Physicals Q & A

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What are physicals?

Physical exams involve visiting Steese Immediate Care for a comprehensive check-up and assessment of your general health and well-being. You can attend a regular annual physical exam or book one any time you need certification for a job, hobby, insurance, vacation, or another purpose.

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A physical exam is a chance for you and your provider to discuss your overall health. You might have questions, concerns, or symptoms that you can bring up at your physical exam, and your provider can order tests to look for the early signs of many serious diseases.

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What diseases can be detected at physicals?

Your provider may examine your skin for signs of cancer or any unusual lumps on your body that you might not be able to see. They can also run tests for different cancers that detect the earliest stages of cell change, so you can start treatment early to eradicate the disease.

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In addition to cancers, there are many other potentially life-threatening illnesses that you might not be aware you have, like diabetes and high blood pressure, that a physical exam can help to identify.

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What happens during a physical?

Your provider at Steese Immediate Care begins each physical by reviewing your medical history and discussing any current symptoms or concerns with you. They tailor the physical to each patients’ unique needs, so if you already have a health concern, they will look for signs that could indicate a worsening of your condition.

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The team also checks your vital signs, such as your:

• Heart rate

• Respiration rate

• Temperature

• Reflexes

• Reactions

• Blood pressure

• Heart and lung sounds
   

Your provider will also complete a physical exam, looking into your mouth, throat, ears, nose, and eyes. They feel your lymph nodes, thyroid gland, carotid arteries, joints, and liver, listen to your bowel sounds, and test your muscle strength, nerve responses, and balance.

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Looking at your skin, hair, and nails can tell a lot about your general health. Your provider can also observe your mental well-being throughout your physical.

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Your physical exam may also involve blood and urine testing. Steese Immediate Care is a fully functioning clinic with a laboratory on-site for your convenience. 

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These tests can check for:

• Infection

• Hormone levels

• Blood sugar

• Cholesterol

• Micronutrient deficiencies
   

Your provider might also want you to have other types of tests, such as X-rays, a CT or MRI scan, or screening tests for cancer and other conditions.

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To take a proactive stance on your health, call Steese Immediate Care today, or book a physical exam online.