Teen Health

Teen Health Evaluation

It is important that even has your child gets older, into the teenage years, they continue to visit their pediatrician, for their annual/yearly checkup. This way we can keep track of any health issues, as well as, their physical, mental and social development. It can also be a way for your teenager to speak to someone about any questions they may have; and allows us to discuss the importance of living a healthy lifestyle, i.e. nutrition, exercise, prevention and safety measures.

Teens with chronic or other medical conditions may require more frequent visits and other exams/tests. However, in most cases, teen health screenings include checking for: “scoliosis (curvature of the spine), high blood pressure, obesity, eating disorders, depression, and if indicated, hyperlipidemia (an excess of cholesterol and/or other fats in the blood).” Vision and hearing will also be checked. While, older teens may be screened for alcohol, drugs, and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).

Immunizations

By age 13, teens should have already had these immunizations:

chickenpox (varicella) vaccine (if they have not had chickenpox)
measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine
hepatitis B vaccine (HBV) series
hepatitis A vaccine (HAV) series
meningococcal vaccine
human papillomavirus vaccine (HPV)
diphtheria, tetanus, and acellular pertussis booster (Tdap)
The flu vaccine, *given before flu season each year

Sexual Health

As teens go through puberty, issues of sexual health will be addressed. Young women may be referred to a gynecologist. Young men may be checked for hernias and testicular cancer. Other topics covered include- risks associated with sexual activities, i.e., unintended pregnancy, STDs, etc.

Mental Health/Well-Being

Teens will be assessed for behaviors or emotional problems that may indicate depression and/or other mental health concerns, and if indicated or requested for, may be referred to outside counseling. Other issues or topics that may be addressed include:

use of alcohol and other substances, including anabolic steroids
use of tobacco products, including cigarettes and smokeless tobacco
drinking and driving
the importance of bicycle helmets, seatbelts, and protective sports gear
how to resolve conflicts without violence, including how to avoid the use of weapons
learning problems or difficulties at school
importance of regular physical activity

Team Approach

It is important that if you or your teenager have any concerns about their health, development, or general well-being that you contact us. We are here to help and provide support or links to services/other healthcare providers that can help.

For more information: https://kidshealth.org