Do you have a physical exam coming up, and are therefore feeling a bit anxious or nervous? You may be feeling these emotions for a variety of reasons, ranging from embarrassment to worry about the results of your exam. In all likelihood, however, most of these feelings stem from a lack of knowledge regarding what to expect from your physical exam. The more you understand what to expect, the less apprehensive you will feel. The following article is here to help you out, as it outlines the basics of what you can expect from your physical exam from a clinic such as ClinicaMedica.

Why Have an Annual Physical?

When you were a child, you probably had annual medical exams like clockwork. Since your parent was sitting right beside you, it is likely that you felt perfectly at ease during this exam. As an adult, however, you may be hesitant to schedule an appointment for a variety of reasons. Did you know that it is more important now (as an adult) than ever before that you get a physical screening annually? This screening can prevent a multitude of conditions, and will aid in the early diagnosis of serious conditions. In fact, a yearly screening could actually save your life, so despite your hesitation, schedule your appointment today!

What to Expect during Your Physical Exam

Physical exams are a routine checkup in which your doctor will screen you for health concerns, will ask you questions specific to your health and well being, and examine your body for common conditions that occur in your age group. There are also gender specific screenings that take place, and will most likely be performed by a doctor which specializes in these practices, such as an OB-GYN. In addition, there are age-specific screenings that should be performed at the benchmark age, such as a mammogram and a colonoscopy. Make sure that you speak with your doctor during your physical exam in order to be referred for these screenings if you are due for them. Here is what you can expect from your physical exam:

• A review of your history: Your health history as well as that of your family is an important part of any exam, as it will hep the doctor to identify concerns and conditions for which you might be susceptible. Be open and frank with your doctor during the discussion about your health history.
• A check of your vital signs: Your blood pressure, heart rate, respiration rate, and temperature will all be monitored and recorded. This will help your doctor to determine if there are any basic warning signs to be concerned about.
• Head and neck exam: Your throat, tonsils, teeth and gums, will be inspected, as well as your ears, nose, sinuses, eyes, and lymph nodes. Your doctor will be able to notice warning signs that may be symptoms of a larger issue by examining these areas of your head and neck.
• Abdominal exam: Your doctor will probe your abdomen, check for irregularities and warning signs.
• Neurological exam: Your doctor will check your muscle strength, reflexes, and balance to ensure that your neurological system is working properly.
• Gender specific exam: Depending upon your gender, your doctor may examine various gender specific areas of your body to look for abnormalities or warning signs.
• The importance of a physical: Should you have a physical exam every year, even if you are feeling healthy? The answer is yes, as many cancers and diseases only show minor symptoms that are only noted by a physician with an establishment such as ClinicaMedica. A good time to have your exam is during your birthday month, as you will always have a reminder that you need your annual checkup.