A physical examination is a routine test performed by a healthcare professional to check your overall health. It involves a series of checks to look for signs of illness, disease, or abnormalities. During the examination, the doctor or nurse may:
Take your vital signs: Measure your temperature, blood pressure, heart rate, and respiratory rate.
Inspect your body: Look at your general appearance, skin, and posture.
Listen to your heart and lungs: Use a stethoscope to detect any irregularities in your heartbeat or breath sounds.
Palpate your body: Feel parts of your body, such as your abdomen, to check for tenderness, swelling, or abnormalities.
Examine your eyes, ears, nose, and throat: Use tools like an otoscope and ophthalmoscope to check these areas.
Assess your reflexes and muscle strength: Test your neurological function and physical capabilities.
The purpose of a physical examination is to identify any potential health issues early on, provide a baseline for future comparisons, and address any concerns you may have. It's an important part of preventive healthcare.