Physical Exam

Preventive care can catch illnesses and conditions early on, and one of the very best ways to do this is to get a routine physical exam. The skilled team at Tyler Internal Medicine Associates P.A. in Tyler and Lindale, Texas, performs general check-ups and physical exams to keep you in the best health. Call the office to schedule your physical exam or book one online today. 

What is a physical exam?

Physical exams are basic medical examinations that are typically performed once per year or whenever an organization like work or school requires it for you. A visit to your doctor is like a tune-up, a check for signs of common health conditions. These routine exams play a good part in preventive care.

When you have a physical exam, your provider begins by reviewing your medical and family history and learning about your current health. They then perform routine checks on your body’s vital functions, including:

• Temperature
• Heart rate 
• Respiration rate
• Blood pressure
• Blood oxygen levels

They also listen to your heart and lungs to check for any abnormal sounds. The team at Tyler Internal Medicine Associates P.A. looks for signs of illnesses and health conditions like heart disease, lung disease, skin cancer, dementia, obesity, and heart arrhythmia. 

What does a physical exam check for?

A physical exam includes observations, measurements, tests, and questions about chronic issues or pain development. The way your provider conducts your physical exam might vary in some respects depending on the reason for your exam, but it generally includes checks of your eyes, ears, mouth, and joints.

Most providers examine:

• Skin appearance
• Mental state
• Vaccination status 
• Risky lifestyle habits (like drug or alcohol use, sexual activity, and smoking)
• Diet and exercise habits
• Motor skills, reflexes, and balance
• Oral health
• Other infection zones (lymph nodes, thyroid, abdomen, eyes, ear canals, nostrils)

Women might require an internal pelvic exam and breast exam, while men might need a prostate exam and genital check.

Certain lab tests may be recommended to detect a weakened immune system, diabetes, nutritional deficiencies, bad cholesterol levels, and other possible conditions like colon cancer (if you’re over 50 years of age).

What are the benefits of having a physical exam?

Physical exams offer many benefits, such as:

• Early disease detection
• Learning and preventing lifestyle-related conditions
• Clearance to work (when passed), as required by some employers
• Assessment of potential risk factors
• Diet, exercise, and treatment advice

Whether recommended or required, physical exams are an important part of your overall health care plan.

If you need a physical for school or work or are due for an annual exam, call Tyler Internal Medicine Associates P.A. or book an appointment online today.