Healthy Inspirations
What is Examined in an MCU?
Thu, 10 Oct 2024Here are some things that are commonly checked during a Medical Check-Up (MCU):
Current Condition and Medical History
The doctor will assess your current condition through anamnesis/interview and take a complete medical history, including family history, past illnesses, allergies, and current medication use. This information helps in identifying risk factors and understanding the individual's health background.
Physical Examination
A physical examination is conducted to evaluate the overall physical condition by measuring weight, height, blood pressure, heart rate, respiration, and examining organs like the lungs, heart, stomach, skin, and more. This helps in detecting early signs of diseases or abnormalities.
Blood Tests
A series of blood tests during an MCU include routine blood tests (hemoglobin levels, red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets), blood sugar levels (glucose), lipid profile (cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL, LDL), liver function, kidney function, and other specific tests such as pregnancy tests for women. Blood tests provide information about general health, organ function, and markers for certain disease risks.
Urine Tests
Urine tests during an MCU are conducted to evaluate kidney function and detect infections or other abnormalities.
Eye and Hearing Examination
Part of an MCU also involves eye and hearing examinations to evaluate visual acuity, eye pressure, possible eye problems such as cataracts or other related diseases, and hearing function.
Dental and Oral Examination
MCUs often include dental and oral examinations to observe the condition of teeth, gums, and the mouth in general to detect dental problems, gum diseases, or other oral infections.
Electrocardiogram (ECG) Examination
This is an optional examination done during a health check-up. Individuals with heart conditions need to undergo this test to detect any abnormalities in their heart.
Chest X-Ray
If you are a heavy smoker, you may need to undergo a chest x-ray during your general health check-up. Harmful particles continue to accumulate in the lungs, which over time can lead to serious problems. X-rays can detect infections, blockages, and other lung issues.
Additionally, depending on individual needs and specific health risk factors, the MCU may also involve additional tests such as audiometry for hearing, autospirometry for lung function, abdominal ultrasound to assess internal organs, treadmill tests and echocardiography for heart examinations, Pap smears for women to detect cervical cancer, and other specific tests as needed. Get checked and consult your health with a doctor to prevent the risk of certain diseases.
Author: Dr. Melinda Rambing Kong (Medical Consultant Doctor, PRAMITA Clinical Laboratory, Jl. Garuda No. 79 Ruko 4-5 Mahakeret Barat, Manado)