Physical Exams

Physical Exams services offered in Bridgeville, PA

Scheduling an annual physical exam is one of the easiest ways to reduce the risk of health problems like heart disease and diabetes. Varun Kommalapti, MD, and the team at Primora Primary Care in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, provide physical exams to people 18 and older. Whether you recently moved to the area or it’s been more than a year since your last checkup, make an appointment by calling the office or requesting one online today.

Physical Exams Q & A

What is a physical exam?

A physical exam, or physical, is a routine checkup that assesses your general well-being. It’s crucial to schedule a physical exam at least once a year, even if you feel healthy. Many chronic diseases, like diabetes and high cholesterol, don’t present noticeable symptoms, so you might be sick but not realize it.

What happens during a physical exam?

At Primora Primary Care, a physical exam features several steps, including:

Step one: Review of your health history and a discussion of your lifestyle

First, Dr. Kommalapti reviews your medical records and asks about your lifestyle, including the type of work you do, if you drink alcohol or use tobacco, and how often you exercise. Answer Dr. Kommalapti’s questions honestly so that he can gather accurate insights.

Step two: Vitals check and a skin exam

Dr. Kommalapti weighs and measures you, listens to your heart and lungs with a stethoscope, and examines your skin for moles, tags, or other abnormal growths.

Step three: Physical exam

Next, Dr. Kommalapti asks you to lie on an exam table. He gently presses on your abdomen, assessing the size and location of your internal organs. Then, he checks your reflexes and examines your ears, eyes, nose, and throat.

Step four: Lab tests

After completing the exam, Dr. Kommalapti orders lab tests, including blood work and urinalysis. These screens analyze your bodily fluids to gain insights into your health. They can help diagnose underlying health problems, like high cholesterol or a hormonal imbalance.

Step five: Immunizations

If necessary, Dr. Kommalapti might also administer immunizations. Immunizations, or vaccines, teach your immune system to destroy harmful pathogens like viruses and bacteria.

Step six: Sex-specific screenings

Dr. Kommalapti might also recommend a sex-specific screening, like a Pap smear or a prostate exam, depending on your age. These procedures can identify diseases like cervical cancer or prostate cancer when they’re easiest to treat.

How long do physical exams take?

The time that a physical exam takes depends on several factors, including your age and whether or not you have any underlying health problems. Most appointments last 60 minutes or less. If you need a sex-specific screening or additional lab tests, the visit might take longer.

To learn more about the benefits of routine physical exams, make an appointment at Primora Primary Care by calling the office or booking one online today.