Four Ways to Do Self-Checks for Your Health
One of the most common mistakes people make when it comes to their health is that they wait until they feel very sick before seeing a doctor. They don’t focus enough on preventative care. They get busy with their lives and they forget to check in on themselves.
Doing self-checks is a highly effective way to reduce your chance of having future health problems. It’s also a way to find cancer and other illnesses early before they become severe. The nonprofit organization Self Chec designated February as National Self-Check Month so that more people will be empowered to take care of themselves and be in tune with their bodies.
Blood pressure measuring
Even if you feel completely healthy, you may unknowingly have high blood pressure. High blood pressure can lead to life-threatening cardiovascular problems. It’s worth it to buy a blood pressure monitor you can use at home. You can read the CDC’s guidelines to learn how to get an accurate blood pressure reading. It’s very quick and easy once you’ve tried it a couple of times.
Breast self-exam
Detecting breast cancer in its early stages is absolutely crucial. Of course, that’s what mammograms are for, but that doesn’t mean self-checks can’t also help. Women should check their breasts once a month – and men should, too! It’s possible for men to get breast cancer although it’s rare.
Checking your breasts involves carefully feeling them from all angles and noticing any unusual lumps. Look closely at your skin to notice any dimpling, bruises, or discoloration. Squeeze your nipples gently to see if there is any discharge. If you notice any changes in the feeling or appearance of your breasts, talk to your doctor.
Skin self-exam
Skin self-exams are the first step to detect not only skin cancer but other skin issues as well. The American Cancer Society gives detailed steps on how to do your own skin exam. The best way to do it is with both a full-length mirror and a handheld mirror so you can examine hard-to-see areas. A few things to look out for are moles that have changed in shape, rough red patches, and sores that have not healed after several weeks.
Being aware of chronic stress
Stress is a normal part of life, but chronic stress shouldn’t be. Chronic stress is stress that is ongoing. For example, if you live with someone you don’t get along with, or if you have a demanding, exhausting job, you probably have chronic stress. Chronic stress can have many causes, and many symptoms, too.
You may have physical symptoms that you don’t realize are being caused by your stress. The Mayo Clinic explains that stress can cause headaches, muscle pain, fatigue, upset stomach, and more. It can also make you more irritable, anxious, and unable to focus. Try stress relief techniques such as listening to music, meditating, breathwork, or getting a massage. Seeking help from a mental health professional may also be necessary.
What to do after self-checks
If you’ve finished doing your self-checks and you realize that something isn’t right, be sure to visit a doctor. Don’t just dismiss it as “no big deal.” It’s best to see a professional who can take a closer look. If your doctor discovers a serious problem, they can treat it early and keep you safe!
If you don’t think there’s anything wrong with your health after self-checking, it’s still good to get an annual checkup anyway. The US Department of Health and Human Services has a website called My Healthfinder where you can quickly and conveniently find out ways to get preventative care. Life may be busy, but checking in on yourself and getting preventative care is definitely worth your time.
