A Woman’s Health Checklist

A Woman’s Health Checklist

by: Kadence Buchanan

Regular exercise and a balanced, healthy diet are the hallmarks of good health. However, although you may be doing your best to fulfill the requirements of these two essentials, there is still a lot to be concerned about. That is why it is advisable to have regular visits to the doctor to undergo tests to monitor your health and check for possible diseases.

During your visits, the doctor will usually ask about your personal medical history and that of your family to determine past incidence of heart disease, breast cancer or thyroid disease.

The following is a simple health checklist that every woman must be aware of.

1. Teeth

Upon turning 18, women are encouraged to visit their dentists at least once a year for a dental exam and cleaning.

2. Eyes

It is recommended that women undergo an eye exam every other year. Upon turning 40, women should have eye examinations at least once every year even though they may have no problems with their sight. And after age 45, women are encouraged to undertake regular testing for glaucoma.

3. Hearing

Doctors recommend that women past the age of 65 should have their hearing checked annually.

4. Blood Pressure

Most doctors advise their women patients to have their blood pressure checked at least every two years.

5. Physical Exams

When a woman is in her twenties, she should have at least two physicals during a 10-year span. Each physical should check her height and weight as well as her cholesterol levels. If the cholesterol level is normal, succeeding check-ups can be undertaken every five years until the woman reaches the age of 65 and then every three to five years afterwards.

From the ages of 30 to 65, women should have a physical examination every one to five years based on her overall health. After the age of 65, she should have regular check-ups that monitor blood pressure and other tests including a blood test and urinalysis.

6. Breast Exam

The American Cancer Society recommends that women undergo a self-examination of their breasts every month to detect any bumps that may signify the onset of breast cancer. Their website provides detailed instruction on how to do this properly.

7. Mammograms

After the age of 40, women should undergo annual mammogram testing to determine the possible presence of breast cancer. If a woman has breast cancer in her family, then she should subject herself to a mammogram earlier than that. For the best results, it is advisable to undergo the mammogram at the same medical facility and, if possible, using the same machine, to ensure accuracy.


About The Author

Kadence Buchanan writes articles for http://forahealthywoman.com/ - In addition, Kadence also writes articles for http://iwomensworld.net/ and http://thenursingcenter.com/.