Annual Physical

What is an annual physical exam?

An annual physical exam is a yearly routine checkup to monitor your health and screen for disease risk factors. The exam focuses on prevention. Dr. Abrar reviews your medical history, asks you questions about possible symptoms, completes a physical exam, and may order lab or imaging tests to catch an acute illness or chronic disease symptoms before they become serious.

What should I expect during an annual exam?

Women’s and men’s annual exams are different. When you arrive at Fulshear Medical Associates for your wellness checkup, expect the following:

Women

During a women’s health exam, Dr. Abrar goes over your medical history and completes a head-to-toe physical. He also:

• Checks your height, weight, and blood pressure
• Screens for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) as needed
• Completes a breast exam to screen for breast cancer
• Checks your cholesterol, blood sugar, and hormone levels if necessary
• Performs colorectal screening tests if you’re at risk
• Screens for osteoporosis as needed

Men

A men’s health exam is slightly different than a women’s wellness exam and might include:

• Height, weight, and blood pressure checks
• Screening for prostate cancer in men over 40
• Colorectal cancer screenings as needed
• STD screenings if necessary
• Cholesterol, triglyceride, and blood sugar checks
• Blood tests to measure hormone levels

Depending on your lifestyle and risk factors, Dr. Abrar might suggest additional screening tests as needed. He might recommend lung screening tests if you have a history of smoking, or mental health screening if you have a family or personal history of anxiety or depression.

Will I require treatment?

You won’t always require treatment during your annual physical exam. If you’re healthy, no treatment is necessary. If you have an acute or chronic illness, Dr. Abrar might recommend a wait-and-see approach or taking certain medications, such as antibiotics, antidepressants, or blood pressure medications, to prevent complications.

He may suggest imaging or other diagnostic tests if he finds signs of cancer or another health problem, and refers you to a qualified specialist in your area if necessary.

How often should I schedule a wellness visit?

Dr. Abrar lets you know how often to schedule a wellness exam. Usually, one visit each year is a good rule of thumb. You might require additional appointments for various health conditions, such as high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, or hormone imbalance.

When you’re ready to take control of your health and prevent or manage disease symptoms early before complications occur, schedule an annual physical exam with Dr. Abrar at Fulshear Medical Associates by phone or online today.

We are focused on primary care and see patients for weight loss and allergies. 

We are a primary care practice and offer annual physicals. Call us to book your appointment today.