Physical Exam Specialist

What is a Physical Exam?

A physical exam is a doctor's exam performed for the purpose of evaluating and then verifying overall health. In a physical exam, Dr. Karns will look for any previously undiagnosed medical issues and will evaluate the current state of already-known medical problems.

Why Are Physical Exams Typically Needed?

Physical exams are often required as a condition of employment, participation in extracurricular activities like sports teams, or travel to another country. 

Some people have physical exams on a yearly or bi-yearly basis so that they can monitor and manage their ongoing health issues. After the physical exam, Dr. Karns can provide any health documentation that is needed.

What Happens During a Physical Exam?

Physical exams include a weight check, blood pressure check, heartbeat check, lung health check, and evaluation of the whole body in general. 

Reflexes will be tested, as well. Blood is usually drawn during a physical exam so that a variety of diseases and illnesses can be checked for, especially if the purpose of the physical exam is international travel. 

If the patient is due to have any vaccinations or needs to have special vaccinations for travel, those can also be done during a physical exam. Patients who have chronic health concerns will discuss their health issues with Dr. Karns during the physical exam, as well. 

If patients use medical equipment like a walker, wheelchair, an asthma inhaler, a CPAP machine, or any other equipment, it should be brought to the physical exam so Dr. Karns can make sure it's working well and in good condition. 

Although the main purpose of a physical exam is to evaluate or verify health, it can also be a time for adjusting medication dosage, changing medications, or making other necessary medical changes. Dr. Karns can customize the physical exam according to the patient's specific needs.

Schedule your physical exam by calling the office or booking an appointment online.