The Importance of Regular Checkups

Why Routine Exams are Important

Going to the doctor for an annual check-up (funny side note, in sweden they say hälsokontroll, sounds familiar huh?) can be a daunting process and the need to skip it all together becomes a better idea. Unfortunately, these are exams that should not be skipped over. They are the center of your well-being to maintain a healthy life. There are general check-ups that everyone will participate in as well as ones only for women. Possible knowing what will happen during the check-up will ease the mind.

 

General Routine Examination

The doctor will ask about your medical history. This will be a series of questions about your daily activities, lifestyle, and habits. Do speak up about any medical concerns that you may have. After that, your vital signs are checked. This will include blood pressure, body temperature, and pulse. A stethoscope will be used to exam your lungs and heart. Deep breaths will need to be performed during this exam. A full body examination that includes neck, head, and abdomen to ensure there is no pain or cause for further concern. Finally, a laboratory exam will be performed, and this includes drawing blood. This is important to make sure cells are producing and there aren’t any underlying medical issues occurring.

 

Women Specified Examination

There is a separate exam because of the reproductive system that women have. The exam is designed to be a preventative to anything that may be alarming and can eventually harm the woman. Depending on the age range there will need be a set of exams that should be performed. This will include a breast exam that is called a mammogram. A pelvis exam is performed before or after a young woman’s menstruation has begun. Pap smears and not HPV tests are included with the pelvic exam. These exams will cut down the risk of exposure to any STD’s or cancers that can arise.