Headed to Your Annual Physical? Don’t Forget These 5 Things Your Provider Really Wants to Know
September 22 • 2025
Your annual physical is more than just a routine checkup. It’s a vital opportunity to talk to your doctor about anything that could impact your long-term health. But sometimes as patients we forget to mention things that actually matter.
In the video below, Dr. Guimy Alexis lets you know 5 things you should always tell your provider and how Aylo Health can help support you on your health journey.
If you’re preparing for your next appointment, here are five things your doctor really wants you to share.
1. New Medications or Supplements, Even the Natural Ones
Whether it’s a prescription from a specialist, an over-the-counter allergy med, or a new herbal supplement you saw on TikTok, your doctor needs to know about it.
Why?
Because even “natural” products can interact with your medications or affect lab results. Bring a list, or better yet, snap a photo of the labels. This simple step helps your provider keep you safe and avoid any unwanted side effects.
2. Changes in Sleep, Energy, or Mood
Struggling to fall asleep? Feeling more tired than usual? Not quite yourself lately? These things might seem minor, but they’re often clues that something bigger is going on.
Sleep issues can point to underlying conditions like sleep apnea or thyroid problems.
Low energy and mood shifts can signal anything from nutrient deficiencies to depression. Speak up even if it feels small. Your doctor wants to hear it.
3. Family Health Updates
Your family’s medical history is a powerful tool for predicting and preventing health issues. If someone in your immediate family was recently diagnosed with heart disease, diabetes, cancer, or other chronic conditions, let your doctor know.
These insights help guide your care like deciding when to start screenings or how to tailor preventive strategies just for you.
4. Any New or Persistent Pain
You don’t have to “tough it out” or wait until something feels serious.
If you’ve been dealing with joint stiffness, back pain, headaches, or any other physical discomfort bring it up. What seems small to you might be a red flag to your doctor, or at the very least, something that can be treated before it becomes a bigger issue.
5. Big Life Changes (Yes, Even Work Stress)
Life happens and it affects your health. Moving to a new city, losing a loved one, starting a new job, or going through a stressful season at work can all take a toll on your physical and mental well-being.
Chronic stress, in particular, has been linked to high blood pressure, sleep problems, digestive issues, and more.
Your doctor can offer support, resources, or referrals to help you navigate the change.
Bonus Tip: The Word “No”
Patients have the right to autonomy when it comes to their healthcare decisions and at Aylo Health, we wholeheartedly support that.
Ultimately, it’s your life, and our goal is to provide you with the guidance, information, and tools needed to help improve it. But if you ever disagree with a treatment plan, it’s completely okay to say no. What matters most is having open and honest communication. When patients and providers work together through thoughtful dialogue, it builds trust and leads to more personalized, effective care.
Your voice matters in every part of your healthcare journey.
Bottom Line
Your annual physical is your time. The more your doctor knows, the better care they can provide. So before you head in, take a few minutes to jot down anything new, different, or concerning. Those small details could make a big difference in your health.
Ayo Health focuses on treating the whole person. We want to get to the bottom of things and solve the issue versus just treating the symptoms.
Schedule your appointment today at any of our Aylo Health locations around the greater Atlanta area.