Spring is officially here, and if you’re like most people, you’ve probably already completed a few spring cleaning projects around your home.
But don’t stop with your house. You can “spring clean” your health this year, and the best way to do that is to schedule your annual check-up.
Routine preventive care can catch small issues before they become bigger problems. Whether you’ve been feeling great or it’s been a while since your last visit, scheduling a few simple check-ups this season can help you stay on track for the months ahead.
Below, Dr. Rogers Walker and Shelley Gilbert, PA-C, highlight three check-ups at Walker Family Care that you shouldn’t skip this season.
If it’s been a while since you’ve seen a primary care provider, spring is a great time to schedule your next annual wellness visit. These appointments focus on prevention and overall physical and mental health rather than treating a specific illness.
During a wellness visit, Dr. Walker may:
Many people only visit a doctor when they feel sick, but preventive visits help catch issues early, often before symptoms appear.
If you’re unsure where to start with your health goals this year, a wellness visit can help you create a plan.
Spring is beautiful, but it’s also peak allergy season here in South Carolina. Tree pollen, grass pollen, and changing weather can trigger symptoms like sneezing, itchy eyes, congestion, and sinus pressure.
Sometimes what feels like a cold may actually be seasonal allergies or even mild asthma symptoms.
If your allergies feel worse this year or over-the-counter medications aren’t helping, it’s worth checking in with Dr. Walker. He can help determine what’s triggering your symptoms and recommend treatments, including antihistamines, nasal sprays, and other options to help you breathe easier.
Pro tip: Check the allergy forecast and keep your windows closed on high pollen days!
High blood pressure is often dubbed the “silent killer” by the American Heart Association and the FDA because many people don’t feel any symptoms. When your blood pressure remains elevated, it can increase your risk of heart disease and stroke.
About half of Americans have high blood pressure, but only 25% of them have it under control. This is why you should never skip your blood pressure screenings, and it’s also why we check your blood pressure every time you come to see us, whether it’s for a physical exam or a sick visit.
You may benefit from blood pressure and other heart health screenings if you:
Dr. Walker may also recommend basic lab work to check cholesterol or blood sugar levels, depending on your health history. These can be completed in our lab at our Little River, South Carolina, office.
Although nearly everyone can benefit from an annual wellness exam, some people may also need a specialty physical depending on their job, lifestyle, or activities.
For example, many people schedule these exams in the spring as work and sports seasons ramp up.
Common specialty exams include:
These exams help ensure that you are healthy and medically cleared for specific activities or responsibilities.
Maintaining your health doesn’t have to be complicated. A few simple check-ups like these can help you stay ahead of potential issues and give you peace of mind as you head into the warmer months.
Ready to schedule your spring health check? Call Walker Family Care at 843-280-8333.
