Preventive care is one of the most important things you can do for your health. It focuses on identifying potential health risks early and addressing them before they become serious problems. By staying proactive with your healthcare, you can avoid many preventable conditions, improve your quality of life, and increase your chances of a longer, healthier life. Regular check-ups and screenings play a crucial role in maintaining good health.
Here are some key preventive care measures that may be considered by your care provider and you.
Cancer Screenings
Cancer screenings, such as mammograms, colonoscopies, and skin exams, are vital for catching changes that can lead to cancer and to detect early stages of the disease. Many cancers can be treated more successfully when caught early. For example, regular mammograms for women can detect breast cancer in its earliest stages, before symptoms appear. Colonoscopies can identify precancerous growths, preventing colon cancer before it develops. Talk to your doctor about the appropriate screenings for your age, family history, and lifestyle.
Eye Exams
Regular eye exams are important for maintaining healthy vision and detecting early signs of eye conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration. These conditions can often progress without noticeable symptoms, so it’s essential to schedule annual eye exams, especially as you age. Early intervention can prevent vision loss and help you maintain clear sight throughout your life. If you are diabetic, it’s critical that you don’t skip annual eye exams.
Vaccinations
Vaccines aren’t just for children! Adults need vaccines too. From the flu shot to the HPV vaccine to the shingles vaccine, staying updated on your vaccinations helps protect you from preventable diseases (and prevent the spread through our communities). Vaccines can reduce the risk of serious illness, hospitalization, and even death. Different vaccines are suggested at different stages of life. Talk to your healthcare provider about which vaccines are right for you based on your age, health conditions, and lifestyle.
Blood Pressure Checks
High blood pressure, or hypertension, can impact many organs and cause serious health conditions, stroke and heart attacks. There are often no symptoms of high blood pressure. Regular blood pressure checks help you catch hypertension early, so it can be managed through lifestyle changes or medication. Maintaining healthy blood pressure is key to protecting your heart and overall well-being. If your doctor and you decide that you need to frequently monitor your blood pressure, there are many at-home blood pressure monitors that easily help track blood pressure readings.
Cholesterol Testing
Cholesterol tests are another important preventive care measure. High cholesterol can lead to the buildup of plaque in your arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease. Often times, high cholesterol can be managed through lifestyle changes. By checking your cholesterol levels regularly, your physician can help guide you toward healthier habits or medications to lower your cholesterol, reducing your risk of cardiovascular issues.
Being proactive with your health can save your life.
Preventive care is a simple but important way to safeguard your health. By staying on top of screenings and other care, potential health problems can be detected early so you can take the necessary steps to address them. Your health is your most valuable asset, so make sure to prioritize preventive care and schedule regular visits with your healthcare provider. Remember, taking small steps now can lead to big benefits for your long-term well-being!
EIM Choice Care works with patients to create a personalized wellness plan to help you be proactive with your health. Contact EIM Choice Care today to schedule an appointment to discuss preventive care.