Adolescence is a time of transition. The physical, emotional, and social changes that take place during this period are significant and can be stressful for both teens and their parents. During adolescence it is vital for young people to have access to health care providers who understand these unique developmental issues and can provide them with appropriate advice on how to navigate through this period of their lives safely and successfully.

Adolescents Need Medical Care

As an adolescent, you are at risk for developing certain illnesses and injuries. You also need medical care because of the behaviors you may be engaging in as a result of your changing body and mind. Adolescents are more likely than younger children or adults to be involved in accidents that cause death or serious injury; they have higher rates of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV infection; they’re more likely to engage in risky sexual behavior; they experience depression at higher rates than other age groups; and many adolescents struggle with mental health issues such as anxiety disorders or substance abuse disorders.

Pediatricians Have Extensive Training In Areas Relevant To Adolescents

Pediatricians have years of training in areas that are relevant to adolescents. They are trained to deal with common adolescent illnesses and injuries, including:

• Acne
• Ear infections (otitis media)
• High blood pressure (hypertension)

They also know how best to address the emotional needs of adolescents, such as those related to bullying or social isolation. Finally, pediatricians are equipped with knowledge about physical changes associated with puberty so they can help you navigate these changes together as a parent-child team.

Dr. Lou Hampers, a board-certified pediatrician with many years of experience in adolescent care. “Pediatricians are trained to treat common illnesses and injuries.

Some Common Illnesses Are Only Seen In Adolescents

Some common illnesses are only seen in adolescents. These include:

• Acne
• Athlete’s foot
• Chickenpox (varicella)
• Chlamydia (trachoma)
• Dental caries (tooth decay)

The Relationship With A Pediatrician Is Special

It’s more than just a doctor/patient relationship, it’s a long-term one that begins when your child is born and lasts until he or she moves out of the house. As an adolescent, you need someone who can guide you through the physical and emotional changes that come with adolescence as well as any medical issues that may arise during this time period. The doctor, like Dr. Lou Hampers, needs to be someone who knows your family well enough so they can treat each member individually, not just treat them based on their age group or gender (like many doctors do).

Adolescents Should Continue To See Pediatricians

Adolescents have unique health needs, and their pediatricians can help them navigate these issues as they become adults. Pediatricians are trained to treat adolescents with special attention to their psychosocial development, as well as their physical health needs.

Adolescents should continue seeing their pediatricians because they need medical advice and treatment for diseases that occur during this time period of life, such as acne or scoliosis (curvature of the spine).

As you can see, there are many reasons why adolescents should continue to see pediatricians. The relationship between a doctor and patient is special, and it’s something that no other type of doctor can offer. Pediatricians have extensive training in areas relevant to adolescents, so they can provide the best care possible for young people who are growing up quickly.