Doctors often tell us that prevention is better than cure. It’s not always possible to prevent health problems, but keeping up to date with routine checks and tests is an effective means of reducing risks. If you tend to ignore reminders, or you soldier on when you have symptoms, here are some appointments to book today.
Blood pressure check
High blood pressure (hypertension) is one of the most significant risk factors for cardiovascular disease. The trouble with high blood pressure is that there are usually no obvious signs. This is why it’s important to have your blood pressure checked frequently. It’s particularly beneficial to organize regular checks if you have family history of heart disease or hypertension. It takes a minute to do the test, and there’s no pain involved. If your blood pressure is high, a doctor may recommend making lifestyle changes, such as losing weight and increasing activity levels, or taking medication.
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Hearing assessments
It’s common for hearing to deteriorate with age, but some people start to experience hearing loss long before they retire. Hearing loss is usually gradual, and many people wait until they have obvious symptoms to make an appointment. It’s beneficial to have hearing tests on a regular basis and to learn more about the signs and symptoms of hearing loss. If you’ve started turning up the volume on the TV or the radio, you feel like people are mumbling or speaking quietly, or you’re asking friends or colleagues to repeat themselves more frequently, it’s a good idea to have a hearing test.
Dental check-up
You may assume that you don’t need to see a dentist if you haven’t had any pain or troubles with your gums, but this is not the case. Dental symptoms can develop gradually, and routine check-ups play a crucial role in preventing decay and gum disease. Your dentist can also provide advice when you go to the office, and your routine check will include oral cancer screening. Mouth cancer is becoming more prevalent, but many people are still unaware of the symptoms and risk factors. The earlier signs are detected, the higher the chance of successful treatment. Ideally, you should organize a check-up every 6-12 months.
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Cancer screening programs
There are several screening initiatives available to try and detect early signs of different types of cancer. If you have received an invitation, don’t ignore it. Make a call and book your test. It's also crucial to make sure you see your doctor if you notice any abnormal symptoms, such as unexplained weight loss, lumps or swelling, changes in bowel habits and passing blood when you go to the toilet.
Eye tests
Changes in your vision can occur very slowly and it can often take time for people to react when they start to strain to read signs or see the TV clearly. If you haven’t had an eye test for a long time, or you feel like your vision isn’t as clear as it used to be, don’t hesitate to book an assessment. It’s best to pick up changes and signs of deterioration early.
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Nobody is invincible, but there are steps all of us can take to protect our health. If you’re not up to date with routine tests and checks, now is the time to make some calls.
Candy TaiCANDY TAI is a wife to David and mom of 5 with a degree in Communications. She's a native Texan (Hook 'Em Horns!) who's been making her home in the Kansas City metro area for nearly 15 years. She loves being able to shuffle her kids from their various sports activities, piano lessons, and school activities. She enjoys fashion, beauty, reality TV, and moviegoing.
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