Kern Family Health Care | Family Health | Spring 2020

HEALTH SPRING 2020 Standard U.S. Postage PAID Walla Walla, WA Permit No. 44 TM It’s a good idea to see your primary doctor at least once a year, even when you’re not sick. This is called a wellness checkup. And it gives you the chance to focus on how to be as healthy as you can be. What you can talk about At your checkup, you and your doctor can team up to tackle any changes that might improve your health. For instance, you might talk about: y  y Vaccines you need. Shots aren’t just for kids. Adults need them too. They’re safe— and they can help prevent serious illnesses, like the flu, pneumonia and shingles. Ask your doctor which shots you need. y  y Health screenings. These tests can help spot diseases, like cancer, early. That’s usually when they’re easiest to treat. y  y Your weight. Your doctor can check your body mass index (BMI). BMI uses your weight and height to estimate how much body fat you have. A high BMI could mean you’re overweight. A low BMI could mean you’re underweight. If you need to make a change, your doctor can give you tips on healthy foods and exercise habits that might help. Talk with your doc at a wellness checkup y  y Chronic health problems. A checkup is a good time to review how you’re coping with long- term health conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure. y  y Your medicines. Your doctor can review all your medicines to make sure they’re safe together and working well for you. This includes any herbs, vitamins and over-the-counter medicines you take. y  y Substance use. Ask your doctor for help with smoking, alcohol or drug problems. y  y Your mental health. Let your doctor know if you’re feeling stressed or depressed. Treatment can help. Sources: American Academy of Family Physicians; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; U.S. Food and Drug Administration