Questions and Answers - Recent questions and answers in Teen Health

Answered: What foods do lacto-ovo vegetarians avoid?

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 12:17:17 +0000

Lacto-ovo vegetarians eat dairy and eggs, but they don't eat:

meat
poultry
fish

Answered: How do strengthening exercises that build muscle help me stay healthy?

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 12:11:13 +0000

Strengthening or resistance exercises help keep your muscles that support your back, belly, knees, chest, shoulders, neck, and wrists strong and less likely to get injured. Strong muscles mean greater endurance and energy, a faster metabolism (which burns more calories), and better posture.

Answered: What are strengthening exercises?

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 12:10:27 +0000

Strengthening exercises work muscles as they move against resistance. This resistance can come from workout machines, free weights or barbells, elastic bands, water, stairs, hills, cans of vegetables from the pantry -- even your own body weight as you do a pushup.

For example, walking on a treadmill (which is aerobic exercise) becomes strengthening as you raise the incline of the treadmill.

Answered: Why do I need to listen to my body when doing strengthening exercises?

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 12:09:56 +0000

Only you know how much weight or resistance you can handle during exercise.

You need to choose weights and exercises that fit your size and ability.

If the weight or movement feels like it's too much, then it's too much. Stop, and let your body rest. The next time you work out, start with a lower weight (or no weight). You should feel like you're challenging yourself without causing too much stress on your body.

Answered: How do free weights help in strengthening exercises?

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 12:09:26 +0000

Free weights can be m(Default)ore convenient than weight machines. You can use them anywhere. Although they require strong hands and wrists, they let you do more types of exercises and give you a greater range of motion than machines do.

Answered: How do I start strengthening exercises?

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 12:08:59 +0000

Start strengthening exercise with light resistance or weights at first. Add more weight very gradually as you get stronger. Start slowly, and allow your body time to adjust.

Answered: What should I NOT do after getting a new piercing?

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 12:08:30 +0000

Don't:

Pick at or touch the piercing. This can irritate it and lead to infection.
Use alcohol or hydrogen peroxide to clean the piercing. This can dry out your skin and break down new tissue.
Use public pools or hot tubs while the piercing is healing.
Use antibiotic ointments on the piercing.
Wear makeup during the healing process (for ear or facial piercings).
Wear tight clothes (for body piercings).

Answered: What should you never do if you want to get a piercing?

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 12:08:04 +0000

NEVER do this:

Pierce yourself or have a friend pierce you.
Get pierced in a shop that looks unclean, makes you uncomfortable, or doesn't answer all your questions.

Answered: What piercing equipment is safe?

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 12:07:39 +0000

Needles are generally considered cleaner and easier to sterilize than piercing guns. Your piercer should only use a piercing gun that is for one-time use or has sterilized disposable cassettes.

Piercing guns should only be used on earlobe piercings. That's because they can cause more damage to the skin tissue than needles.

Answered: Which medical conditions should you consult your doctor about before getting a piercing?

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 12:07:10 +0000

In general, it's a good idea to talk to your doctor before a piercing if you:

Have diabetes
Have a heart condition
Have a weakened immune system
Take steroids or blood thinners
May be pregnant

Answered: What are risk factors for teen suicide?

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 12:06:40 +0000

A previous suicide attempt
Psychological and mental disorders, especially depression and other mood disorders, schizophrenia, and social anxiety
Substance abuse or alcohol disorders
History of abuse or mistreatment
Family history of suicide
Feelings of hopelessness
Physical illness
Impulsive or aggressive tendencies
Financial or social loss
Relationship loss
Isolation or lack of social support
Easy access to methods of suicide
Being around others who have committed suicide

Answered: What things reduce the risk of teen suicide?

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 12:06:11 +0000

Psychological and clinical care for physical, mental, and substance abuse disorders
Restricted or limited access to methods of suicide
Family and community support
Support from medical and health care personnel
Developing problem-solving and conflict-resolution skills
Religious and cultural belief systems that discourage suicide

Answered: What signs of infection from piercing should I watch out for?

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 12:05:47 +0000

Watch out for these signs of infection:

Pain that does not go away after a day or two
Unusual pain or swelling
Yellow, bad-smelling discharge
Prolonged bleeding
Excessive redness

Answered: What are the signs that you could be allergic to your new piercing?

