Most people are familiar with annual GP visits, dental check-ups, and eye tests, but there’s a growing list of lesser-known health checks that could be just as crucial for your long-term well-being. These are the hidden checks that don’t always make the headlines but could quietly be protecting your health behind the scenes.
Here are some of the most important hidden health checks you should consider adding to your radar.
1. Hearing Tests
Hearing loss tends to creep up gradually, making it easy to overlook. But reduced hearing can affect everything from your balance and cognitive health to your social confidence and safety. Even if you feel your hearing is “fine,” subtle declines can go unnoticed for years.
Booking a professional hearing assessment through an independent audiology clinic ensures you receive a personalised and accurate check that isn’t rushed. It’s particularly important if you’ve had long-term exposure to loud environments or are over the age of 40.
2. Skin Cancer Screenings
Changes in your skin, such as new moles, changes in shape or colour, or persistent dry patches, can sometimes indicate something more serious. Full-body mole checks or skin cancer screenings by a dermatologist can detect issues early before they develop into more dangerous conditions. These checks are especially vital if you spend a lot of time outdoors or have a family history of skin conditions.
3. Thyroid Function Tests
The thyroid is a small gland with a big impact. If it’s underactive or overactive, it can cause symptoms like fatigue, weight changes, anxiety, or feeling cold all the time. Many people live with undiagnosed thyroid issues for years, attributing their symptoms to stress or ageing. A simple blood test can help assess your thyroid function and guide appropriate treatment.
4. Iron and Vitamin Level Checks
You might think tiredness, headaches, or poor concentration are just part of modern life, but they could be signs of a deficiency in iron, B12, or vitamin D. These nutrient checks can be done quickly through a blood test and can make a huge difference to your energy levels and mental clarity.
5. Bone Density Scan
Bone density tests, often called DEXA scans, are typically recommended for postmenopausal women, but men and younger individuals at risk can also benefit. Osteoporosis and bone loss are silent conditions that don’t show symptoms until a fracture occurs. Early detection can prevent serious mobility issues later on.
6. Lung Health Assessment
Even if you’ve never smoked, poor air quality and occupational hazards can take a toll on your lungs. A spirometry test or other lung function tests can help detect conditions like asthma, COPD, or early signs of respiratory decline. These checks are especially useful for people exposed to dust, chemicals, or pollutants.
7. Mental Health Screening
Depression, anxiety, and burnout can be hard to self-diagnose. Routine mental health screenings—done via your GP or a qualified mental health practitioner—can provide a safe space to explore your well-being and access help if needed. These checks are particularly helpful during life transitions, such as becoming a parent, changing jobs, or retiring.
8. Men’s and Women’s Hormone Panels
Hormone imbalances can lead to sleep disturbances, mood swings, libido changes, and even weight fluctuations. Whether it’s testosterone for men or oestrogen and progesterone for women, getting a hormone panel can shed light on unexplained symptoms and help you tailor lifestyle or medical interventions.
Small Checks, Big Impact
It’s easy to put off health checks when you feel “fine.” However, the point of many hidden tests is early detection, so you can act before symptoms become problematic. Whether it’s scheduling a check-up for your hearing, or asking your GP about thyroid function or vitamin levels, small proactive steps today can protect your future health in big ways.
Sometimes what you don’t check is what matters most. Make time for the hidden essentials because they might just be your body’s best insurance policy.