Guidelines for Your Good Health
Here are the tips we would like you to keep in mind to maintain your good health. Each of us is unique; discuss your own situation with your doctor or nurse.
For All Ages
Immunizations are not just for kids!
- Tentanus every 10 years (with pertussis at least once before age 65)
- Hepatitis A or B vaccine if you are likely to be exposed at work or at home.
- Pneumonia vaccine and flu shots: consult with your physician to determine whether you are a good candidate for these vaccines.
- Shingles vaccine after the age of 60.
- HPV vaccine
HIV Testing
- Discuss with your provider to decide if HIV testing is necessary.
Sunburns raise the chance of skin cancer.
- Use sunscreen! Apply generously 30 minutes before sun exposure.
- Avoid midday sun.
- Wear protective clothing.
Keep up with dental checkups.
Safety
- Wear a seat belt every time you are in a car.
- If you have a gun in the house, use appropriate caution.
- Update smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors regularly.
- If you are taking medication that can be sedating, do not drive.
- Use alcohol only in moderation.
- If you smoke, ask us about help quitting.
Establish a health care proxy and advanced directives.
These written instructions designate someone to speak for you in the event of a catastrophic illness and state your wishes regarding treatments such as feeding tubes and breathing machines. We have forms available.
Let us know if...
- You have any concern someone may hurt you, at home or elsewhere.
- You are often sad, down or teary.
- You've lost interest in the things you used to enjoy.
- Someone close to you has HIV/AIDS, hepatitis, tuberculosis, or uses illegal injection drugs.
- You have any concerns about your health.
Men and Women: 18 to 50
Regular checkups, if your health is good
- Before 40, every 2-5 years
- 40-50 years old, every 1-2 years
Cholesterol
- Every 5 years if it remains normal.
Men and Women: 50 Plus
Daily
- Multivitamin with minerals
Annually
- Complete physical examination
- Flu shot
- Eye exam beyond age 65
Age 50
- Colorectal Cancer Screening/Colonoscopy
(Start at age 40, if positive family history)
Age 60
- Shingles vaccine, once
Age 65
- Pneumonia Vaccine - once (or sooner if you have certain medical problems)
Plus...
- Maintain exercise to increase your safety and avoid injury.
- Review your health care proxy and advanced directives.
- Check blood pressure at each visit.
Additional safety measures
To avoid falls and injury — beyond age 65 or when your mobility is impaired:
- Remove scatter rugs.
- Install handrails and tub bars.
- Keep stairs in good repair without loose treads.
Women: 18 Plus
Daily
- Calcium: 1200 to 1800 mg; 1500 mg if you are nursing;
increase calcium to 1200 - 1500 mg (divided doses) a day at menopause - Vitamin D: 800 to 1000 IU daily
Monthly
- Breast self-examination starting at age 20
Annually
- Clinical breast examination by physician or nurse practitioner starting at age 40
- Mammography starting at age 40
- Pap smear and pelvic examination annually for all women who have reached age 21 or who are or have been sexually active; every 1-3 years starting at age 50
- Chlamydia screening for all sexually active women 25 years or under and all other women who may be at risk
- Rectal exam after age 50
Every 3 Years
- Clinical breast examination by physician or nurse practitioner ages 20-39
Plus...
Cervical Cancer Screening
- Gardasil (HPV Vaccine) for girls and young women ages 9 to 26
- Discuss with your physician/nurse practitioner.
Sexually Transmitted Diseases
- Consider HPV testing age 30 and older.
Pregnancy
- Discuss with us before you conceive.
- Start folic acid 400-800 mcg supplement if you are planning a pregnancy.
Bone Density Testing
- Baseline at time of menopause, if risk factors. Otherwise at age 65 years.
Men: 18 to 50
Monthly
- Testicular Cancer Screening: Check monthly for lumps in the testicles; cancer doesn't happen commonly to young men but when it does, this is where it starts.
Men: 50 Plus
Prostate Cancer Screening
- Digital rectal exam. PSA Test discussed at age 50, depending on risk.
Not necessary on a routine basis
- Chest x-rays
- Yearly EKG
- Routine stress test
Note: These guidelines are subject to change, as new information becomes available. Be sure to discuss any questions you may have with your doctor.