Why are annual physicals so important?
Annual physicals provide the perfect opportunity to stay on top of your health, establish a collaborative relationship with your primary care provider, and discuss any new symptoms you’re experiencing. If you’re due for vaccinations, you can also receive them during your appointment.
Your provider at Princeton Sports and Family Medicine, P.C. uses the annual physical as a preventive tool where they can keep an eye on your risk factors and intercede when problems arise.
They order relevant lab screenings during your appointment to assess those risk factors and address them before they become a problem.
During your yearly physical exam, your provider also checks to make sure your medications are still working as they should. You can also use your appointment time to make sure your health history is up-to-date and reevaluate your health goals for the upcoming year.
What happens during an annual physical?
During your annual physical, your provider at Princeton Sports and Family Medicine, P.C. starts by asking detailed questions about your current and past health history. They also make any relevant updates to your family history.
Next, they proceed with the exam and check the following:
- Vital signs: blood pressure, heart rate, temperature
- Heart and lung function
- Eyes, ears, nose, and throat
- Abdomen
- Reflexes
- Observable factors such as skin, hair, nails, speech, and gait
If you need a pelvic exam, pap smear, mammogram, or prostate exam, you can also schedule those tests in conjunction with your physical exam.
After the physical part of the exam is finished, your provider may send you to the lab for routine tests, such as a complete blood count and metabolic panel.
How can I prepare for my annual physical?
Before you head to your appointment, it’s helpful to organize your notes and keep them handy so you don’t forget any important information. In your notes, you should write down:
- A list of your current medications and dosages, including vitamins and supplements
- Any questions you don’t want to forget to ask
- A list of any new symptoms you experience or any body changes you want your provider to examine
If you need to schedule your annual exam, call Princeton Sports and Family Medicine, P.C. or use the online booking tool today.
