Visiting a Doctor Regular exercise not only increases your longevity but can also lower your life insurance premiums.
Your health needs and preventative care requirements change as you age. You can prevent certain conditions from worsening or developing in the first place by staying on top of your game and getting the necessary checkups.
Your age, current health status, family history, and lifestyle choices all play a role in determining what types of checkups you should have and how frequently. To determine which health services and screenings are best for you, consult with your healthcare provider and regular physician.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has compiled a list of critical exams, screenings, and vaccinations that everyone should consider:
Mammograms
The CDC recommends having one done every one to two years beginning at the age of 40 to detect signs of breast cancer. Even though the chances of developing breast cancer before the age of 40 are statistically low, your regular doctor will advise you to perform self-examinations.
Keep an eye out for any abnormalities, such as a lump, pain or tenderness, a change in the size or shape of the breast, and so on.
Prostate Examinations
Beginning at the age of 40, the CDC recommends that men have an annual prostate exam. Self-evaluation is also encouraged.
Pelvic exam and Pap test
Women should have Pap smears every year beginning at the age of 18 or when they become sexually active, whichever comes first.
High Blood Pressure
Your blood pressure should be checked every time you see your regular doctor. People are more likely to develop high blood pressure after the age of 40. A healthy diet and regular exercise can help you control your blood pressure.
Cholesterol Screening
High cholesterol usually has no visible signs or symptoms, so only a doctor can detect it. Beginning at the age of 40, people should have their cholesterol levels checked every one to five years.
Immunizations
The CDC recommends that everyone receive the measles, mumps, and rubella vaccinations (MMR). If you are traveling outside of the United States, you may need to get meningitis and hepatitis A and B vaccination before leaving.
Consult your primary care physician to ensure you are up to date on all vaccinations and immunizations.
Skin Examination
Skin cancer can strike anyone at any age. The CDC recommends regular check-ups with your primary care physician in addition to self-examinations. Consult your doctor if anything seems out of the ordinary. They should be included in a routine cancer-related health checkup at the age of 40.
Diabetes Testing
Diabetes screenings will differ from person to person depending on family history and risk factors. Everyone over the age of 45, however, should be tested for type 2 diabetes every three years.
Thyroid Examination
Beginning at the age of 35, the CDC recommends getting tested every five years.
Eye Examinations
According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, you should have your vision checked every two to four years. However, if you already wear glasses or contacts, it is recommended that you have annual exams because prescriptions can change.
Dental Examinations
Most dentists recommend getting a check-up and cleaning at least once a year.