Introduction
Puberty is a stage of physical and emotional development that occurs in both males and females. It is the period when a person’s body goes through a series of changes that transform them from a child to an adult. During this time, the body undergoes numerous physiological changes, including the development of secondary sexual characteristics, such as facial hair, breast development, and voice changes. However, this stage of life is not always smooth sailing, and teenagers often encounter a range of health issues. In this article, we will discuss some of the common health issues that occur during puberty.
Acne
Acne is one of the most common health issues that teenagers experience during puberty. It occurs when the hair follicles on the skin become blocked with oil and dead skin cells. This can lead to the development of blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, and cysts. Acne is prevalent during puberty due to the increase in hormone levels, particularly androgens, which stimulate the sebaceous glands to produce more oil.
Acne can be a distressing condition for many teenagers, and it can affect their self-esteem and confidence. While there is no cure for acne, there are several treatments available to manage the symptoms. These include over-the-counter topical creams, gels, and lotions that contain benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or retinoids. In severe cases, a doctor may prescribe oral antibiotics or isotretinoin, a powerful medication that is effective in treating severe acne.
Menstrual Issues
Puberty marks the beginning of menstruation for females. Menstruation is the monthly discharge of blood and other materials from the uterus, and it usually lasts between three to seven days. However, many teenagers experience menstrual issues, such as irregular periods, painful periods, heavy bleeding, and premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Medications such as Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) which include but are not limited to ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin, are effective in reducing menstrual cramps and pain. They work by reducing the production of prostaglandins, which are responsible for causing pain and inflammation. Ensure you consult your doctor before taking any medication. Once you have a doctor’s prescription, you can get cheaper Canadian drugs at online pharmacies without the hassle of working into a traditional pharmacy outlet.
Irregular periods are common during the first few years of menstruation, as the body is still adjusting to the hormonal changes. However, if the periods remain irregular or become very painful, it is essential to seek medical attention. Heavy bleeding during periods can be a sign of an underlying health condition, such as fibroids or endometriosis. Similarly, PMS can cause physical and emotional symptoms such as bloating, mood swings, and fatigue. These symptoms can be managed with lifestyle changes and medication prescribed by a doctor.
Eating Disorders
Puberty is a time when body image becomes a significant concern for many teenagers, and this can lead to the development of eating disorders. Eating disorders are a range of psychological conditions that involve an unhealthy preoccupation with food and body weight. Anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder are some of the most common eating disorders that affect teenagers.
Anorexia nervosa is a condition where a person has an intense fear of gaining weight and a distorted body image. This leads them to severely restrict their food intake and can cause them to become severely underweight. Bulimia nervosa is a condition where a person consumes large amounts of food and then purges it by vomiting or using laxatives. Binge-eating disorder is a condition where a person has recurrent episodes of uncontrollable eating.
Eating disorders can have serious physical and emotional consequences, including malnutrition, heart problems, depression, and anxiety. Treatment for eating disorders often involves a combination of therapy, medication, and nutritional counseling.
Mental Health Issues
Puberty can also be a time of significant emotional turmoil for many teenagers. Adolescents are faced with a range of challenges, including academic pressure, social expectations, and family conflicts. This can lead to the development of mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and stress.
These are just some of the health issues that pubescents face. To avoid these as much as possible, this dentist who does quality dental crowns in Chandler strongly recommends having regular health checkups.
