Be honest: When was your last physical exam with your general doctor? Despite what you might think, physicals aren’t just for school-age kids and teens; physicals are also necessary for adults. After all, you probably won’t be able to tell that your blood pressure is elevated or that you have high cholesterol unless you see a doctor. That’s because these issues don’t typically cause symptoms, which is why annual checkups with a doctor are imperative.

Here’s why a physical examination should be on the docket for you this year:

Prevent Health Problems

Through a simple blood test, your doctor can detect possible issues, elevated levels, or imbalances that can easily be reversed or improved through simple lifestyle changes. The sooner possible issues are caught the better. Take high blood pressure, for example.

If your blood pressure is just slightly elevated, you and your doctor can pinpoint reasons why this might be (e.g. Do you smoke? Do you drink alcohol? Do you lead a sedentary lifestyle? Do you eat an unhealthy diet?). By determining the possible causes of your elevated blood pressure, we can tweak your daily routine to lower blood pressure naturally rather than waiting until you develop hypertension and need lifelong medication.

It Could Save You Money

An annual physical with your primary care physician is not a waste of time or money. In fact, this simple preventive visit (that you only need once a year) could save you from costly medical expenses, long-term medications, treatments, and hospitalizations that you could have avoided by simply seeing a doctor for a quick checkup. Early detection helps you maintain good health and is also kinder on your wallet.

Stay Up to Date on Immunizations

Just like physicals, immunizations aren’t just for kids and teens. Adults may also need immunizations to keep themselves healthy. For example, many adults may require an annual flu shot, and while certain immunizations last a lifetime, others such as tetanus will need to be administered every few years. If you are traveling internationally, you may also need to discuss medications or immunizations you’ll need before you go.

If it’s been more than a year since your last checkup, it’s time you call your doctor. We know that going to the doctor isn’t always fun, but it’s crucial for maintaining good health and preventing serious health problems.