Comprehensive Guide- What Your Doctor Inspects During a Routine Physical Examination

What does a doctor check during a physical?

A physical examination is a crucial part of maintaining good health and detecting any potential issues early on. During a physical, a doctor performs a series of assessments to evaluate the overall health of a patient. This comprehensive check-up includes various components, each aimed at identifying different aspects of a person’s well-being.

Height and Weight

The first step in a physical examination is to measure a patient’s height and weight. This information helps the doctor calculate the patient’s body mass index (BMI), which is an indicator of whether a person is underweight, normal weight, overweight, or obese. Maintaining a healthy BMI is essential for reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension.

Heart and Lung Examination

The doctor will listen to the patient’s heart and lungs using a stethoscope. This examination helps identify any irregular heartbeats, heart murmurs, or lung problems. The doctor may also check the patient’s blood pressure and pulse rate to ensure they are within normal limits.

Abdominal Examination

The abdominal examination involves palpating the abdomen to check for any tenderness, masses, or other abnormalities. The doctor may also listen to the intestines for bowel sounds and check the liver, spleen, and kidneys for any signs of disease.

Neck, Thyroid, and Lymph Nodes

The doctor will examine the patient’s neck, thyroid, and lymph nodes for any swelling, tenderness, or other signs of infection or disease. This examination is crucial for detecting thyroid disorders, infections, and cancer.

Extremities and Musculoskeletal System

The doctor will inspect the patient’s extremities, checking for any deformities, swelling, or redness. They will also assess the patient’s muscle strength, joint mobility, and reflexes. This examination helps identify any musculoskeletal issues, such as arthritis, fractures, or sprains.

Neurological Examination

The neurological examination involves testing the patient’s mental state, muscle strength, reflexes, coordination, and sensory perception. This examination helps identify any neurological disorders, such as stroke, seizure, or Alzheimer’s disease.

Eye and Ear Examination

The doctor will examine the patient’s eyes and ears for any signs of disease or damage. This examination may include checking the patient’s vision, eye pressure, and the health of the retina. The doctor may also inspect the ears for any signs of infection or hearing loss.

Genital and Rectal Examination

For adult patients, the doctor will perform a genital examination to check for any abnormalities or signs of infection. In men, the doctor may also perform a rectal examination to check for prostate issues. For women, a pelvic examination may be conducted to assess the health of the reproductive organs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a physical examination is a comprehensive assessment of a patient’s health. During a physical, a doctor checks various aspects of a person’s body, including height and weight, heart and lung function, abdomen, neck, thyroid, lymph nodes, extremities, neurological system, eyes, ears, and genitalia. By identifying potential health issues early, a physical examination can help prevent serious complications and promote overall well-being.