For young people, considering their long-term health is not always a top priority. Many young adults appear to be healthy, which can keep them from feeling pressure to go the doctor’s office throughout most of their teens and 20s.
Even if you are the picture of good health, there are some essential healthcare appointments to make before you’re 30 to help make sure that sense of well being lasts.
Your Family Doctor
A routine physical and general health check-up is a must at least once every two years. If your family has any sort of history of chronic health conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or cancer, an annual visit would be better.
"A routine physical and general health check-up is a must at least once every two years."
During these check-ups, your doctor will be able to note any developing issues with your blood pressure, breathing, digestive system, and musculoskeletal system. They’ll notice signs of infection or inflammation that may indicate an internal problem you’re unaware of.
Also, they can have blood drawn, collect urine and stool samples, for a series of tests screening for high cholesterol, blood sugar levels, and thyroid function that will provide a well-rounded picture of your overall health.
If you haven’t been to a primary doctor for more than two years, it’s time to make an appointment as soon as possible.
Set reminders to scheudle several important health visits on time.
Your Dentist
A surprising number of health conditions present initially in your mouth. For this reason, regular visits to your dentist (every six months) for a cleaning and oral examination can help catch such serious conditions as:
- Heart disease
- Diabetes
- Oral cancer
- Leukemia
- Pancreatic cancer
- Kidney disease
- Osteoporosis
Because dental insurance is often an additional cost separate from standard medical insurance, many Millennials are skipping this vital visit for financial reasons. If that includes you, consider joining a dental discount plan to help cut the cost of preventive care.
Your Dermatologist
Skin cancer (melanoma) is one of the most common cancers found in adults under 30, especially young women.
It is highly treatable and if diagnosed early enough many people can recover fully. An early diagnosis is important, because melanoma usually does not present with pain or other highly noticeable symptoms.
To be effectively identified and treated, an annual visit to the dermatologist is strongly recommended. Visits more often may be appropriate for those with a family history of melanoma, or those who are outside and exposed to sun the majority of the time.
Even if that doesn’t apply to you, make an appointment with a dermatologist immediately if you notice any suspicious moles or marks on the skin that seem to be growing or changing in any way.
By taking the time to set up and fulfill these quick, preventive visits throughout your 20s, you can keep yourself healthier throughout your life. To find out how to save on your next dental or wellness visits, contact us today to learn more about our dental card and wellness savings plan.