What Happens When You Get a Physical?

what happens when you get a physical

Maybe you’ve been traded from the Yankees to the Braves? Perhaps you’re just trying to participate in youth sports? Or maybe you just got a new job?

Whatever the case may be, you have a physical coming up. 

The question you have now is: what happens when you get a physical? Ask and ‘ye shall receive. This article has all the answers. 

First, You’ll Answer Health Questions

The first portion of a physical generally includes answering questions related to one’s health. Your physician will ask a number of health-related questions. These questions include the following. 

Do You Suffer from Any Illnesses?

Your doctor is almost sure to ask you about your existing illnesses. These include things like asthma, epilepsy, diabetes, heart conditions, lung conditions, and the like. You will likely be asked about previous injuries, ailments, and hospitalizations as well. 

Do Any Health Conditions Run in Your Family?

In addition to being asked about your illnesses, you will likely also be asked about your family’s illnesses. This is done to determine whether you could be at risk for any hereditary health conditions. Conditions that your doctor might ask about include heart disease, diabetes, and, neurological conditions, to name just a few.

Do You Take Any Medications?

Your physician will also want to know about any medications that you’re taking.

These medications could have an effect on the way your body reacts to physical activity, and so need to be scrutinized by a health professional. When answering this question, you should disclose everything from over-the-counter meds to prescription meds to homeopathic remedies and more.  

Then, You’ll Undergo a Physical Examination

Once you’ve answered your physician’s questions, he or she will examine and record your physical faculties. This includes the following. 

Take Measurements

As is standard in every medical examination, you will have your height and weight taken. This will require you to take your shoes off, then stand under a measuring device and on a weight scale. 

Assess the Heart

The performance of your heart will be assessed as well. This will involve you having your blood pressure and pulse taken with a cuff and a stethoscope, respectively. 

Look Over Other Parts of the Body

While your heart will receive the most attention, it’s not the only part of your body that will be assessed during your physical. Your lungs, your throat, your ears, and your nose, and your abdominal region will be looked over as well. 

Gauge Physical Performance

There will also be a brief gauging of physical performance, namely flexibility and strength. During this portion, the muscles, joints, and posture will be scrutinized. 

Test Vision

Lastly, your vision will be checked. In most cases, this will include reading letters and numbers off of a vision chart. 

Now That You Know What Happens When You Get a Physical 

Now that you know what happens when you get a physical, you might be ready to schedule one for yourself. If so and if you’re in the Armory, Mississippi area, Armory Urgent Care has you covered. 

Our physicians have performed physicals for countless Armory area residents. Contact us today.