High Blood Pressure in Children
Overview
Causes
The cause of high blood pressure will depend on the type:
- Essential (or primary)—The cause is not known.
- Secondary—Another illness is causing the problem.
Risk Factors
Things that may increase the risk of essential high blood pressure are:
- Obesity
- A diet high in salt
- Having other family members who have high blood pressure
Things that may increase the risk of secondary high blood pressure are:
- Diabetes
- Sleep apnea
- Hyperlipidemia (a high level of fats in the blood)
- Kidney disease
- Vascular disease
- Endocrine disease
- Certain medicine (prescription and over the counter)
- Drug use
- Smoking
- Anxiety
SymptomsandDiagnosis
Symptoms
High blood pressure will often not cause any symptoms. Some children may:
- Have a headache
- Feel dizzy
- Have vision problems
- Feel tired
Diagnosis
Normal blood pressure in children is different from adults. It will also vary by gender, age, and height. The range of normal blood pressure will change as the child grows.
Blood pressure is measured at least once per year after 3 years of age. A chart will show what a healthy blood pressure range is based on a child’s gender, age, and height. A high blood pressure needs to happen on more than one measurement to be diagnosed. The doctor may also ask that a measurement be done at home. This will rule out normal increased blood pressure due to anxiety at a doctor's office.
Other tests may be done to look for a cause.
Treatments
Treatment
The treatment plan will be based on the cause. Treating related conditions may return blood pressure to normal. It is important to treat high blood pressure. It can prevent serious health issues in adulthood.
Steps that may treat essential high blood pressure or manage secondary high blood pressure are:
- A healthy diet that is high in fruits and vegetables and whole grains. Salt may also need to be tracked or lowered.
- Weight loss for children who are overweight.
- Regular physical activity. This includes sport, play, and less screen time.
Some blood pressure may not be lowered by above changes. Medicine may then be needed. Types of blood pressure medicine are:
- Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE inhibitors)
- Angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs)
- Beta-blockers
- Calcium channel blockers
- Diuretics
This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.
Edits to original content made by Denver Health.
Copyright © EBSCO Information Services
All rights reserved.