All articles tagged with #teen health
A 19-year-old in the Dominican Republic developed acanthamoeba keratitis after showering with corrective contact lenses, an infection linked to water exposure that left her blind and serves as a warning to contact-lens wearers about shower hygiene and lens use.
A central North Carolina teenager is critically ill with primary amebic meningoencephalitis caused by Naegleria fowleri, a rare brain-eating amoeba found in warm freshwater. Early symptoms include severe headache, fever and nausea, and the illness can progress quickly; most patients die within about five days. Officials urge precautions for swimming in warm waters, such as preventing water from entering the nose, noting there is no way to eliminate the amoeba from the environment.
A detransitioner, Claire Abernathy, who began gender transition at 14 and underwent a teenage double mastectomy after a brief consultation, writes an open letter accusing Dr. Alan Dulin of performing an unnecessary operation and harming her, detailing long‑term physical and emotional consequences and urging accountability as Fox News covers her op-ed and the broader debate over youth gender surgeries.
A 17-year-old girl presents with vomiting, weight loss, thirst and very high blood sugar, initially pointing to type 1 diabetes. Despite insulin treatment, she experiences morning hypoglycemia, and doctors note tanning and atypical symptoms, prompting evaluation for Addison's disease. Tests reveal autoimmune polyendocrine syndrome type 2 (APS-2), linking diabetes with Addison’s. She’s treated with insulin and steroids, and after about two months shows improvement. The case underscores screening youths with new-onset type 1 diabetes for additional autoimmune disorders to prevent adrenal crises.
Born with no heartbeat for 22 minutes and diagnosed with ataxic cerebral palsy, 18-year-old Dylan Law has fought tremors and mobility challenges; after a 2022 deep brain stimulation procedure, he suffered a stroke that temporarily impaired speech and walking, but with therapy and support he regained both and now pursues his goal of becoming a youth pastor, earning praise as a comeback kid.
A 17-year-old Fall River resident, Broeden Sabin, has been battling fatigue and pain and is seeking a bone marrow donor while undergoing a blood transplant this month, as his family appeals for potential donors.
A 19-year-old from Wolverhampton who began vaping at 13 was hospitalized with a collapsed lung, which doctors linked to his vaping. He even vaped in the hospital before doctors explained the cause, after which he quit the habit and hopes his story warns other teens about the health risks of vaping.
A 15-year-old girl experiences severe hip and back pain, along with unusual symptoms like ribs popping out, leading to a complex medical diagnosis.
Caffeine pouches are a new social media trend offering a quick, discreet energy boost by delivering high doses of caffeine directly through the gums, but experts warn they pose significant health risks, especially for teenagers and vulnerable groups, due to their potency, potential for dependence, and lack of regulation.
Liliana Castaneda, a 19-year-old with Turner syndrome, experienced heavy vaginal bleeding that was initially dismissed as stress by her doctor, but was later diagnosed as Stage 2 clear cell carcinoma, a rare form of vaginal cancer. Her case highlights the importance of considering underlying conditions and seeking second opinions when symptoms persist, especially in young patients.
A 16-year-old Iowa boy, Noah Johnson, suffered a severe infection from a spider bite that led to hospitalization, kidney failure, and intensive treatment, but he is now recovering and reflecting on the importance of health and family.
Emma Mendelssohn, a 15-year-old from California, was diagnosed with autoimmune hepatitis and needed a liver transplant after her symptoms, including jaundice and fatigue, worsened. She underwent two transplants due to complications and now manages her condition while raising awareness through social media. Her story highlights the challenges of autoimmune liver disease and the resilience required to cope with life-threatening health issues.
A 13-year-old boy with a rare genetic condition called Danon disease, which affects only about 300 families worldwide, was diagnosed with severe heart failure and required a heart transplant. His mother, who also has the disease, and he are among the few documented African-American cases. The story highlights the importance of support systems for young transplant patients, leading to the creation of a virtual community called Transplant Teenz to help teenagers cope with their condition.
Saskia Rogers, a teenager from Hobart, Tasmania, discovered an ulcer in her mouth that was initially dismissed by doctors as benign. However, after opting for elective surgery, she was diagnosed with oral cancer. The diagnosis significantly impacted her social life and school experience, leading her to join the youth cancer charity Canteen, where she found support and understanding. Now 20, Rogers is a youth ambassador for the group and plans to start nursing in 2025.
A 14-year-old Oak Forest High School student, Paityn Castillo, is battling sudden paralysis due to Guillain-Barré syndrome, a rare autoimmune condition. Her family and community have rallied around her, raising over $14,000 through a GoFundMe campaign to support her medical expenses. Despite her condition, Paityn remains connected with friends and is buoyed by the support of hospital staff, who have decorated her room with Taylor Swift memorabilia to lift her spirits. Her family faces financial and emotional challenges as they navigate this uncertain time.