Life Insurance Health Appointment Tips

> You should COMPLETELY FAST (NO EATING, AND DRINK ONLY WATER) for 6 hours prior to the exam. (We recommend 12 hours for the best possible results.)

> Stay off salt for 3-4 days prior to exam – may have a beneficial effect on blood pressure.

> No alcohol for 24 hours prior to exam, as alcohol tends to elevate blood pressure for 12-24 hours.

> Get a good night’s rest before the examination.

> No heavy meals and little or no caffeine on morning of the exam. Decaffeinated coffee and a light breakfast would be best.

> Do not smoke within 30 minutes of exam. Smoking tends to constrict artery walls and elevate blood pressure.

> Have the exam in the morning because you will be more relaxed.

> Provide urine specimen before blood pressure check if possible. Elimination of fluids tends to moderately lower blood pressure.

HYPERTENTION:
No stimulants (caffeine, alcohol, cigarettes)
Morning exam
Blood pressure after you have had a chance to relax – 3 minute attempts at 10 minute intervals

DIABETES:
Exam 2 ½ hours after meal, and no sweets or sugar after the meal
Empty bladder right after meal
2-3 glasses of water before the exam

URINARY SPECIMEN PROBLEMS: (albumin, RCBs, sugar, etc)
Empty bladder right after meals
Drink 2-3 glasses of water before the exam
No sweets or foods with sugar content before exam

CORONARY, EKG PROBLEMS:
Have exam 2 ½ hours after a light meal
No stimulants

FINAL TIP: Do not try to hide any medical history – be completely candid with your examiner.