Through the years, one observation I’ve noted is that teen girls can have difficulty breathing due to hyperventilation. Girls with this problem tend to breathe rapidly due to anxiety or stress, thereby reducing the levels of carbon dioxide in their blood. When the level of carbon dioxide reaches a certain level, you’ll become short of breath and have difficulty breathing. The antidote for this problem is to rebreathe your carbon dioxide in a small brown paper sack for just a minute or two. This would be an easy trial to see if hyperventilation is the problem in your case. Obviously, if the breathing problems continue, you’ll need to see your doctor for more testing.

I recently blacked out and have noted that I’m lightheaded when I stand up. What could be wrong?
Blackouts can be related to many different problems. In teen girls, they’re usually related to what is known as a vasovagal response. This response is noted when you’re alarmed and then pass out, such as fainting when you see blood or a mouse.

This type of blackout is related to sudden increase in blood pressure, triggering a protective response that slows your heart but subsequently causes a precipitous drop in blood pressure and loss of consciousness.

In your case, the blackouts appear to be related to when you stand, which makes me suspect that you may be chronically dehydrated. Be sure to drink plenty of fluids. However, if your symptoms persist, I would advise you to see your doctor for further testing.

I have a problem with my scalp. It seems greasy and smells. Can you help?
It sounds to me like you have seborrhea, a condition related to the oil glands of the scalp. Minor seborrhea can cause dandruff and irritation. However, more severe seborrhea can cause sores and even infection involving the scalp. This condition is usually controlled with either over-the-counter dandruff shampoos or those obtained with a prescription from your doctor. However, I’d suggest that you see your physician, since prescription medication may be indicated in your case.

Excess sweating and oiliness of the scalp is actually normal in teen girls based upon the hormonal changes of puberty. However, your condition may be more significant. Don’t hesitate to get help. There’s no need to suffer and be embarrassed, since treatment is usually very effective.

Could you shed some light (no pun intended) on teen tanning? I’ve heard that tanning can lead to skin cancer.
For many teen girls, tanning has become almost an obsession. Ultraviolet light and sunshine causes skin to tan by stimulating production of the melanin, the skin’s pigment. Tanning booths provide a narrow spectrum of ultraviolet light, and this is less likely to cause sunburn but isn’t less dangerous, according to dermatologists.

Ultraviolet light is the chief cause of three types of skin cancer. There’s been an increase in the incidence of all of these cancers, which is probably related to increasing ultraviolet exposure during youth. Members of the American Academy of Dermatology are urging officials to ban indoor tanning except for medical purposes. Several states have already adopted measures to limit children and teens’ access to tanning beds. To date, approximately 25 states have passed laws limiting access to indoor tanning.

Fortunately, there are several new sunless tanning products available, which are both effective and safe. I would strongly encourage you to use the sunless tanning lotion if you feel the need to appear tan.

Dear Brio readers,
I’ve had the great privilege and honor of serving thousands of teen girls since the inception of Brio magazine. This is my last column in Brio, and I can only hope and pray that my contributions have made even a small difference in many girls’ lives. I thank Susie and her staff for making me look better than I really am. I’ve always attempted to answer your questions with professional accuracy and many years of insight from practicing family medicine.

Many of the girls who started reading this column 17 years ago are now fine, Christian adult women. This is reward enough! I love you all and wish God’s best for your lives!

Sincerely,

Dr. Paul

Editor’s note: Starting in January 2008, Brio will launch an all-new medical advice column. Stay tuned!