Can I drink water before a medical examination?

Most physical examination items require fasting and no water intake. However, there are some examination items without strict requirements regarding drinking water. Common examinations that require fasting include blood glucose, liver function, kidney function, blood lipids, and abdominal ultrasound. Conducting these examinations in a fasting state can avoid the influence of food and water on the blood and organs, thereby obtaining more accurate results. Therefore, individuals undergoing these examinations are usually required to fast and abstain from drinking water for more than 8 hours beforehand. Some examination items have no special requirements regarding drinking water. For example, oral examinations, electrocardiograms (ECG), vision, hearing, smell, blood pressure, and heart and lung examinations generally are not affected by water intake. In these cases, individuals may drink a moderate amount of water before the examination to relieve thirst and discomfort.

Prior to undergoing a physical examination, it is best to consult with a physician or staff at the examination center to understand the specific examination items and their requirements regarding water intake. Follow medical advice when preparing for the examination to ensure the accuracy of the results. If fasting is required, plan your time accordingly to ensure no food or water intake for at least 8 hours before the examination. If thirsty, small sips of water may be taken, but excessive drinking should be avoided. Remain relaxed and avoid anxiety before the examination, as this can help reduce physiological changes caused by emotional factors that may affect the examination results.