Keeping your body healthy is an ongoing process. It starts when you are young and continues until you reach your final days. One way to maintain your health is to have regular health exams. By being consistent with these exams, you can find any illnesses, potential health issues or even fatal health problems. Below is a list of routine exams and tests your children and yourself should attend.
Routine health exams for children can consist of several components. The doctor will weigh and measure the height of the child to ensure he is growing at a normal pace. They will check for mobility and development in certain areas of the body. Hearing and vision tests may also be completed. If parents desire and a child is due, vaccinations may also be given during this time. Here are more ideas on creating healthy habits for kids.
Routine exams should occur at certain ages for children. These ages include,
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1 month
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2 months
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4 months
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6 months
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9 months
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1 year
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15 months
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18 months
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2 years
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3 years
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4 years
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5 years
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6 years
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8 years
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10 years
Women
Each year, women should receive an annual exam. These exams are designed to find any abnormalities in female body parts such as the breasts, ovaries, vagina, vulva, uterus and colon. Women ages 21 and older should receive pap smears at least every three years.
Women in their 20s should also receive a cholesterol test. This test should be given at least every five years, particularly if you smoke, are obese or have diabetes. It is also wise to complete a breast exam every few years for women in their 20s and 30s.
Once women reach their 40s, they should have a mammogram performed each year. Once they reach 45, they should be checked for diabetes every three years. At age 50, a variety of tests should be performed to test the colon and at age 65, bone tests should be performed to check for osteoporosis and other bone issues.
Men
When men are younger, their routine health exams should include checking for any diseases, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. If there is a high risk in the family for colon cancer, the colon should be tested regularly. However, if the risk is not present, a test may not be necessary until the age of 50. If a risk is high for prostate cancer, a man should begin regular tests at the age of 45.
Most routine tests for men do not begin until they reach the age of 50. Colon cancer and prostate cancer tests should be performed regularly once they reach this age. If any other abnormalities or concerns arise, they should visit a health care provider.
Routine exams can be what saves you from an early death. When many health problems are detected at an early age, options are available to help treat the problem. Many individuals don't take the time for these exams because they feel fine. However, it is important individuals stay current with their health exams. They can save your life.
Be smart about health screenings. Start your children at an early age and be an example to them when you are older. They can be the difference between life or death.