Regular medical examinations: Why should you check with the doctor

Regular medical examinations: Why should you check with the doctor

I. The fundamental principles of regular medical examinations

A. Definition and volume of concept

Regular medical examinations, also known as preventive medical examinations, complex examinations or simply “checks”, are planned visits to a doctor or a group of medical specialists in order to assess the general state of health, identify potential risks of the development of diseases and conduct the necessary preventive measures. In contrast to requests to the doctor in connection with specific complaints or symptoms, regular examinations are focused on the prevention and early diagnosis, when the intervention is most effective.

The volume of the inspection varies depending on the age, gender, family history, lifestyle and individual risk factors for the patient. He can include:

• A history of anamnesis: The patient’s detailed survey about his medical history, chronic diseases, transactions, allergies, medicines, bad habits (smoking, alcohol), the level of physical activity, diet, sleep and stress level. A family history occupies a special place, since it allows you to identify a hereditary predisposition to certain diseases (cardiovascular, oncological, diabetes).
• Physical inspection: A thorough assessment of the patient’s condition, including the measurement of the main indicators (blood pressure, pulse, body temperature, height, weight, body weight), examination of the skin and mucous membranes, palpation of the lymph nodes, auscultation of the heart and lungs, palpation of the abdomen and assessment of the neurological status.
• Laboratory research: Blood and urine tests that allow you to evaluate the function of internal organs (liver, kidneys), cholesterol, glucose, hormones, the presence of inflammatory processes and other important parameters.
• Instrumental research: Electrocardiography (ECG), fluorography (X -ray), ultrasound (ultrasound) of the abdominal organs, mammography (for women), colonoscopy (for older people) and other diagnostic methods aimed at identifying hidden diseases or pathological changes.
• Consultations of narrow specialists: If necessary, the patient can be aimed at a consultation with a cardiologist, an endocrinologist, a gastroenterologist, a neurologist, an ophthalmologist, a urologist (for men), a gynecologist (for women) and other specialists for a more detailed assessment of the state of health and purpose of specialized treatment.
• Vaccination: Updating the vaccination calendar in accordance with the age and epidemiological situation.

B. The goals and objectives of preventive examinations

The main goal of regular medical examinations is to maintain health and extend life by:

• Early detection of diseases: Many serious diseases (cancer, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes) in the early stages are asymptomatic. Regular examinations allow you to identify these diseases in the early stages, when treatment is most effective and the chances of recovery are much higher.
• Identification of risk factors: Regular examinations allow you to identify risk factors for the development of diseases (high blood pressure, increased cholesterol, overweight, smoking, sedentary lifestyle) and take measures to eliminate or correction.
• Prevention of the progression of diseases: Early identification of diseases and risk factors allows you to start treatment and change your lifestyle in order to prevent the progression of the disease and the development of complications.
• Improving the quality of life: Regular examinations help patients stay healthy and active throughout their lives, improving their quality of life and working capacity.
• Assessments of treatment effectiveness: For patients with chronic diseases, regular examinations allow us to evaluate the effectiveness of the treatment and make the necessary adjustments.
• Formation of a healthy lifestyle: Regular examinations provide an opportunity to discuss healthy nutrition issues, physical activity, abandoning bad habits and other aspects of a healthy lifestyle with a doctor.

C. The importance of regularity and personalization

The regularity of medical examinations is a key factor in their effectiveness. The frequency of examinations is determined by an individual doctor, based on age, gender, family history, lifestyle and the presence of chronic diseases. In the general case, it is recommended to undergo a preventive examination at least once a year for adults and more often for children and older people.

Personalization of a medical examination is also crucial. The examination program should be adapted to the individual needs of each patient, taking into account his risk and health factors. There is no universal approach to preventive examinations, and each patient needs an individual examination and recommendations.

II. Advantages of regular medical examinations

A. Early detection of diseases: the key to successful treatment

Early detection of diseases is one of the main advantages of regular medical examinations. Many serious diseases, such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases and diabetes, are asymptomatic in the early stages. Without regular examinations, these diseases can be found only in the later stages, when treatment is less effective and the chances of recovery are reduced.

