A physical examination, also known simply as a “physical,” is a process in which the physician examines various organ systems and other parts of the patient’s body. As the standard tool used to diagnose diseases and monitor overall health, it represents the cornerstone of preventive medicine. It is far better to prevent a disease than to treat it, and better to treat it early before it becomes worse.

More specifically, a cardiovascular examination is an investigation that targets the heart and its major vessels. During a cardiovascular examination, the physician fully evaluates the patient’s heart and major blood vessels.

The American Heart Association (AHA) has provided guidelines to physicians regarding routine screening for heart disease. Screening people at regular intervals can help physicians detect cerebrovascular disease and cardiovascular disease before the presence of symptoms. Early detection allows for treatment that may prevent a stroke, heart attack or other major health event.