High systolic pressure occurs when the "top" blood pressure number is elevated beyond normal for the patient's age and gender. Systolic relates to the pressure exerted by blood flowing through the arteries as the heart contracts and pushes the blood forward. High systolic pressure in children is becoming more common.
Symptoms
High systolic pressure may have no symptoms other than the blood pressure reading itself. Rarely, a child may complain of headache or dizziness or have frequent nosebleeds. According to the International Pediatric Hypertension Association, hypertension occasionally may manifest as a reduction in school performance or a change in behavioral pattern.
Causes
In young children, high systolic pressure usually occurs due to another illness. For older children, it usually is due to being overweight or obese but can be due to drug use, kidney problems or other conditions. Rarely, it may have a genetic cause.
Effects
Untreated high systolic pressure in a child can damage his heart, arteries, brain and kidneys. He is more likely to suffer hypertension as an adult.
Treatment
Treatment for high systolic pressure in children may involve medication, weight loss and a prescribed increase in physical activity. Dietary changes may include eating less fat, cholesterol and sodium and eating more fiber, fruits and vegetables.
Prevention
To help prevent hypertension, a child should eat a healthy diet and get lots of enjoyable physical activity. Blood pressure should be checked yearly as part of a physical examination.
