It can be easy to skip physicals, especially if you're young. However, that doesn't mean that they aren't important. According to the Census Bureau, emergency visits cost about $76.3 billion annually. One of the best ways to avoid these hefty bills is to be mindful of your health. Here are three reasons why you should get an annual physical.

1. They Can Catch Changes

While you might not notice certain things if you look at them from a day-by-day perspective, it might become obvious to your doctor that something's changed over the course of time. A certain mole on your back may have grown or changed, for example. Your doctor could see that it's now grown in size and may be raised. As a result, they may send you to a dermatologist, who will biopsy it to make sure that it's not a malignant melanoma. That sort of thing could progress to a dangerous level without regular physicals.

2. They Can Catch Diseases

There are some diseases that aren't noticeable and can continue to progress without you knowing it. By going in for a physical, your doctor can catch problems early. If they request blood work, they may find that your white blood cell is too high, for example. They could also detect that you've developed high blood pressure, which could suddenly show up. Instead of becoming a possible stroke victim, you could get put on medication before anything severe occurs.

3. They Can Point You Toward Health Changes

One of the best things about regular check-ups is that they can also be preventative. Your doctor might notice that you're not getting enough exercise or eating properly. They can tell you about how you can stay healthy, and this is important at every age. Even if you're young, it puts you on the right track. As you get older, they can give you tips for avoiding common health conditions that tend to develop later in life.

You should be sure to make yearly appointments when you're in your twenties and keep it up each year through your thirties, forties, and beyond. Do you need to find someone who conducts physicals in your area? We can help! Contact Southwest Urgent Care Center today to get started, and we'll take steps to ensure you're in good health.