Annual examinations offered by your Burbank, CA, primary care physician, Dr. Lawrence Delano Tran, are essential for your health. As health problems aren't always obvious, at least initially, exams offer a simple way to protect and maintain your good health.
 

What can I expect at my annual examination?

Your examination at the Burbank medical office may include:
 

• Weight and Blood Pressure Checks: The staff will weigh you and check your blood pressure. If your blood pressure is too high, you may be able to lower it by losing weight, changing your diet, or exercising more. In some cases, medication may be needed to reduce the pressure. It's important to keep your blood pressure under control, as it can increase your risk of kidney disease, stroke, heart attack, heart disease, and other health problems even if you don't notice any symptoms.
   
• Heart and Lungs Check: The doctor will listen to your heart and lungs with a stethoscope. He'll check for irregular heartbeats and listen for abnormal sounds, like heart murmurs or wheezing.
   
• Eyes, Ears, Mouth, and Throat: In addition to checking your eyes, ears, mouth, and throat, your doctor may ask you a few questions about any changes in your vision and hearing.
   
• Abdominal Examination: Your visit will also include an examination of your abdomen. Examining the abdomen helps your doctor find tender areas, determine if your liver is enlarged, or identify sore or tender areas.
   
• Prostate Examination: A prostate examination is a must if you're male or have a prostate. As you grow older, your risk of prostate enlargement or cancer increases.
   
• Gynecological Examination: If you're female or have female reproductive organs and don't have an OB/GYN, your doctor can perform breast and pelvic examinations.
   
• Blood Tests: Diabetes, high cholesterol, thyroid, and kidney disease, and other diseases and conditions can be detected through blood tests. The test also evaluates the platelets and red and white cells in your blood. If there are any issues with your tests, the office will contact you.
   
• Vaccines: You may also receive vaccines or vaccine scripts during your examination. Depending on your age, you may benefit from shingles, pneumonia, or human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines, in addition to a yearly flu shot. You may also need boosters if your childhood vaccinations no longer protect you from certain diseases.
   

Have you had an annual examination this year? If not, call your primary care physician in Burbank, Ca, Dr. Lawrence Delano Tran, at (818) 391-1028 to schedule your appointment.