Why adolescents need to visit a pediatrician?
There is a common misconception that pediatricians only cater to younger children, to the contrary there are several reasons why adolescents should continue to visit a pediatrician:
Adolescent health care is an area of special interest and expertise of our pediatricians at Dr. Sunny Medical Centre. Our experienced pediatricians find it important that in an era of easy internet access, increased screen time and social media due importance must be given to these crucial years of a child’s development. It is equally important to advise parents on how to tackle these tricky novel situations. In the current scenario of e-learning, there is bound to be a surge in learning and behavioral problems that would have to be addressed. In this post, let’s explore how pediatricians can help the children in teenage years:
Specialized Care: Our pediatricians are trained to understand the unique needs and challenges faced by adolescents. They are equipped to address the physical, emotional, and social aspects of this developmental stage, providing specialized care tailored to their specific needs.
Physical Development: Adolescence is a time of rapid growth and development. Regular check-ups with a pediatrician allow for monitoring of physical changes, tracking growth, and addressing any concerns related to nutrition, exercise, and overall physical health.
Vaccinations: Adolescents may require certain vaccinations or booster shots to ensure protection against diseases such as meningitis, HPV, tetanus, or pertussis. Pediatricians can provide the necessary vaccinations and ensure that adolescents are up to date on their immunizations.
Health Support: Adolescence often comes with emotional and mental health challenges. Pediatricians can address concerns related to anxiety, depression, stress, body image, self-esteem, and other psychological issues. They can provide guidance, recommend appropriate interventions, and refer patients to mental health professionals if needed.
Preventive Care: Our pediatricians emphasize on preventive care, focusing on maintaining overall health and well-being. Regular check-ups allow for early detection of potential health issues, screening for conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure and promoting healthy habits and lifestyle choices.
Confidentiality and Trust: Our pediatricians provide a safe space for adolescents to discuss personal and sensitive topics openly and seek guidance without fear of judgment.
Transition to Adult Care: Our pediatricians play a crucial role in guiding adolescents through the transition to adult healthcare. They can assist in coordinating the transfer of medical records, help adolescents understand the responsibilities of managing their own health, and provide recommendations for adult healthcare providers.
The Bottom Line
Visiting a pediatrician during adolescence ensures comprehensive and age-appropriate healthcare. It allows for early intervention, promotes healthy habits, addresses concern specific to this stage of development, and supports overall well-being during this critical period of transition.
If you are a parent to an adolescent and want any kind of health related or behavioral advice, you can book an appointment with our expert pediatricians for the best guidance.