What Type of Blood Work is Done at an Annual Physical?
&srotate=0)
An annual physical exam is performed by a primary care physician, such as Dr. Priti Ranjan at Nest Family Medicine, to evaluate your health. It gives us the chance to discuss any health-related questions or concerns you may have too. During your annual physical exam in Plano, TX, we review your medical history, check your vitals, perform a physical blood test, and discuss your lifestyle, including tobacco use, alcohol consumption, and sexual health. The goal of this visit is to identify any signs of medical conditions or diseases. This allows us to treat them early before they become more serious.
What to expect when getting a physical exam
At Nest Family Medicine, we recommend all of our adult patients have a physical exam at least once a year. This is especially true for those over 50. Dr. Ranjan or one of our medical assistants will gather your general health information, including your height, weight, blood pressure, heart rate, respiration rate, and temperature. We will conduct a lung exam that listens for wheezes, crackles, or other abnormal sounds in your respiratory system.
Next, we will feel your throat and tonsils to check for swelling. Then, we will inspect your body for any abnormal growths, swelling, bruising, or inflammation, including your abdomen. We may perform a neurological exam that tests your reflexes, muscle strength, and balance. After the physical portion of your annual exam, we will perform blood tests to detect certain disorders or conditions.
How to prepare for your annual exam
Preparing for your exam with Dr. Ranjan means that you get the most of your time with her. Prepare a list of your current medications, including any herbal supplements. Also, make a list of any pain or symptoms you’re experiencing. If you have seen any other doctors recently, please provide us with their contact information. Always dress in comfortable clothing, so it's easy for our team to examine you.
What blood work is done at a physical?
Some things we look for in blood work at your annual physical at Nest Family Medicine include:
-
Cholesterol
-
Sugar levels
-
White blood cell counts
-
Platelet count
-
Red blood cell counts
These are just some of the important things we measure during a blood test in Plano, TX.
What happens after your physical
Once your physical is over, you need to schedule a follow-up exam to review any results of your blood work. Depending on what we find, Dr. Ranjan may make lifestyle or diet recommendations that will improve your health. Certain medications and treatments can help you manage serious health conditions, such as asthma or high blood pressure.
Why preventive care is important
When you have an annual physical in Plano, TX, you are making a decision to be responsible for your health. Rather than just treating something when it already has progressed, preventive care focuses on preventing disease or medical conditions from developing at all. We can recommend preventive care tips based on your family history, lifestyle, and existing health.
Should I still have an annual exam during the COVID-19 pandemic?
Many of our patients are worried about having an annual exam during the pandemic. At Nest Family Medicine, we follow all CDC guidelines to ensure that our staff and patients remain healthy. We take your temperature before you even enter our office. Face coverings and social distancing are required. We also sanitize all areas before and after each visit.
Schedule an annual physical exam today
At Nest Family Medicine, we offer compassionate, patient-focused care for our patients in Plano, TX. Maintaining a schedule of regular routine physicals is essential for maintaining your health and living a long life. When you’re experiencing health issues or any pain, call our office to book an appointment with board-certified family physician Dr. Priti Ranjan. We accept most major insurance plans and Medicare.