A Healthy Beginning: 5 Essential Medical Tests to Start the Year

We’ve established the importance of scheduling annual physicals in Saratoga to ensure you are in tip-top shape entering the new year, but what tests do you need to ensure that everything is up-to-date “under your hood?” Part of your essential medical care is these 5 essential medical tests that can provide valuable insights into your current health status.

1. Complete Blood Count (CBC):

The Complete Blood Count (CBC) is a fundamental blood test offering valuable insights into your overall health. By analyzing red and white blood cell levels, hemoglobin, and platelets, it serves as a comprehensive assessment tool. This routine test is instrumental in detecting potential infections, identifying anemia, and uncovering various blood disorders. As a vital component of preventive care, the CBC provides a baseline understanding of your blood health, enabling timely interventions and proactive health management.

2. Cholesterol Panel:

Monitoring your cholesterol levels through a cholesterol panel is a proactive step toward cardiovascular health. This test assesses cholesterol and triglyceride levels, crucial indicators of heart disease risk. Detecting high cholesterol early enables timely interventions, whether through lifestyle adjustments or medical interventions. Initiating the year with a cholesterol check offers essential insights, empowering you to make informed decisions about your cardiovascular well-being.

3. Blood Pressure Measurement:

Prioritize your health by incorporating regular blood pressure monitoring into your routine. This fundamental aspect of preventive care is crucial because high blood pressure, often symptomless, can contribute to severe health issues like heart disease and stroke. Commencing the year with a blood pressure check provides a baseline understanding and ensures that your blood pressure falls within the healthy range. If you are borderline with your blood pressure, you can read about 10 ways to control it without medication here.

4. Blood Glucose Test:

Prioritize your health by regularly testing your blood glucose levels — an essential step in assessing your risk of diabetes. Elevated blood sugar levels can be indicative of insulin resistance or diabetes, conditions that greatly benefit from early detection and proactive management. This becomes even more critical if you have a family history of diabetes or other risk factors. Stay ahead of your health by incorporating this simple yet impactful test into your routine.

5. Cancer Screenings:

Don’t overlook the importance of cancer screenings as part of your annual health check. Tailored to factors like age, gender, and individual risk, these screenings play a crucial role in detecting cancer in its early and more treatable stages. Mammograms for breast cancer, Pap smears for cervical cancer, colonoscopies for colorectal cancer, and prostate exams for men are among the screenings that provide a proactive approach to your well-being. For more information about the right screenings for your age and gender, click here.

We at Los Gatos Doc believe that you are the most important person to set up for success as we enter into this new holiday season. Scheduling these 5 essential tests with your doctor as well as following the tips from our other blog about setting realistic health goals and appointments will do wonders in your world of preventative care. Taking proactive steps today can lead to a healthier and more vibrant future.

If you are ready to get these in the books — give us a call today: (408) 502–6040 and we will see you soon!