Annual Physicals Specialist
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Ahearn & Associates Medical Center
General Medicine & Family and Wellness Doctors located in Kewanee, IL
Many health complications can develop for years without a single symptom. That’s one of the many reasons why it’s important to get annual physical exams. At Ahearn & Associates Medical Center in Kewanee, Illinois, Michael Ahearn, MD; Anna Slover, FNP; Timothy Stead, FNP, and their team can evaluate your health once a year to ensure that you’re in good shape and detect chronic conditions before they cause serious complications. To schedule your next annual physical exam, call Ahearn & Associates Medical Center, or use the online booking tool today.
Annual Physicals Q&A
What are annual physicals?
An annual physical exam is a yearly visit to your doctor to discuss your health and wellness. You meet with your primary physician and discuss your medical history, present symptoms, and any health-related questions you may have. Then, they examine you to check for irregularities and possible health complications.
The results of a physical exam give you the information you need to make the most of your lifestyle and habits at home. If your doctor catches early signs of a possible health complication, you can start treatment early or make the lifestyle changes necessary to prevent it from worsening.
What happens during my annual physical?
A standard annual physical exam at Ahearn & Associates Medical Center consists of several steps. Once you finish your initial discussion with your doctor, the evaluation portion of the appointment begins. Your evaluation may include:
Vitals check
Your physician checks your heart rate, blood pressure, temperature, and breathing rate.
Physical exam
During the physical examination, your physician observes and records your weight, height, balance, and skin. They also view your nostrils, ears, and eyes.
Blood test
Your physician might recommend that you get a blood test during your annual physical exam. Blood test results can show the chemistry of your blood, your blood sugar levels, and the presence of certain diseases or infections.
Urinalysis
A urinalysis is a test of your urine. Your physician might recommend getting one to check for issues with your kidneys or look for signs of an infection.
Are annual physicals for everyone?
You can benefit from getting annual physical exams regardless of your age or health history. These appointments are a great opportunity for you to tune into your health and make the necessary changes to improve it.
They’re also a time for you to connect with your physician, setting you up for better, personalized care in the future.
If it has been a while since your last annual physical exam, you should consider getting one if:
- You’re getting older
- You have a family history of a disease
- You’ve had a disease in the past
- You’ve noticed changes in your body or health
- Your treatment for a condition is ongoing
If you feel uncomfortable about attending an annual physical exam, getting them regularly can help ease your anxiety about going to the doctor. After your first annual physical exam, you’ll have a better idea of what to expect for next time.
If you’re due for your next annual physical exam, call Ahearn & Associates Medical Center or book an appointment online today.
