Your quick guide: eye, skin, and oral health checks

As we head into the festive season and start prepping for a whole new year, what better time than to take stock of your health?

To make it super simple, we’ve outlined a practical guide that focuses on your dental, eye and skin health.

And no – health checks aren’t just for when you’re feeling unwell. Think of health screenings as your body’s early warning system. Regular checks can catch problems before they become serious, saving you from unnecessary pain, costs and stress.

Dental health check-in

It’s great that you brush your teeth twice a day and floss, but that doesn’t substitute regular dentist visits. The things you don’t see that a dentist can pick up on includes gum disease, gingivitis, and potential signs of diabetes or heart disease. Try to see the dentist at least twice a year, and sooner if you experience bleeding or swelling in your mouth. When brushing, check for sores and patches on the insides of your cheeks or any other abnormal symptoms.

Eye health check-in

If you’re only planning on going to the optometrist when you experience a problem with your eyes, it’s time to reassess. As with other health screenings, eye checks are also vital for spotting hidden issues like high blood pressure or diabetes. If your eyes are generally healthy, you should still see the optometrist at least every two years. If you wear glasses, you should do an annual visit. The same applies if you’re diabetic or over the age of 40.

Don’t delay a screening if you start to experience blurry or double vision, dryness, redness, sudden flashes, and floaters.

Skin health check-in

Your skin is your body’s largest organ and your first line of defense against the environment. Every day it faces sunlight, pollution, and the wear and tear of daily life, so it deserves regular care. Once a month, take a few minutes to do a simple self-check.

Check for moles or spots that change in shape, colour, or size, rashes or itching that don’t go away and any dry, thickened, or slow-healing patches. These can sometimes be early signs of allergies, infections, or even skin cancer.

If you spend a lot of time outdoors, make it a habit to see a dermatologist once a year. And remember, sunscreen isn’t just for sunny days; it’s your skin’s daily shield. Keep it protected and moisturised to stay healthy from the outside in.

Don’t forget the basics

• Blood pressure and cholesterol: High levels can lead to heart disease or stroke.
• Blood sugar: Essential for detecting diabetes early.
• BMI and waist size: Useful for spotting obesity-related risks.
• Liver and kidney function tests: Often done through simple blood or urine tests.
• Vaccinations: Stay updated, especially for flu, tetanus, and hepatitis.
• Regular exercise and balanced diet: Screenings are more effective when combined with healthy habits.
• Know your family history: It can help your doctor recommend the right checks for you.

Good to know

Many of us tend to ignore necessary health screenings, until a problem arises. One of the keys to good health is being proactive. Taking care of your health today is an investment in your long-term wellbeing.

Remember the golden rule: prevention is better than cure. Do your best to stay on schedule with regular screenings and tests. It’s the simplest way to be proactive about your health in the long run. Please always visit a doctor if you have any persistently concerning symptoms.

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only. Always check with your doctor or medical practitioner about any health concerns, before embarking on any fitness or nutrition programme, or using any medication.