Physicals offer a simple way to help you protect your health. If it's been a while since you had a physical, now is an excellent time to call your primary care physician in Naples, FL, Dr. Ricardo Martinez of Well-Being Medical Center, and schedule an appointment.
Why physicals are so important
Health problems aren't always obvious. You may have high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol, yet not experience any symptoms, at least in the early stages. Although you may not feel any different, these diseases and conditions may be damaging your health.
If you have regular physicals, these and other health issues can be diagnosed and treated promptly, limiting or prevent damage to your body. If you have a diagnosed chronic condition or disease, physicals help your doctor monitor your condition and ensure that your medications are adequately controlling your symptoms.
What happens during a physical?
Your visit to the Naples, FL, primary care office will include measurements of your weight and blood pressure. If your blood pressure is higher than normal, lifestyle changes or medication may help lower it.
Your doctor will also use a stethoscope to listen to your heart and lungs. You may need follow-up tests or visits if he notices irregular heartbeats, a heart murmur, or abnormal breathing sounds.
During your appointment, your doctor will also:
- Take a look at your skin: Changes in skin color or texture can sometimes be related to underlying health problems. For example, yellow skin could mean that you have gallstones or hepatitis, while a sore that never heals could be a sign of skin cancer or diabetes.
- Examine your abdomen: Your primary care physician will press and tap on your abdomen during the exam. These actions help him note the size of your liver and kidneys and find tender areas, tumors, or areas swollen with excess fluids.
- Offer vaccines: The protection that vaccines offer can decrease over time. If you need a vaccine booster shot, it will be given to you during your physical.
- Order blood tests: Blood tests can help your doctor diagnose diabetes, high cholesterol, kidney disease, infections, anemia, heart disease, and other conditions.
Are you due for a physical? Call your Naples, FL, primary care physician, Dr. Martinez of Well-Being Medical Center, at (239) 315-7801 to schedule your appointment.