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7 questions to ask the doctor during a routine checkup

7 questions to ask the doctor during a routine checkup

Routine health checkups are important because they give people insight into what’s happening in their bodies. During these visits, one can ask the healthcare professional any health-related questions and resolve their doubts. However, since routine checkups are generally far apart (annual, in most cases), it’s necessary to ask the right questions to make the entire session worthwhile. Here are a few things individuals can ask the expert when undergoing a checkup.

Am I getting enough sleep?
Despite everything that’s said and written about sleep, its importance is still underrated by many across the globe. How much sleep a person requires will vary depending on age, activity level, and overall health. However, most people require six to nine hours of rest every night. Unfortunately, some may be unable to clock in adequate sleep due to work or personal stress. In such instances, it’s perfectly normal for people to ask their doctor if the hours they sleep daily are enough to keep them healthy. The healthcare expert is qualified to give patients details about their sleep patterns and the effects a lack of sleep has on their bodies.

Does my family history put me at risk of any disease?
For routine health checkups, most people prefer family doctors they have visited regularly for many years. Such doctors not only know everything about the current health of each member of the family but also their past health records. So, if the family has a history of, say, diabetes, the doctor is well-placed to tell a specific family member if they would develop the health condition, too. Asking this question is quintessential, especially if severe diseases like cancer run in the family lineage. It helps people understand their health vulnerabilities and take pre-emptive measures to avoid certain health conditions running in their family or, at the very least, slow down their progress.

Do I need to see a specialist?
This is usually a follow-up question. If someone has a high chance of developing certain diseases due to their family history or their own lifestyle habits, they will be curious to know if there’s an expert or specialist who can help them combat the disease in question. Doctors who perform routine checkups know exactly which health professional can help their patients when they come up with this question.

Are my health reports normal?
Health checkup reports are usually highly scientific and technical. They use industry jargon that can be hard to understand if a person doesn’t have a background in healthcare. As a result, people need explanations regarding every statistic and statement mentioned in their reports. For example, if one’s cholesterol levels are showing an X number, they will be curious to know if that’s a good or a bad thing from a long-term health and wellness perspective. The doctor can simplify the checkup results and inform patients about any lifestyle habits or meals they must change before the next session.

Do I need additional screening tests?
If someone’s health checkup reports are alarming, they might need further screenings and tests to delve deeper into their overall health. Such tests will uncover deep-lying health issues that cannot be identified in a regular examination. Depending on the test results, the expert can recommend the best plan of action to get back to good health.

Is my health better, worse, or the same since my last checkup?
This is a quintessential first or last question a patient asks. Doctors can compare a patient’s health checkup results of the past and current session to determine if their health condition has improved or worsened with time. The expert may then recommend a new treatment plan or stick to the same one.

When should the next appointment be held?
Checkups usually end with a talk about when the next session will be held and whether there will be any need for potential emergency meetings in between. In most cases, doctors evaluate multiple factors, such as the results of the checkup, the patient’s general health history, their overall condition, and the treatments required, if any, before scheduling the next appointment. The expert may advise the individual to return after a year or a few months, but sessions will be scheduled earlier if they show unusual health developments.

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Understanding arthritis – A common joint condition

The joints are constantly working while we move our limbs, so, understandably, people may develop certain joint conditions that cause pain and compromise mobility, especially with age. One of the common joint conditions is arthritis, which leads to joint inflammation and mild to severe pain. While there are several types of arthritis, the two most common types are rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Stages Rheumatoid arthritis has four stages: Stage 1: At this stage, inflammation occurs inside the joints, and swelling, stiffness, and joint pain are the common symptoms. Stage 2: The inflammation of the joint lining, synovium, aggravates at this stage and results in cartilage damage. The affected joints’ range of motion is also compromised, causing pain and discomfort. Stage 3: At this stage, the severity of the joint condition increases, and it leads to bone damage. This results in more pain, loss of mobility, and weakness of muscles. The bones rubbing against each other can cause bone deformity as well. Stage 4: This is the final stage where the joints stop functioning completely. It leads to more pain, stiffness, and swelling, and the bones may even fuse, which is known as ankylosis. Osteoarthritis also has four stages of progression: Stage 1: Wear and tear may affect the knee joints, and minor spur growths on the affected bone can also be seen, but the condition does not cause too much pain at this stage. Stage 2: The bone spur growths increase and cause pain, and the knee joints become stiffer. Stage 3: This stage is characterized by joint inflammation leading to increased pain and stiffness. Walking can also cause popping sounds in the joints. Stage 4: The space between the bones in the joints becomes very narrow, causing the cartilage to wear down. Also, a chronic inflammatory response caused by the breakdown of cartilage aggravates discomfort and pain. Diagnosis of arthritis These joint conditions can be diagnosed using several tests. A physical examination reveals whether a patient has red, warm, and tender joints, and this test also helps examine the fluid around the joints. A rheumatologist can analyze the level of inflammation in the joints to determine the type of arthritis an individual is affected with. Also, blood tests are undertaken to check for antibodies like anti-CCP, rheumatoid factor, and antinuclear antibody. In addition, X-ray, CT scans, and MRI are also performed to check the condition of the cartilage and bones. Prevention of arthritis A family history of joint conditions like arthritis or aging can increase one’s risk of developing arthritis, but making certain lifestyle changes can also help lower the chances of developing the condition. To start with, one should include more foods with omega-3 fatty acids in their diet as these healthy fats are anti-inflammatory. One should also exercise regularly, keep their weight under check, reduce stress on their joints, and try to avoid injuries. Also, if one notices any symptoms of arthritis, they should consult a doctor immediately as early diagnosis goes a long way in managing the condition effectively through timely treatment.

