Annual Exam
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Peggy Elango, DO
Internist & Concierge Doctor located in Lenox Hill, New York, NY
Undergoing an annual exam is one of the easiest ways to preserve your physical health and wellbeing. It also presents an opportunity to ask questions, discuss unusual symptoms, and build a relationship with your primary care physician. At her practice in the Lenox Hill area of Manhattan, internist Peggy Elango, DO, provides annual exams to people 12 and older. To schedule an appointment, call the New York City office and speak with a friendly staff member or book a consultation online today.
Annual Exam Q & A
What is an annual exam?
An annual exam is a routine screening procedure used to check-in on your physical and mental health. Even if you feel relatively healthy, it’s important to participate in an annual exam at least once a year.
Many serious health problems, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes present few obvious symptoms. An annual exam can detect these and other issues early, allowing for prompt treatment while lowering your risk of further complications.
What happens during an annual exam?
No two annual exams are exactly alike. Dr. Elango tailors treatment to your health history and goals. That said, every annual exam includes:
Review of your health history
During the health history portion of a physical, Dr. Elango reviews your medical records and asks about any unusual symptoms you’re experiencing. Next, she asks you about your lifestyle, including how often you exercise, if you use tobacco or drink alcohol, and the types of food you eat.
Dr. Elango also asks you about your family’s medical history to determine your risk of certain health problems.
Check of your vital signs
Next, Dr. Elango checks several vital signs, including your heart rate, blood pressure, respiration rate, and temperature. If you have a rapid heartbeat or you breathe more than 20 times per minute, it may indicate heart or lung problems. Dr. Elango uses a tool called a stethoscope to listen to your heart and lungs.
Men’s physical exam
Men are less likely than their female counterparts to visit the doctor regularly. They’re also more susceptible to certain health problems like heart disease and prostate cancer. During a men’s physical exam, Dr. Elango might perform a testicular exam, a hernia exam, a penis exam, or a prostate exam.
Women’s physical exam
Dr. Elango might recommend a breast exam, a pelvic exam, and a Pap test. These screening measures can detect potentially serious health problems like breast and cervical cancer early on when they’re most responsive to treatment.
Laboratory tests
Once Dr. Elango finishes your exam, she orders a series of laboratory tests, including a complete blood count (CBC), a lipid panel, and a urinalysis. These measures can detect hormonal imbalances, vitamin deficiencies, high cholesterol, and other problems that are difficult to detect during a physical.
How often do I need an annual exam?
If you want to maintain your health and energy levels, try to participate in an annual exam at least once a year. This is especially true once you reach the age of 40. Visiting Dr. Elango every 12 months preserves your wellbeing and can alert you to serious health problems.
If it’s time for your annual exam, schedule an appointment at the private practice of Peggy Elango, DO. Call the office and speak with a friendly staff member, or book a consultation online today.