Examples of diseases that can be detected in the early stages due to regular inspections:

• Breast cancer: Mammography and self -examination of the mammary glands allow you to identify breast cancer in the early stages, when it lends itself well to treatment.
• Cervical cancer: Regular papanicolau smears (PAP test) allow you to identify precancerous changes in the cervix and prevent cancer.
• Tolstoy Cancer: Colonoscopy allows you to identify polyps and other changes in the colon, which can lead to cancer.
• Prostate cancer: A blood test for prostat-specific antigen (PSA) and a finger rectal examination allow you to identify prostate cancer in the early stages.
• Cardiovascular diseases: The measurement of blood pressure, cholesterol and ECG allow you to identify risk factors for the development of cardiovascular diseases and begin treatment until the development of serious complications.
• Diabetes: A blood test for glucose allows you to detect diabetes in the early stages and prevent the development of complications.
• Glaucoma: The measurement of intraocular pressure allows you to identify glaucous in the early stages and prevent vision loss.

B. Prevention of diseases: investment in the future health

Regular medical examinations not only allow you to identify diseases in the early stages, but also help prevent their development. The doctor can give recommendations on a change in lifestyle in order to reduce the risk of developing diseases.

Examples of preventive measures that can be recommended by a doctor:

• Diet change: Reducing the consumption of fats, salt and sugar, increasing fruits, vegetables and whole grain products.
• Increase in physical activity: Regular sports or physical exercises such as walking, running, swimming or cycling.
• Refusal of smoking: Smoking is one of the main risk factors for the development of many diseases, including cancer, cardiovascular diseases and chronic obstructive lung disease (COPD).
• Reducing alcohol consumption: Excessive drinking of alcohol can lead to the development of diseases of the liver, heart and other organs.
• Weight control: Excess weight or obesity increase the risk of developing many diseases, including diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and some types of cancer.
• Vaccination: Vaccination helps to protect against many infectious diseases.
• Reception of vitamins and minerals: The doctor can recommend taking vitamins and minerals if you have a nutrient deficiency.
• Stress management: Chronic stress can negatively affect health. It is important to learn how to manage stress using various methods such as meditation, yoga or communication with friends and family.

C. Improving the quality of life and extending active longevity

Regular medical examinations contribute to improving the quality of life and extending active longevity. The identification and treatment of diseases in the early stages allows us to prevent the development of complications and maintain health and performance for many years.

In addition, regular examinations allow you to obtain information about the state of their health and take measures to improve it. This can lead to a healthier lifestyle, improve well -being and increase energy.

D. Reducing health costs in the long term

Although regular medical examinations require certain costs, they can lead to a decrease in healthcare costs in the long run. Early detection and treatment of diseases is cheaper than the treatment of complications that can develop in the later stages.

In addition, preventive measures, such as a change in lifestyle and vaccination, can help prevent the development of diseases, which also reduces healthcare costs.

III. Components of regular medical examination by age and floor

A. Recommendations for children and adolescents

Regular medical examinations are extremely important for children and adolescents, as they are in the process of growth and development. Inspections allow you to track the correct development of development, identify health problems in the early stages and carry out the necessary vaccination.

• Babies and children of preschool age: Regular examinations of the pediatrician are necessary to assess physical and mental development, timely vaccination and identify possible deviations. The doctor monitors the increase in weight and growth, evaluates motor skills, speech and social interaction. It is also important to discuss with the doctor the issues of nutrition, sleep and safety of the child.
• School children: Regular examinations of a pediatrician or family doctor are necessary to assess the general state of health, vision, hearing and posture. The doctor can also give recommendations on healthy nutrition, physical activity and prevention of injuries. It is important to discuss with the doctor the issues of academic performance, relationships with friends and peers, as well as possible problems with mental health.
• Teenagers: Regular examinations of a pediatrician or family doctor are necessary to assess the general state of health, physical and sexual development. The doctor can give recommendations on a healthy lifestyle, prevention of sexually transmitted diseases, and contraception. It is important to discuss with the doctor the issues of mental health, the use of alcohol and drugs, as well as relationships with friends and peers. For teenage girls, gynecological examinations are important, starting from 13-15 years or with the beginning of sexual activity.

