When you hear high blood pressure you may think it’s an adult disease but it is becoming more common among children of all ages. It is important to make sure your child’s doctor is monitoring your child’s blood pressure at each visit. Talk with your pediatrician about your child’s blood pressure. The normal blood pressure of a child is very different than that of an adult. A doctor must take into account the child’s age, sex and height in order to evaluate whether a child has high blood pressure. Untreated, hypertension can cause serious side effects
Although a family history of hypertension is a factor, another major cause of hypertension in children is the rise in obesity among children. Being overweight increases the risks of developing hypertension. To help reduce the risk for your child be sure to offer healthy snacks. Try to limit salt and fats.
Make sure your child is getting enough exercise. Turn off the television and video games and get your child moving. It is important to remember that someone does not need to be overweight to have hypertension, even someone of healthy average weight can have high blood pressure.
Other conditions may cause or be related to hypertension in children so it is important to know the risks. For example, a child with Neurofibromatosis may be at an increased risk for high blood pressure. It is important know your child’s risks and talk with your children’s doctors. Take an active role and also set an example for your child by taking care of your own health.
If your or your child have high blood pressure it is a good idea to have a medical alert tag. The tags should be engraved with the condition and medications taken. Also list emergency contact information or carry a card in wallet or pocket with this information. Read more about Medical alert tags for children and
adults.
