Becoming the Healthiest You: Why You Need an Annual Physical

One simple way to protect your health is to see your primary care provider for an annual physical. That’s because preventing an illness is far better than treating one! 

Over 130 million Americans live with some form of chronic disease, yet only about half get the care they need. An annual physical is a simple way to detect chronic conditions in the earliest stages, giving you a greater chance of reversing the problem. 

At Physicians Medical Urgent Care, we offer comprehensive physical exams that help protect you and provide valuable information to help you understand your health needs. We act as your partner to assist you and your family attain optimal health. Your annual physical exam is a critical part of your care. 

There may not be any symptoms at all

Some of the most dangerous chronic diseases don’t have detectable symptoms until things reach a critical stage. For example, hypertension, or high blood pressure, is sometimes called “the silent killer” because there’s no obvious sign that something is wrong. However, hypertension increases your risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, and heart attack. 

Having an annual physical is the best way to detect conditions like hypertension. Your doctor can then offer suggestions for reversing or treating the condition, which may allow you to avoid future problems. 

Hypertension is only one of many dangerous conditions that don’t always — or even usually — have symptoms. Diabetes, glaucoma, some cancers, metabolic problems, and many other chronic conditions can sneak up on you. With an annual physical, we check for any red flags of those silent conditions developing. 

Track from a baseline

It’s important to see your doctor when you’re healthy in order to establish a baseline from which to measure. When you have an annual physical, our staff can track your health year after year. This helps your doctor spot worrisome trends faster so you can take appropriate action quickly. This is especially important since early diagnosis and intervention can make all the difference to your continued health. 

Get the screenings YOU need 

There are some screenings everyone needs at certain times, like colonoscopies or mammograms. Having an annual physical helps make sure you get those screenings as well as giving our staff the opportunity to understand your medical history, family health history, and any factors about your life relevant to your health. 

Taking all that information into consideration allows your doctor to recommend the screenings you may need that aren’t always recommended. Whether for certain cancers or sexually transmitted diseases, annual physicals ensure you receive the screenings you need. 

Now’s the time! 

Now, while good health is on the top of your mind, is the best time to schedule your annual physical. An annual exam is the best way to verify your health and wellness and to catch problems before they catch you. Don’t put it off! Schedule an appointment at Physicians Medical Urgent Care today!

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