B. Recommendations for adults (men)

Regular medical examinations are important for men of all ages, as they help to detect diseases in the early stages and prevent their development.

• Age 18-39 years: Regular examinations of a family doctor or therapist are necessary to assess the general state of health, measure blood pressure, cholesterol and blood glucose. The doctor can give recommendations on a healthy lifestyle, prevention of sexually transmitted diseases, and vaccination. It is important to discuss with the doctor the issues of mental health, drinking alcohol and drugs, as well as injuries prevention. Men who leads an active sex life is recommended for an annual examination for IPP.
• Age 40-64 years: Regular examinations of a family doctor or therapist are necessary to assess the general state of health, measure blood pressure, cholesterol and glucose in the blood, as well as for screening for prostate cancer (psa analysis and finger rectal examination). The doctor can give recommendations on a healthy lifestyle, prevention of sexually transmitted diseases, and vaccination. An annual fluorography is recommended.
• Age 65 years and older: Regular examinations of the family doctor or therapist are necessary to assess the general state of health, measure blood pressure, cholesterol and glucose in the blood, as well as for screening for prostate cancer (tapal analysis and finger rectal examination) and colorectal cancer (colonoscopy or fecal analysis for hidden blood). The doctor can give recommendations on a healthy lifestyle, prevention of sexually transmitted diseases, and vaccination (especially against influenza and pneumococcal infection). An annual fluorography is recommended. It is important to regularly check vision and hearing.

C. Recommendations for adults (women)

Regular medical examinations are important for women of all ages, as they help to detect diseases in the early stages and prevent their development.

• Age 18-39 years: Regular examinations of the gynecologist are necessary to assess the state of reproductive health, screening for cervical cancer (papanicolau smear), breast cancer (self -examination and mammography according to indications) and sexually transmitted diseases. A family doctor or therapist should also evaluate the general state of health, measure blood pressure, cholesterol and blood glucose. The doctor can give recommendations on a healthy lifestyle, contraception and pregnancy planning.
• Age 40-64 years: Regular examinations of the gynecologist are necessary to assess the state of reproductive health, screening for cervical cancer (papanicolau smear), breast cancer (mammography) and osteoporosis (densitometry). A family doctor or therapist should also evaluate the general state of health, measure blood pressure, cholesterol and blood glucose. The doctor can give recommendations on a healthy lifestyle, menopause and hormonal therapy.
• Age 65 years and older: Regular examinations of the gynecologist are necessary to assess the state of reproductive health, screening for cervical cancer (papanicolau smear according to indications) and breast cancer (mammography). A family doctor or therapist should also evaluate the general state of health, measure blood pressure, cholesterol and blood glucose, as well as screening for colorectal cancer (colonoscopy or fecal analysis for hidden blood) and osteoporosis (densetometry). The doctor can give recommendations on a healthy lifestyle, vaccination (especially against influenza and pneumococcal infection) and the prevention of falls. It is important to regularly check vision and hearing.

IV. Types of medical examinations and screening

A. General medical examination (Check-up)

General medical examination (Check-UP) is a comprehensive examination aimed at assessing the general state of health and identifying potential risks of the development of diseases. It usually includes:

• A history of anamnesis: The patient’s detailed survey about his medical history, chronic diseases, transactions, allergies, medicines, bad habits (smoking, alcohol), the level of physical activity, diet, sleep and stress level. A family history occupies a special place, since it allows you to identify a hereditary predisposition to certain diseases (cardiovascular, oncological, diabetes).
• Physical inspection: A thorough assessment of the patient’s condition, including the measurement of the main indicators (blood pressure, pulse, body temperature, height, weight, body weight), examination of the skin and mucous membranes, palpation of the lymph nodes, auscultation of the heart and lungs, palpation of the abdomen and assessment of the neurological status.
• Laboratory research: Blood and urine tests that allow you to evaluate the function of internal organs (liver, kidneys), cholesterol, glucose, hormones, the presence of inflammatory processes and other important parameters. Usually includes a general blood test, a biochemical blood test (liver function, kidneys, lipid profile, glucose), general urine analysis.
• Instrumental research: Electrocardiography (ECG) for evaluating the work of the heart, fluorography (X -ray of the lungs) for identifying lung diseases. Additional studies can be prescribed according to indications (for example, ultrasound of the abdominal organs, thyroid gland).

