What happens during an annual physical?
When you see Dr. Rinker for your annual physical, he monitors your health indicators and vitals.
Dr. Rinker or one of his nurses measures your height and weight and takes your blood pressure and pulse. He also listens to your heart and lungs, tests your reflexes, and examines your stomach, organs, and spine.
If you have a chronic condition, such as heart disease or diabetes, Dr. Rinker may assess your symptoms or check for indications of disease progression. Preventive testing and procedures may also occur during your yearly check-up and can include:
- Laboratory work
- Urine testing
- Pap smears
- Mammograms
- Colonoscopy
- Prostate exams
- Sexually transmitted disease (STD) screening
- Vaccinations
Dr. Rinker may ask you questions about how you sleep, your memory, and your relationships. He also provides the opportunity for you to ask any questions or address any concerns you may have. It’s critical to be open and honest with him, as this helps him provide the appropriate care and understand your unique needs.
Why is an annual physical important?
Annual physicals are vital because they allow Dr. Rinker to monitor your health and prevent specific diseases and conditions. Even if you’re young and healthy, yearly check-ups can screen you for chronic conditions that often go left unnoticed until their symptoms become severe.
During your annual physical, Dr. Rinker may screen you for:
- Infections
- Breast, cervical, or prostate cancer
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Diabetes
- Depression
- Memory loss
Annual physicals also allow Dr. Rinker to assess any chronic conditions. He might make changes to your medications or suggest certain things that can improve your health, like cutting back on sodium or starting an exercise program.
Who should have an annual physical?
Everyone over the age of three should have an annual physical (before age three, more than one check-up a year is recommended). If you’re elderly or have a chronic condition, Dr. Rinker may recommend more frequent physicals to help monitor your symptoms and provide the best care possible.
If you haven’t seen a doctor in a while or need an annual physical, call Dr. Rinker’s office today or schedule your appointment online.