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 12:05:19 +0000

Some people have sensitivities to certain kinds of metal jewelry. Signs you could be allergic to your new piercing include:

Redness
Itching or burning when piercing is cleaned
Rash surrounding the piercing

Answered: What should you do if you think your piercing may be infected?

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 12:04:44 +0000

If you think your piercing may be infected:

Don't take out the jewelry. This will cause the hole to close up and may trap the infection.
See your doctor for treatment.

Answered: How do I know that my piercing shop is safe and sterile?

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 12:04:14 +0000

Many states regulate body piercing, but not all. Before getting your piercing, you should always check for these signs of a safe piercing environment:

The piercer washes his or her hands with germicidal soap.
The piercer wears fresh disposable gloves.
The shop is clean.
The shop uses an autoclave (a special sterilizing machine).
The equipment is sterilized or disposable.
The needle is new and disposed of in a special container after use.

Answered: How can I find out where the nearest HIV testing facility is?

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 12:03:44 +0000

By calling 1-800-CDC-INFO (232-4636). You can call 24 hours a day. The call is confidential. No one will know you called.

Answered: How can I prevent HIV?

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 12:03:16 +0000

Never have sex without using a condom.
Do not use illegal drugs or get tattoos with unclean needles.
If you think you may be infected, see a doctor right away. You can also call 1-800-CDC-INFO (232-4636).

Answered: How do you know if someone has human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)?

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 12:02:48 +0000

The only way to know for sure whether you or someone else has HIV or AIDS is by testing. A person may be positive for HIV but take more than 10 years to develop symptoms.

Answered: What happens to your body when you get the HIV virus?

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 12:00:44 +0000

When you get infected with HIV, your body's immune system gets weaker. The immune system is what makes your body able to fight off infection and disease.

It takes time for this to happen. But when it does, it can lead to AIDS and be fatal.

Answered: How can friends and family help prevent teen suicide?

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 12:00:14 +0000

One key way is to remove access to ways for committing it. For example, gun trigger locks and locked cabinets can help stop someone who wants to attempt suicide from getting to and using a weapon. You can also restrict access to things like knives, rope, pipes, and medication.

Answered: Can you get HIV from getting a tattoo?

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 11:59:46 +0000

Yes, if the person who gives you the tattoo uses the same needle that was used on someone who has HIV.

That's because any activity that can result in blood getting passed from one person to another carries a risk of HIV infection.

Answered: How important is early treatment for HIV?

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 11:59:13 +0000

The earlier you get treatment, the better chance you have of being able to stay well. If your test is positive, talk with your health care provider about your treatment options and what you need to do to live a long, healthy life.

Answered: How can I avoid getting human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)?

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 11:57:46 +0000

The best way to avoid getting HIV is to not have sex. If you do have sex, you can protect yourself with these steps:

Activities like hugging, kissing, and rubbing against one another don't spread HIV as long as there are no open sores being touched. Also, you can't give yourself HIV by masturbating.

Always use a condom when having sex.
Only have sex with one person who you know is not infected.

Answered: Where should I go if I have questions about HIV testing?

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 10:06:02 +0000

The best thing to do is talk to your health care provider. They will:

You can also find out where the nearest testing site is by calling 1-800-CDC-INFO (232-4636). You can call 24 hours a day. The call is confidential. No one will know you called.

Determine whether or not you should be tested
Explain the testing procedure
Describe your options for testing
Help you locate the nearest testing site

Answered: How common is teen suicide?

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 10:05:29 +0000

Suicide is the third leading cause of death among people between ages 15 and 24, with about 5,000 lives lost each year. But attempted suicides greatly outnumber suicides.

Because males often choose more violent methods, they're often more successful. But females may attempt suicide more often.

Answered: How can gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) cause sleep problems?

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 10:04:38 +0000

Normally, a muscular valve between the esophagus and the gastric system prevents stomach acids from backing up into the esophagus. In GERD, this valve does not work properly. The stomach acids "reflux" or back up into the esophagus. This causes irritation and inflammation, and it can interfere with the sleep cycle.

Answered: Is depression different from a bad mood?

