Health Tests to Ask Your Doctor About

Getting the right screenings from your doctor when you need them is essential to staying healthy and protecting yourself from potential health problems. All too often, however, doctors don’t recommend the tests that their patients require. Here are some of the most important health tests you should be sure to ask about during your next visit to your doctor’s office.

Depression
If you’re showing any of the symptoms of depression, you should ask your doctor about getting a screening. Some of the most common signs of depression include a nagging feeling of hopelessness, lack of energy, poor appetite, and feeling little interest or excitement over activities that once brought you pleasure.

Blood pressure
High blood pressure, or hypertension, can raise your chances of stroke, heart failure, and other serious health problems. If you are over the age of 20, you should have a blood pressure test performed at least once every two years. If repeated tests show that you have hypertension, your doctor can recommend a course of action to lower your blood pressure.

Cholesterol
Having high cholesterol levels can put you at greater risk of heart disease. Unfortunately, high cholesterol generally doesn’t present any symptoms, which makes routine testing more important. If you’re older than 35, you should have your cholesterol levels checked at least once every five years.

Vitamin D deficiency
As many as three-fourths of all Americans may lack the vitamin D they need to keep their muscles and bones healthy. Individuals most at risk for vitamin D deficiency include people with osteoporosis, people who have celiac disease, and people who are obese. If you think you may be at higher risk of vitamin D deficiency, ask your doctor to test you.

If you are concerned about a misdiagnosis or possible medical error contact the law firm of Pegalis & Erickson LLC in New York. For 45 years we have advocated for people of all ages, in order to help our clients financially and make healthcare safer for everyone. You can reach us today by calling (516) 684-2900.