What is a physical exam?
A physical exam is a routine screening that assesses your overall health. It presents an opportunity to ask questions, discuss unusual symptoms, and build a relationship with Dr. Akamangwa.
What is the purpose of a physical exam?
A physical exam presents an opportunity to check-in on your mental and physical health. Dr. Akamangwa uses physicals to:
- Check for possible diseases
- Update necessary immunizations
- Identify issues that might become medical concerns
- Provide nutrition and exercise guidance
Come prepared for your appointment. Write down a list of any symptoms you’re experiencing as well as a list of all the prescription medication, vitamins, and supplements you regularly take.
What are the types of physicals?
At Charis Medical Center, Dr. Akamangwa offers several types of physicals, including:
Routine physicals
A routine physical is an in-office exam that takes about 30 minutes. During your appointment, Dr. Akamangwa asks questions about your health history, including any allergies or past surgeries you’ve had. He then asks about your lifestyle, including if you exercise, smoke, or drink alcohol.
Afterward, Dr. Akamangwa examines your skin for any unusual growths. He then listens to your heart and lungs with a stethoscope, palpates your organs, tests your reflexes, and observes your ears, eyes, nose, and throat.
Dr. Akamangwa then performs several gender-specific tests. If you're a man, he examines your penis and testicles and conducts a prostate exam. If you’re a woman, he examines your breasts and pelvis and does a Pap smear.
He then updates any immunizations, if prescribed, measures your blood pressure, and orders laboratory tests to assess your thyroid function, cholesterol levels, and hormones.
School physicals
Many public and private schools require all students to undergo a physical before the start of a new academic year. A school physical is very similar to a routine physical, the only difference is that Dr. Akamangwa signs off on official paperwork that you can submit to the school’s administration afterward.
Sports physicals
Many sports leagues require athletes to undergo a physical before the start of a new season. During a sports physical, Dr. Akamangwa conducts various tests to ensure your child is healthy enough to participate in physical activity. He also makes recommendations to lower the risk of injuries.
How frequently should I schedule a physical?
Dr. Akamangwa recommends scheduling a physical exam at least once a year. If you have a chronic condition like diabetes or high blood pressure, more frequent checkups may be necessary.
It’s important to participate in physicals, even if you feel healthy. Many serious health problems don’t present obvious side-effects until they’re far along in their progression.
To learn more about the benefits of physicals, request a consultation at Charis Medical Center. Book an appointment online, or call the office to speak with a member of the administrative staff today.
