Stay Up To Date On Your Current Health With A Wellness Exam
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By now, most of us are aware of the benefits of preventive medicine. With regular monitoring and routine wellness evaluations, patients can better preserve their health, detect any potential problems early, and get the peace of mind they deserve. At Dr. Avi Ishaaya Centers in Los Angeles, CA, board-certified physician Dr. Avi Ishaaya is dedicated to helping patients protect their health and live the fullest, longest lives possible with an aggressive approach to preventive medicine, including regular wellness checks. Learn more here about how a wellness exam can benefit you, the difference between a wellness exam vs. a physical exam, and how often you should be evaluated.
What is a wellness exam?
A wellness exam is a proactive step patients can take to gain a better understanding of their current state of health, as well as their potential for future health problems. Unlike a physical exam, which typically involves blood work and a physical assessment to evaluate a specific problem, a wellness exam aims to paint a picture of the patient’s overall health, identify risk factors, and give the patient an idea of what they can do to improve and/or preserve their health over time. With regular wellness checks, patients are often able to catch health problems early and seek treatment before the issue becomes more severe.
What is included in a wellness exam?
Generally speaking, a wellness exam with Dr. Ishaaya involves:
- Measuring height and weight
- Calculating BMI
- Taking vital signs
- Reviewing current list of medications
- Discussing current health concerns or issues
- Evaluating overall health and psychological wellness
- Reviewing health and family history
- Discussing diet and lifestyle
- Making suggestions for behavioral modification
- Answering any questions the patient may have
Does a wellness exam include blood work?
In the majority of cases, a straightforward wellness exam does not include a full panel of blood work like a physical exam typically does. However, Dr. Ishaaya may order specific labs, such as a cholesterol panel, based on the patient’s height, weight, BMI, and other factors discussed during the wellness exam.
How often do I need a wellness exam?
While every patient’s situation is unique, most men and women are encouraged to undergo a routine wellness exam once per year. For patients with a notable health or family history, elevated risk factors, or other concerns, Dr. Ishaaya may recommend wellness exams more often than once per year.
How to prepare for a wellness exam
Because a wellness exam is typically noninvasive and not particularly extensive, patients do not have to do much to prepare for their appointment. However, there are a few things patients can do before a wellness exam to ensure the most comfortable experience and comprehensive evaluation possible, including:
- Do not drink caffeine or alcohol
- Fast the morning of the exam (if recommended)
- Get a full night’s sleep
- Bring your current list of medications
- Prepare a list of questions for the doctor
- Familiarize yourself with your family health history
Don’t leave your health to chance; schedule regular wellness exams in Los Angeles, CA.
When it comes to your health, there are few things you can do that are as valuable as establishing a relationship with a physician and undergoing routine monitoring. To learn more about the benefits of annual wellness exams and to schedule your first evaluation with board-certified physician Dr. Avi Ishaaya, call Dr. Avi Ishaaya Centers in Los Angeles today!