Women's Life Link Be Well, Be Happy, Be YOU!
No one looks forward to a trip to the doctor’s office, but taking care of your health is an important part of adult life. The fact is that a large percentage of the adult population chooses to put off health screening. Instead, they make an appointment only when they become ill or are concerned about something. At that point, it could be too late to catch something bad before it endangers your health or life. Let’s take a look at 4 important reasons to monitor your health.
Reasons To Monitor Your Health #1: Lowers the Risk of Serious Health Problems
The fact is that undergoing health screening, such as some of the most common blood tests, means that you have access to real-time information about how healthy your body is now. With this information, you and your doctor can make changes or intervene, depending on the outcome of your tests. For example, your blood tests show that you are at risk of diabetes, you can then make changes to reduce your risk.
Reasons To Monitor Your Health #2: Eases Your Mind and Reduces Health-Related Stress
Understanding where your health is at all times is good for your body but also will keep your mind happy. I watched my mom worry about her health for years because she was afraid to go to the doctor. Consequently, her fears came to pass when she was diagnosed with cancer. The thing is, instead of worrying about it, she could have had the appropriate screenings done early on and probably survived. Fear can be paralyzing but I recommend not letting it win where your health is concerned.
Reasons To Monitor Your Health #3: Builds Good Communication with Your Doctor
By attending each of your health screening appointments, you build up a quality rapport with your doctor. This is the time to be upfront and completely honest about everything. Yes, even the embarrassing stuff. Women can be shy about female and sexual issues. I say, let it out and share the good, the bad, and the ugly!
I recommend having a primary care physician who can keep track of all of your records and health concerns. Make sure he or she is aware of all other specialists or alternative care providers you see. They should know about all of the prescriptions you take as well. If you always go from one doctor to another, you will never build a good relationship with the medical professionals that look after your health.
Reasons To Monitor Your Health #4: Keeps Your Medical Record Up To Date
It’s important that your medical records stay current for several reasons. First, your family needs to know what is happening with you in case you are unable to speak for yourself. Second, doctors and emergency workers need to know about medications you take, allergies, and any pertinent information. And, third, you need to have a record of all that you’ve experienced so you know what you should be doing or not doing.
As you can see, these are some pretty important reasons to monitor your health. That said, there are many more, I’m sure. I will always believe that it’s much better to be proactive about your health than to avoid things out of fear. What’s most important is to do what works for you and gives you peace of mind and helps you live a more healthful life.
