Annual Physical Exam: What You Need to Know for Your Health

An annual physical exam is an important part of maintaining good health. During this visit, your doctor will check your overall health, discuss any concerns you may have, and provide guidance on healthy lifestyle choices. While the specifics of the exam may vary depending on your age, gender, and individual health needs, there are some common elements you can expect.

What Happens During an Annual Physical Exam?

During your annual physical, your doctor will likely:

• Review your medical history and any current concerns

• Check your vital signs, including blood pressure, heart rate, respiration rate, and temperature

• Assess your general appearance and physical condition

• Perform a heart, lung, head and neck, abdominal, neurological, and dermatological exam

• Check your extremities for any signs of concern

Depending on your gender, your doctor may also perform additional examinations, such as a testicular, hernia, or prostate exam for men, or a breast and pelvic exam for women.

Laboratory Tests and Health Screenings

While there are no standard laboratory tests during an annual physical, your doctor may order certain tests based on your age, gender, and risk factors. These may include:

• Complete blood count

• Chemistry panel

• Urinalysis

• Lipid panel (cholesterol test)

• Blood sugar test

• Hepatitis C screening

Your doctor may also recommend specific health screenings based on your age and gender, such as mammograms for breast cancer screening in women or colorectal cancer screening for adults over 45.

Using Your Annual Physical to Focus on Prevention

One of the most important aspects of an annual physical is the opportunity to focus on prevention and healthy lifestyle choices. Your doctor can provide guidance on:

• Maintaining a healthy weight

• Getting regular exercise

• Eating a balanced, nutritious diet

• Not smoking or using tobacco products

• Limiting alcohol consumption

• Managing stress

By focusing on these healthy behaviors, you can significantly reduce your risk for chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers.

Do You Need an Annual Physical?

While some studies have questioned the necessity of annual physicals for generally healthy people, many doctors and patients still value the opportunity to build a relationship, discuss concerns, and focus on prevention. Ultimately, the decision to have an annual physical should be based on your individual health needs and preferences, and should be discussed with your healthcare provider.

Remember, even if you feel healthy, an annual physical is an opportunity to take a proactive approach to your health and well-being. By working with your doctor and focusing on prevention, you can maintain good health and catch any potential issues early on.

For more information on annual physicals and preventive care, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the American Academy of Family Physicians, or the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force.