How to Plan & Schedule Physical Exams
Even if you feel healthy and lead a healthy lifestyle, it is important to see your doctor regularly to prevent problems and to maintain your good health. Often, risks to your well being, such as high blood pressure or unhealthy cholesterol, are issues that can largely go unnoticed unless you see your physician on a regular basis. Physical checkups can help identify risks to your health, prevent future health problems, maintain current vaccinations and encourage a healthy lifestyle. The recommended frequency of physical exams depends on your overall health as well as your age.
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Instructions
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Ages 18-39
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Have your blood pressure checked every two years unless you have a history of high blood pressure.
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Have your cholesterol checked every 5 years.
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See a dentist once every year for a cleaning and checkup to prevent problems from cavities or diseases of the mouth.
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Women should have a breast exam every three years. If you notice unusual lumps or masses during your monthly self-exam, call your doctor immediately.
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Women should have a pelvic exam and a pap smear every three years after age 21 or sooner if they are sexually active.
Age 40-65
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Have your blood pressure checked every two years unless you have a history of high blood pressure. Men over 34 and women over 44 should have cholesterol levels checked every 5 years.
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Men should discuss prostate checkups with their doctors at age 50. Women should continue having pap and pelvic exams every 2 years unless they have had a hysterectomy. Women should have a breast exam every year and a mammogram every 1-2 years.
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Continue seeing your dentist every year, and have your eyes examined every 2 years.
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Women should have a bone density test, a mammogram every 1-2 years, and an annual pelvic exams. Women who have had a hysterectomy may not need to continue with pap smears. Be sure to ask your doctor's opinion.
Age 65 and Older
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Have your blood pressure checked every year, and your cholesterol checked every 3-5 years. Ask about having a stool sample every year to check for colorectal cancer, and have a flu shot every year. You should also have a pneumococcal vaccine if you haven't had one, and have a tetanus booster every 10 years. Consider having a flu shot every year.
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Have your hearing tested every year, and your vision tested every 2 years, asking your provider to check for glaucoma.
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Continue with annual dental checkups.
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Have a physical exam every year to check your height and weight and discuss any health concerns you may be having with your provider.
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Women should have a bone density test, a mammogram every 1-2 years, and an annual pelvic exams. Women who have had a hysterectomy may not need to continue with pap smears. Be sure to ask your doctor's opinion.
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Tips & Warnings
If you have specific health conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease or other illnesses, you might need to see your doctor more frequently.
Your doctor will have specific recommendations based on your personal health history.
References
Resources
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