You’re not alone. Many do. Some dismiss them as unnecessary, while others fear the consequences.
But here’s the hard truth: the danger of not knowing is far greater than the fear of finding out.
My Own Wake-Up Call
In March 2022, my annual check-up revealed a concerning health issue. Within a week, I was consulting doctors and undergoing a procedure. Grateful as I was to have learned about it, the experience left me rattled.
So rattled that I avoided check-ups for the next three years.
But my body didn’t wait. In 2024, it was tinnitus—a constant ringing in my ears. In 2025, adhesive capsulitis, also known as frozen shoulder, occurred in both arms simultaneously. The pain was (and continues to be) relentless, disturbing my sleep for months. I have lost weight — more than 5 kilos in under two months — without any significant change in diet or exercise.
That’s when I knew: it was time for another full-body check.
The Fear vs. The Reality
I won’t deny it. Walking into the diagnostic centre filled me with anxiety. Waiting for the reports was worse. But here’s the thing: anxiety doesn’t kill you. Ignorance can.
Recently, a friend of mine learnt this the hard way. After years of deferring his check-up, he finally went—and discovered a serious disease that required immediate surgery. He was lucky to have caught it in time.
Acceptance Is Key
Health issues may come. Some stay longer than we’d like. But acceptance helps us manage the pain without doubling it with worry.
What doesn’t help is denial.
I have come to terms with Tinnitus being the new normal for me and stopped worrying about it. And I now know that my shoulder freeze is unlikely to leave anytime soon. That said, more than the pain, it’s the disturbed sleep which bothers me, leaving me groggy and tired on most days.
Why You Should Care
If you’re middle-aged or older, don’t put off your periodic medical examination. Do it every year. Yes, the reports may scare you, but they may also save you.
Fear tells you not to know. Wisdom tells you otherwise. Listen to wisdom.
About Me
I am a thinker at all times. I see, I think. I hear, I think. I read, I think. Every weekend I write. I would love to know what you think.