Cover A doctor's essential tool for routine check-ups (Photo: Pexels/Pixabay)
A doctor's essential tool for routine check-ups (Photo: Pexels/Pixabay)
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When should you start getting regular medical check-ups?
In today’s world, millions of people invest heavily in their skincare routines and fitness regimens to stay healthy. However, many tend to overlook the importance of annual medical exams and general check-ups. Think of it as taking your car to the shop for maintenance—plugging any holes before they even appear. While there’s a universal rule of thumb for vehicle upkeep, it’s not that cut-and-dry when it comes to the human body. To understand why this ritual is so important, Tatler spoke to Dr Gino Quizon, a cardiologist at the Manila Doctors Hospital, for his insights.
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Above A person getting a blood check-up (Photo: Pexels/Pranidchakan Boonrom)
A person getting a blood check-up (Photo: Pexels/Pranidchakan Boonrom)
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Standard check-ups typically consist of analysing everything about your body. From a complete blood count, 12-lead ECG and blood glucose levels to cholesterol levels, a urinalysis, and liver enzymes, this is the best way you and your doctor can know what’s going on and if you’re at risk of anything serious. Oftentimes, we only get check-ups when we’re feeling sick, but Dr Quizon recommends general screening once you hit 35 years old. He also stresses the importance of regular check-ups if you have a family history of risk factors such as cardiovascular disease or cancer. “Check-up schedules are individualized depending on your overall health and the severity of any heart conditions. It may range from once a year to as frequent as twice a month,” he says.
Above Inside a ward of a hospital (Photo: Pexels/Pixabay)
Inside a ward of a hospital (Photo: Pexels/Pixabay)
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While it’s already a good idea to have regular check-ups, there are early warning signs one should look out for regardless of age. Dr Quizon urges those who experience chest pains, difficulty breathing, fatigue, palpitations, and loss of consciousness to seek immediate medical attention, especially if they have a family history. Do not tough it out and think it will go away eventually.
See also: The “tough guy” myth is affecting men’s health—and how this Filipino entrepreneur wants it gone
Above A close-up photo of a finished cigarette (Photo: Pexels/BasilMK)
A close-up photo of a finished cigarette (Photo: Pexels/BasilMK)
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Lifestyle choices also play a great role in your health. Vices such as smoking and alcohol, an unhealthy diet, and a sedentary lifestyle can increase an individual’s risk of developing cardiovascular disease and cancer. If you need help curbing or stopping these habits, Dr Quizon advises you to consult your doctor for medical advice and intervention.
Above A close-up photo of medicinal drugs (Photo: Pexels/Pixabay)
A close-up photo of medicinal drugs (Photo: Pexels/Pixabay)
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There are many myths and misconceptions when it comes to health, and Dr Quizon wishes to set the record straight for some of them. “Although heart disease is more common in those over the age of 65, four to 10 per cent of heart attacks occur in adults under the age of 45, primarily men,” he says. So, it’s crucial to nip it in the bud early on. Another is medication. Many are led to believe that medication for hypertension and diabetes, in particular, can harm your kidneys and liver, but they’re actually essential in preventing kidney damage and end-organ failure. “Failing to manage these conditions with medication, when necessary, poses a significant risk to your health,” says Dr Quizon.
Overall, routine check-ups should be done as often and as early as possible, especially if you have a family history of heart disease, and even more so if you like to live life to the fullest extent. However, check-ups go hand-in-hand with regular exercise, a healthy diet, and limited intake of alcohol and nicotine.
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About
Gabriel found his passion for writing through poetry in high school. He sharpened his skills at Ateneo de Manila University and hopes to write a play worthy of Broadway one day. A self-proclaimed geek, he loves to spend his free time playing video games and board games. When he's not clicking heads on Valorant or roleplaying as a barbarian in Dungeons and Dragons, you can find him exploring art galleries or watching stage plays.
Work
A creative writer who writes about anything and everything, Gabriel loves to dive deep into the arts and culture scene—as well as going on long road trips for travel pieces.
You can reach him on Instagram at @gbohol for any leads, casual conversations or game invites.
