How often do you take your car for service? If you drive a lot, you probably make sure it gets serviced every 6-8 months to keep everything running smoothly.
Now, think about your dog. You take your dog to the vet every year for a regular check-up to make sure your pet stays healthy.
But what about you? When was the last time you had a medical check-up? Many people tend to delay their own health check-ups, thinking they’re fine and can wait until they’re sick. In extreme cases, some don’t even have a regular doctor.
You might believe you have a perfect lifestyle—eating healthy, exercising, not smoking or drinking—and think you don’t need a regular doctor. Let’s say you’re right. But what if you have an inherited condition, like high cholesterol, that’s quietly developing in your body, waiting to cause problems?
That’s the unique thing about our bodies. We often assume that feeling fine means being healthy. However, many changes in our organs are slow and subtle, building up over time. Once they take root, the effects can appear suddenly and severely.
Consider this: What’s the first sign of a heart attack? You might think it’s sudden pain in your chest. But that pain isn’t a warning of future trouble; it means you already have a problem. And you’re lucky if you even feel pain because some heart attacks occur without any noticeable symptoms.
Even if your heart is healthy now, a physician can diagnose potential issues early on and help keep your heart in good shape as you age. Your doctor can recommend a diet, prescribe medications based on your condition and family history, and monitor your overall health.
Your heart and other organs can’t tell you when something is wrong before it’s too late. But your doctor can. Show yourself the same care you give your car and pet, and prioritize regular check-ups to stay ahead of any potential health issues.