When you think of someone who has High Blood Pressure (Hypertension) you are most likely to think of an adult having this condition. What many people do not know is that people of all ages can have High Blood Pressure, including children. In the past, Hypertension was not commonly found in younger people, but these days Hypertension can occur in all ages.

For adults it is simple to determine if they have Hypertension by getting blood pressure checks and keeping track of the results. For children they have the same tests, but it is difficult to interpret the result numbers. The child’s Doctor will use charts based on the child’s sex, weight, and height along with the blood pressure numbers to determine if the child has Hypertension.

 There are risk factors that can put the child in a greater chance of getting Hypertension. These risk factors are a family history of Hypertension, sleep disorders, and Obesity. Obesity is the most common risk. Obesity can be caused by other health problems, but most commonly it is because of too much food, and too little activity.

    Treating Hypertension in children is similar to how it is treated in adults. Having a plan with the child’s Doctor will help control the condition. The basic plan will consist of a few guidelines. The child will need to follow an eating plan. Fresh fruits and vegetables, plus whole grains can help lower the child’s blood pressure. Watching your child’s weight is another step to controlling Hypertension. The child should also avoid tobacco smoke even if it is secondhand. If the child has severe Hypertension, or does not respond well to the lifestyle changes, medications will help treat blood pressure levels.

    The way to get the best results is by following the plan made by the Doctor. You can also help in a few ways of your own. Limiting your child’s TV watching and game playing will help. Making changes to the whole family’s lifestyle and diet will benefit the whole family. It is also important to make sure the child has his or her blood pressure checked the times the Doctor recommends.

    Working together with your child’s Doctor will help control your child’s blood pressure. Doing so will help the child avoid other health issues. The child will be able to live a happy and healthy life for many years to come.