Transform Your Health with Preyasha Tuladhar

A wellness visit focuses on preventive care, promoting overall health, and addressing lifestyle habits. Here’s a comprehensive checklist to ensure you get the most out of your visit:

1. General Health Assessment

• Vital signs: Blood pressure, heart rate, temperature, weight, height, and BMI.

• Medical history: Update on past and current health conditions, surgeries, and family medical history.

• Lifestyle habits: Diet, physical activity, sleep patterns, alcohol/tobacco use, and stress management.

2. Preventive Screenings and Tests

• Blood tests: Check cholesterol, blood sugar, thyroid function, and vitamin levels, if needed.

• Cancer screenings: Mammogram, Pap smear, prostate exam, skin check, or colonoscopy as age and gender dictate.

• Vision and hearing: Basic screenings, especially for older adults.

• Bone density: Screening for osteoporosis in at-risk populations.

• Immunizations: Ensure all vaccines are up-to-date (e.g., flu, shingles, pneumonia, COVID-19, tetanus).

3. Mental and Emotional Well-being

• Screening for mental health issues: Depression, anxiety, or other emotional concerns.

• Stress management: Discuss coping strategies and resources for support.

• Sleep quality: Address insomnia, snoring, or other sleep disturbances.

4. Lifestyle Counseling

• Nutrition: Review eating habits and nutritional needs (e.g., weight loss, special diets like keto, or supplements).

• Exercise: Discuss current physical activity and recommend improvements.

• Tobacco and substance use: Explore cessation strategies or support resources.

• Alcohol use: Review safe consumption guidelines.

5. Reproductive and Sexual Health

• Contraception: Options and counseling.

• STI testing: As appropriate based on risk factors.

• Menopause or hormonal health: Address symptoms or concerns.

• Sexual function: Discuss any issues or changes.

6. Chronic Disease Risk Assessment

• Diabetes risk (fasting glucose or A1C test).

• Cardiovascular health (cholesterol levels, blood pressure).

• Osteoporosis and fracture risk.

• Family history of diseases (e.g., heart disease, cancer).

7. Age-Specific Topics

• Children and teens: Growth and development milestones, vaccinations, and behavioral health.

• Adults in their 20s–40s: Fertility, family planning, and preventive care.

• Seniors (50+): Cognitive health, fall prevention, and screenings for age-related diseases.

8. Advance Planning

• Discuss long-term health goals.

• Create or update advance directives (e.g., living wills, healthcare proxies).

• Plan for future screenings or vaccinations.

9. Questions and Concerns

• Prepare a list of any questions about symptoms, medications, or specific health goals.

• Share any unusual signs or symptoms you’ve noticed recently.

Fall prevention is especially important for older adults and individuals with health conditions that increase their risk. Here are key strategies for preventing falls:

1. Home Safety Modifications

• Remove hazards: Clear clutter, secure loose rugs, and repair uneven flooring.

• Improve lighting: Ensure all areas, especially stairs and hallways, are well-lit.

• Install safety devices: Use grab bars in bathrooms, handrails on stairs, and non-slip mats in showers and tubs.

2. Strength and Balance Exercises

• Practice yoga or tai chi: These improve strength, flexibility, and balance.

• Include strength training: Focus on leg and core muscles to maintain stability.

• Balance exercises: Simple routines like standing on one leg or using a stability ball can help.

3. Vision and Hearing Care

• Regular checkups: Update glasses and contact prescriptions as needed.

• Hearing aids: Address hearing loss, as it affects spatial awareness.

4. Appropriate Footwear

• Wear supportive, non-slip shoes with good traction.

• Avoid high heels, slippers without grips, or walking barefoot.

5. Medication Review

• Check side effects: Some medications may cause dizziness or drowsiness.

• Consult your doctor: Ask about alternatives if medications increase fall risk.

6. Nutrition and Hydration

• Calcium and Vitamin D: Support bone strength to reduce injury risk.

• Stay hydrated: Dehydration can lead to dizziness or fainting.

7. Assistive Devices

• Use a cane, walker, or other aids if recommended by a healthcare provider.

• Make sure the device is adjusted to the correct height and used properly.

8. Awareness and Education

• Know your risk factors: Conditions like diabetes, arthritis, or inner ear issues may increase fall risk.

• Stay mindful: Be cautious when walking on wet or uneven surfaces.