Your first year of college may be incredibly stressful. This is a time when you are adjusting to the major life changes of moving out and being on your own. You may also feel financial stress for the first time in your life. These are only a few of the stressors that are common for new college students, so you need to be in excellent health from day one. Through several different types of healthcare appointments, you can ensure that you are in great health and can potentially avoid unpleasant or stressful health-related problems once classes begin.

You cannot afford to have poor vision in college. Some classes may be huge, and you may be forced to sit dozens of feet away from the screen or board. You may also spend many long hours reading books and studying. Poor vision can detract from your ability to read, and it can also lead to regular headaches. Before you head off to college, stop by your optometrist’s office for an annual eye exam. Be sure to update your contacts and glasses prescriptions at this time.

Ideally, you will visit the dentist two times each year for a regular hygiene exam. This exam is essential for healthy teeth and gums. In addition to a cleaning and hygiene visit, you may also want to visit a cosmetic dental professional such as The Smile Architectsto address any aesthetic concerns that you have. For example, whitening yellow or stained teeth can help you to feel more confident. Veneers, crowns and other cosmetic dental procedures can also be used in different ways to give you a smile that you love.

Many colleges and universities require students to be up-to-date with immunizations. Commonly, a meningitis vaccination is required as well. During a well-check, you may get a renewal for any prescriptions that you take regularly. This can prevent you from having to deal with the stress and inconvenience of rushing around to get a refill approved at the last minute.

Your health is essential for success in college. Each of these appointments serves different and essential purposes. While you should schedule these appointments before class starts this year, you should also plan ahead for these appointments in the future. Your health status can change over time. In some cases, it can change dramatically within a short period of time. Staying on top of your health in college and beyond can help you to be happier and more productive in life.