The start of a new year is a great time to recommit to living the best life you possibly can. For you to achieve that noble goal, however, you must pay attention to your health. In order to determine the state of your health, it’s important to keep up with the screenings your doctor recommends.
Figuring out which tests you need can be a head-scratching experience because recommendations change regularly and the screenings you need change or become more or less frequent as you age. Luckily, the medical experts at our Matthews, NC internal medicine facility can tell you all the tests you should schedule for the New Year.
Physical Exam
One of the most basic things you can do to determine your health is to schedule a physical exam at Matthews Internal Medicine. During your exam, we’ll discuss your health and do a few things to check you out, such as take your weight and blood pressure. The information we gather during your physical exam will empower us to establish a general baseline for you to monitor your health throughout the year.
Diabetes and Related Tests
If your cholesterol or blood pressure is high, it’s a good idea to undergo a diabetes test every year. For people over 45, it’s advisable to have a blood test every three years. Diabetics over the age of 50 should schedule a test for peripheral arterial disease annually, and all diabetics should have their feet examined quarterly.
Cancer Screening in the Charlotte, NC-Area
It’s terrifying to think you might have cancer, which is why it’s crucial for you to keep up with your doctor’s recommendations for screenings. As a general rule, adults aged 50-75 should undergo a screening for colorectal cancer. Individuals who are over 75 years-old should talk to their doctor about whether they should schedule a test.
Women should start mammogram screenings when they reach the age of 50. If you have a family history of breast cancer, your doctor may suggest that you start screenings at an earlier age.
Men should wait no longer than their 50th birthday to schedule a prostate test and exam. If you’re considered high risk for prostate cancer, you should schedule a prostate exam and test by the age of 45.
Even if you wear sunscreen religiously, you should ask your doctor to check your skin during your annual physical exam. If you’ve noticed changes in your skin, such as a new mole or a mole that has changed its size or color, be sure to point them out to your physician during your exam.
Vaccines
Vaccines are part of preventative care, meaning they’re intended to prevent you from getting certain conditions. Here are some common vaccines and when you should schedule an appointment to get them:
- Tetanus-diphtheria vaccine, every 10 years
- Flu vaccine, every year at the start of the flu season
- Pneumonia vaccine, annually
Jumpstart the New Year with a Routine Visit at Matthews Internal Medicine
There’s no time like the start of the New Year to establish a baseline so you can monitor your health and live your best life. Make an appointment for a routine office visit at Matthews Internal medicine now.