NEW YORK – HEALTH – Typically, people tend to skip on preventive care as a means of saving additional money, as well as avoiding the hassle of having to visit a doctor’s office. However, skipping out on regular doctor’s visits can keep you from having a higher degree of overall health, even when you don’t think you’re necessarily sick or injured. Here are just a few reasons to schedule an appointment with your local physician that you may not have considered.
Screenings And Testing
Even if you’re feeling well, there might be hidden health problems going on that you haven’t noticed yet. Just because you don’t have any symptoms that are actively interfering with your life doesn’t mean you might not be at risk for developing certain conditions. 4.1 million American adults – 33.9% of the adult U.S population – have prediabetes, and many have little to no knowledge of the fact that they’re at risk. Other conditions may not show symptoms until later in life, but can potentially be identified earlier with the right screening. Regular screening and testing as part of routine medical exams can help to catch these situations early, allowing you to access treatment sooner.
Overlooked Conditions
Many health conditions aren’t often viewed as such, being dismissed as a simple quirk or minor irritation that can be dealt with without medical intervention. However, many of these frequently dismissed conditions can be addressed with new medical technologies that may not have been previously available. Iontophoresis, for example, was introduced over 50 years ago as a treatment for excessive sweating, yet few people know about this potential treatment option for hyperhidrosis. A condition that you may be aware of, but have not pursued treatment for, many have more options available now.
Preventive Treatments
One of the most important reasons for regular medical exams and check ups is to prevent illness from spreading or developing in the first place. However, many people skip out on essential preventive care for both themselves and their families, particularly when it comes to vaccinations. An estimated 19.5 million children under one year old do not receive DTP3 vaccines, despite the fact that regular vaccination is necessary for public health. Regularly visiting a doctor can ensure the health of not just yourself, but your family and the general public as well.
General Health Maintenance
Even if you aren’t sick or worried about a particular condition, regular doctor’s visits can help you maintain all aspects of your overall health and wellness. Doctors can help you develop a plan to take care of your physical health on a daily basis, often including exercise. While exercise isn’t often thought of as a medical consideration, studies show certain types of exercise can reduce your risk of certain conditions. One exercise, cycling, lowers the risk of premature mortality up to 30%, while the risk of developing cardiorespiratory diseases is reduced by about 40%. A doctor can help you develop a daily routine that involves exercise designed for your specific health needs.
Additionally, regular medical visits can help with your mental health as well. Often, people can benefit from regular therapy, even if they don’t have a diagnosable condition. Talking with your doctor can help you find a mental health care plan that works for you and your particular situation, whether that involves regular therapy, medication, or simply lifestyle changes.
Visiting your doctor or other preferred medical professional regularly can help you maintain your overall health by identifying existing conditions, watching for new treatments, and taking care of your routine medical needs. If you haven’t visited a doctor lately, talk to your doctor about setting up an appointment soon.
