Would you like comfortable, accurate, compassionate medical care? Do you wish to prevent chronic illnesses such as diabetes and hypertension before they start? Then, look no further than a well-visit at Ridgeview Internal Medicine in Woodbridge, VA, Dr. Deana Al-Khateeb and her team value women's health issues. Here's what they offer as they partner with you in achieving your best health and well-being.

Why are well-visits important?

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) says that well-visits are the cornerstone of preventive medical care. When your physician performs a complete exam and takes a medical history, she wants to fully understand your physical, emotional and mental health so serious problems can be avoided. Additionally, if something is developing, your Woodbridge women's health provider will catch it early on while it is easier to treat or manage.

Take, for instance, hypertension. When Dr. Al-Khateeb takes your blood pressure, she wishes to see it in a normal range. If it is not, she'll look at what may be causing it to be elevated (stress, weight issues, heredity) and help you take steps to control it (diet, stress reduction, medication). Controlling hypertension helps patients avoid stroke, heart attack, and other issues.

What happens at a well-visit?

Besides taking your weight, height and vital signs, your physician will examine your eyes, ears, throat, and more. You'll discuss any continuing issues you have and any developing concerns. If desired, she will do a pap smear and breast examination and discuss any sexual and reproductive health concerns.

Additionally, Dr. Al-Khateeb will update your immunizations when needed (flu, shingles, pneumonia shots as examples). She'll address any continuing respiratory issues, including allergies, sinusitis, or asthma.

For most adult women, the doctor likes to do an annual blood draw and urine test to screen for:

• Diabetes
• High cholesterol
• Thyroid and liver function
• Infection
• Anemia
• Kidney function

Finally, a well-visit includes a psychosocial screening. Your doctor will want to know if you experience depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts or have pressing problems at home or on the job. All these factors impact health and overall well-being. Plus, Dr. Al-Khateeb can refer you to specialists as needed for these important issues.

We're here to help

At Ridgeview Internal Medicine in Woodbridge, VA, we partner with women in maintaining a healthy life. If you need an annual well-visit, please call the office team for your convenient appointment time: (703) 494-4116. We look forward to serving you!