Physical Exams

Physical Exams services offered in Gluckstadt, MS

Visiting a medical professional at least once a year for an annual physical exam is an easy and effective way to detect potentially serious health problems. At MS Express Health, Jeremy Hudson, FNP-C, Hunter Vaughn, NP, and the team offer annual physical exams to people of all ages, from children to adults. To schedule an appointment at the Madison, Mississippi, office, call the office to request an appointment online.

What are annual physical exams?

Annual physical exams are routine doctor’s appointments that assess your physical and mental health. They present an opportunity to ask questions, discuss unusual symptoms, update your immunizations, refill prescription medication, and build a relationship with the MS Express Health team.

It’s important to schedule an annual physical regularly, even if you feel healthy. After the age of 50, you’re much more likely to experience potentially serious health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer.

What should I bring to an annual physical?

If you want to get the most out of your physical, it’s important to prepare in advance. MS Express Health recommends gathering the following items:

List of the medications you take, including supplements and over-the-counter drugs
List of unusual symptoms or any pain that you experience
Medical and surgical history
Results from any recent tests (blood work or urinalysis)
Names and contact information of other medical providers you work with

On the day of your appointment, wear comfortable, loose clothing and leave any excess jewelry at home. That will ensure the MS Express Health team can fully examine your body.

What happens during annual physicals?

Your provider performs annual physicals on-site. The entire process typically takes less than an hour and requires no downtime. Here’s what to expect:

Step one

At the beginning of your appointment, a nurse takes your temperature, weighs and measures you, and asks about any symptoms you’re experiencing. They also ask about your lifestyle, including how often you exercise and if you smoke or drink alcohol.

Step two

Your provider begins a physical by assessing your skin and looking for any unusual marks or growths. Next, they have you lie down on an exam table and gently palpate your organs, inspecting their size, location, and consistency.

Step three

Next, your MS Express Health specialist uses a stethoscope to listen to your heart and respiratory rate. Then, they test your reflexes and examine your eyes, ears, nose, and throat with a small light.

Step four

Lastly, MS Express Health orders a series of tests and screening procedures, including a complete blood count, thyroid panel, and urinalysis. If necessary, your provider might also update your immunizations or refill a prescription.

Once the exam is over, you can return to work or other normal activities right away.

How often do I need an annual physical exam?

The MS Express Health team might recommend scheduling an annual physical at least once a year. Many potentially serious health problems, including high blood pressure and diabetes, present few obvious symptoms. Routine checkups can alert you early on when symptoms are mild and more likely to respond to treatment.

To learn more about annual physicals, make an appointment at MS Express Health by calling the office to speak with a friendly staff member or by clicking the online booking tool.