An annual physical or wellness exam gives you an overall picture of your health. It’s the perfect way to help you establish or continue a relationship with a doctor so they can monitor changes in your health from one exam to the next. While you may feel completely fine now, many chronic conditions, including hypertension, have no outward symptoms, but can do a lot of internal damage. It’s important to not only go to the doctor only when you’re sick. Annual physicals and wellness exams at Halper Family Medicine give your doctor a chance to see you when you’re feeling fine and to help you prevent issues from arising down the line. You’ll have time to review your medications and ask any general health questions you might have. Your doctor will monitor your blood pressure, weight, and emotional health at your annual physicals. You’ll receive better overall care when they have a picture of your medical history and don’t just see you periodically for acute issues such as a sore throat or the flu.

An annual physical involves a physical review, basic blood tests, and monitoring of any chronic conditions you may have, including diabetes or heart disease. Your doctor reviews your health history and any changes, as well as your vaccination record to determine if you need any boosters or new vaccines.

If you need a school, sports, or employment physical, your doctor completes the necessary tests and fills out the required forms.

If you’re in need of a preventive screening, such as a mammogram or colonoscopy, your doctor orders them during your annual physical.

Women require an annual physical to care for their reproductive health. Annual examinations for women may include a pelvic exam, Pap Smear, and breast exam. A Pap Smear is an important screening for cervical cancer. Additionally, if you have any questions about your menstrual cycle or unusual pelvic pain, you can bring them up to your Halper Family Medicine doctor.

For men, annual exams may include a prostate exam and overall sexual health discussion. If you’re a man having issues with sexual performance, such as erectile dysfunction, an annual physical is a good time to bring this up. Both men and women who are sexually active may benefit from screenings for sexually transmitted diseases. Hormone replacement therapy for women (estrogen and progesterone) and men (testosterone) can alleviate uncomfortable symptoms associated with aging.

Women may find relief from hot flashes and mood swings while men may find renewed vigor and improvements in sexual performance from hormone therapy treatments.

To schedule your annual physical, call one of our offices or book online through this website.