Medical check-ups are essential for detecting early signs of health conditions. Identifying potential health issues early increases the chances of effective treatment and recovery.
What types of examinations are usually required in a medical check-up?
Types of Examinations Required in a Medical Check-Up
Medical check-ups are typically recommended based on factors such as age, family history, existing health conditions, and lifestyle. Some common tests included in a medical check-up are:
Electrocardiogram (ECG)
An ECG is a non-invasive test used to detect heart abnormalities by measuring the electrical activity of the heart. No special preparation is required before this test.
During the test, you may need to remove any clothing covering your upper body, as well as jewelry. Electrodes (adhesive sensors) are placed on your chest, arms, and legs to record the heart’s electrical signals, which are displayed on a monitor.
X-ray Examination
An X-ray examination is a type of medical imaging that produces images of bones and soft tissues, including organs in the body. X-rays use a low dose of radiation to capture these images.
This imaging technique is most commonly used to detect fractures, evaluate pain or swelling, identify foreign objects inside the body, assess structural abnormalities in bones, joints, and soft tissues, plan and monitor treatments, and conduct routine screenings for cancer or other diseases.
Laboratory Tests
Several laboratory tests are commonly performed during medical check-ups, including:
- Urinalysis (Urine Test) – This test examines a urine sample to detect kidney disease, liver disease, diabetes, or urinary tract infections.
- Stool Culture – A stool culture is performed to identify bacteria, viruses, or parasites, especially if you experience diarrhea accompanied by fever, cramps, nausea, vomiting, or mucus/bloody stools.
- Complete Blood Count (CBC) – A CBC measures the number of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets in the blood. It helps diagnose conditions such as anemia, infections, inflammation-related diseases, and certain cancers.
Cholesterol Test (Lipid Panel)
A cholesterol test, or lipid panel, measures cholesterol and fat levels in the blood. It is used to assess the risk of heart disease, stroke, atherosclerosis, and diabetes.
Blood Sugar Test
A blood sugar level test is primarily performed to measure a person's blood glucose levels. Normal blood sugar levels range from 80–130 mg/dL before meals and less than 180 mg/dL two hours after eating.
Blood sugar level testing is especially important for individuals with a family history of diabetes, pregnant women, those with a history of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and others at risk of developing diabetes.
Cancer Screening
The CA 125 test is one type of cancer screening used primarily in women at high risk of ovarian cancer, those undergoing cancer treatment, or individuals with a family history of cancer.
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- dr. Pandu Lesmana
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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