Lab testing plays a pivotal role in maintaining your health each year. By catching potential issues early, you can take steps to ensure your well-being remains a priority. Whether you’re feeling great or managing chronic conditions, annual tests can provide you with a clear picture of your health status and guide your healthcare decisions.
When you consider the vast array of tests available, it might feel overwhelming to decide which ones you need. However, some key tests are beneficial for a broad spectrum of individuals and can serve as a foundation for a proactive health approach.
Blood Pressure Screening
It’s critical to check your blood pressure regularly. Although it frequently shows no symptoms, high blood pressure can cause major health problems like a stroke or heart disease. You can regulate your blood pressure if it goes into the high range by having it checked annually.
Cholesterol Levels
Checking your cholesterol levels yearly is another crucial test. High cholesterol increases your risk of heart disease but typically does not cause symptoms. This test measures your total cholesterol, including LDL (“bad” cholesterol) and HDL (“good” cholesterol), to provide a clear picture of your heart health.
Blood Glucose Tests
Blood glucose tests measure the sugar level in your blood, helping identify signs of diabetes early. Since diabetes can occur with minimal or no symptoms initially, annual testing is essential for catching and managing this condition early.
Liver Function Tests
Liver function tests help assess the health of your liver by measuring enzymes, proteins, and substances produced by the liver. These tests can detect liver disease early, even before symptoms like jaundice become evident.
Thyroid Function Tests
Thyroid function tests evaluate how well your thyroid is working by measuring thyroid hormone levels in your blood. These tests can help detect thyroid disorders, which often progress slowly and can significantly impact your metabolism and energy levels.
Complete Blood Count (CBC)
A complete blood count (CBC) is a broad screening test used to check for various conditions such as anemia, infection, and many other diseases. It measures several components and features of your blood, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.
Schedule Your Annual Lab Testing in San Antonio, TX
Ready to take control of your health? Schedule an appointment with Douglas Hilbert for your essential annual lab tests.
Whether you’re managing a condition or just keeping tabs on your well-being, Dr. Hilbert is here to guide you. Call us at 210-614-4000. Partner with us today to maintain and enhance your health year-round.
