Physicals

Why do I need a physical exam?

While your annual physical exam is a critical part of preventive health care, physicals are also often required before you start a new job or school year, or join a sports team. Ultimately, the purpose of the physical is the same, regardless of the reason you scheduled it. Your physical is an opportunity to check in on your health and wellness and have the routine health screenings that reveal signs of illness and severe health conditions before you start to show symptoms.

What should I expect during my physical?

Your physical consists of a physical exam, health screenings, and a consultation. Dr. Thomas typically begins by checking your weight, height, and blood pressure. Westbrook Wellness Internal Medicine includes an in-house lab, so you may have blood drawn and provide a urine sample at the start of your appointment.

Dr. Thomas talks to you about your personal and family medical history and asks questions about any changes you’ve noticed in your health or well-being. She looks into your eyes, ears, and throat and feels your lymph nodes. She listens to your heart and lungs and presses your abdomen for signs of swelling or other abnormalities.

Dr. Thomas can perform any necessary health screenings. In addition to checking your blood pressure and a standard blood panel that reviews your cholesterol and glucose levels, she can also run tests, including:

• Pap smears
  
• Breast exams
  
• Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) screenings
  
• Prostate exams
  
• Colorectal cancer
  
• STD testing
  
• Tests for infectious diseases
  

If your tests have abnormal results, Dr. Thomas also offers more detailed testing including EKGs and lung function tests like spirometry and peak airflow testing.

Dr. Thomas can also give you the immunizations you need to protect your health.

How should I prepare for a physical?

There are several things you can do to prepare for your physical exam, so you get the most out of your appointment. First, make sure you have your ID, insurance card, and a list of all medications you take, including vitamins and supplements. If your job, school, or sports team requires specific paperwork completed before the physical, make sure to take it with you.

You can also make a list of questions to ask Dr. Thomas. For example, if you’ve noticed a change in your health or are concerned about recent weight gain, this appointment is your opportunity to ask questions and get advice on improving your wellness.

Call or schedule your appointment online today.