With so much happening daily, you’ll no doubt be tempted to skip some appointments now and then. However, there are some regular check-ups and appointments you should never miss, so even if your calendar is always packed, make sure that you take some time out for these.
1. Your Pap smear
It is recommended to have a Pap smear every three years, although your doctor may ask you to come in more frequently in certain circumstances. A pap smear is an easy way to detect cervical cancer, which often doesn’t show any symptoms until the advanced stages. This means that missing a Pap smear can potentially be dangerous for your health. If it is discovered at an early stage in your smear, then there are generally better outcomes, so never skip this essential test.
2. Dental appointments
It is always tempting to skip a dental check-up if you aren’t currently suffering from any pain or discomfort, but it’s worth remembering that dentists check for more than cavities. Things like tooth decay, if left untreated, can lead to a host of health issues like heart disease. Also, if you do need dental treatment, it’s usually easier and cheaper to get it done before the problem spreads. Got a packed schedule? Check out a practice like Pearl Dental NYC, who offer early morning and evening appointments.
3. Cholesterol tests
Many young people skip out on their cholesterol tests, thinking that because they’re not overweight or middle-aged, that they aren’t at risk of a heart attack. However, it’s recommended that adults over 20 have a cholesterol test every five years. Even if you eat well, exercise and are slim, there can be reasons why you still have high cholesterol, and it can mean your doctor needs to investigate further.
4. Diabetes tests
Diabetes is another one of those conditions that people don’t think about until they show symptoms, but once you hit 45, the American Diabetes Association recommend you ask your doctor about regular testing. Diabetes testing can also show if you have prediabetes, where your glucose levels are high, and you have a high risk of developing type 2 diabetes. In some cases, with lifestyle changes, you may be able to avoid becoming diabetic. If you have risk factors for diabetes, such as being overweight or obese, your doctor may ask you to take these tests regularly before the age of 45.
5. Mammograms
After the age of 50, most women will need breast cancer screening every one or two years, depending on some risk factors. Mammograms usually take 15 minutes, and although they can be uncomfortable, they’re an important part of women’s healthcare.
6. Colorectal screening
Colorectal screening is again something you’ll want to put off, but you shouldn’t. In most people, screening starts at 50, but if you have Crohn’s or a similar condition, you may need it sooner. You’ll usually start with a fecal occult blood test, which checks for microscopic amounts of blood in your stool, but as you get older, you may be asked to go in for procedures such as a colonoscopy.