A routine check-up is one of the most important procedures for maintaining good health.
It aims to detect any health problems early before they become more serious, allowing for proper prevention and treatment. Regular health monitoring through check-ups helps to manage overall well-being and adapt lifestyle to individual needs. Let's look at what a routine check-up typically involves.
The process always starts with the collection of a detailed medical history, which includes information on past or current medical conditions, family history of diseases such as heart disease, diabetes or cancer, lifestyle such as diet, exercise and smoking habits, and finally, any medications or supplements the patient is taking.
Included in the check up are laboratory tests that provide important information about the internal functioning of the body. Common tests include:
- Blood tests: Complete blood count (CBC) to detect anemia, leukemia and other disorders.
- Blood glucose test: To detect diabetes or prediabetes stage.
- Lipid profile: Checking cholesterol and triglycerides to assess cardiovascular risk.
- Checking kidney and liver function: through specific blood tests.
- General urine test: To detect infections or other kidney problems.
Also includes cardiac testing, which depends on the patient's age, history and risk factors. Cardiac screening may include:
- Electrocardiogram (ECG): to evaluate the heart rhythm.
- Heart ultrasound: If there are indications for further examination.
- Heart rate: a cardiac test. Thyroid function can affect many bodily functions. A simple blood test for thyroid hormones (TSH, T3, T4) can detect hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.
An eye test can be done to diagnose vision problems or eye pressure and an otolaryngology test where hearing and the function of the nose and throat can be examined.
Finally, specific tests can be done depending on gender and age, such as:
- Mammography: For women over 40 years of age.
- Pap tests: To check the cervix.
- Pap smear (PSA): For men over 50 years of age.
- Colonoscopy: For men and women over 50 to check the colon.