Special Areas Of Practice For Teens & Young Adults
Allergies / Asthma
Our teen healthcare specialists in Bethesda offer comprehensive treatment for allergies and asthma in teens and young adults, focusing on effective management and improved quality of life. For allergies, we identify triggers that should be avoided such as specific foods or substances. Medications like antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal corticosteroids help manage symptoms. Asthma treatment includes long-term control medications, like inhaled corticosteroids, and quick-relief inhalers, such as albuterol.
Our healthcare specialists in Bethesda help teens by monitoring and providing treatment plans for allergy and asthma control that incorporate lifestyle modifications like regular exercise, stress management, and avoiding smoking or secondhand smoke. We work with families to create a supportive environment that promotes adherence to treatment and proactive management of these conditions.
Attention Deficit Disorder
Our teen healthcare specialists in Bethesda treat teens and young adults for Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), helping them manage symptoms, focus on schoolwork, and maintain active lives. We may prescribe stimulant medications, like methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta, Focalin, Daytrana) or amphetamines (Adderall, Dexedrine, Vyvanse), these are commonly used and effective. These medications increase brain activity in areas that control attention and behavior. Immediate-release tablets last 3-6 hours, while modified-release tablets can last up to 12 hours. Side effects may include decreased appetite, sleep problems, headaches, and stomach aches.
We work with patients to find the best medication with minimal side effects, helping them lead healthy lives.
Eating Disorders
The Teen and Young Adult Care Center provides a safe, friendly space for teens to discuss their issues openly. Eating disorders are common, especially among girls, and can be difficult to address.
After diagnosing an eating disorder, we work with teens to identify the cause and address any medical issues. We refer patients to appropriate counselors and professionals based on their symptoms. We encourage support from family, which is crucial for creating a positive environment for recovery.
Emotional Disorders
Emotional disorders can be difficult for teens to discuss. The Teen and Young Adult Care Center offers a safe, friendly environment for teens to speak freely about their issues.
After diagnosing an emotional disorder, we work with teens to find the cause and address any medical issues. We refer patients to counselors and professionals based on their symptoms. We encourage support from family which is crucial for creating a positive environment for recovery. The earlier we can diagnose emotional disorder, the better chance for recovery and preventing long-term health consequences.
Health Risk Behaviors Such as Smoking, Alcohol & Drug Use
Our teen healthcare specialists in Bethesda take health risk behaviors very seriously as they can cause long-term problems and lead to addiction. Treating health risks associated with behaviors such as smoking, alcohol consumption, and drug use among teens and young adults is critical for promoting long-term well-being. By providing a welcoming environment, we hope teens and young adults will speak freely about these behaviors so we can help them get the treatment they need. Addressing these behaviors early helps mitigate their health consequences and supports young people in making informed, healthy choices.
Menstrual Disorders
We treat menstrual disorders with a comprehensive and empathetic approach, addressing both medical and psychological factors. Disorders like irregular cycles, severe pain, and heavy bleeding can significantly impact daily life. Initial treatment involves a thorough medical evaluation to rule out underlying conditions. Based on the diagnosis, we create a treatment plan that may include hormonal therapies, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and lifestyle changes. We provide resources for teens to get support which are crucial to help manage symptoms and understand their bodies. Our goal is to empower young people to achieve menstrual health and overall well-being as they transition through adolescence into adulthood.
Puberty & Growth-Related Problems
We compassionately treat puberty and growth-related issues in teens and young adults, aiming to build trusting relationships and acknowledge their unique experiences. We conduct thorough assessments to understand hormonal imbalances, growth delays, or other issues. Treatment plans may include hormone therapy or nutritional counseling, tailored to each patient’s needs. Regular monitoring and open communication ensure treatment adjustments as their bodies develop, supporting a healthy transition into adulthood. We work hard to make sure that making an appointment with the doctors at our Bethesda teen health center for any kind of problem feels safe for all our patients.
School Problems
We aim to support teens and young adults facing school-related challenges. By fostering a trusting relationship with our patients, we create a safe space for discussing academic stress, learning difficulties, or behavioral concerns. We may recommend appropriate interventions, such as counseling or educational assessments, to identify underlying issues and develop tailored strategies.
Sexuality-Related Issues
We treat sexuality-related issues with a compassionate and supportive approach that respects individuality. The Teen and Young Adult Care Center offers a safe, non-judgmental environment where teens feel comfortable discussing their concerns openly. Active listening is key, allowing them to express their feelings and questions without fear. We provide accurate, age-appropriate information about sexuality, including topics like consent, contraception, and sexual health, empowering them to make informed decisions. By offering respectful, empathetic, and inclusive guidance, we support teens and young adults in navigating their sexuality with confidence and understanding.
Transgender Youth
The Teen and Young Adult Care Center supports transgender teens and young adults with compassionate and informed healthcare. We create a safe, welcoming environment where individuals feel respected and understood. We listen attentively to patients’ concerns and validate their experiences. By offering comprehensive information about gender identity, medical options like hormone therapy, and mental health support, we empower transgender youth to make informed decisions about their health. We advocate for our patients’ needs, fostering trust and promoting positive mental health outcomes for transgender youth navigating complex social and personal challenges.
Travel
Our teen healthcare specialists in Bethesda play a crucial role in supporting teens and young adults with travel. We ensure adolescents are prepared for international or domestic trips by providing comprehensive pre-travel consultations. This includes reviewing their medical history, ensuring vaccinations are up to date, and discussing any chronic conditions or medications that may require special attention during travel. We advise on preventive measures against travel-related illnesses and offer guidance on managing common health issues that may arise abroad. By addressing these concerns, we promote safe and healthy travel experiences and empower young travelers and their families with the knowledge and resources needed to navigate potential health challenges away from home. Contact The Pediatric Care Center in Bethesda for a doctor’s appointment prior to your scheduled travel.
