Approximately 3 percent of infants and children have high blood pressure, according to KidsHealth.org. Blood pressure is a measurement of blood exerting against blood vessel walls as the heart pumps. In all children and adults, blood pressure changes from minute to minute and varies based on activity, body temperature and emotional state. Parents should educate themselves about blood pressure for kids in order to take preventative action against this huge medical concern.
Measurement Guidelines
Blood pressure readings rise with age, and a normal adult pressure is 120/80. Children's blood pressures should be lower than this, but it varies by age and sex. For this reason, doctors must take into account variables like age, sex and height to determine healthy blood pressure levels. This classification process ensures children aren't misclassified during times of rapid growth. KidsHealth.org defines high blood pressure or hypertension as anything greater than the 95th percentile for a child's height, age and gender.
Measurement Frequency
The American Heart Association recommends that all children age 3 and older have yearly blood pressure measurements. Most medical personnel measure blood pressure with a stethoscope and a sphygmomanometer cuff wrapped around the upper arm to create pressure.
High Blood Pressure Causes
Premature infants with immature heart and kidney organs are at higher risk for high blood pressure, as are children with a family history of hypertension or obesity. According to KidsHealth.org, high blood pressure is a growing trend among older children that is linked to childhood obesity caused by overeating and a poor diet, excess weight and insufficient exercise.
Treatment
A healthy diet together with regular exercise is usually the best medicine for high blood pressure in children who are overweight. According to the American Heart Association, doctors may prescribe medication when these measures do not work sufficiently, or when hypertension is the result of heart or kidney abnormalities.
Symptoms
High blood pressure usually does not produce symptoms, so diagnosing it in children is challenging. Although rare, KidsHealth.org notes that some children do experience headaches, blurred vision, dizziness, nosebleeds, heart palpitation and nausea. The best way to uncover hypertension is through regular checking by a medical professional.
The Importance of Prevention
When a child has high blood pressure, her heart and arteries are under great strain. Over time and without treatment, this strain can lead to heart, brain, kidney and eye damage and put her at risk for stroke or a heart attack. With proper treatment and prompt diagnosis, however, children with this condition can live an active, healthy life.