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8 unusual questions to ask a gynecologist

With the stigma around our sexual health, speaking to a gynecologist about specific issues can be tricky. One of the biggest reasons most of us shy away from asking questions about our sexual health is fear of judgment. It is important to remember that gynecologists are professionals trained to answer all your queries so that you can enjoy optimal health. Here are the most commonly asked ‘embarrassing’ questions at the gynecologist’s office: Does it look normal? Many women often worry about how their vulva looks. Like the rest of our bodies, vulvas come in all different shapes, sizes, and characteristics. There is no one-size-fits-all look, so there is nothing to feel self-conscious about. However, if you notice abnormal changes or growths, talk about them with your gynecologist. Since gynecologists are used to seeing several of them daily, they are the best person to clarify all your concerns. Do I need to shave/wax/groom before my visit? Having to strip down in the gynecologist’s office can be intimidating for many people, especially if it’s your first time. Many women feel they would be judged for their personal grooming practices and hair growth around their vagina. So unless you have a bump or a concerning spot covered by pubic hair, you do not need to worry about having to groom before your visit. Come as you are! Why does my vagina smell? The vagina is a complex yet delicate ecosystem of microbes and secretions, so it can never be odorless. The smells are also a result of daily events and lifestyle practices such as food, exercise, weather, sexual activity, and even the material of our underwear. However, it is essential to recognize usual smells from unusual ones. For example, if you notice a pungent, fishy odor coming from your vagina, it could signify a fungal or bacterial infection and warrant medical attention. Can I visit when I’m on my period? The answer to this depends on the reason for your visit. If you are scheduled for a pap smear, it is better to reschedule your appointment because there are chances that the lab will reject your bloodwork due to too many red blood cells that skew your reports. So if you visit the gynecologist to discuss painful, heavy periods or clotting, it’s best to visit while bleeding. That way, your doctor can examine what you’re experiencing firsthand and advise accordingly. I’ve been feeling itchy down there. Is it normal? Itching could result from various reasons, such as a fungal infection, sensitivity to detergents or soaps, inflammatory skin conditions, or even razor burn. It’s rarely a sign of something serious in pre-menopausal women. Switch to cotton underwear and avoid using scented products down there. If the itching persists, visit your doctor and have it checked out. Why is sex painful for me? Intercourse can be painful for various reasons, such as muscle spasms, ovarian cysts, endometriosis, vaginal atrophy, lack of adequate lubrication, or even psychological reasons. Talk to your doctor for a proper diagnosis. Why can’t I have an orgasm? According to certain studies, 10-20 percent of women have difficulties having an orgasm during partnered sex. However, you do not need to feel embarrassed about this. Instead, speak to your gynecologist about the treatment options to make sex a more enjoyable experience. How often should I test for STIs? Often STIs do not cause symptoms and can go undiagnosed unless you get regular screening. According to experts, all women under 25 must routinely get tested for chlamydia and gonorrhea. Women over 25 in new relationships must also test for these conditions. For example, suppose you are unsure about your partner’s status. In that case, it may also be advisable to get an annual test for other infections such as trichomonas, HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B and C. If you have more than one sexual partner and prefer not to use condoms, you may want to get tested more often. Testing and transmission may differ for other conditions, such as herpes (HSV-1 and 2), which can be transmitted even when you are not having an outbreak. Speak to your doctor about ways to prevent the spread of and protect yourself from this virus.

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Chronic fatigue syndrome is a condition that causes extreme tiredness and fatigue that does not go away even after resting. The causes of the condition are yet to be known. However, there are some theories indicate several factors which include: Viral infection Stress Or several factors in unison Once the symptoms are identified and the condition is diagnosed, treatment can be taken to get relief from symptoms. Understanding all aspects of the condition, including its stages, diagnosis, symptoms, and prevention can help in managing it effectively. Different stages and phases of chronic fatigue syndrome The patients of chronic fatigue syndrome undergo four phases of the condition. Their response towards the treatment can also vary greatly depending on the phase that they are going through. These phases are: Phase I: Crisis or trauma Phase II: Stabilization Phase III: Resolution Phase IV: Integration During all the phases, a chronic fatigue syndrome patient undergoes some physical, psychological, and social changes that are easily noticeable. Diagnosis of chronic fatigue syndrome No one test can diagnose a patient with chronic fatigue syndrome. This is because the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome resemble several other health conditions. Therefore, a lot of patience is required for the diagnosis of the condition.
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