The body is complex and works like a well-oiled machine. However, even the most efficient machines require routine check-ups. Therefore, a regular health check is paramount for every individual.
Experts recommend doing standard health check-ups at least once a year. As we age, the appointments become more frequent, and the tests are adjusted to assess particular body functions. Regardless of age, here are some reasons why it’s essential to get a regular health check.
Prevention of diseases
Most diseases develop insidiously, and asymptomatic tissue changes often precede them. However, a health check-up can catch some of the changes before the full onset of the disease. Preventive steps are then employed to curb tissue changes.
Health practitioners know what to look out for when conducting a health check-up. Moreover, they use particular predictive indicators to assess the risk factors for the development of disease. Once a complete review is done, you will get the necessary advice to prevent illnesses and maintain a healthy life.
Assessment of body functions
The body is divided into various systems that contribute to overall health. During a health check, each system is analyzed. Multiple functions are put to the test to assess the overall health of the individual.
Assessment is done through a complete physical exam, laboratory testing, and imaging studies. However, laboratory and imaging tests are often optional. Nonetheless, your doctor can request for the test to collaborate with the physical findings by accessing test results through a lab information system. It allows them to thoroughly review the results while keeping your medical information organized and secure.
Diagnosis of diseases
Some diseases are often diagnosed during a routine health check-up. These diseases have subtle signs and often raise zero concern.
However, during a routine check-up, the subtle signs cannot escape the eye of a trained professional. Moreover, laboratory tests and imaging studies provide extra information for the diagnosis of disease.
Early diagnosis translates to early intervention. This is always a good prognostic factor for any disease.
Follow up on treatment outcomes
We have established that not everyone who walks in for a routine check-up is healthy. Some patients are under management for chronic conditions like Diabetes and Hypertension.
A routine check-up provides an excellent opportunity to follow up on treatment. A conclusion can be made whether your treatment is working or not. Depending on the conclusion, you may get a referral back to your specialist or be encouraged to continue with the same treatment regimen and lifestyle approach.
Professional inquiry
A routine health check-up provides an excellent opportunity to ask questions if your medical knowledge is limited. Therefore, as you do your yearly health check-up, feel free to talk to your doctor or dentist about anything that worries you.
Health awareness
Sometimes it’s good to know your health status. The knowledge can weigh in on several lifestyle decisions like your diet, physical activity, and social interaction. Moreover, your confidence is boosted when you are assured you are in good health.
Health costs
Although it looks costly to schedule routine health check-ups, it actually saves you money in the long run. By preventing the development of diseases, you save on future treatment costs. You also save on the opportunity costs incurred when you get sick. Moreover, early interventions made during routine check-ups are often cheaper than treatment options given when diseases complicate. Therefore, through routine check-ups, you save on health care.
Health facilities offer different health check-up packages. The packages take into consideration the age of the patient and pre-existing health conditions. As a result, an old patient will probably have a thorough workup compared to a young patient. Particular populations are also advised to take specific screening tests like breast, prostate, and colorectal cancer.
Regular health check-ups are essential and have far-reaching effects. Therefore, it’s important to schedule your appointment with a reliable physician and dentist. Speaking of dentists, this Dentist in keene is worth checking out if you’re on the lookout for one.
