Staying healthy is a complex process, but most people focus on exercise and nutrition because those are the most visible aspects of health. Exercise helps keep your body strong and healthy, while good food provides the fuel your body needs to function correctly.
Of course, two are essential components of health, especially with the dedication necessary to make significant changes. Still, they are not the only aspects of fitness you should know. Staying healthy will require overall wellness, which includes seeking help from medical professionals in a few key areas. The strategy ensures you live a whole, high-quality life.
However, it can be challenging to keep up with everything, and that’s where health experts come in handy. You can always ask your doctor questions, but having a reliable resource for tips, reminders, and general information is also helpful. That way, you can focus on enjoying your life while maintaining your health.
Here are a few things to remember beyond the basics of nutrition and exercise and the people who can help.
Dental Health
People often take their dental health for granted and only visit the dentist when they have a problem. However, regular dentist visits are essential for maintaining your oral health and preventing problems down the road.
Here are some reasons why you should visit the dentist regularly:
- Dentists can help prevent cavities and other dental problems by providing preventive care, such as cleanings and fluoride treatments.
- They can also catch early signs of oral cancer.
- Regular visits can also help keep your gums healthy. Gum disease is a leading cause of tooth loss in adults.
According to the Academy of General Dentistry, dentists recommend visiting the dentist every six months for preventive care. However, if you have a history of dental or complex medical issues, you may need to see more often.
If you’re looking for a new dentist, ask friends and family for recommendations, or check out the American Dental Association’s website to find a qualified dentist in your area.
Mental Health
Mental health is vital to overall health, but it’s often overlooked. Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act.
Mental health offers an important aspect in our lives. It is where we get confidence, take risks, and even stay alive and well when life presents many obstacles. Mental health is essential to our overall well-being because:
- It allows us to cope with the challenges of life
- It influences how we relate to others
- It plays a role in our physical health
- It impacts our ability to succeed in school or at work
If you’re struggling with your mental health, many resources are available to help you. Moreover, you can take sessions with mental health experts like psychologists and psychiatrists to get help.
Regular Medical Checkups
Most people only see their doctor when sick, but regular medical checkups are essential to maintaining your health. A family doctor is a primary care physician who provides comprehensive healthcare for you and your family. Family doctors can provide preventive care, screenings, and vaccinations, as well as diagnose and treat common illnesses.
- During a routine checkup, your doctor will:
- Take your medical history
- Measure your height, weight, and blood pressure
- Test your vision
- Listen to your heart and lungs
- Check for signs of disease or illness
Your doctor might also recommend age-appropriate screenings, such as mammograms or colonoscopies. The family doctor will be your partner in maintaining your health and preventing illness.
It’s essential to find a family doctor you trust and feel comfortable with because they will likely be the first person you will consult for your medical issues.
Immunizations
Immunizations, or vaccinations, help protect you from severe and sometimes deadly diseases. They work by causing your body to produce antibodies, proteins that fight infection.
Immunizations can help prevent:
- Measles
- Mumps
- Rubella (German measles)
- Polio
- Chickenpox
- Influenza (flu)
It would help if you kept up-to-date on your immunizations, even as an adult. Experts recommend that all adults get the following vaccinations:
- Influenza vaccine every year
- A tetanus booster shot every ten years
- Measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine if you were not vaccinated as a child
- Chickenpox vaccine if you did not have chickenpox as a child or have not been vaccinated
You might also need other vaccinations depending on your age, job, lifestyle, travel plans, and health conditions. Talk to your doctor about which vaccinations are proper for you.
Stay On Top of Health with Help
Of course, staying healthy will be your journey. However, getting help from your family, friends, and community can make a big difference. These professionals should be a part of your overall health and wellness team. When it comes to overall health, you are not alone. A whole group of people can help you achieve and maintain good health throughout your life.
