For quite some time, I wasn't sure what I was going to do about my failing health. I knew that I had a few longterm health problems, but resolving the issues felt really difficult. Fortunately, a friend of mine mentioned going to the doctor, so I began looking for medical alternatives. I began working with one doctor who suggested a course of medications and a few lifestyle changes, and I was really enthusiastic about the progress I was making. I know that making health and medical changes helped the quality of my life, and I know it could help you too. Check out this blog for more information.
3 Must-Have Preventative Care Services
Many people skip their checkups and may only go to the doctor when they are feeling unwell. Unfortunately, this means many of the preventative care services provided by doctors falls by the wayside. This may lead to a late diagnosis of conditions that could have been managed with medication or conditions that can prove fatal.
Routine Labs And Blood Pressure Checks
Part of your preventative care services should include routine lab work, such as blood tests and urinalysis. Some of the main issues doctors are looking for are elevated blood glucose, high lipids, or indications of abnormalities in blood cells. Your urinalysis can detect high protein levels in your urine or blood. These issues can be a sign of problems with kidney function. In addition to lab work, having your blood pressure checked regularly is necessary to catch hypertension when it is in the early stages. Hypertension is frequently labeled the "silent killer" because it rarely causes symptoms until your blood pressure is catastrophically high.
Nutrition Counseling
Most people need some amount of nutrition counseling, even if they are not considered overweight. This counseling might come from your doctor or they may want to refer you to a nutritionist, especially if you are overweight and/or have chronic diseases that could be improved with diet and exercise. Simply eating a better diet and incorporating more exercise can lead to better health, reduction of risk factors for diseases, and easier weight management. People with certain health conditions or physical limitations may need to see a nutritionist who understands unique dietary needs for different conditions.
Risk Assessments
Your family history and personal risks can affect the preventative care services you need. Some common familial issues include cancer, vascular disease, and chronic diseases. When your doctor is aware of your family history for certain conditions, they will want you to be more vigilant about your lifestyle choices to reduce controllable risk factors. Additionally, you may need cancer screenings at an earlier age if you have a strong family history of certain cancers. Of course, your personal risk factors need to be considered. Some people have a history of smoking, recreational drug use, excessive drinking, or do not practice safe sex. Each of these issues can raise concerns for your doctor and they may want to perform additional testing for the detection of certain diseases or offer you the opportunity for counseling or medications to help with drug use.
Fortunately, there are many types of preventative care services available, but they are often underutilized. Being honest with your doctor and having annual check-ups can reduce your risk of many health issues. Visit a clinic, like West Ocean City Injury & Illness Center, for more help.