A physical is a medical evaluation that includes examination, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of children and adults. You may need a physical to attend school, go camping, participate in sports, or work at specific locations. To have a complete medical history, the patient needs to understand what can happen during a physical. If you live in Covington or Stone Mountain in Georgia, consider going to Oasis Healthcare Service, Inc for a physical. The following is what you can expect during a physical:
Vital Signs Check
First, your doctor will listen with a stethoscope to different parts of your body to determine any abnormalities found in the cardiovascular and respiratory systems. Your doctor will also look closely at all of your body’s systems, meaning that the doctor will look at the lymphatic system, noting if there are any lumps or bumps anywhere on your body. They will then look at all of your organs, usually palpated with both hands, to determine if they are soft and without masses. Lastly, the physician may need to do a rectal or pelvic examination to check the anus and the genitals.
Checking your vital signs is probably the only aspect of a physical that you may not be too fond of. These vital signs include your blood pressure, pulse rate, and respiratory rate. These numbers are recorded on a scale of 0 to 120 for blood pressure, 0 to 100 for pulse rate, and 0-20 or up to 100 for respiratory rate.
Blood/Urine Tests
Your doctor may also recommend that you have blood drawn from a vein or your finger to test for diseases such as diabetes. In addition, the health care provider may want you to urinate in a cup so they can look at it under a microscope to ensure there is no evidence of infection because you may have a urinary tract infection (UTI). If the doctor suspects that you have a UTI, they will prescribe an antibiotic.
Medical History Review
The next step in a physical is reviewing your medical history and family’s medical history. You will be asked questions about past illnesses, operations, or injuries. The information you provide will help your health care provider look for any abnormalities in your current state of health. Your medical history may also include questions about your personal history, such as smoking or drinking alcohol. You will also likely be asked about your sexual habits and practices to determine whether risk factors lead to certain conditions like sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
Diagnostic Testing
A diagnosis is what your doctor determines based on information they learn during the medical history review. A diagnosis is usually followed by preventative measures taken to improve your health, such as advice about dieting, exercising, or quitting smoking. Imaging tests may need to be ordered if the health care provider feels you have a particular condition.
The physical is a great way to prevent illness and stay up-to-date on your health. If you think that you may need a physical, contact the Oasis Healthcare Service, Inc today.
