How important are annual health check-ups?

How important are annual health check-ups?

      Annual health check-ups may be overlooked by many because they believe their bodies are healthy and robust. However, the importance of annual health check-ups lies in identifying potential health risks or conditions that may not yet show symptoms, thereby preparing for treatment early on. Additionally, they help reduce the severity of complications and associated costs. Phitsanulok Hospital is committed to being a part of your good health. HealthyTogether Let's hold hands for good health.

Why should we have annual health check-ups? Here are three important reasons:

•  To prevent or detect diseases and abnormalities in the body, some of which can be detected even before symptoms appear.
• It's the best way to start fighting against serious diseases, as annual health check-ups not only help us detect diseases before symptoms appear or spread but also help us plan appropriate treatment early on. They also help us plan self-care to avoid other risk factors that may lead to complications.
• It helps reduce illness rates and mortality rates significantly.

What does a basic health check-up include? Annual health check-ups include various examinations, such as :

• Blood pressure and heart rate measurement
• General physical examination by a specialist
• Body mass index measurement
• Blood cell abnormalities screening
• Blood sugar and lipid profile tests to assess the risk of heart disease
• Liver and kidney function tests
• Bone mass measurement and blood uric acid level tests to screen for rheumatoid arthritis
• Chest X-rays for lung cancer screening

Preparation before health check-ups :

• Ensure adequate sleep of at least 6 hours before the check-up, as lack of sleep can affect test results, especially blood pressure, heart rate, and body temperature.
• Avoid food and beverages at least 8-10 hours before the check-up (you can drink plain water in small amounts).
• Avoid alcohol consumption at least 24 hours before the health check-up, as alcohol may affect some tests. If you've consumed alcohol, please inform the doctor or nurse before the check-up.
• If you're taking medication for blood pressure control, you can continue taking it as prescribed by your doctor.
• If you have any medical history or chronic conditions, please bring your test results or reports from your doctor for diagnosis.
• For women, avoid check-ups just before or after menstruation for 7 days, as menstruation can interfere with urine tests and lead to misinterpretation of results.
• Avoid mammograms during menstruation, as breast tenderness may occur. It's best to schedule mammograms after menstruation.

      Regular health check-ups at least once a year are necessary and important because they help us identify hidden diseases in our bodies. If abnormalities are found, they can be treated properly. Additionally, health check-ups provide personalized health care advice for each individual.

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