Your Annual Checkup

Most of us know we should have an annual checkup, but do we actually do it? If we have one every year do we actually know if it is complete? Do we understand the tests and examinations we are having done? Most of us will answer no to at least one of those questions. There is no excuse for not having a thorough yearly exam. Medicare is now covering many of the tests that should be done during your annual checkup.

Routine Tests for All

• Blood Pressure
  Your blood pressure should be checked during every visit to your doctor. Checking it at your yearly checkup will set a baseline.
  
• Height
  Significant loss of height can indicate acceleration of osteoporosis. Height is lost as a result of compression of the spinal cord.
  
• Weight
  Significant loss or gain of weight without trying can signify serious health problems. Weight gain can mean fluid retention, perhaps heart, liver or kidney disease. Weight loss could indicate infection or cancer.
  
• Blood Work
  Yearly blood work should include a blood count to rule out any bleeding, glucose to detect the onset of diabetes, thyroid function tests to rule out any thyroid disorder and blood electrolytes which can detect kidney problems and early heart problems. Your doctor may also check some additional labs depending on your personal and family history.
  
• Chest X-ray
  The amount of radiation received from a chest x-ray is not harmful and it can be very useful in detecting lung, cancer, early TB and emphysema.
• EKG
  It is recommended that a baseline EKG be done for both men and women around age 50. It should then be done at least every 2 - 3 years, or more often if necessary.
  
• Fecal Occult Blood Test
  This test should also be done yearly. Blood in the stool can be an early indication of colorectal cancer.
  
• Flexible Sigmoidoscopy/Colonoscopy
  The recommendation is that a sigmoidoscopy be done every 4 years, a Colonoscopy every 2 years for anyone with a higher risk of colorectal cancer.

Tests For Men

• Prostate Exam
  Staring at age 50 a man should have a digital exam of his prostate. The physician uses a gloved finger in the rectum to determine if there is any enlargement of the prostate. Enlargement could indicate benign enlargement or even cancer.
  
• PSA
  Prostate Specific Antigen is a blood test that can indicate prostate cancer. If the level is high a biopsy of the prostate may be indicated.
  

Tests For Women

• Mamogram
  It is recommended this test be done yearly for females over the age of 40. The doctor, during the checkup should perform a clinical breast exam. Monthly self breast exam should also be done, you can be taught this technique during your yearly checkup.
  
• PAP Smear and Pelvic Exam
  This test should be done every three years, or yearly if at higher risk for cervical or vaginal cancer.
  
• Measurement of Bone Mass
  There is no standard for frequency of this exam. Women with a family or personal history that puts them at higher risk of osteoporosis should have this test.

The Medical Exam
You should review all medications with your doctor, even over the counter medications. You should also discuss having a flu shot. If the flu vaccine is not yet available during your exam, make a follow-up for that. Your doctor should examine your feet if you are a diabetic, and order additional tests for your blood sugar. Your annual checkup is also the time to discuss any problems you are having. If you feel sad or lack energy, tell your doctor. Your emotional health is just as important as your physical health.