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 10:04:08 +0000

If you have long periods of irritability or moodiness, feelings of despair, or excessive feelings of boredom, check with your doctor. Sometimes, these are signs of a more serious mood disorder called depression.

Depression is much more than just feeling sad or low. It can lead to excessive anger, irritation, apathy -- even suicide. So get help. Talk to a trained therapist or counselor or your primary health care provider, who can help you with your feelings and get you back on the road to enjoying your life. If you are having suicidal thoughts get in touch with someone close to you or call the national suicide prevention hotline at (800) 273-TALK for help.

Answered: How can puberty cause bad moods?

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 10:03:45 +0000

Not only do the hormones that kick in at puberty cause incredible physical changes, they also can make your mood swing -- whether you want it to or not! These mood swings can be confusing and frightening, both to the teen and to everyone else around.

Nearly everyone goes through mood swings during the teen years. But it's important to understand whether a bad mood is temporary irritability or full-blown depression.

Answered: How much sleep is enough for teens?

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 10:02:55 +0000

On average, teens need about 8 1/2 to 9 1/2 hours of sleep each night.

Many teens have chronic insomnia. That means trouble falling asleep or staying asleep, or not feeling rested despite spending enough time asleep.

Answered: How can restless legs syndrome cause sleep problems?

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 10:02:30 +0000

Restless legs syndrome is a creeping, crawling sensation in the legs that creates an irresistible urge to move. It sometimes starts between ages 11 and 20. Not only does it disturb sleep, it is also linked with involuntary jerking movements of the legs during sleep, called periodic leg movements of sleep (PLMS).

Answered: What questions should you ask yourself before you get pierced?

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 10:02:04 +0000

Do you have your parents' permission? Most places require you to have parental consent if you are under age 18.
What does your school say? Some schools don't allow students to have facial piercings.
Are you looking for a job? Some jobs don't allow employees to have facial piercings.
Are you thinking of donating blood? Some organizations don't accept blood from people who have been pierced within the last year.
Are you up to date with your vaccines?

Answered: How soon after sex should I get tested for HIV?

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 10:00:45 +0000

Most experts recommend waiting to be tested until three months after having sex that put you at risk. That's because it may take that long to develop antibodies that can be found by testing. There are, though, some newer tests that may provide results sooner. Discuss your timing for having tests with your doctor.

It's important to avoid risky behaviors during that three-month period. If you think you are infected, see a doctor right away. He or she can help guide you in the testing.

Answered: How can I keep from telling my parents about my HIV test?

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 10:00:17 +0000

Some clinics want your parents' permission before they offer you a test.

Most clinics are confidential. No one else will be told about your test results. You can call before you go to find out its policy on keeping your test confidential.

It's a good idea, though, to talk with an adult you trust about your concerns. A trusted adult can help you sort through your options. The adult can also help you figure out what to do about behavior that puts you at risk.

Answered: How do I find a safe place to get a piercing done?

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 09:59:52 +0000

A sterile environment is the most important thing to consider when deciding where to go to get pierced.

Here are some tips for finding a safe place to get your piercing done:

Check with your doctor. Some doctors' offices will do basic ear piercings.
Research piercing shops that use safe procedures or are licensed by the state.
If you are going to a stand in a mall, make sure employees use a sterile, single-use piercing gun.

Answered: How do I care for my new piercing?

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 09:59:23 +0000

Wash your hands before cleaning the piercing.
Clean the pierced area with antibacterial soap.
Soak the piercing in salt water. This will cleanse it and loosen crusty formations.
Rinse with an alcohol-free, antibacterial mouthwash (for tongue and lip piercings).

Answered: Which nontoxic metals can help you avoid an allergic reaction from piercing?

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 09:58:51 +0000

To avoid an allergic reaction, use only nontoxic metals, such as:

Surgical-grade steel
14- or 18-karat gold
Titanium
Niobium
Platinum

Answered: What are the different stages of nonrapid eye movement (NREM) sleep?

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 09:58:21 +0000

NREM sleep has four levels or stages. Stage 1 sleep, the lightest stage, is the transition from being awake to deeper sleep. Stage 2, intermediate sleep, accounts for 40% to 50% percent of your sleep time. Stages 3 and 4, called slow wave or delta sleep, are the deepest levels and occur mostly in the first third of the night. It is during delta sleep when your body heals itself. It is also difficult to awaken from delta sleep, as most of us feel dazed or groggy.

