Maintaining good health in your adult and senior years is essential for leading a happy and fulfilling life, but it requires proactive care and attention. A primary care physician (PCP) can help you achieve optimal health and well-being, and catch potential problems early, while they are highly treatable. A collaborative relationship between you and your PCP can lead to better health outcomes.
Here is a general guide on how to stay healthy and where you can go in Tucson, Arizona, for comprehensive primary care services.
Listen to Your Body
One of the most important aspects of staying healthy is paying attention to your body’s signals and symptoms. If you are feeling aches and pains, let your primary care doctor know. Whether you’re feeling joint pain in your hands or foot pain, these are warning signs by your body. Schedule an appointment to discuss your symptoms and concerns with your PCP for a proper diagnosis and personalized plan for treatment.
Prioritize Preventive Care
Prevention is key to maintaining good health and preventing future medical issues. Preventive care is a type of service provided to patients who have no symptoms of diseases. Blood panels and wellness exams help the primary care doctor assess your overall health. The doctor may also recommend health screenings to assess cholesterol levels, prostate health, and breast health based on your age and risk factors.
Stay Active and Exercise Regularly
Regular physical activity is important for many reasons, from maintaining a healthy weight to improving cardiovascular health. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week depending on your doctor’s recommendations. You can get your exercise through brisk walking, cycling, or swimming. It is also important to add strength training to your routine in order to build muscle mass and improve bone health.
If you have any underlying health conditions or concerns, such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), consult with your primary care doctor before starting a new exercise regimen. If you are overweight or obese, your PCP can help manage and treat your condition.
Eat a Balanced Diet
Your nutrition levels affect overall health. Focus on consuming a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, as well as whole grains and lean proteins. Any adult or senior should limit their intake of highly processed foods and mind their sugar and sodium intake. If you have food sensitivities or allergies, let your primary care doctor know, as they may be able to refer you to a dietitian who can help you with meal planning.
Get Adequate Sleep
Adults should be getting quality sleep. Experts recommend seven to nine hours of sleep every night to allow your body to repair and recharge for the next day. Establish a relaxing bedtime routine. You can start with limiting screen time before bed. If you struggle with sleep issues such as insomnia or sleep apnea, let your primary care physician, so you can explore potential causes and treatment options.
Manage Stress Levels
Chronic stress can take a toll on your physical and mental health, increasing your risk for cardiovascular issues such as high blood pressure and stroke. If you need help with stress management, let your PCP know. The doctor can provide counseling and emotional support during your appointments and offer coping strategies to help you manage stress better. If necessary, you may get a referral to a mental health professional.
Schedule Your Annual Check-Up
Your annual check-up serves as a cornerstone for preventive care and early intervention, allowing your primary care physician to monitor your health status, track changes over time, and address any emerging health concerns promptly. This visit provides an opportunity to discuss your lifestyle, health goals, and any symptoms or risk factors you may be experiencing, empowering you to make informed decisions about your health and well-being.
Primary Care Physician for Adults in Tucson, AZ
Dr. Robert Lending is a board-certified internal medicine doctor and lipidology specialist, uniquely qualified to help adults and seniors with chronic diseases such as high cholesterol and cardiovascular disease manage their health.
Dr. Lending is Tucson’s only adult clinical lipidologist. Patients travel to our clinic from distant areas and are referred to our practice due to Dr. Lending’s specialized services. We offer comprehensive health screening services in our clinic, from lab work to prostate cancer screening.
Dr. Lending is a concierge physician offering 24/7 care for his concierge patients. For any questions or to schedule a consultation, call our office today at (520) 795-4291 or use our online form. We look forward to providing you with effective care!
