talking about health matters. Healthy individuals often wonder what they should talk about during these visits when they don’t have any medical problems to report. Here are a few topics to talk about to make the most of your annual physical.
Discuss Your Weight Goals
Obesity is a known factor for a number of health problems, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, and even some types of cancer. If you are carrying a few extra pounds, you can discuss ways to lose weight with your doctor. If you are underweight, your physician can offer ways to help you add a few pounds for optimum health.
Ask About Exercise Options
Regular exercise is a critical part of your health maintenance strategy and can help you avoid many illnesses. Various types of exercise are available. These programs often recommend individuals to “check with their doctors" to prevent any injury from the exercise. Your doctor can advise on whether you are able to participate in an exercise program and will allow the physician to note for the records that exercise is part of your lifestyle.
Mention the Supplements You Take
If you are healthy enough, you will want to continue to do all you can to stay healthy and avoid serious illness. You may take supplements on a regular basis to strengthen your immune system, support joint health or increase your energy. It’s important to discuss these supplements with your doctor to ensure they don’t interfere with other medications you may be taking or pose a danger of overuse.
Discuss Current Medications
If you are taking medication, you may wish to discuss whether you should keep taking it or whether you continue to need it. You can also discuss the need for vaccinations, such as a flu shot, to prevent serious complications from contagious illnesses. If you’re worried about the cost of these medications, most insurance policies, even non-Obamacare health insurance policies have coverage for certain medications, supplements, and vaccines.
Ask About Test Results
You may have done a number of medical tests in advance of your appointment for the annual physical. Your doctor can provide information about the results of the tests and if there are any concerns. Understanding what these tests reveal can help you to adjust your diet, exercise levels, or other health measures to ensure that you maintain good health in the future.
Even when you are completely healthy, an annual physical is an opportunity to check in with your doctor and learn the best ways to protect your health going forward. Take this opportunity to ask questions, so you can participate fully in maintaining your health.
