Aging Gracefully and with Great Health

What To Expect During A Wellness Exam

27 October 2022 by For Content

Visiting your physician on a regular basis for preventative health examinations can help identify and treat certain illnesses before they progress. Your wellness doctor office visit examination may consist of a few different components which your physician will use to recommend a treatment plan if warranted. Here are some things to expect from your healthcare provider the next time you visit the doctor's office for a wellness check.

Oral History And Physical Examination 

When you arrive for your appointment, either the nurse, physician's assistant, medical assistant, or physician will take a detailed oral medical history from you. In addition to filling out a questionnaire, the healthcare provider may ask you various questions, especially if you are combining your wellness visit with a medical concern. For example, if you believe that you are at risk for diabetes or if you have been having unusual symptoms, the healthcare provider may ask you questions pertaining to frequent urination, increased appetite, profuse sweating, changes in your weight, family history of diabetes, fatigue, or vision problems.

You may also be asked if you take certain medications that can heighten the risk for elevated blood sugar levels such as corticosteroids, antidepressants, or beta blockers. After the oral history portion of the exam has been completed, the physician will proceed to the physical examination. Your doctor will listen to your heart and lung sounds, examine your throat and ears, palpate the quadrants of your abdomen, and check your joints for any mobility problems, deformities, or inflammation. 

Diagnostic Tests

Your doctor may also recommend certain blood tests to check your hemoglobin, hematocrit, and red blood cell levels. If these readings are decreased, you may have anemia. A chemistry profile blood test may also be recommended to help your physician evaluate kidney and liver function, as well as your cholesterol levels. If your blood tests are within normal limits, you will probably not require any further blood testing unless you develop unusual symptoms.

Another test your physician may perform at your wellness office visit is an electrocardiogram (EKG) to evaluate your heart function during rest. If your electrocardiogram reveals abnormalities, further tests such as a treadmill stress test and echocardiogram may be recommended.

If you experience unusual signs or symptoms or if you feel sick, make an appointment with your doctor. Do not wait until your annual physical to get checked out because early intervention is key to getting an excellent prognosis.

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