Obesity and Genetics
According to the American Heart Association, children who are overweight are more likely to have hypertension, also known as high blood pressure. That should be no surprise since obesity is a major risk factor for high blood pressure in adults, too. Children can also inherit high blood pressure from their parents as it runs in families--especially among African-Americans.
Health Problems
A number of health problems can be the cause of high blood pressure in children as well. Children suffering from kidney problems and heart disease can develop secondary hypertension as a result of those health conditions. If those conditions can be treated, the AHA says that high blood pressure is typically resolved and doesn't remain a chronic problem for children.
Premature Birth
Babies born prematurely can suffer from high blood pressure. This can happen because their tiny systems and organs, including the heart, kidneys and lungs, may not be fully developed at birth, thereby taxing the cardiovascular system and raising blood pressure.
Medication and Drug Use
Sometimes high blood pressure in children occurs because of a side effect from taking medications. Oral contraceptive medications (birth control pills) as well as steroids can boost blood pressure if children or teens take them, reports the Nemours Foundation. If teens develop a substance abuse problem, they may also develop high blood pressure.
