The new year is right around the corner. Can you believe it’s already almost 2023? They say time flies when you’re having fun. Although, it also seems to fly by when you’re anticipating something you don’t want to do.
One of these important things that must be done is seeing doctors. Going for checkups might be something you dread, but it’s necessary. And, with the new year coming, it’s time to schedule those annual visits.
If you don’t regularly see doctors, it might be difficult to remember all the visits you need. So, whip out your calendar and get ready to make some appointments with the suggestions listed below.
1. OB-GYN
This one isn’t the most fun of visits, but it’s completely necessary to keep in good health down there. Doctors recommend that Pap smears be performed once a year to monitor the cervix for precancerous cells. Gynecologists and OB-GYNs can also test for sexually transmitted infections and ensure the overall health of reproductive organs. They can also perform mammograms, which are important to get as you get older to monitor for breast cancer.
Additionally, these doctors provide access to birth control in its many forms. They also can answer any questions about what method is right for you. However, you have more options when it comes to receiving this type of prescription. While you should definitely see an OBGYN for the tests mentioned, you don’t have to see them to get birth control. There are companies that offer access to birth control online and deliver it straight to your door or pharmacy.
2. Dentist
Getting your teeth cleaned isn’t a thrilling experience, but it’s also vital for your dental health. Cleanings are thorough and scrape off any plaque that would otherwise turn into cavities. Many dentists recommend professional cleanings once or twice a year, at least.
There are multiple aspects to oral health, as well. X-rays are used to monitor bone strength and to see if you need operations like wisdom tooth removal or a root canal. They can also check your gum health to make sure you’re not at risk for gingivitis or periodontitis.
Not to mention, it just feels great walking away with clean, minty-fresh teeth. The process might involve some pinches and pokes, but the results are well worth it. Dental diseases are known to be very painful, so don’t delay getting your oral health checked out.
3. Optometrist
Vision is perhaps one of the most important of the five senses. Most of what people do for work involves having to read or look at screens. Sight also connects us to the world and what’s around us. These are just a couple reasons why it’s necessary to get your vision checked regularly.
Optometrists do more than just give you glasses, by the way. They can also survey your optical health, including your optic nerve. This little cord in the back of your eye is what connects it to the brain. If anything is wrong with the nerve, there can be drastic problems.
Additionally, optometrists can check for signs of other eye-related issues, like astigmatisms and glaucoma. A lot of optic diseases are hereditary, meaning they tend to be passed down from family members. If any of your family has bad eyesight or other eye issues, you’ll want to get your vision checked out on a regular basis.
4. General Physician
Don’t forget about your yearly overall check up at your general provider. You might groan at the thought, but these exams are beneficial for staying atop of your health. General practitioners can check you for multiple types of illnesses in all areas of the body.
These checkups usually involve some bloodwork and a physical screening. It’s pretty fast and easy, so there’s not much that should be stopping you from going. Plus, they can refer you on to specialists if they note a potential health problem that needs some expert examination.
5. Dermatologist
Feeling good on the inside is just as important as feeling good on the outside. It’s also necessary to take care of your skin, which is your body’s largest organ. There are so many factors that can affect your skin and its appearance. Knowing how to properly take care of it will also boost your overall health — and often your confidence.
Some skin disorders can occur because of what you’re putting in your body or from bad habits. A dermatologist can help you identify the reason behind conditions like eczema or acne. They can also set you up with products that can help alleviate symptoms and conditions.
5. Specialists
What if you’ve had something that’s been bothering you for a while, like a stiff neck or permanently stuffy nose? Seeing specialists like a chiropractor or ENT, respectively, would help you with those problems.
Many times general practitioners recommend you see a specialist for particular illnesses if they need a closer look. These are experts in their fields who have studied specific systems of the body. They can do special tests and generally have more knowledge to help you get diagnosed and on a treatment plan. If you have anything that needs a specialist’s eye, don’t put it off for too long.
Don’t Delay
New year, new you? How about new year, healthy you? Keeping up with your health is one of the best things you can do for your body. It’s vital to take care of yourself, inside and out, so stay on top of necessary appointments. If you want to maintain good health and have access to important prescriptions, call those doctors and get penciled in. Your body will thank you.
