Milmedika

Internal medicine focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases affecting the body’s internal organs. Doctors who specialize in internal medicine, called internists, evaluate your symptoms, assess your overall health—both physical and mental—and recommend further tests, examinations, or consultations with other specialists if needed.

When should you see an internist?

You may need to visit an internist if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms or health concerns:

• Chest pain.
• Stomach or abdominal pain.
• Headaches or episodes of fainting.
• Persistent fever.
• Allergies, coughing, or difficulty breathing.
• Problems with digestion or urination.
• Swollen lymph nodes.
• Pain in your back, neck, joints, arms, or legs.
• Swelling, skin changes, fatigue, or general weakness.
• Unexplained weight loss.
• Increased thirst or frequent urination.
• Constant tiredness with no clear cause.
• Difficulty breathing, either during activity or even at rest.

An internist’s evaluation is also essential when preparing for surgery (preoperative evaluation) and during the postoperative recovery period. Additionally, regular checkups with an internist are important for managing chronic conditions and maintaining overall health.

What does an internist's examination include?

An internist will take a thorough, step-by-step approach to assess your health, which typically involves:

• Medical history (anamnesis): A discussion about your symptoms, previous illnesses, surgeries, family medical history, and lifestyle habits.
• Physical examination: A detailed check of your general health and any specific concerns.
• Blood pressure measurement: Monitoring your blood pressure.
• EKG (electrocardiogram): A heart function test, with additional procedures done if necessary.
• Laboratory tests (if needed): Blood and urine tests may be recommended to assess organ function, such as liver and kidney health, as well as cholesterol levels and other key markers.
• Ultrasound (if required): Imaging of areas like the abdomen, thyroid, or heart may be performed for a more complete evaluation.

In addition to diagnosing and treating illnesses, internists also provide preventive health screenings. These are recommended at least once a year to help you stay proactive about your health and identify potential issues early.

What does an internist's examination include?

An internist will take a thorough, step-by-step approach to assess your health, which typically involves:

• Medical history (anamnesis): A discussion about your symptoms, previous illnesses, surgeries, family medical history, and lifestyle habits.
• Physical examination: A detailed check of your general health and any specific concerns.
• Blood pressure measurement: Monitoring your blood pressure.
• EKG (electrocardiogram): A heart function test, with additional procedures done if necessary.
• Laboratory tests (if needed): Blood and urine tests may be recommended to assess organ function, such as liver and kidney health, as well as cholesterol levels and other key markers.
• Ultrasound (if required): Imaging of areas like the abdomen, thyroid, or heart may be performed for a more complete evaluation.

In addition to diagnosing and treating illnesses, internists also provide preventive health screenings. These are recommended at least once a year to help you stay proactive about your health and identify potential issues early.