The top ten reasons people visit their doctor – make sure you visit yours before you move abroad.
A new study has revealed skin problems, joint disorders and back pain are the main reasons people visit their doctor. Scientists hope the findings will help researchers focus their efforts on determining better ways to prevent and treat these illnesses in large groups of people.
The Mayo Clinic Proceedings study classified patient diagnoses into disease groups. The top disease groups were:
- Skin disorders
- Osteoarthritis/joint disorders
- Back problems
- Cholesterol problems
- Upper respiratory conditions (not including asthma)
- Anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder
- Chronic neurologic disorders
- High blood pressure
- Headaches/migraine
- Diabetes
The results showed the most prevalent conditions weren’t chronic conditions related to aging such as heart disease and diabetes, but instead, conditions that affect both genders and all age groups.
Seeing a doctor abroad
When you move abroad, existing conditions such as dermatitis, back problems and anxiety can be aggravated by changes to your diet, the weather and the stress of moving. It is important to be prepared before your move by visiting your family doctor at least a month in advance of your moving date.
Your doctor will be able to advise you on ways to minimise any adverse health effects that occur because of changes in your environment. If you need a regular prescription make sure you have enough to last at least until you have settled in and can arrange for a repeat prescription.
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