Physical Exam

During a physical exam, a health professional looks at, listens to, and touches or gently presses on (palpates) the body. This exam helps the health professional determine the cause of symptoms, what other conditions may be present, and what medical tests may be needed. During a physical exam, the health professional may:

Take the person's temperature.
Listen to the heart and lungs.
Examine the eyes with an ophthalmoscope.
Examine the ears with an otoscope.
Touch or gently press on (palpate) the neck, underarms, abdomen, and groin.
Look at the skin.
Check the person's balance and coordination.

Credits

By:

Healthwise Staff

Last Revised: August 13, 2012

Medical Review:

Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine
E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.