What to Expect During This Visit
The doctor and/or nurse will probably:

1. Check weight
and height, calculate body
mass index (BMI), and plot the measurements on growth
charts.
2. Check blood pressure, vision,
and possibly hearing.
3. Give a screening (test) that checks for depression.
4. Ask questions, address concerns, and offer advice about:
Eating. Young adults should eat three meals a day that include
lean protein, at least 5 servings of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and at least
three servings of dairy products or a fortified milk alternative. Limit food and drinks
that are high in fat and sugar.
Sleeping. Young adults need about
7 to 9 hours of sleep per night.
Poor sleep makes them less alert and cause problems at work or school. Follow
a relaxing bedtime routine and turn off devices, including phones and computers, before
bed.
Physical activity. Each week, young adults should aim for 150
minutes of moderate physical activity (like fast walking) or 75 minutes of vigorous
activity (like running).
Growth and development. By 18, it's common for young adults to:
- develop a sense of self
- value individual relationships over peer groups
- become more independent from parents
- think abstractly to solve problems
- have long-term plans for the future
5. Do a physical
exam. The doctor will look at the skin and listen to the heart and lungs.
Young women will undergo a pelvic exam or be referred to a gynecologist. In guys,
the doctor will check the testicles for masses and varicocele (swollen veins).
6. Update immunizations. Immunizations
can protect people from serious illnesses, so it's important to get them on time.
Immunization schedules vary from office to office, so talk to the doctor about what
to expect.
7. Order tests. Your doctor may check for anemia,
high cholesterol, tuberculosis, and sexually transmitted diseases
(STDs) and order tests, if needed.