Verified Health Resource

Understanding Physical Examination

A physical examination is a routine check-up where a doctor looks at your overall health from head to toe — even when you are not feeling sick. It helps your doctor catch any health problems early, before they become serious. Many people in Ghana and West Africa visit the clinic for a physical examination before starting a new job, school, or travel, or simply to know how their body is doing.

Common Symptoms / Concerns for Physical Examination

No symptoms — this is a routine wellness visit

Feeling generally unwell without a clear cause

Unexplained tiredness or weakness

Noticeable changes in weight (gain or loss)

Persistent headaches or dizziness

Shortness of breath during normal activities

Swelling in the legs, feet, or hands

Changes in vision or hearing

When to Seek Professional Care

Book an evaluation with a healthcare provider immediately if you experience or present with:

You have not had a check-up in more than one year
You have a long-term condition like diabetes, high blood pressure, or asthma that needs monitoring
You are pregnant or planning to become pregnant
You need a medical certificate for work, school, or travel
A family member has been diagnosed with a serious hereditary condition
You are over 40 years old and have never had a full health screening
You feel something is wrong with your body but cannot explain what it is
You are starting a new medication and need a baseline health check

What to Expect During Your Medical Consultation

When you come in for a physical examination, the doctor will ask you about your general health, any medicines you take, and your family's health history — so try to come prepared with that information. They will then check your weight, blood pressure, heart rate, and temperature, and may listen to your heart and lungs, feel your abdomen, and look at your eyes, ears, and throat. The visit is straightforward and nothing to worry about — it is simply your doctor making sure you are in good health.

Medical Divisions Vetted for Physical Examination

Our platform supports multiple clinical specialties capable of providing consultations for this visit type:

Primary Care Doctor

Clinicians available for physical examination consultations.

About division Find Doctors

Medical Doctor

Clinicians available for physical examination consultations.

About division Find Doctors

Related Conditions

Conditions commonly associated with Physical Examination consultations:

Erectile dysfunction (ED)

Also known as: Impotence, Difficulty getting or maintaining an erection, Erectile issues, Male sexual dysfunction, Erection problems

Sexually transmitted disease (STD)

Also known as: STD, sexually transmitted disease

Headache

Also known as: cephalgia, dolor capitis, ha, head ache, head pain

Apollo

Also known as: pink eye, Apollo, Conjunctivitis

Cough

Fever

₵100

per visit

Prime: ₵90

Tema5(4)

Today Highly Rated♥ Loyal PatientsVirtual

👶🏻Medical Doctor | Compassionate Care for Little Ones With a passion for pediatric health i am dedicated to providing exceptional care to infants, children, and adolescents. As a medical professional, I offer comprehensive medical services, from routine check-ups to specialized treatments. 🏥 Expertise: - Pediatric Primary Care - Neonatal Medicine - Childhood Immunizations - Developmental Assessments - Adolescent Care New patients are welcome! Schedule an appointment today to give your child the expert care they deserve😊 Let's ensure a healthy future for your little ones together!

Next available — tue, Jul 21

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be sick before I can go for a physical examination?

No, you do not need to be sick. A physical examination is meant for healthy people who want to make sure everything is fine with their body. It is one of the best ways to find health problems early, when they are easier to treat.

How often should I go for a physical examination?

Most adults should have a full check-up at least once a year. If you have a condition like diabetes or high blood pressure, your doctor may want to see you more often. Children and the elderly may also need more frequent visits.

What tests will the doctor do during a physical examination?

The doctor will check your blood pressure, weight, heart rate, and temperature. They may also order blood tests to check your sugar levels, cholesterol, and kidney or liver function. The exact tests depend on your age, health history, and any concerns you have.

Do I need to fast before a physical examination?

It depends on the tests your doctor plans to do. If blood tests like fasting blood sugar or cholesterol are included, you may be asked not to eat or drink anything except water for 8–12 hours before your appointment. Your doctor or clinic will let you know in advance.

Can a physical examination detect serious diseases like cancer or diabetes?

Yes, a physical examination can pick up early signs of many serious conditions, including high blood pressure, diabetes, and some cancers. That is exactly why regular check-ups are so important — catching a disease early gives you a much better chance of successful treatment.

Schedule Consultations

Get connected with local doctors. Instantly schedule appointments for Physical Examination on our HIPAA-compliant, telehealth-enabled platform.

Clinical Divisions

Primary Care Doctor Medical Doctor

Clinical Governance

Our guides are reviewed by internal medical advisory boards to uphold patient guidelines and reference certified therapies.

Your doctor is only an appointment away.

Feeling unwell? Our friendly healthcare professionals are here to listen, advise, and care for you. Just open the app for quick, expert help. No stress, no fuss.