B. Cancer screening

Cancer screening is a set of measures aimed at identifying cancer in the early stages, when treatment is most effective. Cancer screening is recommended regularly in accordance with the age, gender and risk factors.

• Breast cancer: Mammography (X-ray examination of the mammary glands) is recommended for women over 40 years old every 1-2 years. Self -examination of the mammary glands is recommended for women of all ages.
• Cervical cancer: Papanicolau smear (PAP test) is recommended for women from the age of 21 or from the beginning of sexual life. The frequency of papanicolau smear depends on the age and results of previous studies.
• Tolstoy Cancer: Colonoscopy (inspection of the colon using a special tool) is recommended for men and women over 45 every 10 years. Alternative screening methods include a fecal analysis for hidden blood and sigmoidoscopy.
• Prostate cancer: A blood test for prostat-specific antigen (PSA) and a finger rectal examination is recommended for men over 50 years old.
• Lung cancer: Low -like computed tomography (CT) of lungs is recommended for people with a high risk of lung cancer (for example, smokers with experience).

C. Screening for cardiovascular diseases

Screening for cardiovascular diseases is a set of measures aimed at identifying risk factors for the development of cardiovascular diseases and early signs of these diseases.

• Measurement of blood pressure: It is recommended to measure blood pressure at least once a year.
• Blood test for cholesterol: It is recommended to take a blood test for cholesterol at least once every 5 years.
• Electrocardodiography (ECG): ECG is recommended to be carried out according to indications (for example, with chest pain, shortness of breath).
• Assessment of the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases: The doctor can evaluate the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases using special scales (for example, Score scales).

D. Screening for diabetes

Diabetes screening is a set of measures aimed at identifying diabetes in the early stages.

• Blood test for glucose: It is recommended to take a blood test for glucose at least once every 3 years, especially people with a high risk of diabetes (for example, overweight people, family history of diabetes).
• Oral glucosotolerant test (OGTT): OGTT is recommended for pregnant women to detect gestational diabetes.

E. Other types of screening

There are other types of screening that can be recommended by a doctor depending on age, gender and risk factors:

• Screening for osteoporosis (densitometry): It is recommended for women over 65 and women in postmenopaus with risk factors for osteoporosis.
• Screening on glaucoma (measurement of intraocular pressure): It is recommended for people over 40 years old.
• Screening for thyroid diseases (blood test for thyroid hormones): It is recommended for people with symptoms of thyroid diseases (for example, fatigue, weight change, sleep disturbance).
• Depression screening: It is recommended for people with symptoms of depression (for example, depressed mood, loss of interest in life).

V. Preparation for a medical examination

A. Collection of health information

Before a visit to the doctor, it is important to collect information about your health in order to provide the doctor with a complete and accurate picture. This will help the doctor correctly evaluate your health status and prescribe the necessary examinations.

• Medical history: Remember the diseases, operations, injuries, allergies and chronic diseases.
• Medicines: Make a list of all the drugs that you take, including drugs that are released without a prescription, vitamins and food supplements. Indicate the dosage and frequency of taking each medicine.
• Family history: Remember the diseases that your close relatives suffered (parents, brothers, sisters, grandparents). Pay special attention to cardiovascular diseases, cancer, diabetes and other hereditary diseases.
• Bad habits: Tell the doctor about your bad habits, such as smoking and drinking alcohol. Indicate how long you smoke or drink alcohol and in what quantities.
• Life: Tell the doctor about your lifestyle, including the level of physical activity, diet and sleep.
• Symptoms: Write down all the symptoms that bother you, even if they seem insignificant to you. Indicate when symptoms appeared and how often they occur.

B. Preparation for laboratory research

To obtain accurate laboratory tests, it is necessary to properly prepare for the tests.

• Blood test: Typically, a blood test is given on an empty stomach, that is, after 8-12 hours of starvation. Before passing the blood test, you can only drink water. It is not recommended to drink alcohol 24 hours before the analysis.
• Urine analysis: For a general urine analysis, it is necessary to collect the average portion of morning urine. Before collecting urine, it is recommended to carry out hygiene procedures.
• Hidden blood analysis: It is necessary to follow the collection instructions provided by the doctor or laboratory.

