I put off the annual exams because of Covid, but went today (been 6 years, actually). More questions from the Dr than I remember from past visits. Alcohol and tobacco usage, diet, sleeping habits, socialization, happiness level, activity level. All of which make sense. I keep up with medical advice from trustable sources.
It's not like I smoke or drink much, but less is always better. I probably won't change that, much. A cocktail while I am preparing dinner and 2 small glasses on wine with dinner aren't exactly binge-drinking. And I'm not the most face-to-face social person (but I did attend a small party at a neighbor last week, and everything went well). And I just generally feel pretty happy with myself. Some people can't stand being alone; I have no problem with that. And the Dr agreed.
The tests went great. Reflexes good, diet great, mental alertness better than average (he asked a few odd questions), general activity level satisfied him. He had me stretch a few times, touch my toes standing up, and reach across my back to have my hands meet (they did, barely). So, in general, he says I'm in better than average condition at 73 (and 74 next month).
There was the always weird prostate exam. Woo-Hoo! But he found no problem.
The technician said my EKG results were excellent. I'm not sure about the blood pressure. It was 163 over 80. She said the systolic is always a bit high in the stress of an exam, so maybe reality is 140 over 80 and she said not to worry about that.
I have to visit a separate office for a blood panel and a different one for a cancer screening. And another for one of those general allergy tests (where they stick a board of needles in your back and see if one spot puffs up).
There were also question about family medical history. None have died of anything that seems genetic (well Mom had Parkinson's). The main cause of death in my lineage seems to be old age. So I might reach 2050. 100 would be cool (if it was in good health). But personally, I'm willing to "check out" if things get too difficult.
But it was a really positive visit and I'm glad I went. I even (oddly) feel healthier. 😀
