Medical check-ups are important to identify early signs of health problems that you may be experiencing. By discovering health problems early, the chances of recovery and effective treatment will increase.
What are the types of examinations that are usually required in a medical check-up?
Types of Examinations Required in a Medical Check-Up
In general, the types of medical check-ups are recommended by doctors according to age, family history, health conditions, and lifestyle. Some types of examinations that are usually required in medical check-ups include:
Electrocardiogram (ECG)
An ECG is a type of non-invasive test used to detect heart abnormalities by measuring the electrical activity produced by the heart as it contracts. No special preparation is required before undergoing this test.
During the test, you may need to remove any clothing covering your upper body as well as any jewelry you are wearing. Then, 12 small patches with sensors will be attached to your chest. These sensors are connected to a monitor and capture your heartbeat signals.
X-ray Radiology Examination
An X-ray radiology examination is a type of medical imaging that takes pictures of the inside of your body, including bones and soft tissues such as organs. X-rays use a safe amount of radiation to create these images.
It is most commonly used to look for fractures, diagnose pain or swelling, detect foreign objects inside the body, check for structural problems in bones, joints, and soft tissues, plan and evaluate treatments, or as a routine screening for cancer or other diseases.
Laboratory Tests
There are several types of laboratory tests that are most commonly performed, including:
- Urine test (urinalysis) – A laboratory urine test is performed by taking a urine sample. This test helps detect kidney disease, liver disease, and newly developed diabetes in the body.
- Stool culture – A stool culture is done to detect bacteria, viruses, or other germs that may cause diarrhea, especially when accompanied by fever, cramps, nausea, vomiting, or mucous or bloody bowel movements.
- CBC (Complete Blood Count) test – This hematology test determines the number of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets in the body. It is used to diagnose anemia, infections, inflammatory diseases, and some cancers.
Cholesterol Test (Lipid Panel Test)
A cholesterol test, also known as a lipid panel test, measures the levels of cholesterol and other fats in the blood. It is used as an early diagnosis tool for heart disease, stroke, atherosclerosis (narrowing of the arteries), diabetes, and related conditions.
Blood Sugar Level Test
A blood sugar level test is done mainly to check a person's blood sugar levels. Normal blood sugar levels range from 80–130 mg/dL before meals and less than 180 mg/dL two hours after meals.
Blood sugar level tests are especially recommended for individuals with a family history of diabetes, pregnant women, and those with a history of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), among others.
Cancer Screening
The CA 125 test is one type of cancer screening test that is usually recommended for women at high risk, particularly after undergoing cancer treatment or having a family history of cancer. This test helps detect signs of ovarian cancer and monitor treatment progress.
If you need medical advice or consultation, visit a doctor or use the online consultation feature available in the Ai Care application. You can download Ai Care from the App Store or Play Store.
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- dr. Monica Salim
Better Health Channel. Home Planning and coordinating healthcare Regular health checks. Available from: https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/servicesandsupport/regular-health-checks#about-health-checks
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WebMD (2021). What Is a Stool Culture?. Available from: https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/what-is-a-stool-culture
John Hopkins Medicine. Hematology. Available from: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/hematology
Heather Ross (2022). Cholesterol Test (Lipid Panel). Available from: https://www.healthline.com/health/cholesterol-test
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Mayo Clinic (2022). CA 125 test. Available from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/ca-125-test/about/pac-20393295