While our bodies often have ways of telling us that something is wrong, sometimes a health issue can slide under the radar and go unnoticed until it is too late. Some health issues require tests and screenings in order to be detected. Sometimes, screenings can even tell you if you are at risk for developing a health issue so that you can work proactively to prevent it.
What Health Issues Should You be Screened For?
The types of health screenings you should receive, and how often you should receive them, will depend on several factors such as
- Overall health
- Family health history
- Weight
- How active you are
- Lifestyle habits such as drug and alcohol use
- Age
Talk to your doctor about what factors may put you at higher risk for some health problems. Your doctor can then help you come up with a plan for receiving screenings and preventing health problems. Some of the most common health screenings are:
CT Lung Screening
A CT lung screening is especially recommended for someone who has a history of smoking. A CT scan is a type of x-ray that can detect lung cancer early, making it much easier to treat and drastically increasing the chances of survival.
Heart Screenings
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the US. However, it can also be prevented. A heart health screening can help determine your risk of developing heart disease. Once you know your risk level, you can take steps to prevent heart disease.
Stroke Screenings
Stroke is the third leading cause of death in the U.S. primarily because they do not cause any warning symptoms before they happen. A screening of your blood vessels can indicate if there are any problems that are preventing blood from reaching your brain. Tackling those problems right away can prevent stroke.
A large part of staying healthy is in being proactive and preventing health problems before they occur. Diet and exercise play a large part in your overall health. But it is also extremely important to receive screenings so that you can catch a health issue quickly.