Medical knowledge, Patient Education
Hypertension, Paediatric
Understanding High Blood Pressure in Children
High blood pressure (hypertension) in children occurs when the force of blood pumping through their arteries is too strong. The arteries are the blood vessels responsible for carrying blood from the heart throughout the body.
Blood pressure readings consist of two numbers: the higher number (systolic blood pressure) measures the highest pressure reached in the arteries when the heart beats, while the lower number (diastolic blood pressure) measures the lower pressure in the arteries when the heart is between beats. A normal blood pressure for children varies based on sex, age, and height. Elevated blood pressure occurs when a child’s blood pressure is higher (greater than the 95th percentile) than other children of the same sex, age, and height. For children aged 13 and older, a normal blood pressure should be lower than 120/80. It’s essential to discuss healthy blood pressure levels with your child’s healthcare provider.
Starting from the age of 3, children should undergo a yearly blood pressure test. High blood pressure in children can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke in adulthood.
Causes of Pediatric Hypertension:
High blood pressure in children can either develop independently (essential hypertension) or result from an underlying medical condition (secondary hypertension).
Common risk factors for essential hypertension include:
– Obesity.
– Sleep disorders.
– Family history of hypertension.
– Premature birth or low birth weight.
Secondary hypertension, less common overall but more prevalent in children under 12, may be caused by conditions such as:
– Kidney disease.
– Tumors secreting substances that raise blood pressure.
– Coarctation of the aorta (narrowing of a major blood vessel carrying blood away from the heart).
– Endocrine diseases.
Signs and Symptoms:
Most children with hypertension do not experience symptoms unless their blood pressure is significantly elevated. Possible symptoms may include headache, fatigue, irritability, blurry vision, frequent nosebleeds, shortness of breath, and in severe cases, seizures.
Diagnosis and Treatment:
A healthcare provider can diagnose hypertension in children by using a stethoscope and measuring blood pressure with a cuff around the child’s arm. To confirm the diagnosis, blood pressure is measured at three separate appointments.
Treatment for pediatric hypertension depends on the type and severity of the condition:
– Essential hypertension can often be managed with lifestyle changes, including weight loss, increased physical activity, and a low-salt, low-added sugar diet.
– Medication may be prescribed if lifestyle changes do not sufficiently lower blood pressure. However, only a small number of children with essential hypertension require medication.
– Secondary hypertension is managed by addressing the underlying medical condition causing high blood pressure.
Lifestyle Recommendations:
– Encourage a healthy diet low in salt and added sugars, rich in fruits, vegetables, low-fat dairy, whole grains, and plant-based proteins.
– Promote regular physical activity, aiming for at least 60 minutes of aerobic activity each day.
– Limit screen time to less than 2 hours per day.
– Avoid nicotine and tobacco products.
– Ensure regular blood pressure tests after the age of 3, especially if there are risk factors for hypertension.
Seeking Medical Attention:
Contact a healthcare provider if you need guidance with lifestyle changes or if your child exhibits symptoms of hypertension. Seek immediate help if your child experiences severe headache, vision changes, chest pain, shortness of breath, uncontrollable nosebleeds, seizures, or any other concerning symptoms.
Conclusion:
High blood pressure in children requires careful monitoring and, in many cases, can be managed effectively with lifestyle changes. Regular blood pressure tests, healthy eating habits, and physical activity are essential to ensure a child’s well-being. Medication may be necessary in certain cases, but it is not typically the first-line treatment. Always consult your child’s healthcare provider for personalized advice and care.
