Which all tests are necessary for overall health of an individual?

As the saying goes, “health is wealth”, it is important for every individual to take good care of their health. This calls for regular tests and checkups in a healthcare clinic.

The following are a few tests and screenings that are covered under primary care services of preventive healthcare  in Mt Sinai, in order to see the overall health of the individual-

Diabetes- This is one of the most serious health issues today. People prone to diabetes might face various cardiovascular problems like coronary artery disease with chest pain (angina), heart attack, and stroke, nerve damage, kidney damage, Alzheimer's disease and more health issues. Following are few tests conducted to diagnose diabetes level in an individual- blood sugar test, fasting blood sugar test, and oral glucose tolerance test. After obtaining the results, doctor at primary care provides the best possible treatment.

Obesity- People suffering from obesity can suffer from health problems, such as heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure. In order to determine health condition of a patient various tests that are conducted in health care clinic include checking vital signs, such as heart rate, blood pressure, and temperature, calculating BMI, cholesterol test, liver function tests, a fasting glucose, a thyroid test and others. The test results will help a physician start with the treatment process that will include dietary changes, exercise, and weight-loss medications.

Arthritis- Pain and inflammation of bones and joints is caused by arthritis problem. The problem gets worsen with age and results into two major issues called osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. To detect joint problems following are few tests that are conducted- X-rays, computerized tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and ultrasound. The primary care physician advise patients suffering from arthritis to make changes in their diet, do proper exercise, take medications and good amount of sleep.

Asthma- People having breathing issues may be suffering from a respiratory problem such as asthma. There are number of factors that cause asthma such as genetic, being overweight, being a smoker, exposure to exhaust fumes and more. The primary care doctors conduct a physical exam that include lung function tests, nitric oxide test, imaging tests, sputum eosinophils, and allergy testing. There is no exact cure for this disease but prevention and long-term control are the keys to be safe from asthma attack.