Your annual check-up with your internal medicine doctor is a mainstay of your preventive healthcare. This yearly visit gives you a chance to discuss any changes in your health and to catch potential issues early. Here’s what to expect during your next annual check-up with an internist.
An Annual Check-up is Comprehensive
Your annual wellness examination with your internist covers all areas of your health–physical, emotional and mental. It includes a review of your medical history, current medications and any recent health issues which may concern you. Be accurate and honest about any symptoms you have noticed – things such as insomnia, shortness of breath or skin rashes, as examples.
Your doctor will likely ask you about your family medical history. Discussing your family background – when parents died, diseases and conditions prevalent among first degree relatives – gives the provider clues about any hereditary factors. Your genes can impact your health now or in the future.
Here are the components of the highly individualized annual check-up at South Carolina Internal Medicine Associates and Rehabilitation.
A Complete Physical Examination
During your annual check-up, your internist will conduct a complete, head to toe physical examination. This may include checking your blood pressure, listening to your heart and lungs and looking into your ears, nose and throat. Your internist will examine other areas, such as your abdomen and lymph nodes. Your provider may check your strength and reflexes and inspect your skin for signs of infection, rash, moles and other growths.
An Assessment of Your Mental Health
Your mental well-being is every bit as important as your physical health. During the annual check-up, your internist will ask you about any changes in mood or behavior–persistent anxiety or depression, for example. If you are 65 or older, you may be asked to perform simple tests of cognition and memory.
A Check of Your Vital Signs and Other Indicators of Health
Your internist will measure your vital signs, including blood pressure, heart rate and temperature. You will be weighed, and your provider may measure your height and waist circumference to calculate your BMI, or body mass index. These numbers provide important insights into your overall health and help identify any underlying issues, such as obesity.
Screenings and Tests
Based on your age, gender, medical history and physical exam, your internist may recommend certain screenings and lab tests. These could include bloodwork to measure cholesterol levels, blood sugar and other indicators of metabolic function. He or she may order screenings for cancer starting at certain recommended ages or sooner if you have a positive family history for certain malignancies.
For instance, beginning at age 40, women should receive mammograms to look for breast cancer. At mid-life, men should have digital rectal exams and PSA blood tests to look for prostate cancer. Beginning at 45, you should have a periodic colonoscopy to screen for colon cancer, particularly if you and your family have a positive history of colon polyps.
Also, your internal medicine provider will update any needed vaccinations, such as the pneumonia vaccine and flu shot. These shots will be noted on your EHR, or electronic health record. This documentation is available to you for future reference or for school or workplace purposes.
Advice on Healthy Lifestyle Habits
Your internist can advise you on maintaining a healthy lifestyle. You may discuss the importance of regular exercise, a balanced, plant-based diet and stress management techniques. You may receive counsel on monitored smoking cessation programs or how to reduce alcohol consumption.
Your internist has a wealth of information and experience on helping you achieve and maintain wellness. So, for your part, be honest about how you manage factors which could impact your health.
Plus, ask questions. Your internist will be happy to discuss any and all health concerns you have.
A Continued Plan of Care
Based on findings from the check-up, your internist will develop a personalized care plan for you. Your plan may include scheduling follow-up appointments or referrals to medical specialists if needed. You will receive guidance on managing any chronic conditions, such as hypertension, allergies or arthritis, and on prevention of future health problems.
Your Annual Check-up with Your Internist in Irmo, SC
Remember, annual check-ups with your internist are an important part of maintaining your overall health and well-being. Don’t hesitate to schedule one today and take control of your health.
Plus, if you do not have a primary care physician, we encourage you to contact South Carolina Internal Medicine Associates and Rehabilitation. We have numerous internal medicine and family practice physicians on staff, along with a team of caring mid-level providers. Any one of them would be happy to help you on your wellness journey.
Call us at (803) 749-1111 or request your visit by completing our secure online form. We look forward to being your partner in wellness for years to come.
