Do you have a health-related question you’ve been wondering about? Submit it to us through our Instagram, @PVMedGroup! In each newsletter, we’ll answer some of your questions! Please note that if your question is specific to your personal health or requires individual advice, we recommend scheduling either a telehealth or in-person appointment to get the care and guidance you need. “Ask the Doctor” is all about providing helpful, general information that can benefit everyone! We look forward to hearing from you.
In the meantime, here are some answers to questions we get asked all the time!
1. How often should I get a physical exam?
Most people should receive a physical exam annually, even if you are healthy. Generally, it depends on your age, health status, and risk factors. For children, we follow the American Academy of Pediatrics schedule of well-child visits, which you can check out here. Children under the age of 3 are seen much more frequently than those over the age of 3. These visits are crucial for tracking growth, vaccinations, developmental milestones, and addressing any concerns about physical or emotional health. If you have chronic conditions (like diabetes or hypertension), more frequent visits may be needed.
2. Do I really need the flu shot every year?
Yes! The flu virus changes each year, and getting the latest vaccine helps protect you from the most common strains. Plus, it reduces the severity of symptoms if you do get sick. The flu shot is especially important for young children, older adults, and people with chronic illnesses.
3. What’s the difference between a cold, the flu, and COVID-19?
While all three are respiratory infections, they have key differences:
- Cold: Gradual onset, mainly sneezing, sore throat, and congestion.
- Flu: Sudden onset, fever, fatigue, muscle aches, and cough.
- COVID-19: Similar to flu, but may also include loss of taste/smell, shortness of breath, and more severe symptoms in some cases. Testing can confirm the diagnosis.
4. How much sleep do I really need?
Most adults need 7-9 hours of sleep per night to function well. Children and teenagers need more:
- Preschoolers: 10-13 hours
- Teens: 8-10 hours
Good sleep supports immunity, mood, memory, and overall health.
5. Is it okay to exercise if I’m feeling under the weather?
Mild exercise, like walking or yoga, can be fine if you only have cold symptoms above the neck (like a runny nose or sore throat). But if you have a fever, fatigue, chest congestion, or muscle aches, it’s best to rest until you feel better.