Dr. Susan Averitt, from Best Start pediatrics in Springdale, talks this week about how teenagers should get yearly checkups because these years are so important in their lives.
Dr. Averitt said one thing to emphasize during adolescence is to maintain an active lifestyle and weight.
"Overall, inactivity increases with age," Dr. Averitt said.
Other important things to talk about with teenagers are safety concerns such as curfews, and driving safety.
Dr. Averitt said for parents not to be alarmed if the doctor asks for the parent to step out of the room for a portion of the physical checkup. This gives the teenager time to discuss anything with the doctor they don't feel comfortable discussing in front of parents, such as peer pressure, or drugs and alcohol.
Dr. Averitt said this visit CAN be used as your teen's sports exam.
Dr. Susan Averitt, M.D.
Board-Certified Pediatrician
5501 Willow Creek Drive, Suite 104
Springdale, Arkansas 72762
Phone (479) 575-9359
Fax (479) 575-9415
http://www.beststartpediatrics.com