Hello! You are at a very important juncture in your life right now, aren't you? It's the time when you start to face the world as a young adult. So, it's time to think about your health properly. That's why this special medical examination done at the age of 20, called the 'Well-Child Visit', is so important. You may think that just because you say 'child', I'm already older. But this is actually an important examination that checks whether you are healthy as a young person, whether your development is going well, and what you need to do to stay healthy in the future. So, shall we talk a little more about it?
What happens during this medical examination (checkup)?
When you go to see the doctor, they will run a few tests to get a better understanding of your health. There's nothing to worry about, these are very normal things.
Things to look at first
1. Weight and height measurement: Your weight and height are measured accurately and a value called 'Body Mass Index' (BMI) is calculated to see if you are at a healthy weight for your height. These measurements are then plotted on your growth chart. This allows the doctor to see how your growth has been over time.
2. Blood Pressure and Hearing: Your blood pressure will be checked. Sometimes your hearing may also be checked. These are important measures of general health.
3. Depression screening: Your mental health is also very important. Therefore, you may be given a screening test to find out how you are feeling mentally, and possibly to see if you have conditions like depression. This can help you identify any problems early on.
Questions and advice the doctor will ask you
The doctor or nurse will talk to you and ask about your lifestyle and habits. This is also a good time to talk about any questions or concerns you may have.
- About food: A balanced diet is very important during adolescence. You should eat three main meals a day. It is good to eat at least 5 servings of lean protein (e.g. fish, chicken, eggs, lentils), fruits and vegetables per day, whole grains (e.g. bran rice, kurakkan, atta flour), and dairy foods (milk, yogurt, cheese) or fortified soy milk with added calcium (fortified soy milk) at least 3 servings a day. You should limit foods high in fat, salt, and sugar . It is very good for the body to reduce sugary drinks, toffee, chocolate, and oily foods as much as possible.
- About sleep: At this age, you definitely need between 7 and 9 hours of sleep a night . If you don't get enough sleep, your concentration will decrease, and your studies and work may be disrupted. It's a good idea to establish a relaxing bedtime routine. Also, stop using electronic devices like phones and computers an hour or two before bed. That light can disrupt your sleep.
- About Physical Activity: Aim to do about 150 minutes of moderate activity (e.g., brisk walking) or about 75 minutes of vigorous activity (e.g., running) per week. This can help keep your physical health as well as your mental health at a good level.
- About your Growth and Development: By age 20, young people typically:
- Develop a sense of self-worth .
- Individual relationships are valued more than group relationships.
- Becomes more independent from parents.
- You start to think more abstractly to solve problems.
- Making long-term plans for the future.
Think about it, all of these things happen as you grow up and mature. It will become clearer to you when you talk to your doctor about these things.
Physical Exam
Next, the doctor will examine you.
- They look at your skin and listen to your heart and lungs with a stethoscope.
- If you are a young woman, you may be referred to a gynecologist , who will specifically look at your reproductive health.
- If you are a young man, your doctor will examine your testicles to check for hernias , cysts, or varicoceles (swelling of the veins in the testicles). These are easier to treat if they are caught early.
Giving vaccines
Vaccinations protect us from serious diseases. So, if you have any vaccines that need to be given at a specific time, you can get them now. Vaccination schedules can vary, so ask your doctor what to expect.
Lab Tests as required
If your doctor thinks it's necessary, he or she will order certain blood tests, such as:
- See Anemia .
- Check if you have high cholesterol .
- Tuberculosis .
- Hepatitis C.
- Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) .
These tests help you identify health problems that may be hidden from view.
Thinking ahead: Your health and safety
This medical checkup is a good opportunity to think not only about your health, but also about your future.
Your Responsibilities - Self
- Plan for the future: What are your goals? Higher education? A job? Think about it and plan.
- Keep doing things you enjoy: Engage in things you enjoy, such as art, music, sports, and social service. These are very important for your mental happiness.
- Fulfill your school/work responsibilities properly.
- Ask for help when you need it: Never be ashamed to seek help from family, a trusted adult, or a healthcare professional.
- Learn ways to manage stress: Things like exercising, meditating, and talking things out with a friend or family member can help reduce stress.
- Be aware of the symptoms of depression: If you experience symptoms such as frequent irritability, a lack of joy, loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities, decreased academic performance, and thoughts of being bored with life, seek professional help immediately.
- Switch to an adult doctor: If you are still going to a pediatrician, now is the time to switch to a doctor who specializes in adults.
- Take care of your dental health: Brush your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste. Use dental floss to clean between your teeth. Visit a dentist at least twice a year.
Safety is also very important!
You should think about your own safety first.
- Always wear a seatbelt when riding in a vehicle.
- Don't talk on the phone or text while driving. It can distract you and cause accidents.
- If you are sexually active, use birth control and condoms to protect yourself from unwanted pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Talk openly with your doctor about this.
- Get out of relationships that are violent, disrespectful, or sexually coercive. Your happiness and safety are most important.
- Apply sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher 15 minutes before going out in the sun . Reapply every two hours. Avoid tanning beds. They increase the risk of skin cancer.
- Completely avoid smoking, vaping, alcohol, and other drug use. Also, do not take prescription medicines that were not prescribed for you.
- Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Also, never ride in a vehicle driven by someone under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Instead, make arrangements with a designated driver in advance, or use another safe mode of transportation.
One more little thing...
- If you have dangerous items at home, such as sharp weapons or toxic substances, keep them locked up and safe, out of reach of children. Especially avoid keeping things like firearms at home. If you have any, keep them locked up and out of reach of children. Keep the ammunition separate and safe.
- If you have any concerns about your living situation (e.g., not having enough food, not having a safe place to live, not having health insurance), talk to your doctor about it. He or she may be able to refer you to community resources or introduce you to a social worker who can help.
Finally, what to remember
So, you probably understand how important it is to get a medical checkup at age 20. This is not only about your health, but it also helps you gain the knowledge and strength you need to successfully cope with life as a young adult.
The most important thing is to be open and honest with your doctor. Talk to him about any questions, doubts, or fears you have. Remember, your doctor is like your best friend on your health journey.
We hope these tips will be very useful for your healthy future!
` Medical Examination, Youth Health, 20 Years, Well-Child Visit, Health Advice, Mental Health, Safety
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