Understanding Your Health Problems and Planning of Health Checkups on Regular Basis

How to Read Warning Signs Your Body Gives

Your body always gives signals when something is wrong. Learn to listen:

General Warning Signs:

• Extreme tiredness that doesn't go away with rest

• Unexplained weight loss or weight gain

• Changes in appetite - eating much more or much less

• Sleep problems - can't sleep or sleeping too much

• Mood changes - feeling sad or angry without reason

Specific Symptoms to Never Ignore:

• Chest pain - even mild, especially during physical activity

• Shortness of breath - getting breathless easily

• Frequent urination - especially at night

• Blurred vision - difficulty seeing clearly

• Wounds that don't heal - cuts or sores that stay for weeks

• Persistent cough - cough that doesn't go away

• Changes in moles - new growths or changes in existing ones

What to Do:

Don't wait for symptoms to become worse. See a doctor as soon as possible.

Common Health Problems That Need Early Detection

1. High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)

Why It's Dangerous:

• Called "silent killer" because you don't feel anything

• Can damage heart, brain, and kidneys quietly

• Can cause heart attack and stroke

Early Signs to Watch:

• Frequent headaches

• Dizziness

• Feeling tired often

Simple Test:

• Blood pressure check (takes 2 minutes)

• Should be done every 6 months after age 30

2. Diabetes (High Blood Sugar)

Why It's Serious:

• Damages eyes, kidneys, nerves, and heart slowly

• Can cause blindness and kidney failure

• Wounds heal slowly, risk of infection

Early Signs:

• Feeling very thirsty

• Urinating frequently

• Feeling tired all the time

• Wounds healing slowly

Simple Test:

• Blood sugar test (fasting and after meal)

• Should be done yearly after age 35

3. High Cholesterol

Why It Matters:

• Blocks blood vessels

• Increases risk of heart attack

• Usually no symptoms until it's serious

Who Should Get Tested:

• Anyone over 35 years

• People with family history of heart problems

• Those who eat oily food regularly

Simple Test:

• Lipid profile blood test

• Should be done every 2 years

4. Kidney Problems

Why Early Detection Helps:

• Kidneys don't show symptoms until 80% damaged

• Early treatment can slow down damage

• Prevents need for dialysis

Simple Tests:

• Urine test

• Blood test for kidney function (creatinine)

• Should be done yearly

5. Cancer Screening

Why It's Important:

• Early-stage cancer is often curable

• Treatment is less painful and less expensive

• Survival rates are much higher

Simple Screenings:

• Women: Breast examination, Pap smear

• Men: Prostate check after 50

• Everyone: Regular health check-ups

What Happens During a Basic Health Check-up?

Before the Test:

• Fast for 10-12 hours (only water allowed)

• Get good sleep the night before

• Bring your previous reports if you have any

During the Check-up:

1. Height and Weight Measurement (2 minutes)

2. Blood Pressure Check (2 minutes)

3. Blood Sample Collection (5 minutes)

4. Urine Sample (2 minutes)

5. Basic Physical Examination (10 minutes)

Total Time: About 30 minutes

After the Test:

• Reports usually ready same day or next day

• Doctor explains what the numbers mean

• You get advice on diet and lifestyle

• Follow-up plan if needed

Affordable Health Check-up Options

Government Health Centers:

• Very low cost or free tests

• Available in most areas

• Quality is good for basic tests

Charitable Organizations:

• Organizations like Tamboli Charitable Trust offer affordable packages

• Quality care at reasonable prices

• Special rates for needy families

Health Camps:

• Free or very cheap health check-ups

• Conducted regularly in communities

• Good for basic screening

Sample Costs:

• Basic Health Package: ₹500-800

• Comprehensive Package: ₹1,200-2,000

• Specialized Tests: ₹200-500 each

Remember: Early detection costs much less than treatment later

Understanding Your Health Reports

Don't Panic When You See Numbers

Many people get scared when they see their health reports. Here's how to understand them better:

Blood Sugar Report Example:

Normal Range: 80-100 mg/dl (fasting)

• Your Result: 105 - Slightly high, need to watch diet

• Your Result: 130 - Pre-diabetes, lifestyle changes needed

• Your Result: 180 - Diabetes, need doctor consultation

  
  

Blood Pressure Reading:

Normal: Less than 120/80

• 130/85 - High normal, start watching salt intake

• 140/90 - High, need lifestyle changes

• 160/100 - Very high, need medicine and doctor's care

The Key Point:

Even if numbers are not perfect, catching them early means you have time to fix things naturally with diet, exercise, and small changes.

Planning of Health Checkups

Monthly:

• Check your weight

• Monitor blood pressure if you have a machine at home

• Do breast self-examination (women)

Every 6 Months:

• Get blood pressure checked

• Visit dentist for teeth cleaning

Yearly:

• Complete blood count

• Blood sugar test

• Basic health check-up

Every 2 Years:

• Cholesterol test

• Eye check-up

• Comprehensive health package

Creating a Health Calendar for Your Family

Make Health Check-ups a Family Tradition

January: New Year, New Health Goals

• Plan yearly health check-ups for all family members

• Set health goals for the year

April: Summer Health Check

• Get basic tests done before the hot season

• Check hydration and summer health tips

July: Monsoon Precautions

• Check immunity levels

• Vaccinations if needed

October: Festive Season Health

• Get comprehensive check-ups before festival season

• Ensure good health for celebrations

Keep a Family Health Record

• Maintain a file with everyone's test reports

• Note down family history of diseases

• Keep track of vaccination dates

• Record any chronic conditions or medicines

When to See a Doctor Immediately

Some situations need immediate medical attention. Don't wait for regular check-ups:

Emergency Symptoms:

• Severe chest pain

• Difficulty breathing

• Sudden weakness on one side of body

• Severe headache unlike any before

• High fever that doesn't come down

• Vomiting blood

• Severe stomach pain

• Loss of consciousness

Call for Help:

• Emergency number: 108 (free ambulance service)

• Go to nearest hospital immediately

• Don't try home remedies for serious symptoms

Making Health Check-ups Easier

Tips for Busy People:

Plan Ahead:

• Book appointments in advance

• Choose early morning slots to avoid crowds

• Combine family check-ups on the same day

Prepare the Night Before:

• Keep all required documents ready

• Start fasting if required

• Get good sleep

Make It Convenient:

• Choose centers near your home or workplace

• Look for centers with multiple services in one place

• Consider home collection services for some tests

For Senior Citizens:

Special Considerations:

• Book longer appointment slots

• Take someone along for support

• Carry all current medicines

• Wear comfortable clothes

• Bring reading glasses for forms