Basic guide for giving yourself a self-exam
On World Health day, we are telling you how to give yourself a basic medical self-exam.
World Health Day is celebrated on 7 April, a date to raise awareness of the importance of achieving and maintaining physical and emotional wellbeing.
We suggest you take a quick look at your general state of health and find out if you can make any adjustments to improve it.
Test to assess your health
- When was the last time you went to the doctor? Have an annual checkup, even if you feel well. Get regular mammograms and pap smears (if you are a woman), and PSA tests and fecal occult blood tests (if you are a man).
- Do you sleep poorly or have trouble falling asleep? Take going to bed at the same time seriously. Having a healthy sleep routine starts with the things you can control.
- Do you enjoy your favourite activities? Ask yourself this question at the beginning and end of the week. And let someone close to you tell you if they see that something about you has changed recently.
These three questions can help you get an initial assessment of your wellbeing. If you are unsure whether any symptoms are concerning, make an appointment with your doctor.
This post is also available in: Portuguese (Portugal)