Do You Run Like A Fine Oiled Machine?

Have you ever thought about how your body functions?  Are you a corvette or a clunker?  Maybe it's time for a tune-up.  Most people will try everything to get their bodies in optimal condition except for something pretty obvious - a check-up with your primary care provider.  This may not seem like a big deal, but it one of the most important things that you can do to make sure that you are firing on all cylinders.  If you are trying to lose weight, it is always a good idea to check with your provider before starting any program because you need to change your diet and exercise habits and it is important to make sure everything is checked over first.  If you are overweight, you could have issues with your thyroid, blood pressure, cholesterol, and other issues such as diabetes.  You may or may not even know that you have a problem with any of these issues.  Problems with diabetes and thyroid issues can explain weight loss difficulties and your provider can help you get on the right track.  If you have undiagnosed problems with cholesterol or blood pressure, these can affect your major organs such as your heart, kidneys, and your brain.  If it is left untreated for a period of time, you are at great risk for having a heart attack or stroke.  This is stuff that seems pretty straightforward, but think about this.  Imagine if you missed out on your visit to your provider for most of your adult life and all of the sudden you find yourself in the hospital after suffering a stroke and you realize that you have undiagnosed high blood pressure and diabetes that in addition to rehab needed from stroke damage, you also have kidney failure and will require hemodialysis for the rest of your life.  All of these things are going to total up to millions of dollars worth of treatments that could have been prevented with a yearly visit to your provider and a monthly prescription that was likely on the $4 list at Wal-Mart.  I didn't even dig into joints and arthritis, but you get my point.  Make sure that you follow-up with your provider at least annually.  Best wishes to your wellness!