“Adolescence is a difficult time for children and for their parents,” said Philip Rettig, M.D., a specialist in adolescent medicine with OU Children’s Physicians.
The fact that teens aren’t children and aren’t yet adults has led to the emergence of a relatively new medical field—adolescent medicine. Board certified in pediatrics, adolescent medicine, and pediatric infectious diseases, Rettig and his colleagues at OU Children’s Physicians Adolescent Medicine offer comprehensive health care to young people between the ages of 13 and 21. “There are so many aspects of change in these critical years,” Rettig noted. “There are developmental changes and changing health care needs as well. Our focus is on addressing both the routine and complex health issues that emerge as these children transition into adulthood.”
Adolescent medicine specialists handle school, camp, sports and routine physical exams, and immunizations. They also evaluate and manage growth and puberty concerns including acne, breast and menstrual problems, short stature, and delayed development.
“If problems with substance use or abuse arise, whether it is alcohol, drugs, or tobacco,” said Rettig, “we can consult with our colleagues in psychiatry or psychology to help address them.”
Nutrition and physical inactivity are also concerns among teenagers today. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 80% of young people do not eat the recommended servings of fruits and vegetables. Nearly half of youths age 12 to 21 are not vigorously active on a regular basis. Nine million youth in this country are overweight. “An adolescent medicine specialist can help evaluate and manage not only weight control problems, but also eating disorders and other nutritional concerns,” Rettig added.
Doctors who specialize in adolescent medicine can also help your teen with stress management and are trained in the evaluation and treatment of learning and school difficulties, including attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder or ADHD. For more information on adolescent medicine, contact OU Children’s Physicians at 271-2222.