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Most of us know we should have an annual checkup, but do we take the time to do it? It’s important to nderstand the tests and examinations we are going to have completed. Seniors can not ignore having a thorough exam once a year. Medicare is now covering many of the tests that are done during your annual checkup.

Routine Tests may include:

* Height - Significant loss of height can indicate acceleration of osteoporosis. Height is lost as a result of compression of the spinal cord.

* Weight - Significant loss or gain of weight without trying can signify serious health problems. Weight gain can mean fluid retention, perhaps heart, liver or kidney disease. Weight loss could indicate infection or cancer.

* Blood Pressure - Your blood pressure should be checked during every visit to your doctor. Checking it at your yearly checkup will set a baseline.

* Chest X-ray - The amount of radiation received from a chest x-ray is not harmful and it can be very useful in detecting lung, cancer, early TB and emphysema.

* EKG - It is recommended that a baseline EKG be done for both men and women around age 50. It should then be done at least every 2 - 3 years, or more often if necessary.

* Blood Work - Yearly blood work should include a blood count to rule out any bleeding, glucose to detect the onset of diabetes, thyroid function tests to rule out any thyroid disorder and blood electrolytes which can detect kidney problems and early heart problems. Your doctor may also check some additional labs depending on your personal and family history.

* Fecal Occult Blood Test - This test should also be done yearly. Blood in the stool can be an early indication of colorectal cancer.

* Flexible Sigmoidoscopy/Colonoscopy - The recommendation is that a sigmoidoscopy be done every 4 years, a Colonoscopy every 2 years for anyone with a higher risk of colorectal cancer.

Tests For Men

* Prostate Exam - Staring at age 50 a man should have a digital exam of his prostate. The physician uses a gloved finger in the rectum to determine if there is any enlargement of the prostate. Enlargement could indicate benign enlargement or even cancer.

* PSA - Prostate Specific Antigen is a blood test that can indicate prostate cancer. If the level is high a biopsy of the prostate may be indicated.

Tests For Women

* PAP Smear and Pelvic Exam - This test should be done every three years, or yearly if at higher risk for cervical or vaginal cancer.

* Mamogram - It is recommended this test be done yearly for females over the age of 40. The doctor, during the checkup should perform a clinical breast exam. Monthly self breast exam should also be done.

* Measurement of Bone Mass - There is no standard for frequency of this exam. Women with a family or personal history that puts them at higher risk of osteoporosis should have this test.

The Medical Exam

You should review all medications with your doctor, including all over the counter medications. If the flu vaccine is not yet available during your exam, make a follow-up for that. Do not forget your annual flu shot. If you are diabetic, your doctor should examine your feet and order necessary tests for your blood sugar.

Your annual checkup is also the time to discuss any problems you are having. For instance, if you feel sad, angry, depressed or lack energy, tell your doctor. Your emotional health and physical health are equally important.