C. Questions for a doctor

Prepare a list of questions that you want to ask a doctor. This will help you get full information about your health and get recommendations on the prevention of diseases.

Examples of questions for a doctor:

• What is my risk of developing cardiovascular diseases?
• Do I need to undergo a cancer screening?
• What changes in lifestyle can I make to improve my health?
• What vaccines do I need?
• What medicines should I take?
• How often should I visit a doctor?

VI. After a medical examination

A. Discussion of results with a doctor

After a medical examination, it is necessary to discuss the results with the doctor. The doctor will explain to you the results of the examinations, evaluate your health status and give recommendations on further actions.

• Understanding the results: Make sure you understand all the results of the examinations. Ask the doctor questions if something is not clear.
• Risk assessment: The doctor will evaluate your risk of developing diseases and give recommendations on prevention.
• Treatment plan: If you have any disease, the doctor will develop a treatment plan. Make sure you understand the treatment plan and know how to take medicines.
• Further actions: The doctor will give recommendations on further actions, such as a change in lifestyle, taking drugs or repeated examinations.

B. Fulfillment of the doctor’s recommendations

It is important to follow the doctor’s recommendations in order to improve your health and prevent the development of diseases.

• Life change change: Make changes to your lifestyle, as the doctor recommended. For example, start playing sports, eating right and abandoning bad habits.
• Medication: Take medicines in accordance with the instructions of the doctor. Do not stop taking medications without consulting a doctor.
• Repeated examinations: Visit a doctor for repeated examinations in accordance with the doctor’s recommendations.

C. Holding a healthy lifestyle

A healthy lifestyle is the best way to maintain health and prevent the development of diseases.

• Proper nutrition: Eat a lot of fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Limit the consumption of fats, salt and sugar.
• Regular physical activity: Take sports or physical exercises at least 30 minutes a day.
• Refusal of smoking: Smoking is one of the main risk factors for the development of many diseases.
• Moderate alcohol consumption: Excessive drinking of alcohol can lead to the development of diseases of the liver, heart and other organs.
• Sufficient sleep: Try to sleep at least 7-8 hours a day.
• Stress management: Learn to manage stress using various methods such as meditation, yoga or communication with friends and family.

VII. Myths and misconceptions about medical examinations

A. “I feel good, why do I need an examination?”

Many people believe that if they feel good, then they do not need to undergo a medical examination. However, many serious diseases in the early stages are asymptomatic. Regular examinations allow you to identify these diseases in the early stages, when treatment is most effective.

B. “Medical examinations of the road”

Although medical examinations require certain costs, they can lead to a decrease in health care costs in the long term. Early detection and treatment of diseases is cheaper than the treatment of complications that can develop in the later stages.

C. “Inspections take a lot of time”

A medical examination usually takes no more than 1-2 hours. This is a short time that you invest in your health.

D. “Doctors prescribe too many tests”

Doctors prescribe tests only if it is necessary to assess your health state. Feel free to ask the doctor questions about the need for certain tests.

E. “I’m afraid to learn about bad news”

Fear to learn about bad news is a natural reaction. However, the early detection of the disease allows you to begin treatment in the early stages, when it is most effective.

VIII. The role of modern technology in medical examinations

A. Telemedicine

Telemedicine allows consultations with a doctor remotely, using video communication or other means of communication. This is convenient for people who live in remote areas or cannot visit the doctor personally.

B. Wearable devices

Wearable devices (for example, fitness trackers, smart watches) allow you to track various health indicators, such as pulse, arterial pressure, level of physical activity and sleep. These data can be used by a doctor to evaluate your health and develop an individual treatment plan.

C. Artificial intelligence

Artificial intelligence (AI) is used to analyze medical data and identify the risks of the development of diseases. AI can also help doctors in making treatment decisions.

IX. Conclusion

Regular medical examinations are an important investment in your health. They allow you to identify diseases in the early stages, prevent their development and improve the quality of life. Do not neglect this opportunity, and your body will thank you with good health and longevity.