Every five years, NHS offers a free health check for anyone aged between 40-74, which helps you to find out that, if you’re at higher risk of health conditions like diabetes, heart disease or suffering from a stroke.
Health expert Dr Sunny Jutla, a Specialist Digital Clinician at Medi checks, recommend often health checks, even if you’re under 40. That is because early diagnosis can help to control or even reverse certain medical conditions and reduces the risk of conditions such as heart disease in the future.
Generally, if you want to look after your ticker, or get to grips with body health markers, then there are some things which you can ask your doctor to check.
Cholesterol level check- Cholesterol is a naturally occurring fatty substance which is harmful for our cell health. But, when the amounts are high, it can be detrimental to our overall health.
According to the NHS, from five individuals, more than two have high cholesterol, which increases the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Screening for skin cancer -In UK, Skin cancer is presently the most common type of cancer where cases are continuing to climb.
“The good news is that most types of skin cancer can be cured, but it has to be diagnosed early.” Says Julta.
She said that, how important it is to check your skin regularly, mainly the areas which is often exposed to the sun.
There are many helpful guides to follow when checking your skin, “If you have noticed any changes, then you should visit a doctor as soon as possible. So that they can take a look and do a biopsy to test for cancer if needed.”
Iron blood test- all the time if you’re feeling tired, or have low on energy, shortness of breath and pale skin you might be experiencing low iron which can cause anemia.
Dr Jutla says having anemia can lead to complications like an increased risk of infections, if left untreated and that it’s a very common condition.
A simple blood test can help you find out, if you have an iron deficiency, which can be done by your GP after you’ve discussed symptoms.
Blood pressure check- Dr Jutla said that knowing your blood pressure can help doctors watch out for things like heart disease and monitor stress levels.
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, can increase the risk of many medical problems including strokes and heart attacks.
Nutrition blood test- Your GP can offer a simplified blood test which tells your vitamin and mineral levels. If anything is out of control, then you can consult your doctor about lifestyle changes and dietary improvements and take necessary steps to look after your health.
Dr Jutla says: “A healthy, balanced diet should provide you with all the vitamins and minerals you need, but certain food preferences can increase your risk of deficiencies, for example, being vegetarian can increase your chances of developing vitamin B12 or vitamin D deficiencies.”
No matter what age you are, it’s very important to look after your health. Early detection for many conditions can help to manage illness and some conditions can even be reversed through lifestyle changes, so, don’t wait until it’s too late.