Answered: What are some tips for more restful sleep?

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 09:57:54 +0000

Establish a regular bedtime routine and stick with it, even on weekends.
Avoid TV, computer, and smartphone screens as you prepare for bed.
Eat less sugar.
Avoid exercise right before bedtime.
Avoid bright light in the evening.
Reduce noise in your bedroom.
Take a warm bath before bedtime.
Keep the temperature in your bedroom cool.
Try relaxation therapies such as meditation, prayer, or yoga before bedtime.

Answered: What are some common risks of piercing?

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 09:57:29 +0000

Even in a sterile (germ-free) environment, some common risks of piercing are:

Chronic infection
Skin allergies
Abscesses (pus-filled, painful areas of skin)
Inflammation or nerve damage
Prolonged bleeding

Answered: How long will it take for my piercing to heal?

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 09:56:28 +0000

Healing times can vary depending on the location of the piercing. Here are the average healing times for common piercings:

Remember, with mouth or lip piercing, jewelry can cause cracks in your teeth or receding gums. Lip piercings and mouth piercings can get infected more easily.

Earlobe: 6 to 8 weeks
Ear cartilage: 4 months to 1 year
Eyebrow: 6 to 8 weeks
Nostril: 2 to 4 months
Nasal septum: 6 to 8 months
Tongue: 4 weeks
Lip: 2 to 3 months
Belly button: 4 months to 1 year

Answered: What should I do if a teen threatens suicide?

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 09:55:54 +0000

Even if they seem to have the "perfect life" on the outside, it's impossible to know what's going on with them. Take any suicidal thought or suicide threat seriously -- even if you have doubts about how serious they are -- and contact a mental health care professional.

Many suicide hotlines provide anonymous assistance, such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). Or contact the Crisis Text Line by texting TALK to 741741.

Answered: What are sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)?

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 09:53:32 +0000

These are diseases that are spread through sexual contact. They include human papillomavirus (HPV), chlamydia, trichomoniasis, gonorrhea, herpes, syphilis, and HIV (human immunodeficiency virus, the organism that causes AIDS). It is estimated that as many as 3 million teens contract a sexually transmitted infection each year.

Answered: How long can sperm survive in the womb?

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 09:52:51 +0000

Sperm can survive in the womb for a up to a week.

Answered: What happens to your body when you get AIDS?

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 09:51:59 +0000

When a person has AIDS, the immune system is so weak it can't fight off viruses or bacteria. And it can't prevent certain kinds of cancer the way a healthy immune system can.

Answered: What do the "Nutrition Facts" on the food label indicate?

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 09:50:14 +0000

The Nutrition Facts section is located on the outside of the package and is easy to read. This section of the food label gives you information about specific nutrients in the product, including:

Calories
Fats
Protein
Fiber
Specific vitamins and minerals

Answered: Are all sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) curable?

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 09:48:47 +0000

Though some STDs are curable, others, like herpes and HIV, are not.

Answered: What should you do after wisdom teeth removal?

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 09:47:48 +0000

Plan time off from work or school to have your surgery. You’ll want to take it easy the rest of the day. Some teens can drive themselves to and from the surgery. But if you get general anesthesia or pain drugs, your parents will need to drive.

Most people have little to no pain afterward. It may take a few days to feel back to normal, but you can usually go back to regular activities the next day.

As you leave the office, your doctor will give you a list of instructions to follow. These tips will help you heal quickly, have less pain or swelling, and fight infection.

Answered: Is strength training dangerous for teens?

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 09:47:18 +0000

Strength training is not dangerous if you do it with proper supervision and instruction. It's a safe and effective way to strengthen muscles (including the heart), look more toned, and help control weight. It also helps strengthen bones. But because teens are still developing, it's important to get an OK from your doctor and to seek professional instruction to make sure you do it correctly.

Answered: When should you breathe during strength training?

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 09:46:51 +0000

Exhale during exertion (for instance, pulling up a weight) and inhale on the downswing. Many people forget to do breathe this way, but when you make it a habit, it helps.