If you are a female who has recently scheduled your annual physical with the internal medicine doctor near you there are few things you need to know.

Why is a Physical Important?

The annual physical is an important way to monitor your overall health and wellness over the years.

What Do Doctors Check for During a Physical?

Your doctor will always check the following things during your annual physical appointment:

• Medical history (lifestyle questions, monitoring for any new health concerns, etc.)

• Vital signs (this includes blood pressure, temperature, etc.)

• Heart and lung examinations.

• Body exams (head, neck, and abdominals are checked with the hands for any abnormalities.)

• Neurological tests (reflex exams, muscle strength, and balance exams)

• Skin checks (quick scanning for moles, lesions, rashes, etc.)

• Lab work (blood tests, cholesterol, or other relevant checks.)

These tests together can provide a wealth of information to indicate your current health situation.

 Additional Physical Tests for Women

If you are a female, there are a few extra examinations that you should prepare for during your annual physical.

These tests include the following:

• Beast exam (physical and manual examinations for lumps, or abnormalities.)

• Mammogram (beginning at age 40.)

• Pelvic exam (physical examination of the vagina, vulva, and cervix.)

• Pap smear and HPV tests.

Why are Medical Exams Important?

The exams listed above are an important tool to allow your provider to keep track of any changes that may be occurring over the years.

Even the smallest of changes may lead to a greater health concern.

By scheduling a physical every year, you allow the potential to catch ay health concerns early for better treatment outcomes.

Internal Medicine Doctor Near Me

At Bowie Internal Medicine we are committed to helping our patients deal with their health concerns so that you can live a happy and healthy life.

If you are interested in scheduling your annual physical with a member of our team, please call us today at (301) 262 – 8188.