Marie Rodriguez

Resolve to know yourself

The beginning of a new year is generally a time of New Year’s resolutions. Try this one:
     “Starting today. I resolve to be responsible for my own body, my own health, my own happiness and my own life.”
     When choosing a healthier life, people generally think only of weight loss and exercise. Too often, more basic areas are neglected or ignored until problems come up. One of these is the annual visit to the doctor.
     Make and keep your annual physicals with your personal physician. Prepare for this visit so that you get the most from it. Remember, you are paying the doctor. You hired him (No, not to be responsible for your body and health–that is your job) to be your consultant, your professional advisor, to provide you with treatment if necessary. In order for him to do the best job for you, you need to supply him with the best information to work with.  
     Preparation should include writing down any and all healthcare issues you have and take these with you to your visit. Don’t be too embarrassed to ask about personal or private things. Leaving problems ignored because they are uncomfortable to discuss can have devastating results.
     Talk to your parents and grandparents and learn your family’s health history. This knowledge is vital for you and your doctor needs to know it. Do your grown kids (and grandkids) a favor and share it with them.
     While at your doctor’s office, make sure you get your questions answered and you are clear about your goals. If he starts using medical terminology you don’t understand, ask for “plain English.” If you are prescribed medication, ask what it is for, the possible side effects, how much, how often and for how long. Know what you are putting in your body. 
     If you are given tests or have lab work done, know what the results mean. Get your body’s “numbers,” and understand them. This includes your blood pressure, weight, BMI, cholesterol levels, blood sugar, triglyceride, total protein, etc.
     Ask your doctor to review your medical chart with you, especially if you are a truck driver. If you must make a visit to the emergency room or urgent care while on the road, be sure your doctor gets records of the incidents. Better yet, follow up with him.
     Once you have taken back ownership of your own body and your health, keeping your body healthy will come easier.
     And while you are making that appointment for your annual physical, don’t forget to make an appointment with your dentist and eye doctor. And ladies, keep your Ob/Gyn visit each year.