Did you know that you should visit your primary care doctor at least once every year? Regular check-ups can help catch problems you didn’t know you had, as well as prevent complications from happening in some cases. Many people may be surprised to learn that you can visit your primary care doctor for more than just a high temperature or nauseous stomach. In fact, here are the top 5 things you can also visit your doctor for.

Dermatology

Dermatology refers to the branch of medicine dedicated to treating issues with your skin. Your skin is the largest organ in your body, so naturally there a plethora of ailments you can be seen for. This includes rashes, unexplained bruising, fungi like athletes foot, and cancer screenings for moles and blotchy patches.

Sports Medicine

Sports injuries are another popular reason to schedule a visit with your primary care provider. This can include being seen for minor injuries, like a twisted ankle or plantar fasciitis, as well as more serious injuries like an ACL tear or pulled hamstring. If you experience one of these injuries, it is best to see a doctor as soon as possible because your injury is likely to get significantly worse if left untreated.

Urgent Care Services

In addition to diagnosing and treating sports injuries, you can also be seen for other serious afflictions like a broken rib or pneumonia. The main benefit of seeing your primary doctor over going to the emergency room is that you will be seen and treated quicker, and you will likely pay significantly less for the visit than if you went to the emergency room. Not only does this benefit you as the patient, but you can also help others been seen quicker in an emergency room by not going unless you have a true emergency. Generally, we recommend you don’t go to the emergency room unless you are facing a life-threatening injury or illness that needs to be treated immediately.

Immunization

If you’re not facing a serious injury or sickness, making an appointment for your immunization shot can be a good excuse to help you work in your yearly doctor’s visit. Scheduling your yearly flu shot for example is a good time to also ask about other vaccinations and booster shots. Is it time for another tetanus shot? Do you need a hepatitis A vaccine before your family vacation next month? All are great questions to ask at your next check-up!

Diabetic Screening and Care

Early screening and treatment of diabetes significantly reduce your risk for complications later in life. In addition to treating diabetes, our medical professionals are also equipped to give you a diabetes screening if you think you may have developed the condition. Early warning signs of diabetes include unexplained hunger, peeing more often than normal, being thirstier than normal, blurred vision, and itchy skin.

Final Thoughts

Your primary care doctor exists to do more than just check your temperature or prescribe antibiotics. They can also perform screenings for cancer and diabetes, as well as treat injuries from sports or housework. If you’re unsure of when to schedule your yearly checkup, consider using your yearly flu vaccine as an excuse to go. As long as you’re open and honest, your physician will do everything they can to help you live a long and healthy life.