Visiting the pediatrician is just as important for teenagers as it is for toddlers. In fact, a visit with a pediatrician for teens at Children's Healthcare Medical Associates in San Diego, CA, should be an annual event in your teenager's life.
Benefits of pediatric visits for teens
A visit with the pediatrician for teens at the San Diego, CA, pediatrics office, offers these benefits for you son or daughter:
- Identification of Growth or Development Problems: Pediatricians have extensive education and experience treating teens and can diagnose conditions that could affect physical and mental growth and development, such as delayed puberty or short stature. They can also make referrals to appropriate specialists if needed or provide reassurance if your teen is worried that he or she isn't developing normally.
- Better Control of Chronic Conditions: Teens may need a little encouragement to stick to treatment plans for chronic conditions. Whether you child has diabetes, asthma, sickle cell disease, high blood pressure or another condition, his or her pediatrician can explain the importance of taking medications and make recommendations that will help your son or daughter manage the condition.
- Information About Sex, Drugs and Alcohol: Chances are you teen may have a few questions about sexual behavior or wonder about the effects of smoking, drinking or taking drugs. Your son or daughter's pediatrician can offer information and explanations that will help your teen make smart choices.
- Time to Address Concerns: During a sick visit, there might not be enough time to talk about other issues that may be worrying your son or daughter. When your teen visits the office for an annual visit, he or she will be encouraged to ask questions and share any concerns regarding physical and mental health, sex or other issues. Since teens tend to feel more comfortable opening up when their parents aren't around, you'll be asked to step outside during this part of the visit. Of course, you'll also have ample time to ask any questions you may have about your teen's health.
Does your child need to see a pediatrician for teens? Call the San Diego, CA, pediatricians at Children's Healthcare Medical Associates at (619) 297-5437 to schedule an appointment.