How to Assess the Real State of Your Health

Some witty individuals often like to say that "old age doesn't come alone." If you're suffering from some aches and pains at the moment, this type of throwaway comment is not helpful, but it may nevertheless prompt you to think about your longevity and how you should try to extend it. This begs the question – do you really know what's going on in your body? If you'd like to know more, then you should book yourself in for some pre-emptive health screening at your local medical clinic. What's involved in this?

Better to Be Safe

Pre-emptive screening allows you to engage a variety of different tests that can give you an idea of where you are now and help you avoid the development of illnesses or diseases. Sometimes, you can opt for individual tests in one area or you can have a battery of scans and tests to give you a comprehensive analysis.

Scanning

For example, you may ask for a CT scan that can help to reveal the presence of plaque or calcium within the coronary arteries. This type of buildup is often linked to high cholesterol and can be hereditary, but it will give you an indication whether you are at risk of stroke or heart attack.

You can also opt to get a CT scan to reveal the condition of your lungs, and this may be especially valuable if you have a history of smoking. Alternatively, you may be able to get a series of specific blood tests instead.

Organ Tuning

It's a good idea to check the condition of other organs, including your liver, gallbladder, pancreas, spleen and kidneys. Today, you could have a virtual colonoscopy that gathers a variety of detailed images using specialised cameras.

You may need to look more closely at kidney and liver function once again if you have some lifestyle issues in your past. These tests will tell you if you need to make further modifications or consider some medication in the future.

Gender Specific

Finally, you can engage some extra "risk" tests based on your gender to look for specific cancers. Ask your clinician about the PSA test for prostate issues or the CA test for ovarian cancer.

Sleep Better at Night

As always, if you have any specific health worries, you should always consult your doctor to get their advice. It may be helpful for your peace of mind, however, to engage these pre-emptive checks once per year and especially if you've reached a certain age.