What to Expect Before, During, and After Your Annual Physical

In the days leading up to an annual physical exam, patients are typically encouraged to take stock of any ongoing health concerns, recent changes, or symptoms they may want to discuss. This may include writing down questions or tracking issues such as sleep quality, appetite changes, stress levels, or digestive trouble. Having a list of current medications, supplements, and dosages available can also help ensure that the provider has a full understanding of what the patient is taking and how those substances may be interacting.

Depending on the individual’s health history, certain pre-appointment steps may also be suggested. If past lab work or screenings were abnormal, or if there are specific concerns that need reviewing, those may be flagged in advance. Some patients may want to bring results from outside tests or provide a record of recent immunizations. It can also be useful to note changes in family medical history, as this may affect future screening recommendations or preventative measures. Preparing this information ahead of time helps the appointment flow smoothly and ensures no concern goes unaddressed.

Whether or not fasting is required before a physical exam often depends on what types of lab tests have been ordered as part of the visit. For certain cases, such as if the patient is scheduled for a lipid panel, they may be asked to refrain from eating or drinking anything other than water for some time before the appointment, typically around eight to twelve hours. The goal in these cases is to obtain the most accurate readings for certain metabolic markers.

Not every physical exam includes fasting labs, and in many cases, the provider may determine which tests are needed during the appointment itself. If no such tests are ordered, or if the lab work will be done on a separate day, then fasting would not be necessary. When patients are unsure whether they should fast beforehand, it’s generally recommended they call in advance or follow the instructions given at the time of scheduling. Our team at Carrboro Family Medicine Center provides tailored guidance so patients can arrive prepared and make the most of their visit.

An annual physical exam is typically a comprehensive check-in that allows providers to assess current health, identify any concerns, and offer guidance based on each patient’s medical history and goals. Most physicals begin with recording vital signs such as blood pressure, heart rate, temperature, and oxygen saturation. Height and weight are usually measured as well, and sometimes a body mass index is calculated based on those figures. From there, the provider may perform a head-to-toe examination, checking the heart, lungs, abdomen, skin, and reflexes.

For some patients, age-specific screenings and preventative care discussions may be part of the process. These might include reviewing past bloodwork, recommending vaccines, or initiating conversations around cancer screenings or lifestyle changes. If the patient has specific issues they want to address, this is also the time to bring them up. Whether it’s a lingering pain, a mental health concern, or questions about nutrition or sleep, the annual exam is designed to be a collaborative and open exchange.

Annual physicals offer a dedicated opportunity to raise any health-related concerns, regardless of whether they seem minor or unrelated to the initial reason for the visit. From persistent fatigue to recurring digestive issues or mental health struggles, patients are encouraged to use this appointment as a time to speak freely about what they have been experiencing. No concern is considered too small, and often what may seem unrelated on the surface can help inform a more complete understanding of the patient’s overall well-being.

Our team at Carrboro Family Medicine Center aims to create a setting where patients feel comfortable sharing both physical and emotional symptoms. The goal of the visit is to approach the patient’s health holistically, with attention to all aspects that could be affecting their day-to-day life.

Whether follow-up appointments are needed after an annual physical depends on what comes up during the visit. If lab work is ordered, a provider may schedule a time to go over results or make recommendations based on those findings. In some cases, additional testing or imaging might be suggested to explore symptoms more closely. If new health concerns are identified, the patient may also be referred to a specialist or asked to return for a focused visit.

For individuals managing chronic conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, or thyroid issues, regular follow-ups are often built into their care schedule. These allow providers to monitor changes, adjust medications as needed, and offer support in managing symptoms. Patients beginning a new medication or lifestyle change may also benefit from a check-in to evaluate progress and troubleshoot any challenges that arise.

At Carrboro Family Medicine Center, the care team works to ensure that follow-up plans reflect the patient’s health goals and current needs. Whether ongoing management or additional clarity is needed, these appointments help maintain consistency in care and support patients in staying proactive about their health.

Annual physicals are available at Carrboro Family Medicine Center. For more information, please contact us or schedule an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 610 Jones Ferry Rd Suite 102, Carrboro, NC 27510. We serve patients in Chapel Hill NC, Southern Village NC, Fearrington NC, Blands NC, and surrounding areas.