Adolescent Care in Shelton, CT

What is Adolescent Care?

Adolescent care is medical care for older children and young adults ages 10 to 19. Some classifications group adolescents as ages 11 to 21. Adolescent care differs from pediatric medical care in the frequency of immunizations, health concerns, and preventive screening procedures.

Medical and Health Concerns Affecting an Adolescent

An adolescent undergoes tremendous changes in growth, development, and behavior. Hormonal changes during puberty can account for significant changes to body shape, mood and personality, and other characteristics. Some of the most common medical and health concerns affecting an adolescent include:

• Acne and other skin issues
• Reproductive issues, including birth control, STDs, and STIs
• Motor vehicle accidents and trauma
• Sports injuries and trauma
• Depression and other mental health issues
• Substance abuse-related issues
• Smoking and alcohol use

Immunizations and Adolescent Needs

According to the Centers for Disease Control or CDC, adolescents ages 13 to 18 should receive vaccinations for the flu, meningitis, and any additional vaccines your adolescent may have missed.

Important Health Screenings for Adolescents

There are several screening procedures recommended for adolescents, including:

• Vision and hearing screenings
• Height, weight, and body mass measurement to screen for obesity
• Blood pressure measurement to screen for high blood pressure, a cause of heart damage
• Cholesterol measurement to screen for high cholesterol, a cause of heart and vascular disease
• Blood testing to screen for anemia, hepatitis, and HIV
• Tuberculosis, drug, and alcohol testing
• Depression, anxiety, and other mental health screenings
• Screening for sexually transmitted diseases and infections including chlamydia and gonorrhea

Gynecological Screenings for Adolescents

Gynecological screenings may become necessary for an adolescent who is experiencing painful or unpleasant signs or symptoms such as heavy vaginal bleeding, or severe pelvic or abdominal pain. A pap smear is recommended for women 21 and older unless otherwise indicated. Screening for STDs and STIs often doesn’t require an internal examination and can instead be performed using a blood or urine sample.

How To Talk With Your Adolescent About Health Concerns

It’s important to foster open communication with your adolescent about health concerns, and open communication begins early. Remember to be free of judgment and reproach when your adolescent wants to talk with you. Ask questions often and be informed.

Want To Know More About Adolescent Care?

To find out more about adolescent care, talk with the experts. Call the pediatricians at Pedi-Care in Shelton, CT. You can reach them in the office by calling (203) 924-7334, so call today.