Although adolescents are susceptible to the same kinds of illnesses that affect younger children, generally, they are a healthy group. Adolescents should continue to receive vaccinations according to the recommended schedule.
Acne is extremely common and should be addressed to minimize its impact on self-esteem.
Injuries are very common among adolescents, and sports-related and motor vehicle injuries are most frequent. Concussions, or brain injury resulting from head trauma, are common, particularly among athletes (see also Sports-Related Concussion). Adolescents who suffer a head injury should be evaluated by a professional who is experienced in the evaluation and treatment of this type of injury. After a concussion, adolescents should be given time to recuperate before returning to regular activities, including use of electronic devices, schoolwork, and sports. Re-entry into these activities should be supervised by a knowledgeable adult.
Motor vehicle crashes, other unintentional injuries, homicide, and suicide are the four leading causes of death among adolescents.
Disorders that are common among all adolescents include
Infectious mononucleosis (an infection spread through saliva)
Hormonal disorders (especially thyroid disorders)
Disorders that are common among adolescent girls include
Many adolescents do not routinely use effective methods of contraception, and some of them become pregnant.
About 1 in 4 adolescents lives with a chronic medical condition such as asthma, diabetes, or inflammatory bowel disease. Although not common, cancers such as leukemia, lymphoma, bone cancers, and brain tumors also occur.
Children who have many different symptoms that are not clearly the result of a specific disorder are usually also evaluated for psychosocial problems.
(See also Introduction to Problems in Adolescents.)
