What a Medical Doctor Does During a Physical

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Have you ever wondered what exactly happens behind closed doors during a physical exam? What's the point of all those weird questions and strange poking and prodding? Fear not, intrepid reader! In this blog post, we'll shine a light on the mysterious world of physical exams and reveal all the secrets of what your doctor is actually up to.

Why Bother with a Physical?

Physical exams aren't just a chance for your doctor to make awkward small talk. They're an essential part of preventive healthcare, helping to detect and prevent serious health issues before they become major problems. By catching problems early, physical exams can save you time, money, and even your life.

What Happens During a Physical Exam?

So, what exactly goes on during a physical exam? Here's a quick rundown:

  • Medical History: Your doctor will ask you about your overall health, including any symptoms you're experiencing, your family medical history, and your lifestyle habits.
  • Physical Exam: Your doctor will check your vital signs (blood pressure, heart rate, temperature, and breathing), listen to your heart and lungs, examine your skin, and palpate (feel) your abdomen, lymph nodes, and joints.
  • Tests: Depending on your age, gender, and health history, your doctor may order some tests, such as blood tests, urine tests, or imaging studies.

Benefits of a Physical Exam

Regular physical exams offer a number of benefits, including:

  • Early detection of health problems
  • Monitoring of chronic conditions
  • Screening for diseases
  • Prevention of serious health issues
  • Peace of mind

If you're looking for a way to improve your health and well-being, a physical exam is a great place to start. By catching problems early and providing personalized health advice, physical exams can help you live a longer, healthier life.

What Does a Doctor Do During a Physical?

Vital Signs

Your doctor will first take your vital signs, which include your blood pressure, heart rate, and temperature. These measurements help your doctor assess your overall health and can identify any potential problems.

Medical History

Next, your doctor will ask you about your medical history, including any past illnesses, surgeries, or medications you are taking. This information helps your doctor understand your health risks and what to look for during the physical exam.

Physical Exam

Your doctor will then perform a physical exam, which typically includes the following:

  • Head and Neck: Your doctor will examine your head and neck for any lumps, bumps, or other abnormalities. They will also check your ears, nose, and mouth.

  • Chest: Your doctor will listen to your heart and lungs and check for any wheezing or other respiratory problems.

  • Abdomen: Your doctor will feel your abdomen for any tenderness, pain, or masses. They may also check for hernias or other abdominal problems.

  • Pelvic Exam (for Women): Your doctor will perform a pelvic exam to check for any abnormalities in your uterus, ovaries, and vagina.

  • Rectal Exam (for Men and Women): Your doctor may perform a rectal exam to check for any abnormalities in your rectum or prostate.

Neurological Exam

Your doctor may also perform a neurological exam to check your reflexes, coordination, and balance. This helps your doctor assess your brain and nervous system function.

Skin Exam

Your doctor will check your skin for any moles, rashes, or other abnormalities. This helps your doctor identify any potential skin conditions or skin cancer.

Follow-Up

After the physical exam, your doctor will discuss the results with you and make any necessary recommendations for further testing or treatment. They may also schedule a follow-up appointment to monitor your health progress.

Personal Experience

During my recent physical exam, my doctor took my blood pressure, listened to my heart and lungs, and checked my ears, nose, and mouth. They also felt my abdomen for any tenderness or masses and performed a rectal exam. My doctor then discussed the results of the exam with me and recommended that I get a colonoscopy to screen for colon cancer.

Conclusion

A physical exam is an important part of preventive health care. It helps your doctor assess your overall health and identify any potential problems. By following the recommendations of your doctor, you can help ensure your long-term health and well-being.

[Image of a doctor performing a physical exam on a patient]

Source: https://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/basics/adults/index.htm

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