Teen Health: Preventive Care

Preventive care is important to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. It’s recommended that teens visit their doctor once a year for a full history, physical exam, and to receive any needed vaccinations, such as the flu shot. Your doctor might order tests; check your vision, hearing and dental health; teach you about recommended self-examinations; or ask you about your mental health. Fortunately, many can receive these check-ups at no cost.

Most doctors realize how tough it can be as a teenager. Beyond the emotional and physical changes that teens go though, there are also a number of pressures and stresses to deal with arising from school, home life, extracurricular activities, jobs, friendships, and romantic relationships.

A wellness visit provides an opportunity for you to ask questions about any health concerns you might have. Your doctor is trained to help you and check on health concerns that may be worrying you. In addition, your doctor can provide actions you can take to safeguard your health, like eating healthy, exercising regularly, and avoiding the use of tobacco.

Some health topics are tough to discuss – these might include sexual health, drugs, eating disorders, weight concerns, or depression. If you feel uncomfortable talking with your doctor about a sensitive health issue, keep in mind that your few moments of feeling uncomfortable are outweighed by the benefit of addressing a potential health problem early on. Remember, your doctor has likely answered your specific health questions many times and is only interested in keeping you healthy.

Take control of your health and schedule an annual preventative care check-up with your doctor to keep you at your healthiest!