Time For A Physical

It’s getting towards the middle of the year, almost time for summer.  If you’re like me, this is the perfect time for a physical.

• No holiday plans
• No visiting family
• No vacation trips

Time for you to schedule some time with your doctor and see how your body is doing.

• How’s your weight?  Are you in a good, healthy place?  Ask your doctor for a recommendation based not just on weight and BMI but also body fat.
• Blood pressure good?  Anything you can do to raise or lower it as necessary?
• Cholesterol ok?  Should you make any changes to your eating habits?
• Other blood work good?  Anything you should know about?  Yes, I know you think you’re ok but an HIV test won’t hurt and should be done every 6 months in my opinion.
• Any big changes coming up in your life?  Training for a marathon?  Going vegetarian?  Moving to Asia?  Ask your doctor if there’s anything you should know or do to better prepare.
• All that and a variety of other exams that could save your life by detecting things like cancer early, when it’s still easily treatable.

Assuming you have health insurance, there’s no reason not to get a physical on a regular basis.  Also, don’t just wait for the doctor to tell you to go home.  Be proactive, ask questions, inquire about your health and how to improve it.  Your doctor is a valuable resource which you should use for more than just prescriptions.  So go schedule that physical already!

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While we’re talking about preventative medicine, how about that 6 month dentist’s appointment?  Time for a cleaning and a check up…