Fluctuating levels of hormones are normal among this age group, but they can lead to some challenges even for seasoned parents.
Symptoms of strep throat include a sore throat, fever, headache, swollen glands in the neck, and sometimes white patches in the throat. These can also be symptoms of viral infections, though, so it’s important to see a healthcare provider if you think you might have strep. They can do an exam and swab the throat to test for the bacterium causing strep throat.
Symptoms of mono include severe fatigue, fever, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, and sore muscles. Since these symptoms can be caused by many different illnesses, see your healthcare provider for an exam and blood test to determine if you actually have mono.
If you get sick with mono (many people who have been exposed to the virus never have symptoms), you are unlikely to get it again. This infection can be passed by any means that transfers saliva and body fluids, such as kissing, sharing utensils, toothbrushes, drinks, and even lip balm.
Vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps, and occasionally fever are common. They can last anywhere from a few hours to several days. Fortunately, these illnesses are self-limiting, meaning they will go away on their own and typically don’t require treatment. The biggest concern when you have the stomach flu is dehydration. If you can’t keep any fluids down at all for several hours, seek medical attention.
Even before you or your teen is sexually active, it’s important to know how these diseases can affect the body, how they can be prevented, and what steps to take if you are exposed. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are 20 million new cases of STDs diagnosed each year, and half of those are among teens and young adults between the ages of 15 and 24.
