Why Do I Need an Annual Exam If I'm Not Having Any Problems?

Seeing the doctor when you feel fine may seem like a waste of time. But annual wellness exams actually play a big role in keeping you healthy, especially as you get older. Here’s how your annual exam benefits your health and wellness.

When you’re feeling fine, taking time out of your schedule to visit your doctor is probably the last thing on your mind. After all, if you’re not sick or bothered by unusual symptoms, what’s the point?

As it turns out, your annual exam is a lot more important than many people realize. What’s more, scheduling your exam toward the beginning of the year can help you set healthy goals for the following months and serve as a convenient reminder to schedule your exam when next year rolls around, too.

At OB/GYN Associates of Conroe, Richard Roberts, MD, helps women in Conroe, Texas, stay healthy at every age and every stage of life with annual checkups tailored to each woman’s unique needs. Here, learn why having a wellness exam every year can help you enjoy better health now and in the future.

1. They identify issues in their early stages

Some of the most common chronic health problems — like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart disease, and diabetes — cause few or even no symptoms in their early stages.

Unfortunately, that means they’re also more likely to remain undetected until progressing to a more serious (and harder-to-treat) stage. Having an annual exam helps identify those problems as early as possible, supporting interventional care that could potentially prevent disease progression.

2. They keep you up to date on preventive care

One of the best ways to keep both chronic and acute health problems at bay is to make sure your preventive care is up to date.

Pelvic exams, Pap smears, mammograms, immunizations, and other health screenings and lab tests play an important role in helping you stay healthy, especially as you get older. Your annual exam is an ideal time to make sure your preventive care is up to date and focused on your evolving health needs.

3. They maintain an ongoing record of your health

Having an ongoing record of your health data helps Dr. Roberts spot subtle signs of disease that can be difficult to detect on their own. It can also help him identify risk factors for disease and provide guidance to help you reduce those risks and improve your overall wellness.

4. They ensure your evolving health needs are met

As a woman, your health needs can change dramatically as you age. From puberty to menopause, hormonal fluctuations affect your metabolism, your heart health, and other aspects of your physical and emotional health. Annual exams ensure those changing needs are met for better health and greater peace of mind.

5. They keep you educated about your health needs

Annual exams aren’t just about tests and evaluations. They’re also about building a better understanding of your health and your wellness needs. During your exam, Dr. Roberts discusses your health needs and risk factors, providing you with up-to-the-minute information that can help you play a more proactive role in managing your health and avoiding problems in the future.

6. They offer an opportunity to ask questions

Your exam is also a great time to ask Dr. Roberts questions about your health needs or to discuss concerns. That includes questions about your physical health as well as concerns affecting your emotional wellness. In addition to providing you with answers and guidance, Dr. Roberts can recommend other resources to help you stay informed.

7. They help you manage chronic health issues

If you have a chronic medical issue, like heart disease, diabetes, or obesity, an annual exam can help you manage your symptoms and prevent complications. Your exam is also a great time to schedule screenings and review your current treatment plan, making adjustments when necessary to suit your needs.

8. They built strong rapport and trust

Finally, having annual doctor visits is a great way to build familiarity and trust so you feel more at ease sharing sensitive health-related topics. Having a strong rapport with your doctor ensures your care is always focused on your unique and evolving needs — and it also provides a lot of peace of mind.

Your annual physical takes under an hour, but the benefits can last a lifetime. To schedule yours, call 936-756-7788 or book an appointment online with the team at OB/GYN Associates of Conroe in Conroe, Texas, today.