Why does your DOCTOR do that?

A check-up with your doctor can involve a bit of poking and prodding, but what are they actually looking for?

PUSHING ON YOUR TUMMY

It’s called ‘palpation’ and your doctor is feeling for abnormalities such as a hardened or enlarged area, any masses, as well as watching for a pain response from you. Be sure to let them know if you experience any tenderness.

STICKING A CONTRAPTION IN YOUR EAR

The device is an otoscope and it allows the doctor to see inflammation or infection in your ear canal. Your GP can also see any foreign bodies or wax build-up that might be causing complications.

TICKLING YOUR TONSILS

Your doctor may use a long, sterile cotton tip to swab your tonsils. This will be sent to a lab where it’s tested for streptococcus and other bacteria. Your doctor will also use the opportunity to look for lesions, spots and inflammation in your mouth and throat.

SHINING A LIGHT IN YOUR EYES

Your doctor is looking at the way your pupils expand and contract in response to light, to check brain signals are being received accurately. They’re also looking for any swelling around the optic nerve or any foreign bodies causing irritation.

TAPPING YOUR BACK

Like tapping on a wall to locate a stud, these ‘percussions’ are performed to test density in the form of fluid in your lungs. This is usually teamed with listening to your chest using a stethoscope to identify any crackles or other irregularities.